ER~,~i~i~,i "i~!~' 4?!?'~i~~. ~i~~~ ~4 t i~ i, I p~~~~~f~ >I iorF / / [/ Ad —4^>J C7 @fw by >k/> a 0 ~~4 ~ v vn v -- ~, o o Q o Q OF PROMINEN~PA REPRE5ENTATIVE CITIZENS OF THE COUNTY TOGETHER WITH POERTRAITS 'AND 'BIOGRAPHIES OF'ALL L THE -- -- + V --- CHICAGO: CHAPMAN BROS. 1891. i -- pF(EFpJIE. X i.:.HE greatest of English historians, MACAULAY, and one of the most brilliant writers of -j11 ^~ 02the present century, has said: "The history of a country is best told in a record of the 2 //B y 'll lives of its people." In conformity with this idea the PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL *I H(~ A.,ALBUM of this county has been prepared. Instead of going to musty records, and i^^^^~L ^i^ ^ 1taking therefrom dry statistical matter that can be appreciated by but few, our corps of writers have gone to the people, the men and women who have, by their enterprise and industry, brought the county to a rank second to none among those comprising this great and noble State, and from their lips have the story of their life strouggles. No more interesting or instructive matter could be presented to an intelligent public. In this volume will be found a record of many whose lives are worthy the imitation of coming generations. 'It tells how some, commencing life in poverty, by inlustry and economy have accumulated wealth. It tells how others, with limited advantages for securing an education, have become learned men and women, with an FSQ)~.d.J^B: 1 influence extending throughout the length and breadth of the land. It tells of men who ^G. $ have risen from the lower walks of life to eminence as statesmen, and whose names have become famous. It tells of those in every walk in life who have striven to succeed, and - 6Y records how that success has usually crowned their efforts. It tells also of many, very many, who, not seeking the applause of the world, have pursued "the even tenor of their way," content to have it said of them as Christ said of the woman performing a deed of mercy-"they have done what they could." It tells how that many in the pride and strength of young manhood left the plow and the anvil, the lawyer's office and the counting-room, left every trade and profession, and at their country's call went forth valiantly "to do or die," and how through their efforts the Union was restored and peace once more reigned in the land. In the life of every man and of every woman is a lesson that should not be lost upon those who follow after. Coming generations will appreciate this volume and preserve it as a sacred treasure, from the fact that it contains so much that would never find its way into public records, and which would otherwise be inaccessible. Great care has been taken in the compilation of the work and every opportunity possible given to those represented to insure correctness in what has been written, and the publishers flatter themselves that they give to their readers a work with few errors of consequence. In addition to the biographical sketches, portraits of a number of representative citizens are given. The faces of some, and biographical sketches of many, will be missed in this volume. For this the publishers are not to blame. Not having a proper conception of the work, some refused to give the information necessary to compile a sketch, while others were indifferent. Occasionally some member of the family would oppose the enterprise, and on account of such opposition the support of the interested one would be withheld. In a few instances men could never be found, though repeated calls were made at their residence or place of business. CHICAGO, May, 1891. CHAP3!WIAN BROS..: V i:\ 00 0 d.:: \ u::: j f f: \ 0 f::: Hi X 0 0.0 0 t f u f < I,, X Di} S X S f f \ S * t; D f V Sa. * 0 W of 00 X:0S \;\:0'V00 of t;0 0 A; t0000ff 0200 -0,f000f 0 90fEff000ftt;02ffff00;d 0 An; \ S-E t~~~~~~~~~~ I~~~~~~ I L OF THE GOVERNORS OF MICHIIIGAN, AND OF THE OFTHE ~~P~SI4IiIACP I~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~. COP-YRIlxHTED BY ^ ________^-J~~~~~~~~j {a ^^^^tt^^^ ^^*"^e I \Aaueq;v: 2 <1~~~~~~~~~Am~ ddmatk fIp WIN\ 8, (S.*::::;S~ f; 0; 0 A X. \;. f: f~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 0:d ID~~~~~~ ::::;::'::aw::: -I _: ::::: I,:.;I.:-:-'-:.:-:; ~-: ~ i O ~~i-~~~~~~f~~~ —4~:-:-: * t_ ___.___SS - I-,- A- --- i _~olc~O~c~E~)//.amb - ' * J ' r rs B~~~9~~P8E $i~~~~~~~lldB~~~~IN~~~~P~~iArl 71 A. OF*..wllm ] ^HE Father of our Country was,.'~ 1 i I[ i 0[ lborn in Westmorland Co., Va., I i, Feb. 22, I732. His parents w:JL \Xwere Augustine and Mary (Ball) Washington. The family to which he belonged has not l been satisfactorily traced in England. His great-grand*( q Ufather, John Washington, emT 7, r 9 igrated to Virginia about 1657, and became a prosperous planter. He had two sons, Lawrence and John. The former married Mildred Warner i and had three children, John, Augustine and Mildred. Augustine, the father of George, first married Jane Butler, who bore him four children, two of whom, Lawrence and Augustine, reached maturity. Of six children by his second marriage, George was the eldest, the others being Betty, Samuel, John Augustine, Charles and Mildred. Augustine Washington, the father of George, died in 1743, leaving a large landed property. To his eldest son, Lawrence, he bequeathed an estate on the Patomac, afterwards known as Mount Vernon, and to George he left the parental residence. George received only such education as the neighborhood schools afforded, save for a short time after he left school, when he received private instruction in mathemat;cs. His spelling was rather defective Remarkable stories are told of his great physica: strength and development at an early age. He was an acknowledged leader among his companions, and was early noted for that nobleness of character, fairness and veracity which characterized his whole life. When George was 14 years old he had a desire to go to sea, and a midshipman's warrant was secured for him, but through the opposition of his mother the idea was abandoned. Two years later he was appointed surveyor to the immense estate of Lord Fairfax. In this business he spent three years in a rough frontier life, gaining experience which afterwards proved very essential to him. In I75 T though only I9 years of age, he was appointed adjutant with the rank of major in the Virginia militia, then being trained for active service against the French and Indians. Soon after this he sailed to the West Indies with his brother Lawrence, who went there to restore his health. They soon returned, and in the summer of I752 Lawrence died, leaving a large fortune to an infant daughter who did not long survive him. On her demise the estate of Mount Vernon was given to George. Upon the arrival of Robert Dinwiddie, as-Lieutenant-Governor of Virginia, in 1752, the militia was reorganized, and the province divided into four military districts, of which the northern was assigned to Washington as adjutant general. Shortly after this a very perilous mission was assigned him and accepted, which others had refused. This was to proceed to the French post near Lake Erie in Northwestern Pennsylvania. The distance to be traversed was between 500 and 600 miles. Winter was at hand, and the journey was to be made without military escort, through a territory occupied by Indians. The to G~b~I0AGA WI irip was a perilous one, arid several limes he came near losing his life, yet he returned in safety and furnished a full and useful report of his expedition. A regiment of 300 men was raised in Virginia and put in command of Col. Joshua Fry, and Major Washington was commissioned lieutenant-colonel. Active war was then begun against the French and Indians, in which Washington took a most important part. In the memorable event of July 9, I755, known as Braddock's defeat, Washington was almost the only officer of distinction who escaped from the calamities of the day with life and honor. The other aids of Braddock were disabled early in the action, and Washington alone was left in that capacity on the field. In a letter to his brother he says: "I had four bullets through my coat, and two horses shot under me, yet I escaped unhurt, though death was leveling my companions on every side." An Indian sharpshooter said he was not born to be killed by a bullet, for he. had taken direct aim at him seventeen times, and failed to hit him. After having been five years in the military service, and vainly sought promotion in the royal army, he took advantage of the fall of Fort Duquesne and the expulsion of the French from the valley of the Ohio, to resign his commission. Soon after he entered the Legislature, where, although not a leader, he took an active and important part. January 17, 1759, he married Mrs. Martha (Dandridge) Custis, the wealthy widow of John Parke Custis. When the British Parliament had closed the port -,f Boston, the cry went up throughout the provinces that "The cause of Boston is the cause of us all." It was then, at the suggestion of Virginia, that a Congress of all the colonies was called to meet at Philadclphia,Sept. 5, I774, to secure their common liberties, peaceably if possible. To this Congress Col. Washington was sent as a delegate. On May 10, 1775, the Congress re-assembled, when the hostile intentions of England were plainly apparent. The battles of Concord and Lexington had been fought. Among the first acts of this Congress was the- election of a commander-in-chief of the colonial forces. This high and responsible office was conferred upon Washington, who was still a member of the Congress. He accepted it on Jund I9, but upon the express condition that he receive no salary. He would keep an exact account of expenses and expect Congress lo pay them and nothing more. It is not the object of this sketch to trace the military acts of Washington, to whom the fortunes and liberties of the people of this country were so long confided. The war was conducted by him under every possible disadvantage, and while his forces often met with reverses, yet he overcame every obstacle, and after seven years of heroic devotion and matchless skill he gained liberty for the greatest nation of earth. On Dec. 23, 1783, Washington, in a parting address of surpassing beauty, resigned his 4 SING Y"VN. R=~E~~'~~~~~~~~~~~~-rC-'3'3'6-r~ —1-,11-1 —I commission as commander-in-chief of the army to to the Continental Congress sitting at Annapolis. He retired immediately to Mount Vernon and resumed his occupation as a farmer and planter, shunning all connection with public life. In February,1789, Washington was unanimously elected President. In his presidential career he was subject to the peculiar trials incidental to a new government; trials from lack of confidence on the part of other governments; trials from want of harmony between the different sections of our own country; trials from the impoverished condition of the country, owing to the war and want of credit; trials from the beginnings of party strife. He was no partisan. His clear judgment could discern the golden mean; and while perhaps this alone kept our government from sinking at the very outset, it left him exposed to attacks from both sides, which were often bitter and very annoying. At the expiration of his first term he was unanimously re-elected. At the end of this term many were anxious that he be re-elected, but he absolutely refused a third nomination. On the fourth of March, 1797, at the expiraton of his second term as President, he returned to his home, hoping to pass there his few remaining years free from the annoyances of plublic life. Later in the year, however, his repose seemed likely to be interrupted by war with France. At the prospect of such a war he was again urged to take command of the armies. He chose his subordinate officers and left to them the charge of matters in the field, which he superintended from his home. In accepting the command he made the reservation that he was not to be in the field until it was necessary. In the midst of these preparations his life was suddenly cut off. December 2, he took a severe cold from a ride in the rain, which, settling in h:s throat, produced inflammation, and terminated fatally on the night of the fourteenth. On the eighteenth his body was borne with military honors to its final resting place, and interred in the family vault at Mount Vernon. Of the character of Washington it is impossible to speak but in terms of the highest respect and admiration. The more we see of the operations of our government, and the more deeply we feel the difficulty of uniting all opinions in a common interest, the more highly we must estimate the force of his talent and character, which have been able to challenge the reverence of all parties, and principles, and nations, and to win a fame as extended as the limits of the globe, and which we cannot but believe will be as lasting as the existence of man. The person of Washington was unusally tan, erect and well proportioned. His muscular strength was great. His features were of a beautiful symmetry. He commanded respect without any appearance of haughtiness, and ever serious without blit% dull. I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~:: ~~,:-:~:_:~,_~i;.ni$:_ *~:~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~U. : C1-1: — "..-,~~ - - -, --; —, v, " ~- - a~ ~;", rs~~. ~~ r~ - -- -.:, - ~ — 1 AR. I - -(KW ` - )0000 - ^-x jS i",'-* f - - -.. ~. =-. I y N Nz - "" d ~Tw 4in " -" V*1 "%"j '4 i A-I I A;AAA tAA tA A AA -l A I Y; ~;~ ~ 8L ~D-j~' __ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _;J~ M ~ -OW P. ~~~ 0 -4 NMI'~7 ^3)J, OHN ADAMS, the second S President and the first VicePresident of the United States, was born in Braintree (now X_) ^i '( Quincy),Mass., and about ten ( ~- / t miles from Boston, Oct. I9, \,_% I735. His great-grandfather, Henry 77i~/ Adams, emigrated from England |' p about 1640, with a fanily of eight 7jT^f/ sons, and settled at Braintree. The ~) parents of John were John and Susannah (Boylston) Adams, His father was a farmer of limited means, to which he added the business of shoemaking. He gave his eldest son, John, a classical educaI tion at Harvard College. John graduated in 1755, and at once took charge of the school in Worcester, Mass. This he found but a "sciool of affliction," from which he endeavored to gain relief by devoting himself, in addition, to the study of law. For this purpose he placed himself under the tuition of the only lawyer in the town. He had thought seriously of the clerical profession but seems to have been turned from this by what he termed " the frightful engines of ecclesiastical coun-ils, cf diabolical malice, and Calvanistic good nature," of the operations of which he had been a witness in his native town. He was well fitted for the legal profession, possessing a clear, sonorous voice, being ready and fluent of speech, and having quick perceptive powers. He gradually gained practice, and in 1764 married Abigail Smith, a daughter of a minister, and a lady of superior intelligence. Shortly after his marriage, (r765), the attempt of Parliamentary taxation turned him from law to politics. He took initial steps toward holdir., a town meeting, and the resolu tions he offered on the subject became very populai throughout the Province, and were adopted word for word by over forty different towns. He moved to Bos ton in 1768, and became one of the most courageous and prominent advocatesof the popular cause, and was chosen a member of the General Court (the Leglislature) in 1770. Mr. Adams was chosen one of the first delegates from Massachusetts to the first Continental Congress, which metin i774. Here he distinguished himself by his capacity for business and for debate, and advocated the movement for independence against the majority of the members. In May, I776, he moved and carried a resolution in Congress that the Colonies should assume the duties of self-government. He was a prominent member of the committee of five appointed June i, to prepare a declaration of independence. This article was drawn by Jefferson, but on Adams devolved the task of battling it through Congress in a three days debate. On the day after the Declaration of Independence was passed, while his soul was yet warm with thy glow of excited feeling, he wrote a letter to his wife which, as we read it now, seems to have been dictated by the spirit of prophecy. "Yesterday," he says, "the greatest question was decided that ever was debated in America; and greater, perhaps, never was or wil be decided among men. A resolution was passed without one dissenting colony, 'that these United States are, and of right ought to be, free and inde. pendent states.' The day is passed. The fourth of July, I776, will be a memorable epoch in the history of America. I am apt to believe it will be celebrated by succeeding generations, as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to Almighty God. It ought to be solemnized with pomp, shows. a4 1W.04" A~~3~li '4..... -AVA__,.. M._S.._..:'l::-.";-....t',_-. "...:.'i-.....: -:-.I. games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations from one end of the continent to the other, from this time forward for ever. You will think me transported with enthusiasm, but I am not. I am well aware of the toil, and blood and treasure, that it will cost to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these States; yet, through all the gloom, I can see the rays of light and glory. I can see that the end is worth more than all the means; and that posterity will triumph, although you and I may rue, which I hope we shall not." In November, I777, Mr. Adams was appointed a deegate to France and to co-operate with Bemjamin Franklin and Arthur Lee, who were then in Paris, in the endeavor to obtain assistance in arms and money from the French Government. This was a severe trial to his patriotism, as it separated him from his home, compelled him to cross the ocean in winter, and exposed him to great peril of capture by the British cruisers, who were seeking him. He left France June I7, I779. In September of the same year he was again chosen to go to Paris, and there hold himself in readiness to negotiate a treaty of peace and of commerce with Great Britian, as soon as the British Cabinet might be found willing to listen to such proposels. He sailed for France in November, from there he went to Holland, where he negotiated important loans and formed important commercial treaties. Finally a treaty of peace with England was signed Jan. 21, I783. The re-action from the excitement, toil and anxiety through which Mr. Adams had passed threw him into a fever. After suffering from a continued fever and becoming feeble and emaciated he was advised to go to England to drink the waters of B.th. W hile in England, still drooping anddesponding, he received dispatches from his own government urging the necessity of his going to Amsterdam to negotiate another loan. It was winter, his health was delicate, yet he immediately set out, and through storm, on sea, on horseback and foot,he made the trip. February 24, 1785; Congress appointed Mr. Adams envoy to the Court of St. James. Here he met face to face the King of England, who had so long regarded him as a traitor. As England did not condescend 'to appoint a minister to the United States, and as Mr. Adams felt that he was acconmplishing but little, he sought permission to return to his own country, where he arrived in June, I788. When Washington was first chosen President, John Adams, rendered illustiious by his signal services at home and abroad, was chosen Vice President. Again at the second election of Washington as President, Adams was chosen Vice President. In 1796, Washington retired from public life, and Mr. Adams was elected President,though not without much opposition. Serving in this office four years,he was succeeded by Mr. Jefferson, his opponent in politics. While Mr. Adams was Vice President the great French Revolution shook the continent of Europe, and it was upon this point which he was at issue with the majority of his countrymen led by Mr. Jefferson. Mr. Adams felt no sympathy with the French people in their struggle, for he had no confidence in their power of self-government, and he utterly abhored the classof atheist philosophers who he claimed caused it. On the other hand Jefferson's sympathies were strongly enlisted in behalf of the French people. Hence originated the alienation between these distinguished men, and two powerful parties were thus soon organized, Adams at the head of the one whose sympathies were with England and Jefferson led the other in sympathy with France. The world has seldom seen a spectacle of more moral beauty and grandeur, than was presented by the old age of Mr. Adams. The violence of party feeling had died away, and he had begun to receive that just appreciation which, to most men, is not accorded till after death. No one could look upon his venerable form, and think of what he had done and suffered, and how he had given up all the prime and strength of his life to the public good, without the deepest emotion of gratitude and respect. It was his peculiar good fortune to witness the complete success of the institution which he had been so active in creating and supporting. In 1824, his cup of happiness was filled to the brim, by seeing his son elevated to the highest station in the gift of the people. The fourth of July, 1826, which completed the half century since the signing of the Declaration of Independence, arrived, and there were but three of the signers of that immortal instrument left upon the earth to hail its morning light. And, as it is well known, on that day two of these finished their earthly pilgrimage, a coincidence so remarkable as to seem miraculous. For a few days before Mr. Adams had been rapidly failing, and on the morning of the fourth he found himself too weak to rise from his l)ed. On being requested to name a toast for the customary celebration of the day, he exclaimed " INDEPENDENCE FOREVER." When the day was ushered in, by the ringing of bells and the firing of cannons, he was asked by one. of his attendants if he knew what day it was? He replied, "O yes; it is the glorious fourth of July-God bless it-God bless you all." In the course of the day he said, "It is a great and glorious day." The last words he uttered were, "Jefferson survives." But he had, at one o'clock, resigned his spirit into the hands of his God. The personal appearance and manners of Mr. Adams were not particularly prepossessing. His face, as his portrait manifests,was intellectual ard expres. sive, but his figure was low and ungraceful, and his manners were frequently abrupt and uncourteous. He had neither the lofty dignity of Washington, nor the engaging elegance and gracefulness which marked the manners and address of Jefferson, I I~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~L:::_: i~ -:i~:: i: — :;,:::::::-:;:::- -:';:: i: -:-::::;-:::-::;::;-::;-::-: —,:i -7) , 1 T.HIRD PRESIDENT. d ~ l HOMAS JEFFERSON was t JI!1. D/ born April 2, 1743, at Shadw(ell, Albermarle county, Va. I zag *~ 1:;Wi His parents were Peter and -, s]/' Jane (Randolph) Jefferson, ~'oX$: the former a native of Wales, 24^ Y and the latter born in Long\>~~ don. To them were born six [ '.J. daughters and two sons, of whom Thomas was the elder. When 14 years of age his father died. He received a B[ _ most liberal education, hav-. ing been kept diligently at school from the time he was five years of age. In 1760 he entered William C.nd Mary College. Williamsburg was then the seat of the Colonial Court, and it was the obode of fashion and splendor. Young Jefferson, who was then 17 years old, lived somewhat expensively, keeping fine horses, and much caressed by gay society, yet he was earnestly devoted to his studies, and irreproachaable in his morals. It is strange, however, under such influences,that he was not ruined. In the second year of his college course, moved by some unexplained inward impulse, he discarded his horses, society, and even his favorite violin, to which he had prevluasly given much time. He often devoted fifteen hours a day to haid study, allowing himself for exercise only a run in the evening twilight of a mile out of the city and back again. He thus attained very high intellectual culture, alike excellence in philosophy and the languages. The most difficult Latin and Greek authors he read with facility. A more finished scholar has seldom gone forth from college halls; and there was not to be found, perhaps, in all Virginia, a more pureminded, upright, gentlemanly young man. Immediately upon leaving college he began the study of law. For the short time he continued in the practice of his profession he rose rapidly and distinguished himself by his energy and accuteness as a lawyer. But the times called for greater action. The policy of England had awakened the spirit of resistance of the American Colonies, and the enlarged views which Jefferson had ever entertained, soon led him into active political life. In 1769 he was choser a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses. In 1772 he married Mrs. Martha Skelton, a very beautiful, wealthy and highly accomplished young widow Upon Mr. Jefferson's large estate at Shadwell, there was a majestic swell of land, called Monticello, which commanded a prospect of wonderful extent and beauty. This spot Mr. Jefferson selected for his new home; and here he reared a mansion of modest yet elegant architecture, which, next to Mount Vernon became the most distinguished resort in our land. In 1775 he was sent to the Colonial Congress. where, though a silent member, his abilities as a writer and a reasoner soon become known, and he was placed upon a number of important committees, and was chairman of the one appointed for the drawing up of a declaration of independence. This committee consisted of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and Robert R. Livingston. Jefferson, as chairman, was appointed to draw up the paper. Franklin and Adams suggested a few verbal changes before it was submitted to Congress. On June 28, a few slight changes were made in it by Congress, and it was passed and signed July 4, I776. What must have been the feelings of that THOMAS JEFFERSON. ---------- -- I- -- I man-what the emotions that swelled his breastwho was charged with the preparation of that Declaration, which, while it made known the wrongs of America, was also to publish her to the world, free, uoverign and indeper;dcnt. It is one of the most remarkable papers ever written; and did no other effort,f the mind of its author exist, that alone would be sufficient to stamp his name with immortality. In 1779 Mr. Jefferson was elected successor to Patrick Henry, as Governor of Virginia. At one time the British officer, Tarleton, sent a secret expedition to Monticello, to capture the Governor. Scarcely five minutes elapsed after the hurried escape of Mr. Jefferson and his family, ere his mansion was in possession of the British troops. His wife's health, never very good, was much injured by this excitement, and in the summer of 1782 she died. Mr. Jefferson was elected to Congress in I783. Two years later he was appointed Minister Plenipotentiary to France. Returning to the United States in September, 1789, he became Secretary of State in Washington's cabinet. This position he resigned Jan. r, 1794. In 797, he was chosen Vice President, and four years later was elected President over Mr. Adams, with Aaron Burr as Vice President. In 1804 he was re-elected with wonderful unanimity, and George Clinton, Vice President. The early part of Mr. Jefferson's second adminstration was disturbed by an event which threatened the tranquility and peace of the Union; this was the conspiracy of Aaron Burr. Defeated in the late election to the Vice Presidency, and led on by an unprincipled ambition, this extraordinary man formed the plan of a military expedition into the Spanish territories on our southwestern frontier, for the purpose of forming there a new republic. This has been generally supposed was a mere pretext; and although it has not been generally known what his real plans were, there is no doubt that they were of a far more dangerous character. In I809, at the expiration of the second term for which Mr. Jefferson had been elected, he determined to retire from political life. For a period of nearly.frty years, he had been continually before the pub-,ic, and all that time had been employed in offices of the greatest trust and responsibility. Having thus devoted the best part of his life to the service of his country, he now felt desirous of that rest which his declining years required, and upon the organization of the new administration, in March, 80o9, he b'd farewell forever to public life, and retired to Monticello. Mr. Jefferson was profise in his hospitality. Whole families came in their coaches with their horses,fathers and mothers, boys and girls, babies and nurses,-and remained three and even six months. Life at Monticello, for years, resembled that at a fashionable watering-place. The fourth of July, I826, being the fiftieth anniver I -— I ~ -- I sary of the Declaration of American Independence. great preparations were made in every part of th: Union for its celebration, as the nation's jubilee, and the citizens of Washington, to add to the solemnity of the occasion, invited Mr. Jefferson, as the framer, and one of the few surviving signers of the Declara.tion, to participate in their festivities. But an illness, which had been of several weeks duration, and had been continually increasing, compelled him to decline the invitation. On the second of July, the disease under which he was laboring left him, but in such a reduced state that his medical attendants, entertained no hope of his recovery. From this time he was perfectly sensible that his last hour was at hand. On the next day, which was Monday, he asked of those around him, the day of the month, and on being told it was the third of July, he expressed the earnest wish tha'; he might be permitted to breathe the air of the fiftieth anniversary. His prayer was heard-that day, whose dawn was hailed with such rapture through our land, burst upon his eyes, and then they were closed forever. And what a noble consummation of a noble life! To die on that day,-the birthday of a nation,- - the day which his own name and his own act had rendered glorious; to die amidst the rejoicings and festivities of a whole nation, who looked up to him, as the author, under God, of their greatest blessings, was all that was wanting to fill up the record his life. Almost at the same hour of his death, the kindred spirit of the venerable Adams, as if to bear him company, left the scene of his earthly honors. Hand in hand they had stood forth, the champions of freedom; hand in hand, during the dark and desperate struggle of the Revolution, they had cheered and animated their desponding countrymen; for half a century they had labored together for the good of the country; and now hand in hand they depart. In their lives they had been united in the same great cause of liberty, and in their deaths they were not divided. In person Mr. Jefferson was tall and thin, rather above six feet in height, but well formed; his eyes were light, his hair originally red, in after life became white and silvery; his complexion was fair, his fore head broad, and his whole countenance intelligent and thoughtful. He possessed great fortitude of mind as well as personal courage; and 3.^s command of temper was such that his oldest and most intimate friends never recollected to have seen him in a passion. His manners, though dignified, were simple and unaffected, and his hospitality was so unbounded that all found at his house a ready welcome. In conversation he was fluent, eloquent and enthusiastic; and his language was remarkably pure and correct. He was a finished classical scholar, and in his writings is discernable the care with which he formed his style upon the best models of antiquity. 4 U P: -::= A4 6.~ -li FO UR TH PRESIDENT. AMES MADISON, "Father * I of the Constitution," and fourth *.vXll9)g | ^ I g W President of the United States, -m^^^'Sl $ -v tJ was born March i6, 1757, and.@?) 'e]Go'X died at his home in Virginia, June 28, I836. The name of of/ James Madison is inseparably con|^ J nected with most of the important i~)i events in that heroic period of our country during which the foundas- t tions of this great republic were 1X laid. He was the last of the founders of the Constitution of the United States to be called to his eternal reward. The Madison family were among \)the early emigrants to the New World, landing upon the shores of the Chesapeake but 15 years after the settlement of Jamestown. The father of James Madison was an opulent planter, residing upon a very fine estate called "Montpelier," Orange Co., Va. The mansion was situated in the midst of scenery highly picturj esque and romantic, on the west side of South-west Mountain, at the foot of Blue Ridge. It was but 25 miles from the home of Jefferson at Monticello. The closest personal and political attachment existed between these illustrious men, from their early youth until death. The early education of Mr. Madison was conducted mostly at home under a private tutor. At the age of r8 he was sent to Princeton College, in New Jersey. Here he applied himself to study with the most im prudent zeal; allowing himself, for months, but three hours' sleep out of the 24. His health thus became so seriously impaired that he never recovered any vigor of ccnstitution. He graduated in 177 1, with a feeble body, with a character of utmost purity, and with a mind highly disciplined and richly stored with learning which embellished and gave proficiency to his subsc quent career. Returning to Virginia, he commenced the study of law and a course of extensive and systematic reading. This educational course, the spirit of the times in which he lived, and the society with which he associated, all combined to inspire him with a strong love of liberty, and to train him for his life-work ot a statesman. Being naturally of a religious turn of mind, and his frail health leading him to think that his life was not to be long, he directed especial attention to theological studies. Endowed with a mind singularly free from passion and prejudice, and with almost unequalled powers of reasoning, he weighed all the arguments for and against revealed religion, until his faith became so established as never to be shaken. In the spring of 1776, when 26 years of age, he was elected a member of the Virginia Convention, to frame the constitution of the State. The next year (I777), he was a candidate for the General Assembly. He refused to treat the whisky-lovirg voters, and consequently lost his election; but those who had witnessed the talent, energy and public spirit of the modest young man, enlisted themselves in his behalf, and he was appointed to the Executive Council. Both Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson were Governors of Virginia while Mr. Madison remained member of the Council; and their appreciation of hIis 32.JAMES MADISON. intellectual, social and moral worth, contributed not a little to his subsequent eminence. In the year 1780, he was elected a member of the Continental Congress. Here he met the most illustrious men in our land, and he was immediately assigned to one of the most conspicuous positions among them. For three years Mr. Madison continued in Congress, one of its most active and influential members. In the year 1784, his tern having expired, he was elected a member of the Virginia Legislature. No man felt more deeply than Mr. Madison the utter inefficiency of the old confederacy, with no national government, with no power to form treaties which would be binding, or to enforce law. There was not any State more prominent than Virginia in the declaration, that an efficient national government must be formed. In January, 1786, Mr. Madison carried a resolution through the General Assembly of Virginia, inviting the other States to appoint commissioners to meet in convention at Annapolis to discuss this subject. Five States only were represented. The convention, however, issued another call, drawn up by Mr. Madison, urging all the States to send their delegates to Philadelphia, in May, I787, to draft a Constitution for the United States, to take the place of that Confederate League. The delegates met at the time appointed. Every State but Rhode Island -v;as represented. George Washington was chosen;resident of the convention; and the present Constitution of the United States was then and there formed. There was, perhaps, no mind and no pen more active in framing this immortal document than the mind and the pen of James Madison. The Constitution, adopted by a vote 81 to 79, was to be presented to the several States for acceptance. But grave solicitude was felt. Should it be rejected we should be left but a conglomeration of independent States, with but little power at home and little respect abroad. Mr. Madison was selected by the convention to draw up an address to the people of the United States, expounding the principles of the Constitution, and urging its adoption. There was great opposition to it at first, but it at length triumphed over all, and went into effect in 1789. Mr. Madison was elected to the House of Representatives in the first Congress, and soon became the avowed leader of the Republican party. While in New York attending Congress, he met Mrs. Todd, a young widow of remarkable power of fascination, whom he married. She was in person and character lqueenly, and probably no lady has thus far occupied so prominent a position in the very peculiar society which has constituted our republican court as Mrs. Madison. Mr. Madison served as Secretary of State under Jefferson, and at the close of his administration was chosen President. At this time the encroachments of England had brought us to the verge of war. British orders in council destroyed our commerce, and our flag was exposed to constant insult. Mr. Madison was a man of peace. Scholarly in his taste, retiring in his disposition, war had no charms for him. But the meekest spirit can be roused. It makes one's blood boil, even now, to think of an American ship brought to, upon the ocean, by the guns of an English cruiser. A young lieutenant steps on board and orders the crew to be paraded before him. With great nonchalance he selects any number whom he may please to designate as British subjects; orders them down the ship's side into his boat; and places them on the gundeck of his man-of-war, to fight, by compulsion, the battles of England. This right of search and impressment, no efforts of our Government could induce the British cabinet to relinquish. On the I8th of June, 1812, President Madison gave his approval to an act of Congress declaring war against Great Britain. Notwithstanding the bitter hostility of the Federal party to the war; the country in general approved; and Mr. Madison, on the 4th of March, 8r13, was re-elected by a large majority, and entered upon his second tern- of office. This is not the place to describe the various adventures of this war on the land and on the water. Our infan'. navy then laid the foundations of its renown in grappling with the most formidable power which ever swept the seas. The contest commenced in earnest by the appearance of a British fleet, early in February, I813, in Chesapeake Bay, declaring nearly the whole coast of the United States under blockade. The Emperor of Russia offered his services as me ditator. America accepted; England refused. A British force of five thousand men landed on the banks of the Patuxet River, near its entrance into Chesapeake Bay, and marched rapidly, by way of Bladensburg, upon Washington. The straggling little city of Washington was thrown into consternation. The cannon of the brief conflict at Bladensburg echoed through the streets of the metropolis. The whole populaticn fled from the city. The President, leaving Mrs. Madison in the White House, with her carriage drawn up at the door to await his speedy return, hurried to meet the officers in a council of war. He met our troops utterly routed, and he could not go back without danger of being captured. But few hours elapsed ere the Presidential Mansion, the Capitol, and all the public buildings in Washington were in flames. * The war closed after two years of fighting, and on Feb. 3, I8 15, the treaty of peace was signed at Ghent. On the 4th of March, I817, his second term of office expired, and he resigned the Presidential chair to his friend, James Monroe. He retired to his beautifil home at Montpelier, and there passed the remainder of his days. On June 28, 1836, then at the age of 85 years, he fell asleep in death. 'Mrs. Madison died July 12, I849. FIFTH PRESIDENT. 35 ~II~C131311111111111I- I _ _ AMES MONROE, the fifth - Presidentof The United States, was born in Westmoreland Co., mc~:~l 2 Va., April 28, 1758. His early.%..... life was passed at the place of (\(?~/^ nativity. His ancestors had for PeTh many years resided in the prov-!lW X ince in which he was born. When, < at I7 years of age, in the process N 7 ~,of completing his education at William and Mary College, the Colonial Congress assembled at Philadelphia to deliberate upon the unjust and manifold oppressions of Great Britian, declared the separation of the Colonies, and promulgated the Declaration of Independence. Had he been born ten years before it is high-ly probable that he would have been one of the signers of that celebrated instrument. At this time he left school and enlisted among the patriots. He joined the army when everything looked hopeless and gloomy. The number of deserters increased from' day to day. The invading armies came pouring in; and the tories not only favored the cause of the mother country, but disheartened the new recruits, who were sufficiently terrified at the prospect of contending with an enemy whom they had been taught to deem invincible. To such brave spirits as James Monroe, who went right onward, undismayed through difficulty and danger, the United States owe their political emancipation. The young cadet joined the ranks, and espoused the cause of his injured country, with a firm determination to live or die with her strife for liberty. Firmly yet sadly he shared in the mel. ancholy retreat from Harleam Heights and White Plains, and accompanied the dispirited army as it fled before its foes through New Jersey. In four months after the Declaration of Independence, the patriots had been beaten in seven battles. At the battle of Trenton he led the vanguard, and, in the act of charging upon the enemy he received a wound in the left shoulder. As a reward for his bravery, Mr. Monroe was promoted a captain of infantry; and, having recovered from his wound, he rejoined the army. He, however, receded from the line of promotion, by becoming ai officer in the staff of Lord Sterling. During the campaigns of 1777 and 1778, in the actions of Brandy wine, Germantown and Monmouth, he continued aid-de-camp; but becoming desirous to regain his position in the army, he exerted himself to collect a regiment for the Virginia line. This scheme failed owing to the exhausted condition of the State. Upon this failure he entered the office of Mr. Jefferson, at that period Governor, and pursued, with considerable ardor, the study of common law. He did not, however, entirely lay aside the knapsack for the green bag; but on the invasions of the enemy, served as a volun teer, during the two years of his legal pursuits. In 1782, he was elected from King George county, a member of the Leglislature of Virginia, and by that body he was elevated to a seat in the Executive Council. He was thus honored with the confidence of his fellow citizens at 23 years of age; and having at this early period displayed some of that ability and aptitude for legislation, which were afterwards employed with unremittirg energy for the public good, 36 JAMlfES MKONROE. 36.M MONROE. lie was in the succeeding year chosen a member of the Congress of the United States. Deeply as Mr. Monroe felt the imperfections of the old Clonfederacy, he was opposed to the new Constitution, Ihinking, with many others of the Republican party, that it gave too much power to the Central Government, and not enough to the individual States. Still he retained the esteem of his friends who were its warm supporters, and who, notwithstanding his opposition secured its adoption. In 1789, he became a member of the United States Senate; which office he held for four years. Every month the line of distinction between the two great parties which divided the nation, the Federal and the Republican, was growing more distinct. The two prominent ideas which now separated them were, that the Republican party was in sympathy with France, and also in favor of such a strict construction of the Constitution as to give the Central Government as little power, and the State Governments as much power, as the Constitution would warrant. The Federalists sympathized with England, and were in favor of a liberal construction of the Constitution, which would give as much power to the Central Government as that document could possibly authorize. The leading Federalists and Republicans were alike noble men, consecrating all their energies to the good of the nation. Two more honest men or more pure patriots than John Adams the Federalist, and James Monroe the Republican, never breathed. In building-up this majestic nation, which is destined to eclipse all Grecian and Assyrian greatness, the combination of their antagonism was needed to create the light equilibrium. And yet each in his day was denounced as almost a demon. Washington was then President. England had espoused the cause of the Bourbons against the principles of the French Revolution. All Europe was drawn into the conflict. We were feeble and far away. Washington issued a proclamation of neutrality between these contending powers. France had helped us in the struggle for our liberties. All the despotisms of Europe were now combined to prevent the French from escaping from a tyranny a thousand-fold worse than that which we had endured Col. Monroe, more magnanimous than prudent, was anxious that, at whatever hazard, we should help our old allies in their extremity. It was the impulse of a generous and noble nature. He violently opposed the President's proclamation as ungrateful and wanting in magnanimity. Washington, who could appreciate such a character, * developed his calm, serene, almost divine greatness, by appointing that very James Monroe, who was denouncing the policy of the Government, as the minister of that Government to the Republic of France. Mr. Monroe was welcomed 15y the National Convention in France with the most enthusiastic demonstrations. I - __-_: i 11 " " 1..- I -1. - -- -',... - -,, - I Shortly after his return to this country, Mr. Monroe was elected Governor of Virginia, and held the office for three yeais. He was again sent to France to co-operate with Chancellor Livingston in obtaining the vast territory then known as the Province of Louisiana, which France had but shortly before obtained from Spain. Their united efforts were suc. cessful. For the comparatively small sum of fifteen millions of dollars, the entire-territory of Orleans and district of Louisiana were added to the United States. This was probably the largest transfer of real estate which was ever made in all the history of the world. From France Mr. Monroe went to England to obtain from that country some recognition of our rights as neutrals, and to remonstrate against those odious impressments of our seamen. But England was unrelenting. He agaiii returned to England on the same mission, but could receive no redress. He returned to his home and was again chosen Governor of Virginia. This he soon resigned to accept the position of Secretary of State under Madison. While in this office war with England was declared, the Secretary of War resigned, and during these trying times, the duties of the War Departmen, were also put upon him. He was truly. the armorbearer of President Madison, and the most efficient business man in his cabinet. Upon the return of peace he resigned the Department of War, but continued in the office of Secretary of State until the expiration of Mr. Madison's adminstration. At the elec tion held the previous autumn Mr. Monroe himself had been chosen President with but little opposition, and upon March 4, 1817, was inaugurated. Four years later he was elected for a second term. Among the important measures of his Presidency were the cession of Florida to the United States; the Missouri Compromise, and the " Monroe doctrine.' This famous doctrine, since known as the " Monroe doctrine," was enunciated by him in 1823. At that time the United States had recognized the independence of the South American states, and did not A ish to have European powers longer attempting to sub. due portions of the American Continent. The doctrine is as follows: "That we should consider any attempt on the part of European powers to extend their system to any portion of this hemisphere as dangerous. to our peace and safety," and "that we could not view any interposition for the purpose of oppressing or controlling American governments or provinces in any other light than as a manifestation by European powers of an unfriendly disposition toward the United States." This doctrine immediately affected the course of foreign governments, and has become the approved sentiment of the United States. At the end of his second term Mr Monroe retired to his home in Virginia, where he lived until 1830, when he went to New York to live with his son-inlaw. In that city he died,on the 4th of July, I831 0 i:: r ~,:~: I 9,,c, 4Lcu m: SIXTH PRESIDENT.... _ l 39, _ - _ _ _ @ i g/,. -. I.' 'Il tp t,: ^T.., OOHN QUINCY ADAMS, the -,, ~ k / - sixth President of the United W4Ehhg Sta ~ I t. 'StL1 tes, was born ill the rural X l Z hl ( t onle of his honored father. Y! '5 5!i/ John Adams, in Qaincv, Mass., oil the Ith cf July, 17 67. His \((C~ ~J; mother, a woman of exalted /fc wol-th, watched over his childhood -Q',7~' during the almost constant ablIh] i sence of his father. When but }}i'}~ eight years of age, he stood with 7 i -5' his mother on an eminence, listen-,(2u. ing to the booming of the great batJ tie on Bunker's Hill, and gazing on: w t upon the smoke and flames billowi ing uip frsm the conflagration of Charlestown. When but eleven years old he took a tearful adieu of his mother, to sail with his father for Europe, through a fleet ot hostile British cruisers. The bright, animated boy spent a year and a half in Palis, where Iiis father was associated with Franklin and Lee as minister plenipotentiary. His intelligence attracted the notice of these distinguished men, and he received from them flattering marks of attention. Mr. John ALams had scarcely returned to this coui-try, iln 779, ere he was again sent abroad Again JoLn Quincy accompanied his father. At Paris he applied himself with great diligence, for six months, to:tudy; then accompained his father to Holland, where he entered, first a school in Amsterdam, then the University at Leyden. About a year from this time, in 178I, when the manly boy was but fourteen yea", of age, he was selected by Mr. Dana, our minister to the Russian court, as his private secretary. In this school of incessant labor and of enobling culture he spent fourteen months, and then returned to Holland through Sweden, Denmark, Hamburg and Bremen. This long journey he took alone, in the winter, when in his sixteenth year. Again he resumed his studies, under a private tutor, at Hague. Thence, in the spring of 1782, he accompanied his father t: Paris, traveling leisurely, and forming acquaintance with the most distinguished men on the Con',inent examining architectural remains, galleries of paintings and all renowned works of art. At Paris he again became associated with the most illustrious men of all lands in the contemplations of the loftiest telmporal themes which can engross the human mind. Aftza short visit to England lie returned to Paris, and consecrated all his energies to study until May, 1785, when he returned to America. To a brilliant young man of eighteen, lwho had seen much of the world, and who was familiar with the etiquette of courts, a residence with his father in London, under such circumstances, must have been extremely attractive but with judgment very rare in one of his age, he preferred to return to America to complete his education in an American college. He wished then to study law, that with an honorable profession, he might be able to obtain an independent support. Upon leaving Harvard College, at the age of twenty he studied law for three years. In June, 1794, being then but twenty-seven years of age, he was appointed by Washington, resident minister at the Netherlands. Sailing from Boston in July, lie reached London in October, where he was inmmediately admitted to the delilerations of Messrs. Jay and Pinckney, assisting them in negotiating a commercial treaty with Great Britian. After thus spending a fortnight i. London, he proceeded to the Hague. In July, I797, he left the Hague to go.to Portugal a; minister plenipotentiary. On his way to Portugal. upon arriving in London, he met with despatches directing him to the court of Beiiin, but requestirg him to remain in London until he should receive his instructions. While waiting he was married to a: American lady to whom he had been previously engaged, —Miss Louisa Catherine Johnson, daughter of Mr. Joshua Johnson, American conaul in London; a lady endownd with that beauty and those accom. plishment which eminently fitted her to move in tile elevated sphere for which she wAs,1tkned 40 JOHN QUINCY ADAMS. ---- -- = He reached Berlin with his wife in November, 1797; where he remained until July, 1799, when, having fulfilled all the purposes of his mission, he solicited his recall. Soon after his return, in I802, he was chosen to the Senate of Massachusetts, from Boston, and then was elected Senator of the United States for six years, from the 4th of March, I804. His reputation, his ability and his experience, placed him immediately among the most prominent and influential members of that body. Especially did he sustain the Government in its measures of resistance to the encroachments of England, destroying our commerce and insulting our flag. There was no man in America more familiar with the arrogance of the British court upon these points, and no one more resolved to present a firm resistance. In I809, Madison succeeded Jefferson in the Presidential chair, and he immediately nominated John Quincy Adams minister to St. Petersburg. Resigning his professorship in Harvard College, he embarked at Boston, in August, I809. While in Russia, Mr. Adams was an intense student. He devoted his attention to the language and history of Russia; to the Chinese trade; to the European system of weights, measures, and coins; to the climate and astronomical observations; while he Kept up a familiar acquaintance with the Greek and Latin classics. In all the universities of Europe, a more accomplished scholar could scarcely be found. All through life the Bible constituted an imoxrtart part of his studies. It was his rule to read five chapters every day. - On the 4th of March, 1817, Mr. Monroe took the Presidential chair, and immediately appointed Mr. Adams Secretary of State. Taking leave of his numerous friends in public and private life in Europe, he sailed in June, I8I9, for the United States. On the i8th of August, he again crossed the threshold of his home in Quincy. During the eight years of Mr. Monroe's administration, Mr. Adams continued Secretary of State. Some time before the close of Mr. Monroe's second term of office, new candidates began to be presented for the Presidency. The friends of Mr. Adams brought forward his name. It was an exciting campaign. Party spirit was never more bitter. Two hundred and sixty electoral votes were cast. Andrew Jackson received ninety-nine; John Quincy Adams, eighty-four; William H. Crawford, forty-one; Henry Clay, thirtyse en. As there was no choice by the people, the question went to the House of Representatives. Mr. Clay gave the vote of Kentucky to Mr. Adams, and he was elected. The friends of all the disappointed candidates now Combined in a venomous and persistent assault upon Mr. Adams. There is nothing more disgraceful in 'n- tat history of our country than the abuse which i I I I I I I -- — I was poured in one uninterrupted stream, upon this high-minded, upright, patriotic man. There never was an administration more pure in principles, more conscientiously devoted to the best interests of the country, than that of John Quincy Adams; and never, perhaps, was there an administration more unscrupu. lously and outrageously assailed. Mr. Adams was, to a very remarkable degree, abstemious and temperate in his habits; always rising early, and taking much exercise. When at his home in Quincy, he has been known to walk, before breakfast. seven miles to Boston. In Washington, it was said that he was the first man up in the city, lighting his own fire and applying himself to work in his library often long before dawn. On the 4th of March, 1829, Mr. Adams retired from the Presidency, and was succeeded by Andrew Jackson. John C. Calhoun was elected Vice President. The slavery question now began to assume portentous magnitude. Mr. Adams returned to Quincy and to his studies, which he pursued with unabated zeal. But he was not long permitted to remain in retirement. In November, I830, he -was elected representative to Congress. For seventeen years, until his death, he occupied the post as representative, towering above all his peers, ever ready to do brave battle' for freedom, and winning the title of "the old man eloquent." Upon taking his seat in the House, he announced that he should hold himself bound to no party. Probably there never was a member more devoted to his duties. He was usually the first in his place in the morning, and the last to leave his seat in the evening. Not a measure could be brought forward and escape his scrutiny. The battle which Mr. Adams fought, almost singly, against the proslavery party in the Government, was sublime in its moral daring and heroism. For persisting in presenting petitions for the abolition of slavery, he was threatened with indictment by the grand jury, with expulsion from the House, with assassinations but no threats could intimidate him, and his final triumph was complete. It has been said of President Adams, that when his body was bent and his hair silvered by the lapse of fourscore years, yieldingto the simple faith of a little child, he was accustomed to repeat every night, before he slept, the prayer which his mother taught him in his infant years. On the 2istof February, I848, he rose on the floor of Congress, with a paper in his hand, to address the speaker. Suddenly he fell, again stricken by paralysis, and was caught in the arms of those around him. For a time he was senseless, as he was conveyed to the sofa in the rotunda. With reviving consciousness, he opened his eyes, looked calmly around and said " This is the end of earth;"then after a moment's pause he added, ". am content." These were the last words of the grand " Old Man Eloquent." le` C`>-x, -~,:: ~~-; -'7 MVONTH PRAPS1LkeNT. 45 Nil ~ ~ ~ i u. ~~*C~i~ J - i ~ NDREW JACKSON, the seventh President of the wg'^^t"Un ited States, was born in ^ ~ IJ Waxhaw settlement, N. C., 1 March I5, 1767, a few days after his father's death. His parents were poor emigrants from Ireland, and took up their abode in Waxhaw set> 71i tlement, where they lived in deepest poverty. Andrew, or Andy, as he was universally called, grew up a very rough, rude, turbulent boy. His features were coarse, his form ungainly; and there was but very little in his character, made visible, which was attractive. When only thirteen years old he joined the volunteers of Carolina against the British invasion. In I781, he and his brother Robert were captured and imprisoned for a time at Camden. A British officer ordered him to brush his mud-spattered boots. " I am a prisoner of war, not your servant," was the reply of the dauntless boy. The brute drew his sword, and aimed a desperate ulow at the head of the helpless young prisoner. Andrew raised his hand, and thus received two fearful gashes,-one on the hand and the other upon the head. The officer then turned to his brother Robert with the same demand. He also refused, and received a blow from the keen-edged sabre, which quite disabled him, and which probably soon after caused his death. They suffered much other ill-treatment, and were finally stricken with the small-pox. Their mother was successful `r oqbtaining their exchange, and took her sick boys home. After a long illness Andrew recovered, and the death of his mother soon left him entirely friendless. Andrew supported himself in various ways, s lhl as working at the saddler's trade, teaching school and clerking in a general store, until I784, when he entered a law office at Salisbury, N. C. He, however, gave more attention to the wild amusements of the times than to his studies. In 1788, he was appointed solicitor for the western district of North Carolina, of which Tennessee was then a part. This involved many long and tedious journeys amid dangers of every kind, but Andrew Jackson never knew fear, and the Indians had no desire to repeat a skirmish with the Sharp Knife. In I79I, Mr. Jackson was married to a woman who supposed herself divorced from her former husband. Great was the surprise of both parties, two years later, to find that the conditions of the divorce had just been definitely settled by the first husband. The marriage ceremony was performed a second time, but the occurrence was often used by his enemies to bring Mr. Jackson into disfavor. During these years he worked hard at his profession, and frequently had one or more duels on hand, oneof which, when he killed Dickenson, was especially disgraceful. In January, 1796, the Territory of Tennessee then containing nearly eighty thousand inhabitants, the people met in convention at Knoxville to frame a constitution. Five were sent from each of the eleven counties. Andrew Jackson was one of the delegates. The new State was entitled to but one member in the National House of Representatives. Andrew Jack-. son was chosen that member. Mounting his horse he rode to Philedelphia, where Congress then held its 4 44.4y~lio. R4*1 p JA CKSOY.~Z $4 W0L-i W.... ON ses.ions,-a distance of about eight hundred miles. Jackson was an earnest advocate of the Democratic party. Jefferson was his idol. He admired Bonaparte, loved France and hated England. As Mr. Jackson took his seat, Gen. Washington, whose second term of office was then expi:ing, delivered his last speech to Congress. A committee drew up a complimentary address in reply. Andrew Jackson did not approve of the address, and was one of the twelve who voted against it. He was not willing to say that Gen. Washington's adminstration had been ' wise, firm and patriotic." Mr. Jackson was elected to the United States Senate in 17 97, but soon resigned and returned home. Soon after he was chosen Judge of the Supreme Court of his State, which position he held for six years. When the war of I812 with Great Britian commenced, Madison occupied the Presidential chair. Aaron Burr sent word to the President that there was an unknown man in the West, Andrew Jackson, who v.ould do credit to a commission if one were conferred upon him. Just at that time Gen. Jackson;ffered his services and those of twenty-five hundred volunteers. His offer was accepted, and the troops were asseml)led at Nashville. As the British were hourly expected to make an attack upa)n New Orleans, where Gen. Wilkinson was in command, he was ordered to descend the river with fifteen hundred troops to aid Wilkinson. The expedition reached Natchez; and after a delay of several weeks there, without accomplishing anything, the men were ordered back to their homes. But the energy Gen. Jackson had displayed, and his entire devotion to the comrfort of his soldiers, won him golden opinions; and he became the most popular man in the State. It was in this expedition that his toughness gave him the nickname of" Old Hickory." Soon after this, while attempting to horsewhip Col. Thomas H. Benton, for a remark that gentleman made about his taking a part as second in a duel, in which a younger brother of Benton's was engaged, he received two severe pistol wounds. While he was lingering upon a bed of suffering news came that the Indians, who had combined under Tecumseh from Florida to the Lakes, to exterminate the white settlers, were committing the most awfdl ravages. Decisive action became necessary. Gen. Jackson, with his fractured bone just beginning to heal, his arm in a sling, and unable to mount his horse without assistance, gave his amazing energies to the raising of an army to rendezvous at Fayettesville, Alabama. The Creek Indians had established a strong fort on one of the lends of the Tallapoosa River, near the center of Alabama, about fifty miles below Fort Strother. With an army of two thousand men, Gen, Jackson traversed the pathless wilderness in a march of eleven days. He reached their fort, called Tohopeka or Horse-shoe, on the 27th of March. 1814. The bend of the river enclosed nearly one hundred acres of tangled forest and wild ravine. Across the narrow neck the Indians had constructed a formidable breastwork of logs and brush. Here nine hundred warriors, with an ample suply of arms were assembled. Tl'e fort was stormed. The fight was utterly desperate. Not an Indian would accept of quarter. When bleeding and dying, they would fight those who endeavored to spare their lives. From ten in the m-orning until dark, the battle raged. The carnage was awful and revolting. Some threw themselves into the river; but the unerring bullet struck their heads as they swam. Nearly everyone of the nine hundred warrios were killed A few probably, in the night, swam the river and escaped. This ended the war. The power of the Creeks was broken forever. This bold plunge into the wilderness, with its terriffic slaughter, so appalled the savages, that the haggard remnants of the bands calie to the camp, begging for peace. This closing of the Creek war enabled us to concentrate all our militia upon the British, who were the allies of the Indians No man of less resolute will than Gen. Jackson could have conducted this Indian campaign to so successful an issue Immediately he was appointed major-general. Late in August, with an army of two thousand men, on a rushing march, Gen. Jackson came to Mobile. A British fleet came from Pensacola, landed a force upon the beach, anchored near the little fort, and from both ship and shore commenced a furious assault. The battle was long and doubtful. At length one of the ships was blown up and the rest retired. Garrisoning Mobile, where he had taken his little army, he moved his troops to New Orleans, And the battle of New Orleans which soon ensued, was in reality a very arduous campaign. This won for Gen. Jackson an imperishable name. Here his troops, which numbered about four thousand men, won a signal victory over the British army of about nine thousand. His loss was lut thirteen, while the loss of the British was two thousand six hundred. The name of Gen. Jackson soon began to be mentioned in connection with the Presidency, but, in T 824, he was defeated by Mr. Adams. He was, however, successful in the election of I828, and was re-elected for a second term in 1832. In 1829, just before he assumed the reins of the government, he met with the most terrible affliction of his life in the death of his wife, whom he had loved with a devotion which has perhaps never been surpassed. From the shock of her death he never recovered. His administration was one of the most memorable in the annals of our country; applauded by one party, condemned by the other. No man had more bitter enemies or warmer friends. At the expiration of his two terms of office he retired to the Hermitage, where he died June 8, I845. The last years of Mr. Jackson's life were that of a devoted Christian man. ::: 0::~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~:_::;;;X b ff if f;f 0 00 AS >d~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ S 0 \ g S~~~~~~~~~r 77I-;- illegal EIGHTH PRESIDENT. w)^^anl te:^n~^ 7n tun~ 4't ARTIN VAN BUREN, the 2'-J:,iV ^tA Aeighth President of.the A>:fIl i~M!~ X United States, was born at IAWi^I Kinderhook, N. Y., Dec. 5, ri m* ~~7'1782. He died at the same \' X "place, July 24, 1862. His body rests in the cemetery at Kinderhook. Above it is a plain granite shaft fifteen feet high, bearing a simple inscription about half way up on one face. The lot is unfenced, unbordered or unbounded by shrub or flower. There is but little in the life of Martin Van Buren of romantic interest. He fought no battles, engaged in no wild adventures. Though his life was stormy in political and intellectual conflicts, and he gained many signal victories, his days passed uneventful in those incidents which give zest to biography. His ancestors, as his name indicates, were of Dutch origin, and were among the earliest emigrants from Holland to the banks of the Hudson. His father was a farmer, residing in the old town of Kinderhook. His mother, also of Dutch lineage, was a woman of superior inteliigence and exemplary piety. A>e was decidedly a precocious boy, developing unusual activity, vigor and strength of mind. At the age of fourteen, he had finished his academic studies in his native village, and commenced the study of law. As he had not a collegiate education, seven years of study in a law-office were required of him before he could be admitted to the bar. Inspired with a lofty ambition, and conscious of his powers, he pursued his studies with indefatigable industry. After spending six years in an office in!is native village, he went to the city of New York, and prosecuted his studies for the seventh year. In 1803, Mr. Van Buren, then twenty-one years of age, commenced the practice of law in his native village. The great conflict between the Federal and Republican party was then at its height. Mr. Van Buren was from the beginning a politician. He had, perhaps, imbibed that spirit while listening to the many discussions which had been carried on in his father's hotel. He was in cordial sympathy with Jefferson, and earnestly and eloquently espoused the cause of State Rights; though at that time the Federal party held the supremacy both in his town and State. His success and increasing ruputation led him1 after six years of practice, to remove to Hudson, tlih county seat of his county. Here he spent seven years constantly gaining strength by contending in th(. courts with some of the ablest men who have adorned the bar of his State. Just before leaving Kinderhook for Hudson, Mi. Van Buren married a lady alike distinguished for beauty and accomplishments. After twelve short years she sank into the grave, the victim of consumption, leaving her husband and four sons to weep over her loss. For twenty-five years, Mr. Van Buren was an earnest, successful, assiduous lawyer. The record of those years is barren in items of public interest. In T812, when thirty years of age, he was chosen to the State Senate, and gave his strenuous support to Mr. Madison's adminstration. In I815, he was appointed Attorney-General, and the next year moved to Albany, the capital of the State. While he was acknowledged as one of the. most p.ominent leaders of the Democratic party, he had 4b 4MATJRrl VA4N,,,t.ST. the moral courage to avow that true democracy did not require that "universal suffrage" which admits the vile, the degraded, the ignorant, to the right of governing the State. In true consistency with his democratic principles, he contended that, while the path leading to the privilege of voting should be open to every man without distinction, no one should be invested with that sacred prerogative, unless he were in some degree qualified for it by intelligence, virtue and some property interests in the welfare of the State. In I82I he was elected a member of the United States Senate; and in the same year, he took a seat in the convention to revise the constitution of his native State. His course in this convention secured the approval of men of all parties. No one could doubt the singleness of his endeavors to promote the interests of all classes in the community. In the Senate of the United States, he rose at once to a conspicuous position as an active and useful legislator. In 1827, John Quincy Adams being then in the Presidential chair, Mr. Van Buren was re-elected to ihe Senate. He had been from the beginning a determined opposer of the Administration, adopting the 'State Rights" view in opposition to what was deemed the Federal proclivities of Mr. Adams. Soon after this, in I828, he was chosen Governorof the State of New York, and accordingly resigned his seat in the Senate. Probably no one in the United States contributed so much towards ejecting John Q. Adams from the Presidential chair, and placing in it Andrew Jackson, as did Martin Van Buren. Whether entitled to the reputation or not, he certainly was regarded throughout the United States as one of the most skillful, sagacious and cunning of politicians. It was supposed that no one knew so well as he how to touch the secret springs of action; how to pull all the wires to put his machinery in motion; and how to organize a political army which would, secretly and,te:lthily accomplish the most gigantic results. By these powers it is said that he outwitted Mr. Adams, Mr. Clay, Mr. Webster, and secured results which few thought then could be accomplished. Whei Andrew Jackson was elected President he appointed Mr. Van Buren Secretary of State. This po.ition he resigned in 1831, and was immediately appointed Minister to England, where he went the same autumn. The Senate, however, when it met, refused to ratify the nomination, and he returned T --------- h-~~~~~~~~~~, ------ — ' "- home, apparently untroubled; was nominated Vice President in the place of Calhoun, at the re-election of President Jackson; and with smiles for all and frowns for none, he took his place at the head of that Senate which had refused to confirm his nomination as ambassador. His rejection by the Senate roused all the zeal of President Jackson in behalf of his repudiated favorite; and this, probably more than any other cause, secured his elevation to the chair of the Chief Execu tive. On the 2oth of May, 1836, Mr. Van Buren received the Democratic nomination to succeed Gen. Jackson as President of the United States. He was elected by a handsome majority, to the delight of the retiring President. "Leaving New York out of the canvass," says Mr. Parton, "the election of Mr. Van Buren to the Presidency was as much the act of Gen. Jackson as though the Constitution had conferred upon him the power to appoint a successor." His administration was filled with exciting events. The insurrection in Canada, which threatened to in. volve this country in war with England, the agitation of the slavery question, and finally the great commercial panic which spread over the country, all were trials to his wisdom. The financial distress was attributed to the management of the Democratic party, and brought the President intd such disfavor that he failed of re-election. With the exception of being nominated for the Presidency by the "Free Soil" Democrats, in I848, Mr. Van Buren lived quietly upon his estate until his death. He had ever been a prudent man, of frugal habits. and living within his income, had now fortunately a competence for his declining years. His unblemished character, his commanding abilities, his unquestioned patriotism, and the distinguished positions which he had occupied in the government of our country, secured to him not only the homage of his party, but the respect ot the whole community. It was on the 4th of March, 1841, that Mr. Van Buren retired from the presidency. From his fine estate at Lindenwald, he still exerted a powerful influence upon the politics of the country. From this time until his death, on the 24th of July, I862, at the age of eighty years, he resided at Lindenwald, a gentleman of leisure, of culture and of wealth; enjoying in a healthy old age, probably far more happiness than he had before experienced amid the stormy scenes of his active lifer r ol -~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~w~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~ ~~~ ~~ ~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~; )5i. -WIN.TH PR&SIDF.Nr.V It -,- - - - '', I -.. -, - ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~,-t *" X^i^~Tl ILLIAM HENRY HARRI- dent Washin;::-)1^.. Ad SON, the ninth President of From that tin ~Q.[2..XsJ ' 1 the United States, was born until he beca at Berkeley, Va., Feb. 9, I773. death he resi His father, Benjamin Harri- pointed Secre son, was in comparatively op- erritory was \v ^ ^ ulent circumstances, and was Congress and l^ ll ~one of the most distinguished position. >;e men of his day. He was an In the spri X iv intimate friend of George was divided i[l \ Washington, M as early elected eastern portic [a member of the Continental in the State Congress, and was conspicuous north-west of among the patriots of Virginia in included wha resisting the.encroachments of the Wisconsin, w; fi British crown. In the celebrated liam Henry I r ~ | Congress of I775, Benjamin Har- pointed by J rison and John Hancock were Territory, an( both candidates for the office of Upper Louisi; a1I speaker. extensive a re Mr Harrison was subsequently was Superint chosen Governor of Virginia, and vested with p was twice re-elected. His son, rapidly increa William Henry, of course enjoyed fidelity with v in childhood all the advantages which wealth and duties may b( intellectual and cultivated society could give. Hav- ties appoint ing received a thorough common-school education, he twice by Thor entered Hampden Sidney College, where he graduated dent Madison with honor soon after the death of his father. He Whenhe be 76t nIn the year io06, with his wife and children, and soon after followed by most of the members of W /t the o y, mu Polk ly, S l Polk emigrated some two or three hundred miles farther west, to the rich valley,l / of the Duck River. Here in the i midst of the wilderness, in a region which was subsequently called Maury Co., they reared their log huts, and established their homes. In the hard toil of a new farm in the wilderness, James K. Polk spent the early years of his childhood and youth. His father, adding the pursuit of a surveyor to that of a farmer, gradually increased in wealth until he became one of the leading men of the region. His mother was a superior woman, of strong common sense and earnest piety. Very early in life, James developed a taste for reading and expressed the strongest desire to obtain a liberal education. His mother's training had made him methodical in his habits, had taught him punctuality and industry, and had inspired him with lofty principles of morality. His health was frail; and his father, fearing that he might not le able to endure a sedentary life, got a situation for him behind the counter, hoping to fit him for commercial pursuits. This was to James a bitter disappointment. He had no taste for these duties, and his daily tasks were irksome in the extreme. He remained in this uncongenial occupation but a few weeks, when at his earnest solicitation his father removed him, and made arrangements for him to prosecute his studies. Soon after he sent him to Murfreesboro Academy. With ardor which could scarcely be surpassed, he pressed forward in his studies, and in less than two and a half years, in the autumn of 1815, entered the sophomore class in the University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill. Here he was one of the most exemplary of scholars, punctual in every exercise, never allowing himself to be absent from a recitation or a religious service. He graduated in i8I8, with the highest honors, be. ing deemed the best scholar of his class, both in mathematics and the classics. He was then twentythree years of age. Mr. Polk's health was at this time much impaired by the assiduity with which he had prosecuted his studies. After a short season of relaxation he went to Nashville, and entered the office of Felix Grundy, to study law. Here Mr. Polk renewed his acquaintance with Andrew Jackson, who resided on his plantation, the Hermitage, but a few miles from Nashville. They 1had probably been slightly acquainted before. Mr. Polk's father was a Jeffersonian Republican, and James K. Polk ever adhered to the same political faith. He was a popular public speaker, and was constantly called upon to address the meetings of his party friends. His skill as a speaker was such that he was popularly called the Napoleon of the stump. He was a man of unblemished morals, genial ard 11 So oAMES K. POLK. courtecus in his bearing, and with that sympathetic nature in the joy s and griefs of others which ever gave him troops of friends. In 1823, Mr. Polk was elected to the Legislature of Tennessee. Here he gave his strong influence towards the election of his friend, Mr. Jackson, to the Presidency of the United States. In January, I824, Mr. Polk married Miss Sarah Childress, of Rutherford Co., Tenn. His bride was altogether worthy of him,-a lady of beauty and culture. In the fall of 1825, Mr. Polk was chosen a member of Congress. The satisfaction which he gave to his constituents may be inferred from the fact, that for fourteen successive years, until i839, he was continuecd in that office. He then voluntarily withdrew, only that he might accept the Gubernatorial chair of TI nnessee. In Congress he was a laborious member, a frequent and a popular speaker. He was always in his seat, always courteous; and whenever he spoke it was always to the point, and without any ambitious rhetorical display. During five sessions of Congress, Mr. Polk was Speaker of the House, Strong passions were roused, and stormy scenes were witnessed; but Mr. Polk performed his arduous duties to a very general satisfaction, and a unanimous vote of thanks to him was!passed by the House as he withdrew on the 4th of March, 1839. In accordance with Southern usage, Mr. Polk, as a candidate for Governor, canvassed the State. He was elected by a large majority, and on the I4th of October, I839, took the oath of office at Nashville. In I841, his term of office expired, and he was again the candidate of the Democratic party, but was defeated. On the 4th of March, I845, Mr. Polk was inaugurated President of the United States. The verdict of the country in favor of the annexation of Texas, exerted its influence upon Congress; and the last act of the administration of President Tyler was to affix his signature to a joint resolution of Congress, passed on the 3d of March, approving of the annexation of Texas to the American Union. As Mexico still claimed Texas as one of her provinces, the Mexican minister, Almonte, immediately demanded his passports and left the country, declaring the act of the annexation to be an act hostile to Mexico. In his first message, President Polk urged that Texas should immediately, by act of Congress, be received into the Union on the same footing,with the other States. In the meantime, Gen. Taylor was sent with an army into Texas to hold the country. He was sent first to Nueces, which the Mexicans said was the western boundary of Texas. Then he was sent nearly two hundred miles further west, to the Rio Grande, where he erected batteries which commanded the Mexican city of Matamoras, which was situated on the western banks. The anticipated collision soon took place, and wai was declared against Mexico by President Polk. The war was pushed forward by Mr. Polk's administration with great vigor. Gen. Taylor, whose army was first called one of "observation," then of "occupation,' then of " invasion, "was sent forward to Monterey. The feeble Mexicans, in every encounter, were hopelessly and awfully slaughtered. The day of judgement alone can reveal the misery which this war caused. It was by the ingenuity of Mr. Polk's administration that the war was brought on. 'To the victors belong the spoils." Mexico was prostrate before us. Her capital was in our hands. We now consented to peace upon the condition that Mexico should surrender to us, in addition to Texas, all of New Mexico, and all of Upper and Lower California. This new demand embraced, exclusive of Texas, eight hundred thousand square miles. This was an extent of territory equal to nine States of the size of New York. Thus slavery was securing eighteen majestic States to be added to the Union. There were some Americans who thought it all right: there were others who thought it all wrong. In the prosecution of this war, we expended twenty thousand lives and more than a hundred million of dollars. Of this money fifteen millions were paid to Mexico. On the 3d of March, i849, Mr. Polk retired from office, having served one term. The next day was Sunday. On the 5th, Gen. Taylor was inaugurated as his successor. Mr. Polk rode to the Capitol in the same carriage with Gen. Taylor; and the same evening, with Mrs. Polk, he commenced his return to Tennessee. He was then but fifty-four years of age. He had ever been strictly temperate in all his habits, and his health was good. With an ample fortune, a choice library, a cultivated mind, and domestic ties of the dearest nature, it seemed as though long years of tranquility and happiness were before him. But the cholera-that fearful scourge —was then sweeping up the Valley of the Mississippi. This he contracted, and died on the i5th of June, I849, in the fiftv-fourth year of his age, greatly mourned by his countrymen. I:: ~~MILLA: I z1n 4*4+ 1YMILLTA Rll FILLMIIRRE,4 - 5'11 IN I'.' 7,,~\, f.-;IV " 4 -,,, -,,- -,,, -, I %-, " +. CO e- ''. - Oa - c ( 10 ), X LX" r X~,ILLARD FILLMORE, thir~/-' ' 1^::' c teentl P'resident of the United States, was lborn at Summer. A-"... Hill, Cayuga Co., N. Y., on ' the 7th of January, i8oo. His father was a farmer, and ow- /^<.'~V/ ing to misfortune, in humbll e cir'ji,/^^X cumstances. Of his mother, the l l Q,,) daughter of D)r. Abiathar Millard,./ y.t of Pittsfield, Mass., it lhas been KXiQ s~said that she possessed an intellect of very high order, united with much - )ersonal loveliness, sweetness of dis)osition, graceful manners and exquisite sensibilities. She died in 1831; having lived to see her son a young man of distinguished pronmise, ihough she was not permitted to witness the high dignity which he finally attained. In consequence of the secluded home and limited means of his father, Millard enjoyed but slender advantages for education in his early years. The common schools, which lie occasionally attended were very imperfect institutions; and books were scarce and expensive. 'There was nothing then in his character to indicate the brilliant career upon which he was about to enter. He was a plain farmer's boy; intelligent, good-looking, kind-hearted. The sacred influences of home had taught him to revere the Bible, and had laid the foundations of an upright character. When fourteen years of age, his father sent him some hundred miles from home, to the then wilds of Livingston County, to learn the trade of a clothier. Near the mill there was a small villiage, where some enterprising man had commenced the collection of a village library. 'This l)roved an inestimable blessing to young Fillmore. His evenings were spent in reading. Soon every leistre moment was occuplied ';ith books. His tlirst fur knowledge became insatiate and the selections which he made were continually more elevating and instructive. HIe read history, Iliography, oratory, and thus gradually there was enkindled in his heart a desire to be something more than a mere worker with his hands; and lie was beconling, almost unknown to himself, a well-informed, educated iman. The young clothier had now attained the age of ninetcen years, and was of fine personal appearance and of gentlemanly demeanor. It so happened tha' there was a gentleman in the neighborhood of ample pecuniary means and of benevolence,-Judge Walter Wood,-who was struck:witl the prepossessing a)pearance of young Fillmore. He made his acquaintance, and was so imuch impressed with his ability and attainments that he advised him to abandon his trade and devote himself to the study of the law. The young man replied, that lie had no means of his own, ino friends to help him and that his previous education had been very imperfect. But Judge Wood had so much confidence in him that he kindly offered to take him into his own office, and to loan him such money as lie needed. Most gratefully the generous offer was accepted. There is in many minds a strange delusion abou'i a collegiate education. A young man is supposed to be liberally educated if he has graduated at some college. But many a boy loiters through university hall.:,nd then enters a law office, who is by no means as MILLARD FILLMORE. well prepared to prosecute his legal studies as was Millard Fillmoi when he graduated at the clothingmill at the end of four years of manual labor, during which every leisure moment had been devoted to intense mental culture. In i823, when twenty-three years of age, he was admitted to the Court of Common Pleas. He then went to the village of Aurora, and commenced the practice of law. In this secluded, peaceful region, his practice of course was limited, and there was no opportunity for a sudden rise in foitune or in fame. Here, in the year 1826, he married a lady of great moral worth, and one capable of adorning any station she might be called to fill,-Miss Abigail Powers. His elevation of character, his untiring industry, his legal acquirements, and his skill as an advocate, gradually attracted attention; and he was invited to enter into partnership under highly advantageous circumstances, with an elder member of the bar in Buffalo. Just before removing to Buffalo, in 1829, he took his seat in the House of Assembly, of the State of New York, as a representative from Erie County. Though he had never taken a very active part in politics, his vote and his sympathies were with the Whig party. The State was then Democratic, and he found himself in a helpless minority in the Legislature, still the testimony comes from all parties, that his courtesy, ability and integrity, won, to a very unusual degree the respect of his associates. In the autumn of 1832, he was elected to a seat in the United States Congress. He entered that troubled arena in some of the most tumultuous hours of our national history. The great conflict respecting the national bank and the removal of the deposits, was then raging. His term of two years closed; and he returned to his profession, which he pursued with increasing reputation and success. After a lapse of two years he again became a candidate for Congress; was reelected, and took his seat in I837. His past experience as a representative gave him strength and confidence. The first term of service in Congress to any man can be but little more than an introduction. He was now prepared for active duty. All his energies were brought to bear upon the public good. Every measure received his impress. Mr. Fillmore was now a man of wide repute, and his popularity filled the State, and in the year I847, he was elected Comptroller of the State. Mr. Fillmore had attained the age of forty-seven years. His labors at the bar, in the Legislature, in Congress and as Comptroller, had given him very considerable fame. The Whigs were casting about to find suitable candidates for President and Vice-President at the approaching election. Far away, on the waters of the Rio Grande, there was a rough old soldier, who had fought one or two successful battles with the Mexicans, which had caused his name to be proclaimed in tiumpet-tones all over the land. But it was necessary to associate with him on the same ticket some man of reputation as a statesman. Under the influence of these considerations, the names of Zachary Taylor and Millard Fillmore became the rallying-cry of the Whigs, as their candidates for President and Vice-Peesident. The Whig ticket was signally triumphant. On the 4th of March, I849, Gen. Taylor was inaugurated President, and Millard Fillmore Vice-President, of the United States. On the 9th of July, 1850, President Taylor, but about one year and four months after his inauguration, was suddenly taken sick and died. By the Constitution, Vice-President Fillmore thus became President. He appointed a very able cabinet, of which the illustrious Daniel Webster was Secretary of State. Mr. Fillmore had very serious difficulties to contend with, since the opposition had a majority in both Houses. He did everything in his power to conciliate the South; but the pro-slavery party in the South felt the inadequacy of all measures of transient conciliation. The population of the free States was so rapidly increasing over that of the slave States that it was inevitable that the power of the Government should soon pass into the hands of the free States. The famous compromise measures were adopted under Mr. Fillmcre's adminstration, and the Japan Expedition was sent out. On the 4th of March, 1853, Mr. Fillmore, having served one term, retired. In i856, Mr. Fillmore was nominated for the Presidency by the " Know Nothing " party; but was beaten by Mr. Buchanan. After that Mr. Fillmore lived in retirement. During the terrible conflict of civil war, he was mostly silent. It was generally supposed that his sympathies were rather with those who were endeavoring to overthrow our institutions. President Fillmore kept aloof from the conflict, without any cordial words of cheer to the one party or the other. He was thus forgotten by both. He lived to a ripe old age, and died in Buffalo. N. Y., March 8, I874. I I) N, V\ FO UR TEENTHI PRESIDEIT 7 RANKLIN PIERCE, the fourteenth President of the.'!}~ I )United States, was born in Hillsborotgh, N. H., Nov. 23, 1804. His father was a i Revolutionary soldier, who, with his own strong arm, ^ jJl hewed out a home in the wilderness. He was a man If 7 of inflexible integrity; of ( U strong, though uncultivated mind, and an uncompromising Iemocrat. The mother of Franklin Pierce was all that a son could desire,-an intelligent, prudent, affectionate, Christian woman. Franklin was the sixth of eight children. Franklin was a very bright and handsome boy, generous, warm-hearted and brave. He won alike the love of old and young. The boys on the play ground loved him. His teachers loved him. The neighbors looked upon him with pride and affection. He was by instinct a gentleman; always speaking kind words, doing kind deeds, with a peculiar unstudied tact which taught him what was agreeable. Without developing any precocity of genius, or any unnatural devotion to books, he was a good scholar; in body, in mind, in affections, a finely-developed boy. When sixteen years of age, in the year 1820, he entered Bowdoin College, at Brunswick, Me He was one of the most popular young men in the college. qThe purity of his moral character, the unvarying courtesy of his demeanor, his rank as a scholar, and genial nature, rendered him a universal favorite. There was something very peculiarly winning in his address, and it was evidently not in the slightest degree studied: it was the simple outgushing of his own magnanimous and loving nature. Upon graduating, in the year 1824, Franklin Pierce commnenced the study of law in the office of Judge Woodbury, one of the most distinguished lawyers of the State, and a man of great private worth. The eminent social qualities of the young lawyer, his father's prominence as a public man, and the brilliant political career into which Judge Woodbury was entering, all tended to entice Mr. Pierce into the facinating yet perilous path of political life. With all the ardor of his nature he espoused the cause of Gen. Jackson for the Presidency. He commenced the practice of law in Hillsborough, and was soon elected to represent the town in the State Legislature. Here he served for four yeais. The last two years he was chosen speaker of the house by a very large vote. In i833, at the age of twenty-nine, he was elected a member of Congress. Without taking an active part in debates, he was faithful and laborious in duty, and ever rising in the estimation of those with whom he was associatad. In I837, being then but thirty-three years of age, he was elected to the Senate of the United States; taking his seat just as Mr. Van Buren commenced his administration. He was the youngest memberin the Senate. In the year I834, he married Miss Jane Means Appleton, a lady of rare beauty and accomplishments, and one admirably fitted to adorn every station with which her husband was honoied Of the 72 *.VE'll"LANKLI PIERCE. 72 0 RA. PiERCE.:. three sons who were born to them, all now sleep with their parents in the grave. In the year I838, Mr. Pierce, with growing fame and increasing business as a lawyer, took up his residence in Concord, the capital of New Hampshire. President Polk, upon his accession to office, appointed Mr. Pierce attorney-general of the United States; but the offer was declined, in consequence of numerous professional engagements at home, and the precariuos state of Mrs. Pierce's health. He also, about the same time declined the nomination for governor by the Democratic party. The war with Mexico called Mr. Pierce in the army. Receiving the appointment of brigadier-general, he embarked, with a portion of his troops, at Newport, R. I., on the 27th of May, I847. He took an important part in this war, proving himself a brave and true soldier. When Gen. Pierce reached his home in his native State, he was received enthusiastically by the advocates of the Mexican war, and coldly by his opponents. He resumed the practice of his profession, very frequently taking an active part in political questions, giving his cordial support to the pro-slavery wing of the Democratic party. The compromise measures met cordially with his approval; and he strenuously advocated the enforcement of the infamous fugitive-slave law, which so shocked the religious sensibilities of the North. He thus became distinguished as a "Northern man with Southern principles.' The strong partisans of slavery in the South consequently regarded him as a man whom they could safely trust in office to carry out their plans. On the I2th of June, 1852, the Democratic convention met in Baltimore to nominate a candidate for the Presidency. For four days they continued in session, and in thirty-five ballotings no one had obtained a two-thirds vote. Not a vote thus far had been thrown for Gen. Pierce. Then the Virginia delegation brought forward his name. There were fourteen more ballotings, during which Gen. Pierce constantly gained strength, until, at the forty-ninth ballot, he received two hundred and eighty-two votes, and all other candidates eleven. Gen. Winfield Scott was the Whig candidate. Gen. Pierce was chosen with great unanimity. Only four States-Vermont, Massachusetts, Kentucky and Tennessee-cast their electoral votes against him Gen. Franklin Pierce was therefore inaugurated President of the United States on the 4th of March, 1853. His administration proved one of the most stormy our country had ever experienced. The controversy be tween slavery and freedom was then approaching its culminating point. It became evident that there was an "irrepressible conflict " between them, and that this Nation could not long exist " half slave and half free." President Pierce, during the whole of his administration, did every thing he could to conciliate the South; but it was all in vain. The conflict every year grew more violent, and threats of the dissolution of the Union were borne to the North on every Southern breeze. Such was the condition of affairs when President Pierce approached the close of his four-years' term of office. The North had become thoroughly alienated from him. The anti-slavery sentiment, goaded by great outrages, had been rapidly increasing; all the intellectual ability and social worth of President Pierce were forgotten in deep reprehension of his administrative acts. The slaveholders of the South, also, unmindful of the fidelity with which he had advocated those measures of Government which they approved, and perhaps, also, feeling that he had rendered himself so unpopular as no longer to be able acceptably to serve them, ungratefully dropped him, and nominated James Buchanan to succeed him. On the 4th of March, I857, President Pierce retired to his home in Concord. Of three children, two had died, and his only surviving child had been killed before his eyes by a railroad accident; and his wife, one of the most estimable and accomplished of ladies, was rapidly sinking in consumption. The hour of dreadful gloom soon came, and he was left alone in the world, without wife or child. When the terrible Rebellion burst forth, which divided our country into two parties, and two only, Mr. Pierce remained steadfast in the principles which he had always cherished, and gave his sympathies to that pro-slavery party with which he had ever been allied. He declined to do anything, either by voice or pen, to strengthen the hand of the National Government. He continued to reside in Concord until the time of his death, which occurred in October, I869. He was one of the most genial and social of men, an honored communicant of the Episcopal Church, and one of the kindest of neighbors. Generous to a fault, he contributed liberally for the alleviation of suffering and want, and many of his townspeople were often gladened by his material bounty. I t 2 —<^^z7zgze J 6:! 2n ri rP erF m1 J R & 7 ra yip ~aiJE n P r 7, %. re~ rAV ~~~-r 1~ / /IIr~-~~U ~ f f ~I~3~,,'~il AMES BUCHANAN, the fifteenth President of the United 4XL WMIPJT Ih H I Statcs, was born inl a small mi,*9J'~ JJi frontier town, at the foot of the eastern ridge of the Allegha'\\ )f lnies, in Franklin Co., Penn., on es ' the 23d of April, 17 9. The place 1/f ~ m where the humble cabin of his }; father stood was called Stony 7b*IA- Batter. It was a wild and romantic spot in a gorge of the mountains, with towering summits rising ( grandly all around. His father was a native of the north of Ireland; a poor man, who had emigrated in 1 783, with little property save his own strong arms. Five years afterwards he married Elizabeth Spear, the daughter of a respectable farmer, and, with his young bride, plunged into the wilderness, staked his claim, reared his log-hut, opened a clearing with his axe, and settled down there to perform his obscure part in the drama of life. In this secluded home, where James was born, he remained for eight years, enjoying but few social or intellectual advantages. When James was eight years of age, his father removed to the village of Mercersburg, where his son was placed at school, and commenced a course of study in English, Latin and Greek. His progress was rapid, and at the age of fourteen, he entered Dickinson College, at Carlisle. Here he de. veloped remarkable talent, and took his stand among the first scholars in the institution. His application to study was intense, and yet his native powers en abled him to master the most abstruse subjects with facility. In the year I809, he graduated with the highest honors of his class. He was then eighteen years of age; tall and graceful, vigorous in health, fond of athletic sport, an unerring shot, and enlivened with an exuberant flow of animal spirits. He immediately commenced the study of law in the city of Lancaster, and was admitted to the bar in I812, when he was but twenty-one years of age. Very rapidly he rose in his profession, and at once took undisputed stand with the ablest lawyers of the State. When blut twenty-six years of age, unaided by counsel, he successfully defended before the State Senate oie of the judges of the State, who was tried upon articles of impeachment. At the age of thirty it was generally admitted that he stood at the head of the bar; and there was no lawyer in the State who had a more li1 -crative practice. In 1820, he reluctantly consented to run as a candidate for Congress. He was elected, and for ten years he remained a member of the Lower House. During the vacations of Congress, he occasionally tried some important case. In 183I, he retired altogether from the toils of his profession, having acquired an ample fortune. Gen. Jackson, upon his elevation to the Presidency, appointed Mr. Buchanan minister to Russia. The duties of his mission he performed with ability, which gave satisfaction to all parties. Upon his return, in 1833, he was elected to a seat in the United States Senate. He there met, as his associates, Webster, Clay, Wright and Calhoun. He advocated the measures proposed by President Jackson, of mali;ng repri i J /AMES BUCHANA2VN. sals against France, to enforce the payment of our claims against that country; and defended the course of the President in his unprecedented and wholesale removal from office of those who were not the supporters of his administration. Upon this question he was brought into direct collision with Henry Clay. He also, with voice and vote, advocated expungirng from the journal of the Senate the vote of censure against Gen. Jackson for removing the deposits. Earnestly he opposed the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia, and urged the prohibition of the circulation of anti-slavery documents by the United States mails. As to petitions on the subject of slavery, he advocated that they should be respectfully received; and that the reply should be returned, that Congress had no power to legislate upon the subject. " Congress," said he, "might as well undertake to interfere with slavery under a foreign government as in any of the States where it now exists." Upon Mr. Polk's accession to the Presidency, Mr. Buchanan became Secretary of State, and as such, took his share of the responsibility in the conduct of the Mexican War. Mr. Polk assumed that crossing the Nueces by the American troops into the disputed territory was not wrong, but for the Mexicans to cross the Rio Grande into that territory was a declaration of war. No candid man can read with pleasure the account of the course our Government pursued in that movement. Mr. Buchanan identified himself thoroughly with the party devoted to the perpetuation and extension of slavery, and brought all the energies of his mind to bear against the Wilmot Proviso. He gave his cordial approval to the compromise measures of 1850, which included the fugitive-slave law. Mr. Pierce, upon his election to the Presidency, honored Mr. Buchanan with the mission to England. In the year I856, a national Democratic convention nominated Mr. Buchanan for the Presidency. The political conflict was one of the most severe in which our country has ever engaged. All the friends of slavery were on one side; all the advocates of its restriction and final abolition, on the other. Mr. Fremont, the candidate of the enemies of slavery, re'eived I114 electoral votes. Mr. Buchanan received 174, and was elected. The popular vote stood 1,340,618, for Fremont, I,224,750 for Buchanan. On March 4th, 1857, Mr. Buchanan was inaugurated. Mr. Buchanan was far advanced in life. Only four years were wanting to fill up his threescore years and ten. His own friends, those with whom he had been allied in political principles and action for years, were seeking the destruction of the-Government, that they might rear upon the ruins of our free institutions a nation whose corner-stone should be human slavery. In this emergency, Mr. Buchanan was hopelessly bewildered He could not, with his long-avowed prin ciples, consistently oppose the State-rights party in their assumptions. As President of the United States, bound by his oath faithfully to administer the laws. he could not, without perjury of the grossest kind, unite with those endeavoring to overthrow the republic. He therefore did nothing. The opponents of Mr. Buchanan's administration nominaled Abraham Lincoln as their standard bearer in the next Presidential canvass.. The pro-slavery party declared, that if he were elected, and the control of the Government were thus taken from their hands, they would secede from the Union, taking with them, as they retired, the National Capitol at Washington, and the lion's share of the territory of the United States. Mr. Buchanan's sympathy with the pro-slavery party was such, that he had been willing to offer them far more than they had ventured to claim. All the South had professed to ask of the North was nonintervention upon the subject, of slavery. Mr. 3Bu chanan had been ready to offer them the active cooperation of the Government to defend and extend the institution. As the storm increased in violence, the slaveholders claiming the right to secede, and Mr. Buchanan avowing that Congress had no power to prevent it, one of the most pitiable exhibitions of governmental imbecility was exhibited the world has ever seen. He declared that Congress had no power to enforce its laws in any State which had withdrawn, or which was attempting to withdraw from the Union. This was not the doctrine of Andrew Jackson, when, with his hand upon his sword-hilt, he exclaimed. " The Union must and shall be preserved!" South Carolina seceded in December, 1860; nearly three months before the inauguration of President Lincoln. Mr. Buchanan looked on in listless despair. The rebel flag was raised in Charleston; Fort Sumpter was besieged; our forts, navy-yards and arsenals were seized; our depots of military stores were plundered; and our custom-houses and post-offices were appropriated by the rebels. The energy of the rebels, and the imbecility of our Executive, were alike marvelous. The Nation looked on in agony, waiting for the slow weeks to glide away, and close the administration, so terrible in its weakness At length the long-looked-for hour of deliverance came, when Abraham Lincoln was to receive the scepter. The administration of President Buchanan was certainly the most calamitous our country has experienced. His best friends cannot recall it with pleasure. And still more deplorable it is for his fame, that in that dreadful conflict which rolled its billows of flame and blood over our whole land, no word came from his lips to indicate his wish that our country's banner should triumph over the flag of the rebellion He died at his Wheatland retreat, June I, I868. I 4:::~:::;;,, ~~Jce~ 91 a;" ja/ J'S3ikricPlnr i'"'nli'3/UJ5'IV"r. 79 \V-\Mu'7 ABRAHAM i> |jj 0gMIROMBI rwwv~ Z i! BRAHAM LINCOLN, the a lt[ _ ~sixteenth President of the United States, was born in "/J~ E ( Hardin Co., Ky., Feb. I2, "-' // 1I809. About the year 1780, a ^.^ i. gman by the name of Abraham Lincoln left Virginia with his,~ i' family and moved into the then (rk -l wildsof Kentucky. Only two years after this emigration, still a young a man, while working one day in a e - A field, was stealthily approached by ~~ > an Indian and shot dead. His widow was left in extreme poverty with five _ little children, three boys and two i girls. Thomas, the youngest of the boys, was four years of age at his father's death. This Thomas was the father of Abraham Lincoln, the President of the United States whose name must henceforth forever be enrolled with the most prominent in the annals of our world. Of course no record has been kept of the life of one so lowly as Thomas Lincoln. He was among the poorest of the poor. His home was a wretched log-cabin; his food the coarsest and the meanest. Education he had none; he could never either read or write. As soon as he was able to do anything for himself, he was compelled to leave the cabin of his starving mother, and push out into the world, a friend-.ess, wandering boy, seeking work. He hired himselfout, and thus spent the whole of his youth as a '.borer in the fields of others. When twenty-eight years of age he buill a logcabin of his own, and married Nancy Hanks, the daughter of another family of poor Kentucky emigrants, who had also come from Virginia. Their second child was Abraham Lincoln, the subject of this sketch. The mother of Abraham was a noble woman, gentle, loving, pensive, created to adorn a palace, doomed to toil and pine, and die in a hovel. "All that I am, or hope to be," exclaims the grateful son "I owe to my angel-mother. " When he was eight years of age, his father sold his cabin and small farm, and moved to Indiana. Where two years later his mother died. Abraham soon became the scribe of the uneducated community around him. He could not have had a better school than this to teach him to put thoughts into words. He also became an eager reader. The books he could obtain were few; but these he read and re-read until they were almost committed to memory. As the years rolled on, the lot of this lowly family was the usual lot of humanity. The re were joys and griefs, weddings and funerals. Abraham's sister Sarah, to whom he was tenderly attached, was married when a child of but fourteen years of age, and soon died. The family was gradually scattered. M4r. Thomas Lincoln sold out his squatter's claim in i830, and emigrated to Macon Co., Ill. Abraham Lincoln was then twenty-one years of age. With vigorous hands he aided his father in rearing another log-cabin. Abraham worked diligently at this until he saw the family comfortably settled, and their small lot of enclosed prairie planted with corn, when he announced to his father his intention to leave home, and to go out into the world and seek his fortune. Little did he or his friends imagine how brilliant that fortune was to be. He saw the value of education and was intensely earnest to improve his mind to the utmost of his power. He saw the ruin which ardent spirits were causing, and became strictly temperate; refusing to allow a drop of intoxicating liquor to pass his lips. And he had read in God's word, "Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain;" and a profane expression he was never heard to utter. Religion he revered. His morals were pure, and he was uncontaminated by a single vice. Young Abraham worked for a time as a hired laborer among the farmers. Then he went to Springfield, where he was employed in building a large flat-boat. In this he took a herd of swine, floated them down the Sangamon to the Illinois, and thence by the Mississippi to New Orleans. Whatever Abraham Lincoln undertook, he performed so faithfully as to give great satisfacticn to his employers. In this adven I I A1&1R4HANV LINCOLN. 7 ture his employers were so well pleased, that upon hiS return tney placed a store and mill under his care. In 1832, at the outbreak of the Black Hawk war, he enlisted and was chosen captain of a company. He returned to Sangamon ~County, and although only 23 years of age, was a candidate for the Legislature, but was defeated. He soon after received from Andrew Jackson the appointment of Postmaster of New Salem, His only post-office was his hat. All the letters he received he carried there ready to deliver to those he chanced to meet. He studied surveying, and soon Imade this his business. In 1834 he again became a candidate for the Legislature, and was elected Mr. Stuart, of Springfield, advised him to study law. He walked from New Salem to Springfield, borrowed of Mr. Stuart a load of books, carried them back and began his legal studies. When the Legislature asseml)led he trudged on foot with his pack on his back o.e hundred miles to Vandalia, then the capital. In i835 he was re-elected to the Legislature. Here it was he first met Stephen A. Douglas. In I839 he removed to Springfield and began the practice of law. His success with the jury was so great that he was soon engaged in almost every noted case in the circuit. In 1854 the great discussion began between Mr. Lincoln and Mr. Douglas, on the slavery question. In the organization of the Republican party in Illinois, in i856, he took an active part, and at once became one of the leaders in that party. Mr. Lincoln's speeches in opposition to Senator Douglas in the contest in. 1858 for a seat in the Senate, form a most notable part of his history. The issue was on the;lavery question, and he took the broad ground of:he Declaration of Independence, that all men are created equal. Mr. Lincoln was defeated in this contest, but won a far higher prize. The great Republican Convention met at Chicago on the i6th of June, i860. The' delegates and strangers who crowded the city amounted to twentyfive thousand. An immense building called "The Wigwam," was reared to accommodate the Convention. There were eleven candidates for whom votes were thrown. William H. Seward, a man whose fame as a statesman had long filled the land, was the most i)rominent. It was generally supposed he would be the nominee. Abraham Lincoln, however, received the nomination on the third ballot. Little did he then dream of the weary years of toil and care, and the bloody death, to which that nomination doomed him: and as little did he dream that he was to render services to his country, which would fix upon him the eyes of the whole civilized world, and which would give him a place in the affections of his countrymen, second cnly, if second, to that of Washington. Election day came and Mr. Lincoln received x80 electoral votes out of 203 cast, and was, therefore, constitutionally elected President of the United States. The tirade of abuse that was poured upon this good T and merciful man, especially by the slaveholders, was greater than upon any other man ever elected to this high position. In February, i86, Mr. Lincoln started for Washington, stopping in all the large cities on his way making speeches. The whole journey was frought with much danger. Many of the Southern States had already seceded, and several attempts at assassination were afterwards brought to light. A gang in Baltimore had arranged, upon his arrival to" get up) a row," and in the confusion to make sure of his death with revolvers and hand-grenades. A detective unravelled the plot. A secret and special train was provided to take him from HarrisL'urg, through Baltimore, at an unex)ected hour of the night. The train started at 'half-past ten; and to prevent any possible communication on the part ot the Secessionists with their Confederate gang in Baltimore, as soon as the train had started the telegraph-wires were cut. Mr. Lincoln reached Washington in safety and was inaugurated, although great anxiety was felt by all loyal people, In the selection of his cabinet Mr. Lincoln gave to Mr. Seward the Department of State, and to other prominent opponents before the convention he gave important positions. IDuring no other administration have the duties devolving upon the President been so manifold, and the responsibilities so great, as those which fell to the lot of President Lincoln. Knowing this, and feeling his own weakness and inability to meet, and in his own strength to cope with, the difficulties, he learned early to seek Divine wisdom and guidance in determining his plans, and Divine comfort in all his trials, both personal and national. Contrary to his own estimate of himself, Mr. Lincoln was one of the most courageous of men. He went directly into the rebel capital just as the retreating foe was leaving, with no guard but a few sailors. From the time he had left Springfield, in i86i, however, plans had been made for his assassination,and he at last fell a victim to one of them. April 4, i865, he, with Gen. Grant, was urgently invited to attend Fords' Theater. It was announced that they would be present. Gen. Grant, however, left the city. President Lincoln, feeling, witli his characteristic kindliness of heart, that it would be a disappointment if he should fail them, very reluctantly consented to go. While listening to the play an actor by the name of John Wilkes Booth entered the box where the President and family were seated, and fired a bullet into his brains. He died the next morning at seven o'clock. Never before, in the history of the world was a nation plunged into such deep grief by the death of its ruler. Strong men met in the streets and wept in speechless anguish. It is not too much to say that a nation was in tears. His was a life which will fitly become a model. His name as the savior of his country will live with that of Washington's, its father; his co'ntrymen being unable to decide which is the greater. ^ // ^^~~~~~~~~~~~ C^->^^c- ^'^'^Av^^ SE VENTEENTH PRESIDEN T. i83 I X X g~t < NDREW JOHNSON, seven< tl,')I tteenth President of the United Ai 3St States. The early lifte of <*"^! J SAndrew Johnson contains but,.eer~ Dthe record of poverty, destituf 'fi tion and friendlessness. He was born December 29, i8o8, in Raleigh, N. C. His parents, belonging to the class of the 7, "poor whites " of the South, vwere in such circumstances, that they ( could not confer even the slightest advantages of education upon ' their child. When Andrew was five years of age, his father accidentally lost his life while herorically endeavoring to save a friend from drowning. Until ten years of age, Andrew was a ragged boy about the streets, supported by the labor of his mother, who obtained her living with her own hands. He then, having never attended a school one day, and being unable either to read or write, was apprenticed to a tailor in his native town. A gentleman was in the habit of going to the tailor's shop occasionally, and reading to the boys at work there. He often read from the speeches of distinguished British statesmen. Andrew, who was endowed with a mind of more than ordinary native ability, became much interested in these speeches; his ambition was roused, and he was inspired with a strong desire to learn to read. He accordingly applied himself to the alphabet, and with the assistance of some of his fellow-workmen, learned his letters. He then called upon the gentleman to borrow the book of speeches. The owner, pleased with his zeal, not only gave him the book. but assisted him in learning to combine the letters into words. Under such difficulties he pressed oi1 ward laboriously, spending usually ten or twelve hours at work in the shop, and then robbing himself of rest and recreation to devote such time as he could to reading. He went to Tennessee in 1826, and located at Greenville, where he married a young lady who pos sessed some education. Under her instructions he learned to write and cipher. He became prominent in the village debating society, and a favorite with the students of Greenville College. In 1828, he or. ganized a working man's party, which elected him alderman, and in I830 elected him mayor, which position he held three years. He now began to take a lively interest in political affairs; identifying himself with the working-classes, to which he belonged. In 1835, he was elected a member of the House of Representatives of Tennessee. He was then just twenty-seven years of age. He became a very active member of the legislature. gave his adhesion to the Democratic party, and in 140o "stumped the State," advocating Martin 'aan Buren's claims to the Presidency, in opposition to thos, of Gen. Harrison. In this campaign he acquired much readiness as a speaker, and extended and increased his reputation. * In 1841, he was elected State Senator; in 1843, he was elected a member of Congress, and by successive elections, held that important post for ten years. In 1853, he was elected Governor of Tennessee, and was re-elected in I855. In all these responsible posit tions, he discharged his duties with distinguished abi. t 84 ANDRE TV ~t JOHNSON. 8._4 ANDREW JOHNSON.IL ~TII —~ ---- ----- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-LII~~~~~~~~~~~ ity, and proved himself the warm friend of the working classes. In 1857, Mr. Johnson was elected United States Senator. Years before, in 1845, he had warmly advocated the annexation of Texas, stating however, as his reason, that he thought this annexation would probably prove " to be the gateway out of which the sable sons of Africa are to pass from bondage to freedom, and become merged in a population congenial to themselves." In i85o, he also supported the com-promise measures, the two essential features of which were, that the white people of the Territories should be permitted to decide for themselves whether they would enslave the colored people or not, and that the free States of the North should return to the South persons who attempted to escape from slavery. Mr. Johnson was never ashamed of his lowly origin: on the contrary, he often took pride in avowing that he owed his distinction to his own exertions. "Sir," said he on the floor of the Senate, "I do not forget that I am a mechanic; neither do I forget that Adam was a tailor and sewed fig-leaves, and that our Savior was the son of a carpenter." In the Charleston-Baltimore convention of I8to, ne was the choice of the Tennessee Democrats for the Presidency. In 1861, when the purpose of the Southern Democracy became apparent, he took a decided stand in favor of the Union, and held that " slavery must be held subordinate to the Union at whatever cost." He returned to Tennessee, and repeatedly imperiled his own life to protect the Unionists of Tennesee. Tennessee having seceded from the Union, President Lincoln, on March 4th, 1862, appointed him Military Governor of the State, and he established the most stringent military rule. His numerous proclamations attracted wide attention. In 1864, he was elected Vice-President of the United States, and upon the death of Mr. Lincoln, April 15, 1865, became President. In a speech two days later he said, "The American people must be taught, if they do not already feel, that treason is a crime and must bepunished; that the Government will not always bear with its enemies; that it is strong not only to protect, but to punish. * * The people must understand that it (treason) is the blackest of crimes, and will surely be punished." Yet his whole administration, the history of which is so well known, was in utter inconsistency with, and the most violent opposition to, the principles laid down in that speech. In his loose policy of reconstruction and general amnesty, he was opposed by Congress; and he characterized Congress as a new rebellion, and lawlessly defied it, in everything possible, to the utmost. In the beginning of i868, on account of "high crimes and misdemeanors," the principal of which was the removal of Secretary Stanton, in violation of the Tenure of Office Act, articles of impeachment were preferred against him, and the trial began March 23. It was very tedious, continuing for nearly three months. A test article of the impeachment was at length submitted to the court for its action. It was certain that as the court voted upon that article so would it vote upon all. Thirty-four voices pronounced the President guilty. As a two-thirds vote was necessary to his condemnation, he was pronounced acquitted, notwithstanding the great majority against him. The change of one vote from the not guilty side would have sustained the impeachment. The President, for the remainder of his term, was but little regarded. He continued, though impotent!y, his conflict with Congress. His own party did not think it expedient to renominate him for the Presidency. The Nation rallied, with enthusiasm unparalleled since the days of Washington, around the name of Gen. Grant. Andrew Johnson was forgotten. The bullet of the assassin introduced him to the President's chair. Notwithstanding this, never was there presented to a man a better opportunity to immortalize his name, and to win the gratitude of a nation. He failed utterly. He retired to his home in Greenville, Tenn., taking no very active part in politics until I875. On Jan. 26, after an exciting struggle, he was chosen by the Legislature of Tennessee, United States Senator in the forty-fourth Congress, and took his seat in that body, at the special session convened by President Grant, on the 5th of March. On the 27th of July, I875, the ex-President made a visit to his daughter's home, near Carter Station, Tenn. When he started on his journey, he was apparently in his usual vigorous health, but on reaching the residence of his child the following day, was stricken with paralysis, rendering him unconscious. He rallied occasionally, but finally passed away at 2 A.M., July 3I, aged sixty-seven years. His funeral was attended at Geenville, on the 3d of August, with every demonstration of respect. /::::: a ~ J o I ^^^^ca2t _i EIGHTEEATH PRESIDENT. 7, ' ~, I I I fi~ S-i", c, - MT (3 ~~~J ~ ~ ~ ~ L~ e..... LYSSES S. GRANT, the:-fp.~: eighteenth President of the.~?) ^N iS^1United States, was born on gjPi d 6 ~ the 29th of April, i822, of _, Christian parents, in a humble home, at Point Pleasant, on the banks of the Ohio. Shortly after!j)'j^J his father moved to Georgetown, Brown Co., O. In this re[6 z ] mote frontier hamlet, Ulysses received a common-school eduy lll cation. At the age of seventeen, in the year 1839, he entered the Military Academy at West I Point. Here he was regarded as a solid, sensible young man of fair abilities, and of sturdy, honest character. lie took respectable rank as a scholar. In June, 1843, he graduated, about the middle in his class, and was sent as lieutenant of infantry to one of the distant military posts in the Misscuri Territory. Two years he past in these dreary solitudes, watching the vagabond and exasperating Indians. The war with Mexico came. Lieut. Grant was sent with his regiment to Corpus Christi. His first battle was at Palo Alto. There was no chance here for the exhibition of either skill or heroism, nor at Resaca de la Palma, his second battle. At the battle of Monterey, his third engagement, it is said that he performed a signal service of daring and skillful horsemanship. His brigade had exhausted its ammunition. A messenger must be sent for more, along a route exposed to the bullets of the foe. Lieut. Grant, adopting an expedient learned of the Indians, grasped the mane of his horse, and hanging upon one side of the anirmal, ran the gauntlet in entire safety. From Monterey he was sent,with the fourth infantry, to aid Gen. Scott, at the siege of Vera Cruz. In preparation for the march to the city of Mexico, he was appointed quartermaster of his regiment. At the battle of Molino del Rey, he was promoted to a first lieutenancy, and was brevetted captain at Chapultepec. At the close of the Mexican War, Capt. Grant returned with his regiment to New York, and was again sent to one of the military posts on the frontier. The discovery of gold in California causing a-n immense tide of emigration to flow to the Pacific shores, Capt. Grant was sent with a battalion to Fort Dallas, in Oregon, for the protection of the interests of the immigrants. Life was wearisome in those wilds. Capt. Grant resigned his commission and returned to the States; and having married, entered upon the cultivation of a small farm near St. Louis, Mo. He had but little skill as a farmer. Finding his toil not remunerative, he turned to mercantile life, entering into the leather business, with a younger brother, at Galena, Ill. This was in the year i86o. As the tidings of the rebels firing on Fort Sumpter reached the ears of Capt. Grant in his counting-room, he said,"Uncle Sam has educated-me for the army; thougl I have served him through one war, I do not feel that I have yet repaid the debt. I am still ready to discharge my obligations. I shall therefore buckle on my sword and see Uncle Sam through this war too." He went into the streets, raised a company of volunteers, and led them as their captain to Springfield, the capital of the State, where their services were offered to Gov. Yates. The Governor, impressed by the zeal and straightforward executive ability of Capt. Grant, gave him a desk in his office, to assist in the volunteer organization that was being formed in the State in behalf of the Government. On the I5th of 88 UL YSSES S. GRA NT. -- — `' - I June, 186I, Capt. Grant received a commission as Colonel of the Twenty-first Regiment of Illinois Volunteers. His merits as a West Point graduate, who had served for 15 years in the regular army, were such that he was soon promoted to the rank of BrigadierGeneral and was placed in command at Cairo. The rebels raised their banner at Paducah, near the mouth of the Tennessee River. Scarcely had its folds appeared in the breeze ere Gen. Grant was there. The rebels fled. Their banner fell, and the star and stripes were unfurled in its stead. He entered the service with great determination and immediately began active duty. This was the beginning, and until the surrender of Lee at Richmond he was ever pushing the enemy with great vigor and effectiveness. At Belmont, a few days later, he surprised and routed the rebels, then at Fort Henry won another victory. Then came the brilliant fight at Fort Donelson. The nation was electrified by the victory, and the brave leader of the boys in blue was immediately made a Major-General, and the military iistrict of Tennessee was assigned to him. Like all great captains, Gen. Grant knew well how to secure the results of victory. He immediately pushed on to the enemies' lines. Then came the terrible battles of Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, and the siege of Vicksburg, where Gen. Pemberton made an unconditional surrender of the city with over thirty thousand men and one-hundred and seventy-two cannon. The fall of Vicksburg was by far the most severe blow which the rebels had thus far encountered, and opened up the Mississippi from Cairo to the Gulf. Gen. Grant was next ordered to co-operate with Gen. Banks in a movement upon Texas, and proceeded to New Orleans, where he was thrown from his horse, and received severe injuries, from which he was laid up for months. He then rushed to the aid of Gens. Rosecrans and Thomas at Chattanooga, and by a wonderful series of strategic and technical measures put the Union Army in fighting condition. Then followed the bloody battles at Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge, in which the rebels were routed with great loss. This won for him unbounded praise in the North. On the 4th of February, 1864, Congress revived the grade of lieutenantgeneral, and the rank was conferred on Gen. Grant. He repaired to Washington to receive his credentials and enter uporn tb duties of his new office. I I ~ ~ _~ I Gen. Grant decided as soon as he took charge of the army to concentrate the widely-dispersed National troops for an attack upon Richmond, the nominal capital of the Rebellion, and endeavor there to destroy the rebel armies which would be promptly assembled from all quarters for its defence. The whole continent seemed to tremble under the trampof these majestic armies, rushing to the decisive battle field. Steamers were crowded with troops. Railway trains were burdened with closely packed thousands. His plans were comprehensive and involved a series of campaigns, which were executed with remarkable energy and ability, and were consummated at the surrender of Lee, April 9, i865. The war was ended. The Union was saved. The almost unanimous voice of the Nation declared Gen. Grant to be the most prominent instrument in its salvation. The eminent services he had thus rendered the country brought him conspicuously forward as the Republican candidate for the Presidential chair. At the Republican Convention held at Chicago. May 2, i868, he was unanimously nominated for the Presidency, and at the autumn election received a majority of the popular vote, and 214 out of 294 electoral votes. The National Convention of the Republican party which met at Philadelphia on the 5th of June, I872, placed Gen. Grant in nomination for a second term by a unanimous vote. The selection was emphatically indorsed by the people five months later, 292 electoral votes being cast for him. Soon after the close of his second term, Gen. Grant started upon his famous trip around the world. He visited almost every country of the civilized world, and was everywhere received with such ovations and demonstrations of respect and honor, private as well as public and official, as were never before bestowed upon any citizen of the United States. He was the most prominent candidate before the Republican National Convention in i880 for a renomination for President. He went to New York and embarked in the brokerage business under the firm nameof Grant & Ward. The latter proved a villain, wrecked Grant's fortune, and for larceny was sent to the penitentiary. The General was attacked with cancer in the throat, but suffered in his stoic-like manner, never complaining. He was re-instated as General of the Army and retired by Congress. The cancer soon finished its deadly work, and July 23, 1885, the nation went in mourning over the death of the illustrious General. '~:i:~ I t-~;: ~ NI-Alo7~Sll'~r-e~~xrH F'.&BuSIioZr)'Apv'T t91 r~~~~~iJIAFIwiI ra-W w79 UTHERFORD B. HAYES, ( the nineteenth President of the United States, was born in Delaware, 0., Oct. 4, i822, almost three months after the i death of his father, Rutherford Hayes. His ancestry on both [h/l 9 < the paternal and maternal sides, was of the most honorable char-,.1 7S acter. It can be traced, it is said, as far back as r 280, when Hayes and Rutherford were two Scottish chieftains, fighting side by side with Baliol, William Wallace and Robert Bruce. Both families belonged to the nobility, owned extensive estates, and had a large following. Misforlane oeveraking the family, George Hayes left Scot'and in I68o, and settled in Windsor, Conn. His son George was born in Windsor, and remained there during his life. Daniel Hayes, son of the latter, married Sarah Lee, and lived from the time of his marriage until his death in Simsbury, Conn. Ezekiel, son of Daniel, was born in I724, and was a manufacturer of scythes at Bradford, Conn. Rutherford Hayes, son of Ezekiel auid grandfather of President Hayes, was born in New Haven, in August, 1756. He was a farmer, blacksmith and tavern-keeper. He emigrated to Vermont at an unknown date, settling in Brattleboro, where he established a hotel. Here his son Rutherford Hayes the father of President Hayes, was born. He was married, in September, I8I3, to Sophia Birchard, of Wilmington, Vt., whose ancestors emigrated thither from Connecticut, they having been among the wealthiest and best famlies of Norwich. Her ancestry on the male side are traced back to I635, to John Birchard, one of the principal founders of Norwich. Both of her grandfathers were soldiers in the Revolutionary War. The father of President Hayes was an industrious frugal and opened-hearted man. He was of a me. chanical turn, and could mend a plow, knit a stocking, or do almost anything else that he choose to undertake. He was a member of the Church, active in all the benevolent enterprises of the town, and conducted his business on Christian principles. After the close of the war of I812, for reasons inexplicable to his neighbors, he resolved to emigrate to Ohio. The journey from Vermont to Ohio in that day. when there were no canals, steamers, nor railways, was a very serious affair. A tour of inspection was first made, occupying four months. Mr. Hayes deter mined to move to Delaware, where the family arrived in I8I7. He died July 22, I822, a victim of malarial fever, less than three months before the birth of the son, of whom we now write. Mrs. Hayes, in her sore bereavement, found the support she so much needed in her brother Sardis, who had been a member of the household from the day of its departure from Vermont, and in an orphan girl whom she had adopted some time before as an act of charity. Mrs. Hayes at this period was very weak, and the R UTTH.JRFORD S. BA ES:. - ~ ~ ------ - r sabject of tils sketch was so feeble at birth that he was not expected to live beyond a month or two at imost. As the months went by he grew weaker and weaker, so that the neighbors were in the habit of inqairing from time to time " if Mrs. Hayes' baby died last night." On one occasion a neighbor, who was on fimiliar terms with the family, after alluding to the boy's big head, and the mother's -assiduous care of nim, said in a bantering way, " That's right! Stick to ihim. You have got him along so far, and I shouldn't wonder if he would really come to something yet." "Youmneed not laugh," said Mrs. Hayes. "You:vait and see. You can't tell but' I shall make him President of the United States yet." The boy lived, in spite of the universal predictions of his speedy death; and when, in 1825, his older brother was drowned, he became, if possible, still dearer to his mother, The boy was seven years old before he went to school. His eduoation, however, was not neglected. He probably learned as much from his mother and,ister as he would have done at school. His sports were almost wholly within doors, his playmates being his sister and her associates. These circumstances tended, no doubt, to foster that gentleness of disposition, and that delicate consideration for the feelings of others, which are marked traits of his character. His uncle Sardis Birchard took the deepest interest in his education; and as the boy's health had ii-.. proved, and he was making good progress in his studies, he proposed to send him to college. His preparation commenced with a tutor at home; b-lt he was afterwards sent for one year to a professor in the Wesleyan University, in Middletown, Conn. He entered Kenyon College in I838, at: the age of sixteen, and was- graduated at the head of his class in 1842. Immediately after his graduation he began the study of law in the office of Thomas Sparrow, Esq., in Columbus. Finding his opportunities for study in Columbus somewhat limited, he determined to enter the Law School at Cambridge, Mass., where he remained two years. In 1845, after graduating at the Law School, he was admitted to the bar at Marietta, Ohio, and shortly afterward went into practice as an attorney-at-law with Ralph P. Buckland, of Fremont. Here he remained three years, acquiring but a limited practice, and apparently unambitious of distinction in his profession. Tn 1849 he moved to Cincinnati, where his ambition found a new stimulus. For several years, however, his progress was slow. Two events, occurring at this period, had a powerful influence upon his subsequent ie. One of these was his marrage with Miss Lucy Ware Webb, daughter of Dr. James Webb, of Chilicothe; the other was his introduction to the Cincinnati Literary Club, a body embracing among its imembers such lmen as Chief Justice Salmon P. Chase, Gen. John Pope, Gov. Edward F. Noyes, and many others hardly less distinguished in after life. The marriage was a fortunate one in every respect, as everybody knows. Not one of all the wives of our Presidents was more universally admired, reverenced and beloved than was Mrs. Hayes, and no one did more than she to reflect honor upon American woman hood. The Literary Cluu brought Mr. Hayes into constant association with young men of high character and noble aims, and lured him to display the qualities so long hidden by his bashfulness and modesty. In i856 he was nominated to the office of Judg- o' the Court of Common Pleas; but he declined to accept the nomination. Two years later, the office o1 city solicitor becoming vacant, the City Council elected him for the unexpired term. In i86I, when the Rebellion broke out, he was a:the zenith of his professional ilf,. His rank at the bar was among the the first. But the news of the attack on Fort Sumpter found him eager to take iU arms for the defense of his country. His military record was bright and illustrious. In October, I86I, he was made Lieutenant-Colonel, and in August, 1862, promoted Colonel of the 79th Ohio regiment, but he refused to leave his old comrades and go among strangers. Subsequently, however, he was made Colonel of his old regiment. At the battle of South M -tountain he received a wound, and while faint and bleeding displayed courage and fortitude that won admiration from all. Col. Hayes was detached from his regiment, after his recovery, to act as Brigadier-General, and placed in command of the celebrated Kanawha. division, and for gallant and meritorious services in the battles of Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, he was promoted Brigadier-General. He was also brevetted Major-General, "for gallant and distinguished services during the campaigns of 1864, in West Virginia." In the course of his arduous services, four horses were shot from under him, and he was Wounded four times In 1864, Gen. Hayes was elected to Congress, from the Second Ohio District, which had long been Democratic. He was not present during the campaign, and after his election was importuned to resign his commission in the army; but he finally declared, " I shall never come to Washington until I can come by the way of Richmond." HIe was re-elected in I866. In 1867, Gen Hayes was elected Governor of Ohio, over Hon. Allen G. Thurman, a popular Democrat. In I869 was re-elected over George H. Pendleton. He was elected Governor for the third term in I875. In 1876 he was the standard bearer of the Republican Party in the Presidential contest, and after a hard long contest was chosen President, and was in augurated Monday, March 5, I875. He served his full term, not, hcwever, with satisfaction to his party. but his administration was an average on.e :: i_:::::::;:::::;:: I/'''^^^^/ TWENTIETI P'RESIDENT. j 'ifiy;tAMES A. GARFIELD, twen-.tr ^ ;,,>.i.,-A OHN STEWARD BARRY, Governor of Michigan from Jan. 3, 842, to Jan. 5, I846, and from Jan. 7, 1850, to Jan. [' Is..., 1852, was born at Amherst, $lc ~ ~)!/" N. H., Jan. 29, 1802. His pare }'< ents, John and Ellen (Steward) Barry, early removed to Rocking-,1?J ham, Vt., where he remained until '(t kib he became of age, working on his! father's farm, and pursuing his studies at the same time. He mar[Sj!{ ried Mary Kidder, of Grafton, Vt., and in I824 went to Georgia, Vt., where he had charge of an academy for two years, meanwhile studying law. He afterward practiced law in that State. While he was in Georgia he was for some time a member of the Governor's staff, with the title of Governor's Aid, and at a somewhat earlier period was Captain of a company of State militia. In 1831 he removed to Michigan, and settled at White Pigeon, where he engaged in mercantile business with I. W. Willard. Four years after, 1834, Mr. Barry removed to Con stantine and continued his mercantile pursuits. He became Justice of the Peace at White Pigeon, Mich. in 1831, and held the office until the year I835 Mr. Barry's first public office was that of a member of the first constitutional convention, which assembled and flamed the constitution upon which Michigan was admitted into the Union. He took an important and prominent part in the proceedings of that body, and showed himself to be a man of far more than ordinary ability. Upon Michigan being admitted into the Union, Mr. Barry was chosen State Senator, and so favorably were his associates impressed with his abilities at the first session of the Legislature that they looked to hin as a party leader, and that he should head the State ticket at the following election. Accordingly he re. ceived the nomination for Governor at the hands of his party assembled in convention. He was elected, and so popular was his administration that, in 1842, he was again elected. During these years Michigan was embarrassed by great financial difficulties, and it was through his wisdom and sound judgment that the State was finally placed upon a solid financial basis. During the first year of Gov. Barry's first term, the University at Ann Arbor was opened for the reception II4 JOHN STE IWARD BARR Y. of students. The Michigan Central and Michigan Southern railroads were being rapidly constructed, and general progress was everywhere noticeable. In 1842, the number of pupils reported as attending the public schools was nearly fifty-eight thousand. In 1843, a State land office was established at Marshall, which was invested with the charge and disposition of all the lands belonging to the State In 1844, the taxable property of the State was found to be over twenty-eight millions of dollars, the tax being at the rate of two mills on the dollar. The expenses of the State were only seventy thousand dollars, while the income from the railroads was nearly three hundred thousand dollars. At this time the University of Michigan had become so prosperous that its income was ample to pay the interest on the University debt; and the amount of money which the State was able to loan the several progressing railroads was one hundred and twenty thousand dollars. Efforts were made to increase the efficiency of the common schools with good results In I845, when Gov. Barry's second term expired, the population of the State was more than three hundred thousand. The constitution of the State forbade more than two consecutive terms, but he was called upon to fill the position again in I850-the only instance of the kind in the history of the State. He was a member of the Territorial Legislature, of the Constitutional Convention, and afterward of the State House of Representatives. During Mr. Barry's third term as Governor the Normal School was established at Ypsilanti, which was endowed with lands and placed in charge of a board of education consisting of six persons. A new constitution for the government of the State was also adopted and the "Great Railway Conspiracy Case " was tried. This grew out of a series of lawless acts which had been committed upon the property of the Michigan Central Railroad Company, along the line of their road, and finally the burning of the depot at Detroit, in r850. At a setting of the grand jury of Wayne County, April 24, I85I, 37 men of the 50 under arrest for this crime were indicted. May 20, following, the accused parties appeared at the Circuit Court of Wayne, of which Warner Wing was resident judge. The Railroad Company employed ten eminent lawyers, including David Stuart, John Van Arman, James A. Van Dyke, Jacob M. Howard, Alex. D. Fraser, Daniel Goodwin and William Gray. The defendants were represented by six members of the State bar, led by William H. Seward, of New York. The trial occupied four months, during which time the plaintiffs examined 246 witnesses in 27 days, and the defendants 249 in 40 days. Mr. Van Dyke addressed the jury for the prosecution; William H. Seward for the defense. The great lawyer was convinced of the innocence I - - --- ---— -` —I -- ---- of his clients, nor did the verdict of that jury and the sentence of that judge remove his firm belief that his clients were the victims of purchased treachery, rather than so many sacrifices to justice. The verdict of " guilty " was rendered at 9 o'clock P. M., Sept. 25, I85 I. On the 26th the prisoners were put forward to receive sentence, when many of them protested their entire innocence, after which the presiding judge condemned 12 of the number to the following terms of imprisonment, with hard labor, within the State's prison, situate in their county: Ammi Filley, ten years; Orlando L. Williams, ten years; Aaron Mount, eight years; Andrew J. Freeland, eight years; Eben Farnham, eight years; William Corvin, eight years; Richard Price, eight years; Evan Price, eight years; Lyman Champlin, five years; Willard W. Champlin, five years; Erastus Champlin, five years; Erastus Smith, five years In 1840, Gov. Barry became deeply interested in the cultivation of the sugar beet, and visited Europe to obtain information in reference to its culture. He was twice Presidential Elector, and his last public service was that of a delegate to the Nationai Democratic Convention held in Chicago in 1864. He was a man who, throughout life, maintained a high character for integrity and fidelity to the trusts bestowed upon him, whether of a public or a private nature, and he is acknowledged by all to have been one of the most efficient and popular Governors the State has ever had. Gov. Barry was a man of incorruptible integrity. His opinions, which he reached by the most thorough investigation, he held tenaciously. His strong convictions and outspoken honesty made it impossible for him to take an undefined position when a principle was involved. His attachments and prejudices were strong, yet he was never accused of favoritism in his administration of public affairs. As a speaker he was not remarkable. Solidity, rather than brilliancy, characterized his oratory, which is described as argumentative and instructive, but cold, hard, and entirely wanting in rhetorical ornament. He was never eloquent, seldom humorous or sarcastic, and in manner rather awkward. Although Mr. Barry's educational advantages were so limited, he was a life-long student. He mastered both ancient and modern languages, and acquired a thorough knowledge of history. No man owed less to political intrigue as a means of gaining position. He was a true statesman, and gained pullic esteem by his solid worth. His political connections were always with the Democratic party, and his opinions were usually extreme. Mr. Barry retired to private life after the beginning of the ascendency of the Republican party, and carried on his mercantile business at Constantine. He died Jan. 14, 1870, his wife's death having occurred a year previous, March 30, 1869. They left no children. GO VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. Ii;7 a K~ X I, LPHEUS FELCH, the third Governor of Michigan, was tfS *AM l born in Limerick, Maine, Sepg^^ja^X Xtenlber 28, 80o6. His grandOt Err-,J ( father, Abijah Felch, was a sol-.' );;: dier in the Revolution; and 1 WnS ' when a young man, having with 0f/^ others obtained a grant of land be1 ~;l Jtween the Great and Little Ossipee 'ik Rivers, in Maine, moved to that re-; gion when it was yet a wilderness. The father of Mr. Felch embarked in mercantile life at Limerick. He was the first to engage in that business in that section, and continued it until his death. The death of the father, i followed within a year by the death of the mother, left the subject of this sketch, then three years old, to the care of relatives, and he found a home with his paternal grandfather, where he remained until his death. Mr Felch received his early education in the district school and a neighboring academy. In 182I he became a student at Phillips Exter Academy, and, subsequently, entered Bowdoin College, graduated with the class of 1827. He at once began the study of law and was admitted to practice at Bangor, Me., in I830. He began the practice of his profession at Houlton, Me., where he remained until 1833. The severity of the climate impaired his health, never very good, and he found it necessary to seek a change of climate. He disposed of his library and started to seek a new home. His intention was to join his friend, Sargent S. Prentiss, at Vicksburg, Miss., but on his arrival at Cincinnati, Mr. Felch was attacked by cholera, and when he had recovered sufficiently to permit of his traveling, found that the danger of the disease was too great to permit a journey down the river. He therefore determined to come to Michigan. He first began to practice in this State at Monroe, where he continued until I843, when he removed to Ann Arbor. He was elected to the State Legislature in 1835, and continued a member of that body during the years I836 and I837. While he held this office, the general banking law of the State was enact. ed, and went into operation. After mature delibera. tion, he became convinced that the proposed system of banking could not prove beneficial to the public interests; and that, instead of relieving the people from the pecuniary difficulties under which they were laboring, it would result in still further embarrassment. He, therefore, opposed the bill, and pointed out to the House the disasters which, in his opinion, were sure to follow its passage. The public mind, however, was so favorably impressed by the measure that no other member, in either branch of the Legislature, raised a dissenting voice, and but two voted with him in opposition to the bill. Early in 1838, he was appointed one of the Bank Commissioners of the State, and held that office for more than a year. During this time, the new banking law had given birth to that numerous progeny known as "wild-cat" banks. Almost every village had its bank. The country was flooded with depressed "wild-cat" money. The examinations of the Bank Commissioners brought to light frauds at every point, which were fearlessly re Il8 ALPHEUS FEILCH. __ ALP. U,ELCH ported to the Legislature, and were followed by criminal prosecutions of the guilty parties, and the closing of many of their institutions. The duties of the office were most laborious, and in 1839 Mr. Felch resigned. The chartered right of almost every bank had, in the meantime, been declared forfeited and the law repealed. It was subsequently decided to be constitutional by the Supreme Court of the State. In the year 1842 Governor Felch was appointed to the office of Auditor General of the State; but after holding the office only a few weeks, was commissioned by the Governor as one of the Judges of the Supreme Court, to fill a vacancy caused by the resignation of Judge Fletcher. In January, I843, he was elected to the United States Senate for an unexpired term. In I845 he was elected Governor of Michigan, and entered upon his duties at the commencement of the next year. In i847 he was elected a Senator in Congress for six years; and at once retired from the office of Governor, by resignation, which took effect March 4, 1847, when his Senatorial term commenced. While a member of the Senate he acted on the Committee on Public Lands, and for four years was its Chairman. He filled the honorable position of Senator with becoming dignity, and with great credit to the State of Michigan. During Governor Felch's administration the two railroads belonging to the State were sold to private corporations,-the Central for $2,000,000, and the Southern for $500,000. The exports of the State amounted in 1846 to $4,647,608. The total capacity of vessels enrolled in the collection district at Detroit was 26,928 tons, the steam vessels having 8,400 and the sailing vessels 18,528 tons, the whole giving employment to 8,o00o seamen. In I847, there were 39 counties in the State, containing 435 townships; and 275 of these townships were supplied with good libraries, containing an aggregate of 37,000 volumes. At the close of his Senatorial term, in March, 185 3, Mr. Felch was appointed, by President Pierce, one of the Commissioners tp adjust an4 settle the Spanish and Mexican land claims in California, under the treaty of Gaudalupe Hidalgo, and an act of Congress passed for that purpose. He went to California in May, 1853, and was made President of the Commission. The duties of this office were of the most important and delicate character. The interest of the new State, and the fortunes of many of its citizens, both the native Mexican population and the recent American immigration; the right of the Pueblos to their common lands, and of the Catholic Church to the lands of the Missions,-the most valuable of the,State,-wereinvolved in the adjudicationsof this Commission. In March, i856, their labors were brought to a close by the final disposition of all the claims which were presented. The record of their proceedings, —the testimony which was given in each case, and the decision of the Commissioners thereon,consisting of some forty large volumes, was deposited in the Department of the Interior at Washington. In June of that year, Governor Felch returned to Ann Arbor, where he has since been engaged principally in legal business. Since his return he has been nominated for Governor and also for U. S. Senator, and twice for Judge of the Supreme Court. But the Democratic party, to which he has always been attached, being in the minority, he failed of an election. In 1873 he withdrew from the active practice of law, and, with the exception of a tour in Europe, in 1875 has since led a life of retirement at his home in Ann Arbor. In I877 the University of Michigan conferred upon him the degree of LL. D. For many years he was one of the Regents of Michigan University, and in the spring of 1879 was appointed Tappan Professor of Law in the same. Mr. Felch is the oldest surviving member of the Legislature from Monroe Co., the oldest and only surviving Bank Commissioner of the State, the oldest surviving Auditor General of the State, the oldest surviving Governor of the State, the oldest surviving Judge of the Supreme Court of Michigan, and the oldest surviving United States Senator from the State of Michigan. I GO VERNORS. 121 ^ ii X.. i ILLIAM L. GREENLY ^Governor of Michigan for the year I847, was born at Hamilton, Madison Co., N. Y., Sept. 18, 81I3. He graduatedat UnV i^^BrC ion College, Schenectady, in KL? i] I83I, studied law and was ad' mitted to the bar in 1834. In 836. having removed to Michit i ganl, he settled in Adrian, where a i i he has since resided. The year i following his arrival in Michigan l } he was elected State Senator and ml h served in that capacity until 1839. E In I845 he was elected Lieut. Govl ernor and became acting Governor by the resignation of Gov. Felch, who was elected to the United States Senate. The war with Mexico was brought to a successful termination during Gov. Greenly's administration. We regret to say that there are only few records extant of the action of Michigan troops in the Mexican war. That many went there and fought well are points conceded; but their names and nativity are hidden away in United States archives and where it is almost impossible to find them. The soldiers of this State deserve much of the credit of the memorable achievements of Co. K; 3d Dragoons, and Cos. A, E, and G of the U. S. Inf. The two former of these companies, recruited in this State, were reduced to one-third their original number. In May, i846,the Governor of Michigan was notified by the War Department of the United States to enroll a regiment of volunteers, to be held in readiness for service whenever demanded. At his summons 13 independent volunteer companies, i of infantry and two of cavalry, at once fell into line. Of the infantry four companies were from Detroit, bearing the honored names of Montgomery, Lafayette, Scott and Brady upon their banners. Of the remainder Monroe tendered two, Lenawee County three, St. Clair, Berrien and Hillsdale each one, and Wayne County an additional company. Of these alone the veteran Bradys were accepted and ordered into service. In addition to them ten companies, making the First Regiment of Michigan Volunteers, springing from various parts of the State, but embodying to a great degree the material of which the first volunteers was formed, were not called for until October following. This regiment was soon in readiness and proceeded by orders from Governnmnt tQ the sat of war, _:: j:: ~~-':'-: ~r:: A GOC V ERORS. 12 jid\-,~[ HE HON. EPAPHRODI^' I j T6US RANSOM, the Seventh tJ I li sl Governor of Michigan, was a enative of Massachusetts. In that State he received a col~ legiate education, studied law, and was admitted to the bar. Removing to Michigan about the time of its admission to the Union, he took up his residence at Kalamazoo. Mr. Ransom served with marked ability for a number of years in the State Legislature, and in 1837 he was appointed Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. In 1843 he was promoted to Chief Justice, which office he retained until 1845, when he resigned. Shortly afterwards he became deeply interested in the building of plank roads in the western portion of the State, and in this business lost the greater portion of the property which he had accumulated by years of toil and industry. Mr. Ransom became Governor of the State of Michigan in the fall of I847, and served during one term, performing the duties of the office in a truly statesmanlike manner. He subsequently became President of the Michigan Agricultural Society, in which position he displayed the same ability that shone forth so prominently in his acts as Governor. He held the office of Regent of the Michigan University several times, and ever advocated a liberal policy in its management. Subsequently he was appointed receiver of the land office in one of the districts in Kansas, by President Buchanan, to which State he had removed, and where he died before the expiration of his term of office. We sum up the events and affairs of the State under Gov. Ransom's administration as follows: The Asylum for the Insane was establised, as also the Asylum for the Deaf, Dumb and Blind. Both of these institutes were liberally endowed with lands, and each of them placed in charge of a board of five trustees. The appropriation in I849 for the deaf and dumb and blind amounted to $8,500oo. On the first of March, 1848, the first telegraph line was completed from New York to Detroit, and the first dispatch transmitted on that day. The following figures show the progress in agriculture: The land reported as under cultivation in 1848 was 1,437,460 acres; of wheat there were produced 4,749,300 bushels; other grains, 8,I97,767 bushels; wool, 1,645,756 pounds; maple sugar, 1,774,369 pounds; horses, 52,305; cattle, 210,268; swine, I52,541; sheep, 610,534; while the flour mills numbered 228, and the lumber mills amounted to 730. I847, an act was passed removing the Legislature from Detroit to Lansing, and temporary buildings for the use of the Legislature wereimmediately erected, at a cost of $12,450. ~~~~~<~~~~ ~~~Q~~~)i 4~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~tc - ------ D: f:: S D A:: f; f;:::: 0: S S 0 Jan # I GO IRNORS OF JfICC4GAN. -..i* ~ __ I ~~-~~RO~~B~~E ItT' MCCLELLANDR. V,"~'% ___ __t 4> iTR [ OBERT Mc CLELLAN), Governor of Michigan from Jan. I, i85 2, to March 8, 85 3, was born at Greencastle, Frank^7Q)^i lin Co., Peln., Aug. i, 1807. co;jt/ / Among his ancestors were several ejr^^)[ officers of rank in the Revolution(:t, y ary war, and some of his faimily con' '(ti nections were distinguished in the war of 1812, and that with Mexico. Y His father was an eminent physician o" and surgeon who studied under Ir. o Benj. Rush, of Philadelphia, and practiced his profession successfully until six months before his death, at the age of 84 years. Although Mr. McClelland's family had been in good circumstances, when he was 17 years old he was thrown upon his own resources. After taking the usual preliminary studies, and teaching school to obtain the means, he entered Dickinson College, at Carlisle, Penn., from which he graduated among the first in his class, in 1829. He then resumed teaching, and having completed the course of study for the legal profession, was admitted to the bar at Chambersburg, Penn., in I831. Soon afterward he removed to the city of Pittsburgh, where he practiced for almost a year. In 1833, Mr. McClelland removed to Monroe, in the Territory of Michigan, where, after a severe examination, he became a member of the bar of Michigan, and engaged in practice with bright prospect of success. In 1835, a convention was called to frame a constitution for the proposed State of Michigan, of which Mr. McClelland was elected a member. He took a prominent part in its deliberations and ranked among its ablest debaters. He was appointed the first Bank Commissioner of the State, by Gov. Mason, and received an offer of the Attorney Generalship, but declined both of these offices in order to attend to his professional duties. In 1838, Mr. McClelland was elected to the State Legislature, in which he soon became distinguished as the head of several important committees, Speaker pro temnpore, and as an active, zealous and efficient member. In I840, Gen. Harrison, as a candidate for the Presidency, swept the country with an overwhelming majority, and at the same time the State of Michiganl was carried by the Whigs under the popular cry of" Woodbridge and reform " against the Democratic party. At this time Mr. McClelland stood amongthe acknowledged leaders of the latter organization; was elected a member of the State House of Representatives, and with others adopted a plan to regain a lost authority and prestige. This party soon came again into power in the State, and having been returned to the State Legislature M;. McClelland's leadership was acknowledged by his election as Speaker of the House of Representatives Iet IROASER T McCLELLAND. in i843. Down to this time Michigan had constituted one congressional district. The late Hon. Jacob M. Howard had been elected against Hon. Alpheus Felch by a strong majority; but, in 843, so thoroughly had the Democratic party recovered from its defeat of x840 that Mr. McClelland, as a candidate for Congress, carried Detroit district by a majority of about 2,50o. Mr. McClelland soon tock a prominent posi tion in Congress among the veteians of that bodyo During his first term he was placed on Committee on Cormmerce, and organized and carried through what were known as the " Harbor bills." The continued confidence of his constituency was manifested in his election to the 29th Congress. At the opening of this session he had acquired a National reputation, and so:aorably was he known as a parlimentarian that his name was mentioned for Speaker of the House of Repiesentatives. He declined the offer in favor of J. W, Davis, of Indiana, who was elected. During this term he became Chairman of Committee on Commerce, in which position his reports and advocacy of important measures at once attracted public attention. The members of this committee, as an evidence of the esteem in which they held his services and of their personal regard for him, presented him with a cane Iwhich he retains as a souvenir of the donors, and of his labors in Congresso In I847, Mr. McClelland was re-elected to Congress, and at the opening of the 3oth Congress became a member of the Committee on Foreign Relaions. While acting in this capacity, what was known as the " French Spoliation Bill" came under his special charge, and his management of the same was such as to command universal approbation. While in Congress, Mr. McClelland was an advocate of the right of petition as maintained by John Q. Adams, vwhen the petition, was clothed in decorous language and presented in the proper manner. This he regarded as the citizens'constitutional right which should not be impaired by any doctrines of temporary expediency. He also voted for the adoption of Mr. Giddings's bill for the abolishing of slavery in the District of Columbia Mr. McClelland was one of the few' Democrats associated with David Wilmot, of Pennsylvania, in bringing forward the celebrated "Wilmot Froviso,' with a view to prevent further extension of slavery in new territory which might be acquired by the United States. He and Mr. Wilmot were together at the time in Washington, and on intimate and confidential terms. Mr. McClelland was in several National conventions and in the Baltimore conrention, which nominated Gen. Cass for President,;a 1848, doing valiant service that year for the election of that distinguished statesman. On leaving Congress, in I848, Mr. McClelland returned to the practice of his profession at Monroe. In i85o a convention of the State of Michigan was called to revise the State constitution. He was elected a member and was regarded therein as among the ablest and most'experienced leaders. His clear judgment and wise moderation were conspicuous, both in the committee room and on the floor, in debate. In 1850, he was President of the Democratic State convention which adopted resolutions in support of Henry Clay's famous compromise measures, of which Mr. McClelland was a strong advocateo He was a member of the Democratic National convention in 1852, and in that year, in company with Gen, Cass and Governor Felch, he made a thorough canvass of the State. He continued earnestly to advocate the Clay compromise measures, and took an active part in the canvass which resulted in the election of Gen. Pierce to the Presidency. In 185 r, the new State constitution took effect and it was necessary that a Governor should be elected for one year in order to prevent an interregnum, and to bring the State Government into operatic- under the new constitution. Mr. McClelland was elected Governor, and in the fall of 1852 was re-elected for a term of two years, from Jan. I, 18530 His administration was regarded as wise, prudent and conciliatory, and was as popular as could be expected at a time when party spirit ran high. There was really no opposition, and when he resigned, in March, 1853, the State Treasury was well filled, and the State otherwise prosperous. So widely and favorably had Mr. McClelland become known as a statesman that on the organization of thecabinet by President Pierce, in March, I85 3, he was made Secretary of the Interior, in which capacity he served most creditably during four years of the Pierce administration. He thoroughly re-organized his department and reduced the expenditure, He adopted a course with the Indians which relieved them from the impositions and annoyances of the traders, and produced harmony and civilization among them. During his administration there was neither complaint from the tribes nor corruption among agents, and he left the department in perfect order and system. In I867, Michigan again called a convention to revise the State constitution, Mr. McClelland was a member and here again his long experience made him conspicuous as a prudent adviser, a sagacious parliamentary leader, As a lawyer he was terse and pointed in argument, clear, candid and impressive in his addresses to the jury. His sincerity and earnestness, with which was occasionally mingled a pleasant humor, made him an able and effective advocate. In speaking before the people on political subjects he was especially forcible and happy. In 1870 he made the tour of Europe, which, through his extensive personal acquaintance with European diplomates, he was enabled to enjoy much more than most travelers, Mr. McClelland married, in 1837, Miss Sarah E. Sabin, of Williamstown, Mass. They have had six children, two of whom now survive. GO V0ERNORS 0OF MICHIGAN. 133 '~iri@ NDREW PARSONS, Gover47gg/^ ^ gnor of Michigan from March 18, 853 to Jan. 3, [855, was born in the town of Hoosick, 1Q m >ODG County of Rensselaer, and 6 _ t 7 State of New York, on the 22d day of July, 1817, and died June ' ] 6, i855, at the early age of 38 ~. y years. He was the son of John Parsons, born at Newburyport, Mass., Oct. 2, 1782, and who was the son of Andrew Parsons, a Revolutionary soldier, who was the son of Phineas Parsons, the son of Samuel Parsons, a descendant of Walter Parsons, born in Ireland in 1290. Of this name and family, some one hundred and thirty years ago, Bishop Gilson remarked in his edition of Camden's Britannia: "The honorable family of Parsons have been advanced to the dignity of Viscounts and more lately Earls of Ross." The following are descendants of these families: Sir John Parsons, born 1481,was Mayor of Hereford; Robert Parsons, born in 1546, lived near Bridgewater, England. He was educated at Ballial College, Oxford, and was a noted writer and defender of the Romish faith. He established an English College at Rome and another at Valladolia. Frances Parsons, born in 1556, was Vicar of Rothwell, in Notingham; Bartholomew Parsons, born in I618, was another noted member of the family. In I634,Thomas Parsons was knighted by Charles I. Joseph and Benjamin, brothers, were born in Great Torrington, England, and accompanied their father and others to New England about I630. Samuel Parsons, born at Salisbury, Mass., in I707, graduated at Harvard College in 1730, ordained at Rye, N. H., Nov. 3, I736, married Mary Jones, daughter of Samuel Jones, of Bosto, Oct. 9, 1739, died Jan. 4, I789, at the age of 82, in the 53rd year of his ministry. The grandfatherof Maiy Jones was Capt. John Adams, of Boston, grandson of Henry, of'Braintree, who was among the first settlers of Massachusetts, and from whom a numerous race of the name are descended, including two Presidents of the United States. The Parsons have become very numerous and are found. throughout New England, and many of the descedants are scattered in all parts of the United States, and especially in the Middle and Western States. Governor Andrew Parsons came to Michigan in I835, at the age of 17 years, and spent the first summer at Lower Ann Arbor, where for a few months he taught school which he was compelled to abandon from ill health. He was one of the large number of men of sterling worth, who came from the East to Michigan when it was an infant State, or, even prior to its assuming the dignity of a State, and who, by their wisdom, enterprise and energy, have developed its wonderful natural resources, until to-day it ranks with the proudest States of the Union. These brave men came to Michigan with nothing to aid them in the conquest of the wilderness save courageous hearts and strong and willing hands. They gloriously conquered, however, and to them is due all honor for the labors so nobly performed, for the solid and sure foundation which they laid of a great Commonwealth. 134 34AA' i ' W A+1Y4 ONS'QAM5S In the fall of I835, he explored the Grand River Valley in a frail canoe, the whole length of the river, from Jackson to Lake Michigan, and spent the following winter as clerk in a store at Prairie Creek, in Ionia, County, and in the spring went to Marshall, where he resided with his brother, the Hon. Luke H. Parsons, also now deceased, until fall, when he went to Shiawasse County, then with Clinton County, and an almost unbroken wilderness and constituting one organized township. In 1837 this territory was organized into a county and, at the age of only 19 years, he (Andrew) was elected County Clerk. In 1840, he was elected Register of Deeds, re-elected in 1842, and also in 1844. In 1846, he was elected to the State Senate, was appointed Prosecuting Attorney in 1848, and elected Regent of the University in 1851, and Lieuteniant Governor, and became acting Governor, in 1853, elected again to the Legislature in 1854, and, overcome by debilitated health, hard labor and the responsibilities of his office and cares of his business, retired to his farm, where he died soon after. He was a fluent and persuasive speaker and well calculated to make friends of his acquantances. He was always true to his trust, and the whole world could not persuade nor drive him to do what he conceived to be wrong. When Governor, a most powerful railroad influence was brought to bear upon him, to induce him to call an extra session of the Legislature. Meetings were held in all parts of the State for that purpose. In some sections the resolutions were of a laudatory nature, intending to make him do their bidding by resort to friendly and flattering words. In other places the resolutions were of a demanding nature, while in others they were threatening beyond measure. Fearing that all these influences might fail to induce him to call the extra session, a large sum of money was sent him, and liberal offers tendered him if he would gratify the railroad interest of the State and call the extra session, but, immovable, he returned the money and refused to receive any favois, whether from any party who would attempt to corrurt him by laudations, liberal offers, or by threats, and in a short letter to the people, after giving overwhelming reasons that no sensible man could dispute, showing the circumstances were not "extraordinary," he refused to call the extra session. This brought down the wrath of various parties upon his head, but they were soon forced to acknowledge the wisdom and the justice of his course. One of his greatest enemies said, after a long acquaintance: "though not always coinciding with his views I never doubted his honesty of purpose. He at all times sought to perform his duties in strict accordance, with the dictates of his conscience, and the behests of his oath." The following eulogium from a politcal opponent is just in its conception and creditable to its author: "Gov. Parsons was a politician of the Democratic school, a man of pure moral character, fixed and exemplary habits, and entirely blameless in every public and private relation of life. As a politician he was candid, frank and free from bitterness, as an executive officer firm, constant and reliable." The highest commendations we can pay the deceased is to give his just record, —that of being an honest man. In the spring of 1854, during the administration of Governor Parsons, the Republican party, at least as a State organization, was first formed in the United States " under the oaks" at Jackson, by anti-slavery men of both the old parties. Great excitement prevailed at this time, occasioned by the settling of Kansas, and the issue thereby brought up, whether slavery should exist there. For the purposeof permitting slavery there, the "Missouri compromise " (which limited slavery to the south of 36 30') was rerepealed, under the leadership of Stephen A, Douglas. This was repealed by a bill admitting Kansas and Nebraska into the Union, as Territories, and those who were opposed to this repeal measure were in short called " anti-Nebraska"' men. The epithets, "Nebraska" and "anti-Nebraska," were temporally employed to designate the slavery and anti-slavery parties, pending the desolution of the old Demccratic and Whig parties and the organization of the new Democratic and Republican parties of the present. A I dO V7RWORS OP MICHIGAN. '37 X1, o..tl C I \_ KINSLEY S. BINGHAM. 'Y!:",1^>2^^ ^^j K$ arIN INSLEY S. BINGHAM, 1 I $ ^Governor of Michigan from ' S^ \g./^i855 to I859, and United States Senator, was born in Camillus, Onondaga County, N. Y., Dec. i6, i808. His father was a farmer, and his own early life was consequently devoted to agricultural pursuits, but notwithstanding the disadvantages related to the acquisition of knowledge in the life of a farmer ^ [ lie managed to secure a good academic education in his native State S and studied law in the office of f Gen. James R. Lawrence, now of L li \Syracuse, N. Y. In the spring of I 1833, he married an estimable lady l who had recently arrived from Scoti land, and obeying the impulse of a naturally enterprising disposition, he emigrated to Michigan and purchased a new farm in company i with his brother-in-law, Mr. Robert Worden, in Green Oak, Livingston County. Here, on the border of civilization, buried in the primeval forest, our late student commenced the arduous task of preparing a future home, clearing and fencing, putting up buildings, etc., at such a rate that the land chosen was soon reduced to a high state of cultivation. Becoming deservedly prominent, Mr. Bingham was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace and Postmaster under the Territorial government, and was the first Probate Judge in the county. In the year 1836, when Michigan lecame a State, he was elected to the first Legislature. He was four times re-elected, and Speaker of the House of Representatives three years. In 1846 he was elected on the Democratic ticket, Representative to Congress, and was the only practical farmer in that body. He was never forgetful of the interest of agriculture, and was in particular opposed to the introduction of "Wood's Patent Cast Iron Plow " which he completely prevented. He was reelected to Congress in 1848, during which time he strongly opposed the extension of slavery in the territory of the United States and was committed to and voted for the Wilmot Proviso. In I854, at the first organization of the Republican party, in consequence of his record in Congress as a Free Soil Democrat, Mr. Bingham was nominated and elected Governor of the State, and re-elected in I856. Still faithful to the memory of his own former occupation, he did not forget the farmers during his administration, and among other profits of his zeal in their behalf, he became mainly instrumental in the establishment of the Agricultural College at Lansing. In 1859, Governor Bingham was elected Senator in Congress and took an active part in the stormy campaign in the election of Abraham Lincoln He wit — 38 JKINSLE Y S. BINGHAM. sessed the commencement of the civil war while a member of the United States Senate. After a comparatively short life of remarkable promise and public activity he was attacked with appoplexy and died suddenly at his residence, in Green Oak, Oct. 5, i861. The most noticable event in Governor Bingham's first term was the completion of the ship canal, at the Falls of St. Mary. In r852, Angust 26, an act of Congress was approved, granting to the State of Michigan seven hundred and fifty thousand acres of land for the purpose of constructing a ship canal between Lakes Huron and Superior. In 1853, the Legislature accepted the grant, and provided for the appointment of commissioners to select the donated lands, and to arrange for building the canal. A company of enterprising men was formed, and a contract was entered into by which it was arranged that the canal should be finished in two years, and the work was pushed rapidly forward. Every article of consumption, machinery, working implements and materials, timber for the gates, stones for the locks, as well as men and supplies, had to be transported to the site of the canal from Detroit, Cleveland, and other lake ports. The rapids which had to be surmounted have a fall of seventeen feet and are about one mile long. The length of the canal is less than one mile, its width one hundred feet, depth twelve feet and it has two locks of solid masonary. In May, 855, the work was completed, accepted by the commissioners, and formally delivered to the State authorities. The disbursements on account of the construction of the canal and selecting the lands amounted to one million of dollars; while the lands which were assigned to the company, and selected through the agency at the Sault, as well as certain lands in the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, filled to an acre the Government grant. The opening of the canal was an important event in the history of the improvement of the State. It was a valuable link in the chain of lake commerce, and particularly important to the interests of the Upper Peninsula. There were several educational, charitable and reformatory institutions inaugurated and opened during Gov. Bingham's administrations. The Michigan Agricultural College owes its establishment to a provision of the State Constitution of I85o. Article I3 says, "The Legislature shall, as soon as practicable, provide for the establishment of an agricultural school." For the purpose of carying into practice this provision, legislation was commenced in 1855, and the act required that the school should be within ten miles of Lansing, and that not more than $15 an acre should be paid for the farm and college grounds. The college was opened to students in May, I857, the first of existing argricultural colleges in the United States. Until the spring of i86I, it was under the control of the State Board of Education; since that time it has been under the management of the State Board of Agriculture, which was created for that purpose. In its essential features, of combining study and labor, and of uniting general and professional studies in its course, the college has remained virtually unchanged from the first. It has a steady growth in number of students, in means of illustration and efficiency of instruction. The Agricultural College is three miles east of Lansing, comprising several fine buildings; and there are also very beautiful, substantial residences for the professors. There are also an extensive, well-filled green-house, a very large and well-equipped chemical laboratory, one of the most scientific apiaries in the United States, a general museum, a meseum of mechanical inventions, another of vegetable products, extensive barns, piggeries, etc., etc., in fine trim for the purposes designed. The farm consists of 676 acres, of which about 300 are under cultivation in a systematic rotation of crops. Adrian College was established by the Wesleyan Methodists in 1859, now under the control of the Methodist Church. The grounds contain about 20 acres. There are four buildings, capable of accommodating about 225 students. Attendance in 1875 was 179; total number of graduates for previous year, 121; ten professors and teachers are elmployed. Exclusive of the endowment fund ($8o,ooo), the assets of the institution, including grounds, buildings, furniture, apparatus, musical instruments, outlying lands, etc., amount to more than $137,000. Hillsdale College was established in 1855 by the Free Baptists. The Michigan Central College, at Spring Arbor, was incorporated in 1845 It was kept in operation until it was merged into the present Hillsdale College. The site comprises 25 acres, beautifully situated on an eminence in the western part of the city of Hillsdale. The large and imposing building first erected was nearly destroyed by fire iln 874, and in its place five buildings of a more modern style have been erected. They are of brick, three stories with basement, arranged on three sides of a quadrangle. The size is, respectively, 80 by 80, 48by 72, 48 by 72, 80 by 60, 52 by 72, and they contain one-half more room than the original building. The State Reform School. This was established at Lansing in I855,in the northeastern portion of the city, as the House of Correction for Juvenile Offenders, having about it many of the features of a prison. In 1859 the name was changed to the State Reform School. The government and dicipline, have undergone many and radical changes, until all the prison features have been removed except those that remain in the walls of the original structure, and which remain only as monuments of instructive history. No bolts, bars or guards are employed. The inmates are necessarily kept under the surveillance of officers, but the attempts at escape are much fewer than under the more rigid regime of former days. 4.\; '".il ",- ~ ~~~~Luae~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~ 60 VERNORS OPF MICHIGAN. '. fir -L~y X;.. '.- OSES WISNER. Governor of ~ ^il! Michigan fronm 859 to I861, G'~'Hi l971~^.~ % arwas born in Springport, Cayuga Co., N Y., June 3, i8r5.. His early education was only what could be obtained at a [r;n,,com mon school. Agricultural labor ro and frugality of his parents gave J him a physical constitution of unus-, 7 ual strength and endurance, which ) was ever preserved by temperate habits. In 1837 he emigrated to Michi-- gan and purchased a farm in Lapeer County It was new land and he at once set to work to clear it and plant crops. He labored diligently at his task for two years, when he gave up the idea of being a farmer, and removed to Pontiac, Oakland Co. Here he commenced the study of law in the office of his brother, George W. Wisner, and Rufus Hosmer. In 1841 he was admitted to the bar and established himself in his new vocation at the village of Lapeer. While there he was apppointed by Gov. Woodbridge Prosecuting Attorney for that county, in which capacity he acquitted himself well and gave promise of that eminence he afterward attained in the profession. He remained at Lapeer but a short time, removing to Pontiac, where he became a member of a firm and entered fully upon the practice. In politics he was like his talented brother, a Whig of the Henry Clay stamp, but with a decided antislaver) bias. -tHis )ractice blecoming extensive, he took little part in politics until after the election of Mr. Pierce to the Presidency in 1852, when he took an active part against slavery. As a lawyer he was a man of great ability, but relied less upon mere book learning than upon his native good sense. Liberal and courteous, was he yet devoted to the interest of his client, and no facts escaped his attention or his memory which bore upon the case. He was no friend of trickery or artifice in conducting a case As an advocate he had few equals. When fully aroused by the merits of his subject his eloquence was at once graceful and powerful. His fancies supplied the most original, the most pointed illustrations, and his logic became a battling giant under whose heavy blows the adversary shrank and withered. Nature had bestowed upon him rare qualities, and his pcwers as a popular orator were of a high order. On the passage of the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854, repealing the Missouri compromise and opening the Territories to slavery, he was among the foremost in Michigan to denounce the shamful scheme. He actively participated in organizing and consolidating the elements opposed to it in that State, and was a member of the popular gathering at Jackson, in July, 1854, which was the first formal Republican Conven.. tion held in the United States. At this meeting the name "Republican " was adopted as a designation of the new party consisting of Anti-slavery, Whigs, Liberty men, Free Soil Democrats and all others opposed to the extension of slavery and favorable to its expulsion from the Territories and the District of Columbia. At this convention Mr. W. was urged to accept the nomination for Attorney General of the MOSES WISNER. I - - - -,r- -. 1. 11 -1- I - -1 -*- ~ —T. - -,, II11Ig~ll ~ ~ _ PT r~CX- *I State, but declined. An entire State ticket was noiminated and at the annual election in November was elected by an average majority of nearly Io,0oo. Mr. W. was enthusiastic in the cause and brought to its support all his personal influence and talents. In his views he was bold and radical. He believed from the beginning that the political power of the slaveholders would have to be overthrown before quiet could be secured to the country. In the Presidential canvass of 1856 he supported the Fremont, or Republican, ticket. At the session of the Legislature of 1857 he was a candidate for United States Senator, and as such received a very handsome support. In I858, he was nominated for Governor of the State by the Republican convention that met at Detroit, and at the subsequent November election was chosen by a very large majority. Before the day of the election he had addressed the people of almost every county and his majority was greater even than that of his popular predecessor, Hon. K. S. Bingham. He served as Governor two years, from Jan. i, I859, to Japn. i, i861. His first message to the Legislature was an able and statesman-like production, and was read with usual favor. It showed that he was awake to all the interests of the State and set forth an enlightened State policy, that had its view of the rapid settlement of our uncultivated lands and the development of our immense agricultural and mineral resources. It was a document that reflected the highest credit upon the author. His term having expired Jan. i, i86, he returned to his home in Pontiac, and to the practice of his profession. There were those in the State who counselled the sending of delegates to the peace conference at Washington, but Mr. W. was opposed to all such temporizing expedients. His counsel was to send no delegate, but to prepare to fight. After Congress had met and passed the necessary.egislation he resolved to take part in the war. In the spring and summer of 1862 he set to work to raise a regiment of infantry, chiefly in Oakland County, where he resided. His regiment, the 22d Michigan, was armed and equipped and ready to march in September, a regiment whose solid qualities-were afterwards proven on many a bloody field. Col. W's. commission bore the date of Sept. 8, i862. Before parting Pith his family he made his will. His regiment was sent to Kentucky and quartered at I Camp Wallace. He had at the breaking out of the war turned his attention to military studies and became proficient in the ordinary rules and discipline. His entire attention was now devoted to his duties. His treatment of his men was kind, though his discipline was rigid. He possessed in an eminent degree the spirit of command, and had he lived he would no doubt have distinguished himself as a good officer. He was impatient of delay and chafed at being kept in Kentucky where there was so little prospect of getting at the enemy. But life in camp, so different from the one he had been leading, and his incessant labors, coupled with that impatience which was so natural and so general among the volunteers in the early part of the war, soon made their influence felt upon his health. He was seized with typhoid fever and removed to a private house near Lexington. Every care which medical skill or the hand of friendship could bestow was rendered him. In the delirious wanderings of his mind he was disciplining his men and urging them to be prepared for an encounter with the enemy, enlarging upon the justice of their cause and the necessity of their crushing the Rebellion. But the source of his most poignant gret was the prospect of not being able to come to a hand-to-hand encounter with the "chivalry." He was proud of his regiment, and felt that if it could find the enemy it would cover itself with glory,-a distinction it afterward obtained, but not until Col. W. was no more. The malady baffled all medical treatment, and on the 5th day of Jan., 1863, he breathed his last. His remains were removed to Michigan and interred in the cemetery at Pontiac, where they rest by the side of the brave Gen. Richardson, who received his mortal wound at the battle of Antietam. Col. W. was no adventurer, although he was doubtless ambitious of military renown and would have striven for it with characteristic energy. He went to the war to defend and uphold the principles Ire had so much at heart. Few men were more familiar than he with the causes and the underlying principles that led to the contest. He left a wife, who was a daughter of Gen. C. C. Hascall, of Flint, and four children to mourn his loss. Toward them he ever showed the tenderest regard. Next to his duty their love and welfare engrossed his thoughts. He was kind, generous and brave, and like thousands of otheIs lie sleeps the sleep of the martyr for his country. I ,[ 0 GO VERAORS OF MI/CHIGAN. T45.T II.......,X^ < USTIN BLAIR, Governor ifg/gu0 '~ ~of Michigan from Jan. 2, — {~, dA-[ ^/ w kown as the War Governor, is' r^C^ ^ Dand illustration of the benificent influence of republican inI stitutions, having inherited neither fortune nor fame. He was born in a log cabin at Caroline, Tompkins Co., N. Y., Feb. 8, i8i8. His ancestors came from Scot) land in the time of George I, and for many generations followed the ij pursuit of agriculture. His father, I George Blair, settled in Tompkins County in 1809, and felled the trees and erected the first cabin in the county. The last 60 of the fourscore and four years of his life were spent on that spot. He married Rhoda Blackman,who now sleeps with him in the soil of the old homestead. The first 17 years of his life were spent there, rendering his father what aid he could upon the farm. He then spent ayear and a half in Cazenovia Seminary preparing for college; entered Hamilton College, in Clinfon, prosecuted his studies until the middle of the junior year, when, attracted by the fame of Dr. Nott, he changed to Union College, from which he graduated in the class of I839. Upon leaving college Mr. Blair read law two years in the office of Sweet & Davis, Owego, N Y., and was admitted to practice iP I64I, and the same year moved to Michigan, locat ing in Jackson. During a temporary residence in Eaton Rapids, in I842, he was elected Clerk of Eaton County, At the close of the official term he returned to Jackson, and as a Whig, zealously espoused the cause of Henry Clay in the campaign of I844. Hewas chosen Representative to the Legislature in 1845, at which session, as a nembler of the Judiciary Committee, he rendered valuable service in the revision of the geineral statutes; also made an able report in favor of abolishing the color distinction in relation to the elective franchise, and at the same session was active in securing the abolition of capital punishment. In 1848 Mr. Blair refused longer to affiliate with the Whig party, because of its refusial to endorse in convention any anti-slavery sentiment. He joined the Free-soil movement, and was a delegate to their convention which nominated Van Buren for President that year. Upon the birth of the Republican party at Jackson, in 1854, by the coalition of the Whig and Free-soil elements, Mr. Blair was in full sympathy with the movement, and acted as a member of the Committee on Platform. He was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Jackson County in I852; was chosen State Senator two years later, taking his seat with the incoming Republican administration of I855, and holding the position of parliamentary leader in the Senate. He was a delegate to the National Convention which nominated Abraham Lincoln in i860. Mr. Blair was elected Governor of Michigan in I86o, and reelected in 1862, faithfully and honorably discharging the arduous duties of the office during that most mo 0I 146 AUSTIN BLAIR. 146~~~~ AUTNBAR = mentous and stormy period of the Nation's life. -Gov. Blair possessed a clear comprehension of the perilous situation from the inception of the Rebellion, and his inaugural address foreshadowed the prompt executive policy and the administrative ability which characterized his gubernatorial career. Never perhaps in the history of a nation has a brighter example been laid down, or a greater sacrifice been made, than that which distinguished Michigan during the civil war. All, from the "War Governor:" down to the poorest citizen of the State, were animated with a patriotic ardor at once magnificiently sublime and wisely directed. Very early in I86i the coming struggle cast its shadow over the Nation. Governor Blair, in his message to the Legislature in January of that year, dwelt very forcibly upon the sad prospects of civil war; and as forcibly pledged the State to support the principles of the Republic. After a review of the conditions of the State, he passed on to a consideration of the relations between the free and slave States of the Republic, saying: " While we are citizens of the State of Michigan, and as such deeply devoted to her interests and honor, we have a still prouder title. We are also citizeas of the United States of America. By this title we are known among the nations of the earth. In remote quarters of the globe, where the names of the States are unknown, the flag of the great Republic, the banner of the stars and stripes, honor and protect her citizens. In whatever concerns the honor, the prosperity and the perpetuity of this great Government, we are deeply interested. The people of Michigan are loyal to that Government-faithful to its constitution and its laws. Under it they have had peace and prosperity; and under it they mean to abide to the end. Feeling a just pride in the glorious history of the past, they will not renounce the equally glorious hopes of the future. But they will rally around the standards of the Nation and defend its integrity and its constitution, with fidelity." The final paragraph being: ' I recommend you at an early day to make mani I I fest to the gentlemen who represent this State in the two Houses of Congress, and to the country, that Michigan is loyal to the Union, the Constitution, and the laws and will defend them to the uttermost; and to proffer to the President of the United States, the whole military power of the State for that purpose. Oh, for the firm, steady hand of a Washington, or a Jackson, to guide the ship of State in this perilous storm! Let us hope that we will find him on the 4th of March. Meantime, let us abide in the faith of our fathers-' Liberty and Union, one and inseparable, now and forever.'" How this stirring appeal was responded to by the people of Michigan will be seen by the statement that the State furnished 88, i men during the war. Money, men, clothing and food were freely and abundantly supplied by this State during all these years of darkness and blood shed. No State won a brighter record for her devotion to our country than the Peninsula State, and to Gov. Blair, more than to any other individual is due the credit for its untiring zeal and labors in the Nation's behalf, and for the heroism manifested in its defense. Gov. Blair was elected Representative to the Fortieth Congress, and twice re-elected, to the Fortyfirst and Forty-second Congress, from the Third Dis. trict of Michigan. While a member of that body he was a strong supporter of reconstruction measures, and sternly opposed every form of repudiation. His speech upon the national finances, delivered on the floor of the House March 2, I868, was a clear and convincing argument. Since his retirement from Congress, Mr. Blair has been busily occupied with his extensive law practice. Mr. Blair married Sarah L. Ford, of Seneca County N. Y., in February, 1849. Their family consists of 4 sons-George H., a postal clerk in the railway mail service; Charles A., partner with his father; Fred. J. and Austin T., at home. Governor Blair's religion is of the broad type, and centers in the "Golden Rule." In I883, Gov. Blair was nominated for Justice of the Supreme Court of the State by the Republican party, but wa defeted. 0::::::::-:4 d- f GO VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. 149 Y SY QENRY HOWLAND CRAPO, Governor of Michigan from EXUiI X w ' ^ I865 to I869, was born May ^^^^(^)^ ~24, 1804, at I)Dartmouth, Bris-. '. _ ^ tol Co., Mass., and died at \^'W V Flint, Mich., July 22, I869. He was the eldest son of Jesse 11 Il and Phlobe (Howland) Crapo. >A it (His father was of French descent it' and was very poor, sustaining his /falmily by the cultivation of a farm il T) Dartmouth township, which yielded 9 nothing beyond a mere livelihood. His early life was consequently one of toil and devoid of advantages for intellectual culture, but his desire for an education seemed to know no bounds. The incessant toil for a mere subsistence upon a comparatively sterile farm, had no charm for him; and, longing for greater usefulness and better things, he looked for them in an education. His struggles to secure this end necessitated sacrifices and hardships that would leave discouraged any but the most courageous and persevering. He became an ardent student and worker from his boyhood, though the means of carrying on his studies were exceedingly limited. He sorely felt the need of a dictionary; and, neither having money wherewith to purchase it, nor being able to procure one in his neighborhood, he set out to compile one for himself. In order to acquire a knowledge of the English language, he copied into a book every word whose meaning he did not comprehend, and upon meeting the same word again in the newspapers and books, whiclh crme into his hands, from the context, would then record the definition. Whenever unable otherwise to obtain the signification of a word in which he had become interested he would walk from Dartmouth to New Bedford for that purpose alone, and after referring to the books at the library and satisfying himself thoroughly as to its definition, would walk back, a distance of about seven miles the same night. This was no unusual circumstance. Under such difficulties and in this manner he corn piled quite an extensive dictionary in manuscrip' which is believed to be still in existence. Ever in pursuit of knowledge, he obtained possession of a book upon surveying, and applying himself diligently to its study became familiar with this art, which he soon had an opportunity to practice. The services of a land surveyor were wanted, and he was called upon, but had no compass and no money with which to purchase one. A compass, however, he must and would have, and going to a blacksmith shop near at hand, upon the forge, with such tools as he could find in the shop, while the smith was at dinner, he constructed the compass and commenced life as a surveyor. Still continuing his studies, he fitted himself for teaching, and took charge of the village school at Dartmouth. When, in the course of time and under the pressure of law, a high school was to be opened, he passed a successful examination for its principalship and received the appointment. To do this was no small task. The law required a rigid examination in various subjects, which necessitated days and nights of study. One evening, after concluding his day's labor of teaching, he traveled on foot to New Bedford, some seven or eight miles, called upon the preceptor of Friend's Academy and passe4 150 1HENR Y HO WLA NID CRAPO. a severe examination. Receiving a certificate that he was qualified, he walked back to his home the same night, highly elated in being possessed of the acquirements and requirements of a master of the high school. In 1832, at the age of 28 years, he left his native town and went to reside at New Bedford, where he followed the occupation of land surveyor, and occasionally acted as an auctioneer. Soon after becoming a citizen of this place, he was elected Town Clerk, Treasurer, and Collector of taxes, which office he held until the municipal government was changed,-about fifteen years,-when, upon the inauguration of the city government, he was elected Treasurer and Collector of taxes, a position which he held two or three years. He was also Justice of the Peace for many years. lie was elected Alderman of New Bedford; was Chairman of Council Committee on Education, and a such prepared a report upon which was based the order for the establishment of the free Public Library of New Bedford. On its organization, Mr. Crapo was chosen a member of the Board of Trustees. This was the first free public library in Massachusetts, if not in the world. The Boston Free Library was established, however, soon afterwards. While a resident in New Bedford, he was much interested in horticulture, and to obtain the land necessary for carrying out his ideas he drained and reclaimed several acres of rocky and swampy land adjoining his garden. Here he started a nursery, which he filled with almost every description of.fruit and ornamental trees, shrubs, flowers, etc. In this he was very successful and took great pride. He was a regular contributorto the New England Horticultural Journal, a position he filled as long as he lived in Massachusetts. As an indication of the wide reputation he acquired in that field of labor, it may be mentioned that after his death an affecting eulogy to his memory was pronounced by the President of the National Horticultural Society at its meeting in Philadelphia, in 1869. During his residence in New Bedford, Mr. Crapo was also engaged in the whaling business. A fine barque built at Dartmouth, of which he was part owner, was named the "H. H. Crapo" in compliment to him. Mr. C. also took part in the State Militia, and for several years held a commission as Colonel of one of the regiments. He was President of the Bristol County Mutual Fire Insurance Co., and Secretary of the Bedford Commercial Insurance Company in New Bedford; and while an officer of the municipal governmenthecompiled and plublished, between the years 1836 and I845, five numbers of the New Bedford Directory, the first work of the kind ever published there. Mr. C. removed to Michigan in I856, having been induced to do so by investments made principally in pine lands, first in 1837 and subsequently in 1856. He took up his residence in the city of Flint, and en I gaged largely in the manufacture and sale of lumber at Flint, Fentonville, Holly and Detroit, becoming one of the largest and most successful business men of the State. He was mainly instrumental in the construction of the Flint & Holly R. R., and was President of that corporation unlil its consolidation with the Flint & Pere Marquette R. R. Company. He was elected Mayor of that city after he had been a resident of the place only five cr six years. In 1862 he was elected State Senator. In the fall of I864 he received the nomination on the Republican ticket for Governor of the State, and was elected by a large majority. He was re elected in i866, holding the office two terms, and retiring in January, 1869, having given the greatest satisfaction to all parties. While serving iris last term he was attacked with a disease which terminated his life within one year afterwards. During much of this time he was an intense sufferer, yet often while in great pain gave his attention to public matters. A few weeks previous to his death a successful surgical operation was performed which seemed rapidly to restore him, but he overestimated his strength, and by too much exertion in business matters and State affairs suffered arelapse from which there was no rebound, and he died July 33, 1869. In the early part of his life, Gov. Crapo affiliated with the Whig party in politics, but became an active member of the Republican party after its organization. He was a member of the Christian (sometimes called the Disciples') Church, and took great interest in its welfare and prosperity. Mr. C. married, June 9, 1825, Mary A. Slocum, of Dartmouth. His marriage took place soon after he had attained his majority, and before his struggles with fortune had been rewarded with any great measure of success. But his wife was a woman of great strength of character and possessed of courage, hopefulness and devotion, qualities which sustained and encouraged ler husband in the various pursuits of his early years. For several years after his marriage he was engaged in teaching school, his wife living with her parents at the time, at whose home his two older children were born. While thus situated lie was accustomed to walk home on Saturday to see his family, returning on Sunday in order to be ready for school Monday morning. As the walk for a good part of the time was 20 miles each way, it is evident that at that period of his life no common obstacles deterred him from performing what he regarded as a duty. His wife was none the less conscientious in her sphere, and with added responsibilities and increasing requirements she labored faithfully in the performance of all her duties. They had ten children, one son and nine daughters. His son, Hon. Wm. W. Crapo, of New Bedford, is now an honored Representative to Congress from the First Congressional District of Massachusetts. 61~^t^<^ ^^Pcs^O.e^-^t. 4 GO VA/iRNORS OF IMCIHIGA "V. Sb3 9q <>>ACI2S:d-9 as-W ~lD^geja ~^6 es3rE D F '^E " N ^ Iff ^M~ w 1^ K MI Bcl —cfTMd 0ENRY P. BALDWIN, Govr! L J 4 ernor of Michigan from Jan. 4, I869, to Ja:;. I, 187 3, is a lineal descendant of Nathano.J ~X~c ielBaldwin, a Puritan, of Buckinghamshire, England, who set> tied at Milford, Conn,in i639. His father was John Baldwin, a graduate of Dartmouth Col7 lege. He died at North Provi>wwi dence, R. I., in 1826. Iis paternal grandfather was Rev. P Moses Baldwin, a graduate of Princeton College, in 1757, and the first who received collegiate honors at that ancient and honored institution. He died at Parma, Mass., in I8r3, where for more than 50 years he had been pastor of the Presbyterian Church. On his mother's side Governor B. is descended from Robert Williams, also a Puritan, who settled in Roxbury, Mass., about i638. His mother was a daughter of Rev. Nehemiah Williams, a graduate of Harvard College, who died at Brimfield, Mass., in 1796, where for 21 years he was pastor of the Congregationalist Church. The subject of this sketch was born at Coventry, R. I., Feb. 22, I814. He received a New England common-school education until the age of 12 years, when, both his parents having died, he became a clerk in a mercantile establishment. He remained there, employing his leisure hours in study, until 20 years of age. At this early period Mr. B. engaged in business on his own account. He made a visit to the West, in I837, which resulted in his removal to Detroit in the spring of I838. Here he established a mercantile house which has been successfully conducted until the present time* Although he successfully conducted a large business, he has ever taken a deep interest in all things affecting the prosperity of the city and State of his adoption. He was for several years a I)rector and Iresident of the Detroit Young Men's Society, an institution with a large library designed for the benefit of younJg men and citizens generally. An Episcopalian in religious belief, he has been plrolminent in home matters connected with that denomination. The large and flourishing parish of St. John, Detroit, originated with Governor Baldwin, who gave the lot on which the parish edifice stands, and also contributed the larger share of the cost of their erection. Governor B. was one of the foremost in the establishment of St. Luke's Hospital, and has always been a liberal contributor to moral and religious enterprises whether connected with his own Church or not. There have been, in fact, but few public and social improvements of Detroit during the past 40 years with whiclh Governor B.'s name is not in some way connected. He was a director in the Michigan State Bank until the expiration of its charter, and has been President of the Second National Bank since its organization. In I86o, Mr. Baldwin was elected to the State Senate, of Michigan; during the years of i86i-'2 lie was made Chairman of tle Finance Committee, a member of Committee on Banks and Incorporationls, Chairman of the Select Joint Committee of the two Houses for the investigation of the Treasury Department and the official acts of the Treasurer, and of the letting of the contract for the improvement 0i Sault St. Marie Ship Canal. He was first electel Governor in i868 and was re-elected in 1870, serving from I869 to 1872, inclusive. It is no undeserved eulogy to say that Governor B.'s happy faculty of estimating the necessary means to an end-the knowing of how much effort or attention to bestow upon the thing in hand, has been the secret of the uniform f X I - i i -, N Y P. BA LD WIN.: 'P HER P.BADWN success that has attended his efforts in all relations of life. The same industry and accuracy that distinguished him prior to this term as Governor was manifest in his career as the chief magistrate of the State, and while his influence appears in all things wit-. which he has had to do, it is more noticeable in the most prominent position to which he was called. With rare exceptions the important commendations of Governor B. received the sanction of the Legislature. During his administration marked improvements were made in the charitable, penal and reformatory institutions of the State. The State Public School for dependent children was founded and a pernanent commission for the supervision of the several State institutions. The initiatory steps toward building the Eastern Asylum for the Insane, the State House of Correction, and the establishment of the State Board of Health were recommended by Governor B. in his message of 1873. The new State Capitol also owes its origen to him. The appropriation for its erection was made upon his recommendation, and the contract for the entire work let under this administration. Governor B. also appointed the commissiorners under whose faithful supervision the building was erected in a manner most satisfactory to the people of the State. He advised and earnestly urged at different times such amendments of the constitution as would permit a more equitable compensation to State officers and judges. Thelaw of I869, and prior also, permitting municipalities to vote aid toward the construction of railroads was, in I87o, declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. Many of the municipalities having in the meantime issued and sold their bonds in good faith, Governor B. felt that the honor and credit of the State were in jeopardy. His sense of justice impelled him to call an extra session of the Legislature to propose the submission to the people a constitutional amendment, authorizing the payment of such bonds as were already in the hands of bonafie holders. In his special message he says: "The credit of no State stands higher than that of Michigan, and the people can not afford, and I trust will not consent, to have her good name tarnished by the repudiation of eitherlegal or moral obligations." A special session was called in March, 187 2, principally for the division of the State into congressional districts. A number of other important suggestions were made, however, ard as an evidence of the Governor's laborious and thoughtful care for tlh financial condition of the State, a series of tables was prepared and submitted by him showing, in detail, estimates of receipts, expenditures and appropriations for the years i872 to 878, inclusive. Memorable of Governor B.'s administration were the devastating fires which swept over many portions of the Northwest in the fall of 87 r A large part of the city of Chicago having been reduced to ashes, Governor B. promptly issued a proclamation calling upon the people of Michigan for liberal aid in behalf of the afflicted city. Scarcely had this been issued when several counties in his State were laid waste by the same destroying element. A second call was made asking assistance for the suffering people of Michigan. The contributions for these objects were prompt and most liberal, more than $700,000oo having been received in money and supplies for the relief of Michigan alone. So ample were these contributions during the short period of about 3 months, that the Governor issued a proclamation expressing in behalf of the people of the State grateful acknowldgment, and announcing that furtfier aid was unnecessary. Governor B. has traveled extensively in his own country and has also made several visits to Europe and other portions of the Old World. He was a passenger on the Steamer Arill, which was captured and bonded in the Carribean Sea, in December, I862, by Capt. Semmes, and wrote a full and interesting account of the transaction. The following estimate of Governor B. on his retirement from office, by a leading newspaper, is not overdrawn: "The retiring message of Governor B., will be read with interest. It is a characteristic document and possesses the lucid statement, strong, and clear practical sense, which have been marked features of all preceding documents from the same source. Governor B. retired to private life after four years of unusually successful administration amid plaudits that are universal throughout the State. For many years eminent and capable men have filled the executive chair of this State, but in 'painstaking vigilance, in stern good sense, in genuine public spirit, in thorough integrity and in practical capacity, Henry P. Baldwin has shown himself to be the peer of any or all of them. The State has been unusually prosperous during his two terms, and the State administration has fully kept pace with the needs of the times. The retiring Governor has fully earned the public gratitude and confidence which he to-day possesses to such remarkable decree, ' GO VERIVORS OF MICHIGAN. I57 d [ r t JOHN JUDSON BAGLEY, S i1H I 873 to 1877, was born in C '-'/~ / Me'dina, Orleans Co., N.Y., — )^;( 'i S July 24,1832. His father, John Bagley, was a native of Ne.w eo\. \ Hampshire, his mother, Mary M. )ig l Bagley, of Connecticut. He at* [)/t tended the district school of Lock'A i' L ^port, N. Y., until he was eight years tgpj;^> old, at which time his father moved to Constantine, Mich., and he att tended the common schools of that village. His early experience was like that of many country boys whose I parents removed from Eastern States I to the newer portion of the West. 0 His father being in very poor circumstances, Mr. B. was obliged to work as soon as he was able to do so. Leaving school when r3 years of age lhe entered a country store in Constani tine as clerk. His father then removed to Owosso, Mich., and he again [ engaged as clerk in a store. From early youth Mr. B. was extravagantly fond of reading and devoted every leisure moment to the perusal of such books, papers and periodicals as came within his reach. In 1847, he removed to Detroit, where he secured employment in a tobacco manufactory and remained in this position for about five years. In 1853, he began business for himself in the manufacturing of tobacco, His establishment has become one of the largest of the kind in the West. Mr. B. has also been greatly interested in other manufacturing enterprises, as well as in mining, banking and insurance corporations. He was President of the Detroit Safe Company for several years. He was one of the organizers of the Michigan Mutual Life Insurance Company of Detroit, and was its President from 1867 to I872. He was a director of the American National Bank for many years, and a stockholder and director in various other corporations. Mr. B. was a member of the Board of Education two years, and of the Detroit Common Council the same length of time. In i865 he was appointed by Governor Crapo one of the first commissioners of the Metropolitian police force of the city of Detroit, serving six years. In November, 1872, he was elected Governor of Michigan, and two years later was reelected to the same office, retiring in January, 1877. He was an active worker in the Republican party, and for many years was Chairman of the Republican State Central committee. Governor Bagley was quite liberal in his religious views and was an attendant of the Unitarian Church. He aimed to be able to hear and consider any new thought,from whatever source itmay come, but was not bound by any religious creed or formula. He held in respect all religious opinions, believing that no one can be injured by a firm adherence to a faith or denomination. He was married at Dubuque, Iowa, Jan. I6, I855, to Frances E. Newberry, daughter of Rev. Samuel Newberry, a pioneer missionary of Michigan, who took an active part in the early educationalmatters of the State and in the establishment of its excellent system of education, It was principally JOHN j. lBAGLEY. t.rough his exertions that the State University was founded. Mr. B.'s family consists of seven children. As Governor his administration was characterized by several important features, chief among which were his efforts to improve and make popular the educational agencies of the State by increasing the faculty of the University for more thorough instruction in technical studies, by strengthening the hold of the Agricultural College upon the public good will and making the general change which has manifested itself in many scattered primary districts. Among others were an almost complete revolution in the management of the penal and charitable institutions of the State; the passage of the liquor-tax law, taking the place of the dead letter of prohibition; the establishing of the system of dealing with juvenile offenders through county agents, which has proved of great good in turning the young back from crime and placing the State in the attitude of a moral agent; in securing for the militia the first time in the history of Michigan a systematized organization upon a serviceable footing. It was upon the suggestion of Gov. B. in the earlier part of his administration that the law creating the State Board of Health, and also the law creating a fish commission in the inland waters of the State, were passed, both of which have proved of great benefit to the State. The successful representation of Michigan at the Centennial Exhibition is also an honorable part of the record of Gov. B.'s adnministration. As Governor, he felt that he represented the State -not in a narrow, egotistical way, but in the same sense that a faithful, trusted, confidential agent represents his employer, and as the Executive of the State he was her " attorney in fact." And his intelligent, thoughtful care will long continue the pride of the people he so much loved. He was ambitiousambitious for place and power, as every noble mind is ambitious, because these give opportunity. However strong the mind and powerful the will, if there be no ambition, life is a failure. He was not blind to the fact that the more we have the more is required of us. He accepted it in its fullest meaning. He had great hopes for his State and his country. He had his ideas of what they should be. With a heart as broad as humanity itself; with an intelligent, able and cultured brain, the will and the power to do, he asked his fellow citizen to give him the opportunity to labor for them. Self entered not into the calculation, His whole life was a battle for others; and he entered the conflict eagerly and hopefully. His State papers were models of compact, business-like statements, bold, original, and brimful of practical suggestions, and his administrations will long be considered as among the ablest in this or any other State. His noble, generous nature made his innumerable benefactions a source of continuous pleasure. Literally, to him it was "more blessed to give than to receive." His greatest enjoyment was in witnessing the comfort and happiness of others. Not a tithe of his charities were known to his most intimate friends, or even to his family. Many a needy one has been the recipient of aid at an opportune moment, who never knew the hand that gave. At one time a friend had witnessed his ready response to some charitable request, and said to him: "Governor, you give away a large sum of money; about how much does your charities amount to in a year?' He turned at once and said: "I do not know, sir; I do not allow myself to know. I hope I gave more this year than I did last, and hope I shall give more next year than I have this." This expressed his idea of charity, that the giving should at all times be free and spontaneous. During his leasure hours from early life, and especially during the last few years, he devoted much time to becoiiing acquainted with the best authors. Biography was his delight; the last he read was the "Life and Woik of John Adams," in ten volumes. In all questions of business or public affairs he seemed to have the power of getting at the kernel of: lc nut in the least possible time. In reading he would spend scarcely more time with a volume than most persons would devote to a chapter. After what seemed a cursory glance, he would have all of value the book contained. Rarely do we see a business man so familiar with the best English authors. He was a generous and intelligent patron of the arts, and his elegant home was a study and a pleasure to his many friends, who always found there a hearty welcome. At Christmas time he would spend days doing the work of Santa Claus. Every Christmas eve he gathered his children about him and, taking the youngest on his lap, told some Christmas story, closing the entertainment with "The Night Before Christmas," or Dickens's "Christmas Carol." I 0 ~~3~A"^~~~ 2-, x~~el-,~, a-k —^4 %w GO VE'RNORS OF MICHIGAN. i61 Atafie 6'2X3A=-^.=c-^^St: @ s aa,-Fs'? =l-5(a( XX}SS- S-St<5^f^f-re.I^^.. gfC~i-~p i uu i;~xz@ ~~c5-~~ A HARLES M. CROSWELL, 7w i(Igt J an.3,1877 to Jan. i, I88r, "~f'~ a 'G was born at Newburg, Orange County, N. Y., Oct. 31, 1825. He is the only son of John and Sallie (Hicks) Croswell. His father, who was of Scotch-Irish' ^.<~ extraction, was a paper-maker, and carried on business in New York City. His ancestors on I i his mother's side were of Knicker| bocker descent. The Croswell (/ 3 family may be found connected with prominent events, in New York V and Connecticut, in the early exis' tence of the Republic. Harry Croswell, during the administration of 0 V ij President Jefferson, published a paw per called the Balance, and was 4; prosecuted for libeling the President! under the obnoxious Sedition Law. ' He was defended by the celebrated I Alexander Hamilton, and the decisir. of the case establised the important ruling that the truth might be shown in cases of libel. Another member of the family was Edwin Croswell, the famous editor of the Albany Argus; also, Rev. William Croswell, noted as a divine and poet. When Charles M. Croswell was seven years of age, his father was accidentally drowned in the Hudson River, at Newburg; and, within three months preceding that event, his mother and only sister had died,thus leaving him the sole surviving member of the family, without fortune or means. Upon the death of his father he went to live with an uncle, who, in 1837, emigrated with him to Adrain, Michigan. At sixteen years of age, he commenced to learn the carpenter's trade, and worked at it very diligently for four years, maintaining himself, and devoting his spare time to reading and the acquirement of knowledge. In 1846, he began the study of law, and was appointed Deputy Clerk of Lenawee County. The du ties of this office he performed four years, when he was elected Register of Deeds, and was re-elected in 1852. In 1854, he took part in the first movements for the formation of the Republican party, and was a member and Secretary of the convetion held at Jackson in that year, which put in the field the first Replublican State ticket in Michigan. In 1855, he formed a law partnership with the present Chief-Jus. tice Cooley, which continued until the remov;l of Judge Cooley to Ann Arbor. In 1862,' Mr. Croswell was appointed City Attorney of Adrian. He was also elected Mayor of the city in' the spring of the same year; and in the fall was chosen to represent Lenawee County in the State Senate. He was re-elected to the Senate in 1864, and again in I866, during each term filling the positions above mentioned. Among various reports made by him, one adverse to the re-establishment of the death penalty, and another against a proposition to pay the salaries of State officers and judges in coin, which then commanded a very large premium, may be mentioned. He also drafted the act ratifying the Thirteenth Amendment to the Federal Constitution, for the abolishment of slavery, it being the first amendment to the instrument ratified by Michigan. In i863, from his seat in the State Senate, he delivered an elaborate speech in favor of the Proclama CHARLES M. CROSWELL. -- -II ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ - -- — ` tion of Emancipation issued by President Lincoln, and of his general policy in the prosecution of the war. This, at the request of his Republican associates, was afterwards publislled. In 1867, he was elected a member of the Constitutional Convention, and chosen its presiding officer. This convention was composed of an able body of men; and though, in the general distrust of constitutional changes which for some years had been taking possession of the people, their labors were not accepted by the popular vote, it was always conceded that the constitution they proposed had been prepared with great care and skill. In i868, Mr. Croswell was chosen an Elector on the Republican Presidential ticket; in I872, was elected a Representative to the State Legislature from Lenawee County, and was chosen Speaker of the House of Representatives. At the close of the session of that body his abilities as a parliamentarian, and the fairness of his rulings were freely and formally acknowledged by his associates; and he was presented with a superb collection of their portraits handsomely framed. He was, also, for several years, Secretary of the State Board for the general supervision of the charitable and penal institutions of Michigan; in which position, his propositions for the amelioration of the condition of the unfortunate, and the reformation of the criminal classes, signalize the benevolence of his nature, and the practical character of his mind. In I876, the general voice of the Republicans of the State indicted Mr. Croswell as their choice for Governor; and, at the State Convention of the party in August of the same year, he was put in nomination by acclamation, without the formality of a ballot. At the election in November following, he was chosen to the high position for which he had been nominated, by a very large majority over all opposing candidates. His inaugural message was received with general favor; and his career as Governor was marked with the same qualities of head and heart that have ever distinguished him, both as a citizen and statesman. Governor Groswell has always prepared his addresses with care; and, as his diction is terse, clear, and strong, without excess of ornament, and his delivery impressive, he is a popular speaker; and many.of his speeches have attracted favorable comment in the public prints, and have a permanent value. He has always manifested a deep interest in educational matters, and was for years a member and Secretary of the Board of Education of Adrain. At the formal opening of the Central School building in that city, on the 24th day of April, I869, he gave, in a public address, an " Historical Sketch of the Adrian Public Schools." In his private life, Governor Croswell has been as -exemplary as in his public career he has been successful and useful. In February, i852, he was married to a daughter of Morton Eddy, Lucy M. Eddy, a lady of many amiable and sunny qualities. She suddenly died, March i9, i868, leaving two daughters and a son. Governor Croswell is not a member of any religious body, but generally attends the Presbyterian Church. He pursues the profession of law, but of late has been occupied mainly in the care of his own interests, and the quiet duties of advice in business difficulties, for which his unfailing prudence and sound judgment eminently fit him. Governor Croswell is truly popular, not only with those of like political faith with himself, but with those who differ from him in- this regard. During Gov. Croswell's administration the public debt was greatly reduced; a policy adopted requiring the State institutions to keep within the limit of appropriations; laws enacted to provide more effectually for the punishment of corruption and bribrery in elections; the State House of Correction at lonia and the Eastern Asylum for the Insane at Pontiac were opened, and the new capital at Lansing was completed and occupied. The first act of his second term was to preside at the dedication of this building. The great riot at Jackson occured during his administration, and it was only bv his promptness that great distruction of both life and property was prevented at that time. N i CGO ERNORS OF MICHIGA N..65. G $s2;t k-)Vvvv~-Xp`14 J"'.' 9.,Pw., ". - -I. /I-B ir)))) IPA..A.A -- 12 21;T~o~X~t~G` 'EX-~oC ~ L~XU~rr~re~X~C(~C(S~,~) ~rC(j~XCC~X~SX`~X C.~ --------------- * _ -.sOK n. x.,........,. ~ ~ >, 1 Ad. IlxJ&'xi',Qe^e fwit'c.0,;t, -*^W T T - r-rT )` -- TTT T T T T T T T T T T TT - T -1 41 T T tt- j?`TTTT ID Q) S- I 0, ff, )- 4 4. A1l l & it.&Ao~xjcsl~~ ~~~i ~~'~1T~~~~f'~ i ~~~~JSc < <<<< 6 -4~ 'FCC] ~~3'c 3Jr~~3~~~,~~=~l~~J(C13;) C~~J:Cp~G0 X5^Tr ^ IJ; ' DAVID H. JEROME, Gover[.J_' II:fi^^]nor of from Jan. I, i88r, to " i> I ' T/~,H Jan. I, 1883, was born at Dc' _.." t^ troit, Mich., Nov. 17, 1829. so~.^ tHis parents emigrated to 4' Gu. Michigan from Trumansburg, Tompkins Co., N. Y., in 1828, j^^,l klocating at Detroit. His father died March 30, 1831, leaving nine children. He had been twice married, and four of the children living at the time of his v death were grown up sons, the offI spring of his first union. Of the five children by his second marriage, David H. was the youngest. Shortly after Mr. Jerome's death, his: widow moved back to New York and settled in Onondaga County near Syracuse, where they remained until the fall of I834, the four sons by the first wife continuing their residence in Michigan. In the fall of 1834, Mrs. Jerome came once more to Michigan, locating on a farm in St. Clair County. Here the Governor formed those habits of industry and sterling integrity that have been so characteristic of the man in the active duties of life. He was sent to the district school, and in the acquisition of the fundamental branches of learning he displayed a precocity and an application which won for him the admiration of his teachers, and always placed him at the head of his classes. In the meantime he did chores on the farm, and was always ready with a cheerful heart and willing hand to assist his widowed mother. The heavy labor of the farm was carried on by his two I older brothers, Timothy and George, and when 13 years of age David received his mother's permission to attend schoolat the St. Clair Academy. While attending there he lived with Marcus H. Miles, now deceased, doing chores for his board, and the following winter performed the same service for James Ogden, also deceased. The next summer Mrs. Jerome moved into the village of St. Clair, for the purpose of continuing her son in school. While attending said academy one of his associate students was Senator Thomas W. Palmer, of Detroit, a rival candidate before the gubernatorial convention in i880. He completed his education in the fall of his i6th year, and the following winter assisted his brother Timothy in hauling logs in the pire woods. The next summer he rafted logs down the St. Clair River to Algonac. In I847, M. H. Miles being Clerk in St. Clair County, and Volney A. Ripley Register of Deeds, David H. Jerome was appointed Deputy to each, remaining as such during I848-'49, and receiving much praise from his employers and the people in general for the ability displayed in the discharge of his duties. He spent his summer vacation at clerical work on board the lake vessels. In I849-'5o, he abandoned office work, and for the proper development of his physical system spent several months hauling logs. In the spring of I850, his brother" Tiff" and himself chartered the steamer "Chautauqua," and "Young Dave" became her master. A portion of the season the boat was engaged in the passenger and freight traffic between Port Huron and Detroit, but during the latter part was used as a tow boat. At that time there was a serious obstruction to navigation, known as the "St. Clair Flats," between Lakes Huron and Erie, over which t,66 DAZVID H. JEIROME, vessels could carry only about Io,ooo bushels of grain. Mr. Jerome conceived the idea of towing vessels from one lake to the other, and put his plan into operation. Through the influence of practical men,among them the subject of this sketch,-Congress removed the obstruction above referred to, and now vessels can pass them laden with 60,ooo or 80,ooo bushels of grain. During the season, the two brothers succeeded in making a neat little sum of money by the summer's work, but subsequently lost it all on a contract to raise the "Gen. Scott," a vessel that had sunk in Lake St. Clair. David H. came out free from debt, but possessed of hardly a dollar of capital. In the spring of I85 i, he was clerk and acting master of the steamers "Franklin Moore" and "Ruby," plying between Detroit and Port Huron and Goderich. The following year he was clerk of the propeller "Princeton," running between Detroit and Buffalo. In January, 1853, Mr. Jerome went to California, ny way of the Isthmus, and enjoyed extraordinary success in selling goods in a new place of his selection, among the mountains near Marysville He remained there during the summer, and located the Live Yankee Tunnel Mine, which has since yielded millions to its owners, and is still a paying investment. He planned and put a tunnel 600 feet into the mine, but when the water supply began to fail with the dry season, sold out his interest. He left in the fall of 1853, and in December sailed from San Francisco for New York, arriving at his home in St. Clair County, about a year after his departure. During his absence his brother "Tiff" had located at Saginaw, ana in 1854 Mr. Jerome joined him in his lumber operations in the valley. In 1855 the brothers bought Blackmer & Eaton's hardware and general supply stores, at Saginaw, and David H. assumed the management of the business. From I855 to 1873 he was also extensively engaged in lumbering operations. Soon after locating at Saginaw he was nominated for Alderman against Stewaft B. Williams, a rising young man, of strong Democratic principles. The ward was largely Democratic, but Mr. Jerome was elected by a handsome majority. When the Repubiican party was born at Jackson, Mich., David H. Jerome was, though not a delegate to the convention, one of its "charter members.' In I862, he was commissioned by Gov. Austin Blair to raise one of the I 0 I -- - -- -- --- ----— ~~1 -~I —. —.~-1 — -- p.c ----~~-:.. I ---- - -- ~I -~- -— ' — - ~~-~: l:- a six regiments apportioned to the State of Michigan. Mr. Jerome immediately went to work and held meetings at various points. The zeal and enthusiasm displayed by this advocate of the Union awakened a feeling of patriotic interest in the breasts of many brave men, and in a short space of time the 23d Regiment of Michigan Volunteer Infantry was placed in the field, and subsequently gained for itself a brilliant record. In the fall of 1862, Mr. Jerome was nominated by the Republican party for State Senator from the 26th district, Appleton Stevens, of Bay City, being his opponent. The contest was very exciting, and resulted in the triumphant election of Mr. Jerome. He was twice renominated and elected both times by increased majorities, defeating George Lord, of Bay City, and Dr. Cheseman, of Gratiot County. On taking his seat in the Senate, he was appointed Chairman of the Committee on State Affairs, and was active in raising means and troops to carry on the war. He held the same position during his three terms of service, and introduced the bill creating the Soldiers' Home at Harper Hospital, Detroit. He was selected by Gov. Crapo as a military aid, and in i865 was appointed a member of the State Military Board, and served as its President for eight consecutive years. In 1873, he was appointed by Gov. Bagley a member of the convention to prepare a new State Constitution, and was Chairman of the Committee on Finance. In 1875, Mr. Jerome was appointed a member of the Board of Indian Commissioners. In 1876 he was Chairman of a commission to visit Chief Joseph, the Nez Perce Indian, to arrange an amicable settlement of all existing difficulties. The commission went to Portland, Oregon, thence. to the Blue Hills, in Idaho, a distance of 600 miles up the Columbia River. At the Republican State Convention, convened at Jackson in August, I880, Mr. Jerome was placed in the field for nomination, and on the 5th day of the month received the highest honor the convention could confer on any one. His opponent was Frederick M. Holloway, of Hillsdale County, who was supported by the Democratic and Greenback parties. The State was thoroughly canvassed by both parties, and when the polls were closed on the evening of election day, it was found that David H. Jerome had been selected by the voters of the Wolverine State to occupy the highest position within their gift. 1~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~::: ":: ~~:,~.;~::;.~~:::::~:,::;:;-: Jkr~J.J^ v~ ji~o. i - I 7 GOV ERNORS OF MICHIGAN x 69 OSIAH W. ~4g g (~i '' e~t {~present (i88 Michigan wa ston, County, I8I5. His a French desce -~ 0an early period Maiyland. Hisl |P)Z Bolles, of that ' Xt: l cer in the Amer the war of the R the beginning of t ury both his gran( i, become dissatisfie { tution of slavery, holders themselvi Livingston Coun a new country, tak number of their fc volunteered to a ( His father was ( American army, a the war of 81 2. Mr. B. received his early educatio house, and subsequently attended Academy, at Geneseo, N. Y. Bein family of ten children, whose parent ate though comfortable circumstanc taught habits of industry, and when being ambitious to better his conditi solved to seek his fortune in the far BEGOLE, the then called. In August, 1836, he left the parental 3), Governor of roof to seek a home in the Territory of Michigan, s born in Living- then an almost unbroken wilderness. He settled in N. Y., Jan. 20, Genesee County, and aided with his own hands in incestors were of building some of the early residences in what is now:nt, and settled at known as the city of Flint. There were but four or I in the State of five houses where this flourishing city now stands grandfather, Capt. when he selected it as his home.:tate, was an offi- In the spring of I839 he married Miss Harriet A. rican army during Miles. The marriage proved a most fortunate one, evolution. About and to the faithful wife of his youth, who lives to en-:he present cent- joy with him the comforts of an honestly earned comdparents, having petence, Mr. Begole ascribes largely his success in d with the insti- life. Immediately after his marriage he commenced although slave- work on an unimproved farm, where, by his persealthough slaveverance and energy, he soon established a good home, es, emigrated to y N Y. then and at the end of eighteen years was the owner of a ty, N.., the well improved farm of five hundred acres. ring with them a rier slaves, who Mr. Begole being an anti-slavery man, became a >rmer slaves, who compy th em. ber of the Republican party at its organization. ccompany them. ru gn He served his townsmen in various offices, and was an officer in the in 1856, elected County Treasurer, which office he,nd served during held for eight years. In in a log school- At the breaking out of the Rebellion he did not the Temple Hill carry a musket to the front, but his many friends will g the eldest of v bear witness that he took an active part in recruiting ts were in mroder- and furnishing supplies for the army, and in looking es, he was early after the interests of soldiers' families at home. The 1 2 years of age, death of his eldest son near Atlanta, Ga., by a Confedion in life, he re- rate bullet, in i864, was the greatest sorrow of his life. West, as it was When a few years later he was a member in Congress JOSIAH W. BEGOLE. 170 Gov. Begole voted and worked for the soldiers' bounty equalization bill, an act doing justice to the soldier who bore the burden and heat of the day, and who should fare equally with him who came in at the eleventh hour. That bill was defeated in the House on account of the large appropriation that would be required to pay the same. In I870, Gov. Begole was nominated by acclamation for the office of State Senator, and elected by a large majority. In that body he served on the Committees of Finance and Railroads, and was Chairman of the Committee on the Institute for the Deaf and Dumb and Blind. He took a liberal and publicspirited view of the importance of a new capitol building worthy of the State, and was an active member of the Committee that drafted the bill for the same He was a delegate to the National Republican Convention held at Philadelphia in I872, and was the chosen member of that delegation to go to Washington and inform Gen. Grant and Senator Wilson of their nominations. It was while at that convention that, by the express wish of his many friends, he was induced to offer himself a candidate for the nomination of member to the 43d Congress, in which he was successful, after competing for the nomination with several of the most worthy, able and experienced men in the Sixth Congressional District, and was elected by a very large majority. In Congress, he was a member of the Committee on Agricultural and Public Expenditures. Being one of the 17 farmers in that Congress, he took an active part in the Committee of Agriculture, and was appointed by that committee to draft the most important report made by that committee, and upon the only subject recommended by the President in his message, which he did and the report was printed in records of Congress; he took an efficient though an unobtrusive part in all its proceedings. He voted for the currency bill, remonetization of silver, and other financial measures, many of which, though defeated then, have since become the settled policy of the country. Owing to the position which Mr. Begole occupied on these questions, he became a "Greenbacker." In the Gubernatorial election of I882, Mr. Begole was the candidate of both the Greenback and Democratic parties, and was elected by a vote of 154,269, the Republican candidate, Hon. David H. Jerome, i I receiving 149,697 votes. Mr. Begole, in entering upon his duties as Governor, has manifested a spirit that has already won him many friends, and bids fair to make his administration both successful and popular. The very best indications of what a man is, is what his own townsmen think of him. We give the following extract from the Flint Globe, the leading Republican paper in Gov. Begole's own county, and it, too, written during the heat of a political campaign, which certainly is a flattering testimonial of his sterling worth: "So far, however, as Mr. Begole, the head of the ticket, is concerned, there is nothing detrimental to his character that can be alleged against him. He has sometimes changed his mind in politics, but for sincerity of his beliefs and the earnestness of his purpose nobody who knows him entertains a doubt. lIe is incapable of bearing malice, even against his bitterest political enemies. He has a warm, generous nature, and a larger, kinder heart does not beat in the bosom of any man in Michigan. He is not much given to making speeches, but deeds are more significant of a man's character than words. There are many scores of men in all parts of the State where Mr. Begole is acquainted, who have had practical demonstrations of these facts, and who are liable to step outside of party lines to show that they do not forget his kindness, and who, no doubt, wish that he was a leader in what would not necessarily prove a forlorn hope. But the Republican party in Michigan is too strong to be beaten by a combination of Democrats and Greenbackers, even if it is marshaled by so good a man as Mr. Begole." This sketch would be imperfect without referring to the action' of Mr. B. at the time of the great calamity that in I88i overtook the people of Northeastern Michigan, in a few hours desolating whole counties by fire and destroying the results and accumulations of such hard work as only falls to the lot of pioneers. While the Port Huron and Detroit committees were quarreling over the distribution of funds, Mr. Begole wrote to an agent in the "'burnt district" a letter, from which we make an extract of but a single sentence: "Until the differences between the two committees are adjusted and you receive your regular supplies from them, draw on me. Let no man suffer while I have money." This displays his true character. GOVERNORS OF MICHIGAN. 173 ~ USSELL A.ALGER,Governor c ' RJR ) of Michigan for the term commencing Jan. 1, 1885, was born in Lafayette Township, q I Medina Co., Ohio, Feb. 27,! ~i; ~^ 1836. Having lived a temperate life, he is a comparative young man in appearance, and possesses those mental faculties that are the distinguishing characteristics of robust, mature and educated manhood. When 11 years of age both his parents died, leaving him witha ~ @, ' younger brother and sister to sup^, ~port and without any of the substantial means of existence. Lacking the opportunity of better employment, he worked on a farm in Richfield, Ohio, for the greater part of each of the succeeding seven years, saving money enough to defray his expenses at Richfield Academy during the winter terms. He obtained a very good English education, and was enabled to teach school for several subsequent winters. In 1857 he commenced the study of law in the offices of Wolcott & Upson at Akron, remaining until March, 1859, when he was admitted to the bar by the Ohio Supreme Court. IIe then removed to Cleveland, and entered the law office of Otis & Coffinbury, where he remained several months. Here he continued his studies with increased zeal, and did much general reading. Hard study and close confinement to office work, however, began to tell on his constitution, and failing health warned imn that he must seek other occupation. Ile therefore reluctantly abandoned the law and removed to Grand Rapids, Mich., to engage in the lumber business. When Michigan was called upon to furnish troops for the war, Mr. Alger enlisted in the Second Mich. Cav. and was mustered into the service of the United States as Captain of Co. C. His record as a cavalry officer was brilliant and honorable to himself and his company. He participated in some of the fiercest contests of the rebellion and waQ twice wounded. His first injury was received ir. the battle of Booneville, Miss., July 2, 1862. Iis conduct in this engagement was so distinguished that he was promoted to the rank o0 Major. On the same occasion his Colonel, the gallant Phil. Sheridan, was advanced to the rank of Brigadier General. A few months later, on the 16th of October, Major Alger became LieutenantColonel of the Sixth Mich. Cav., and was ordered with his regiment to the Army of the Potomac. After marked service in the early campaign of 1863, he was again advanced, and on June 2 received his commission as Colonel of the Fifth Mich. Cav. His regiment at this time was in Custer's famous Michigan cavalry brigade. On the 6th of July occurred the battle of Boonesboro, Md. In this conflict he was again wounded. His health received a more than temporary impairment, and in October, 1864, he was obliged to retire from the service. His career as a soldier included many of the most cele brated contests of the war. He was an active character in all the battles fought by the Army of tho 1 ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ d: A 174 RUSSELL A. ALGER. - ------- f - ~-~~-- -~ —~-~ - -- — ~ -~ ---- - — -~~I Potomac, from the time of the invasion of Maryland by Gen. Lee in 18G3, up to the date of his retirement, with the exception of those engagements which occurred while he was absent from duty on account of wounds. In all he took part in 66 batties and skirmishes. At the close lie was breveted Brigadier General and Major General for "gallant and meritorious services in the field." Aside from regular duty, Geln. Alger was on private service during the winter of 1863-4, receiving orders personally from President Lincoln and visiting nearly all the armies in the field. Gen. Alger came to Detroit in 1865, and since that time has been extensively engaged in the pine timber business and in dealing in pine lands. IIe was a member of the well-known firm of Moore & Alger until its dissolution, when lhe became head of the firm of R. A. Alger & Co., the most extensive pine timber operators in the West. Gen. Alger is now president of the corporation of Alger, Smith & Co., which succeeded R. A. Alger & Co. IIe is also president of the Manistique Lumbering Company and president of the Detroit, Bay City & Alpena Railroad Company, besides being a stockholderand director of the Detroit National Bank, the Peninsular Car Company and several other large corporations. While always an active and influential Republican, Gen. Alger has never sought nor held a salaried office. Ie was a delegate from the First District to the last Republican National Convention, but aside from this his connection with politics has not extended beyond the duties of every good citizen to his party and his country. Gen. Alger is now forty-nine years of age, an active, handsome gentleman six feet tall, living the life of a busy man of affairs. His military bearing at once indicates his army life, and although slenderly built, his square shoulders and erect carriage give the casual observer the impression that his weight is fully 180 pounds. Ile is a firm, yet a most decidedly pleasant-appearing man, with a fine forehead, rather a prominent nose, an irongray moustache and chin whiskers and a full head of black hair sprinkled with gray. Iie is usually attired in the prevailing style of business suits. Iis favorite dress has been a high buttoned cutaway frock coat, with the predominating cut of vest and trousers, made of firm gray suiting. A high collar, small cravat, easy shoes and white plug hat com1l'ete his personal apparel. IIe is very particular as to his appearance, and always wears neat clothes of the best goods, but shuns any display of jewelry or extravagant embellishment. IIe is one of the most approachable men imaginable. No matter liow busy lie may be, he always leaves his desk to extend a cordial welcome to every visitor, be lie of 1high or low situation. His affable manners delight his guests, while his pleasing face and bright, dark eyes always animate his hearers. Gcn. Alger is a hard worker. He is always at his office promptly in the morning and stays s as long as anything remains that demands his attention. In business matters he is always decided, and is never shaken or disturbed by any reverses. Ile has thle confidence of his associates to a high degree, and al his business relations are tempered with those little kindnesses that relieve the tedium of routine office life. Although deeply engrossed i: various business pursuits, Gen. Alger has yet found time for general culture. IIe owns a large library and his stock of general information is as complete as it is reliable. His collection of paintings has been selected with rare good taste, and contains some of the finest productions of modern artists. His team of bays are perhaps the handsomest that grace the roads of Detroit, and usually lead the other outfits when their owner holds the reins. Gen. Alger has an interesting family. His wife -was Annette H. Ienry, the daughter of W. G. Ienry, of Grand Rapids, to whom he was married April 2, 1861. She is a slender woman of fair comp)lexion, bright and attractive, and a charming hostess. She is gifted with many accomplishments and appears quite young. There are six children. Fay. a lively brunette, and Caroline A., who is rather tall and resembles her mother, have completed e. course at an Eastern seminary, and d(uring the past year traveled in Europe. The remaining members of the family are Frances, aged 13; Russell A., Jr., aged 11; Fred, aged 9, and Allan, aged 3. All are bright and promising children. Gen. Alger makes his home at his handsome and large new residence on Fort street, at the corner of First street, Detroit. GO VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. 177 ffi~fl ____ s e s tS X X 6 ~g,.E~ ~^'-'-^\:- ~ L~ x~~ ao 1~3~;N _ u o ~ Y~IIUS ( present gan, eoi l ter the the NC, "/f',~~ of his f::: peculiar to the "~;k~J- came to him from 2[!X?~ ~ the house. The N ive in the caulse o, ' after this dcsilrel plished, turned tl, growth andl de ~,~ x country which the constitutec ilndelen(lent of for( vations they endured and the s they had achieved victory buii qualities which in the very nat not be otherwise than transmitt and this posterity comlprises a men who to-day, like tile sub are makilng a record of which t be equally proud. Gov. Luce was born in Win Ohio, July 2, 1824. I-is fatl Tolland, Conn., served as a sol 1812, and soon after its close e England and settled on the Northern Ohio. IIis mother, + was Miss Mary Gr~ay, was born Her father, tinctured with ANb home in the Old Dominion be ble as an ab)iding-place at tha ingly, with his wife and family XRAY LUCE, the he also migrated, in 1815, to the wilds of Northern Governor of WMichli- C)io. There thle parents of otur subject, in 1819, nes is h c- were united in Inrriage, Land continued residents of mbines in his characAshtabula County until 1836. There also were substantial tralts of born to them six sons, Cyrus G. of this sketch being v England ancestry the second. ather, and the chival- The incidents in the early life of Gov. Luce were:1 hospitable elements not materially (lifferent from those of other boys Southerners, whiclh living on the farmns in that new country. le was taught to work at anythling necessary for him to do t his mother's side of! and, to make himself useful around the pioneer ew Elnglanders, act- hlomestead. When twelve years of age his parents f American liberty, rcenoved further West, this time locating in Steni l'result was accom- iben County, Ind. This section of country was still eir attention teothe newer and( more thinly settled, and without recountging the particulqr hardships and privations which the velopment of the family experienced, itis sufficient to say that but few Air noble daring had enjo3yed or suffered a greater variety. Markets were eign rule. The pri- distant and difficult of access, the comforts of life tlruggles from which scarce, and sickness universal. Young Luce, in com-;trulugles from whicich n t mon with other boys, attended school winters in the tstereotyped log school-house, and in sulmrmer asure of events could sisted iln clearing away the forests, fencing the tecl to their posterity, fi elds and raisilng crops after the landl was inl proved. large number of the lie attended tlhree terms an academy located at Ontario, Ind., and his habit of reading and observation ject of this history, added essentially to his limited school privileges. When seventeen years of age the father of our sublject erected a cloth-dressing and wool-carding, dsor, Ashtabula Co., establishment, where Cyrus G. acquired a full 1ier was a native of knowledge of this business and subsequently had lclier in the ~War of clharge of the factory for a period of seven years. In the meantime he had become interested in local politics, in which he displayed rare judgment ancd Wtesterln Reserlve il sound common sense, and on account of which, in who in her girlhood 1848, he was nominated by the Whigs in a district in Winchester, Va. composed of tile counties of DeKalb and Steuben olitionism, found his for Representative in the State Legislature. He,coming uncomforta- made a vigorous canvass but was defeated by eleven t time, and accord- majority. This incident was but a transient bubr of young children, ble on the stream of his life, and that same year 178 CYRZUS G~RAYP LUCE. 178~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ CYU CRA L UCE.. Mr. Luce purchased eighty acres of wild land near Gilead, Branch Co., Mich., the improvement of which he at once entered upon, clearing away the trees and otherwise making arrangements for the establishment of a homestead. In August, 1849, he was united in marriage with Miss Julia A. Dickinson, of Gilead, and the young people immediately commenced housekeeping in a modest dwelling on the new farm. Here they resided until the death of the wife, which took place in August, 1882. Mrs. Luce was the daughter of Obed and Experience Dickinson, well-to-do and highly respected residents of Gilead. Of her union with our subject there were born five children, one now deceased. In November, 1883, Gov. Luce contracted a second marriage, with Mrs. Mary Thompson, of Bronson, this State. He continued on the same farm, which, however, by subsequent purchase had been considerably extended, until after his election to the office of which he is now the incumbent. In the meantime he has had a wide and varied experience in public life. In 1852 he was elected to represent his township in the County Board of Supervisors, and two years later, in 1854, was elected Representative to the first Republican Legislature convened in the State of Michigan. IHe served his township altogether eleven years as a member of the Board of Supervisors. In 1858 he was elected County Treasurer of Branch County and re-elected in 1860. In 1864 he was given a seat in the State Senate and re-elected in 1866. In the spring of 1867 he was made a member of the Constitutional Convention to revise the Constitution of the State of Michigan, and in all of the positions to which he has been called has evidenced a realization of the sober responsibilities committed to his care. To the duties of each he gave the most conscientious care, and has great reason to feel pride and satisfaction in the fact that during his service in both Houses of the Legislature his name appears upon every roll-call, he never having been absent from his post a day. In July, 1879, Mr. Luce was appointed State Oil Inspector by Gov. Croswell, and re-appointed by Gov. Jerome in 1881, serving in this capacity three.and one-half years. In the management of the duties of this office he is entitled to great credit. The office was not Fought by him, but the Governor I urged him to accept it, claiming that the office was the most difficult he had to fill, and was one which required first-class executive ability. He organized the State into districts, appointed an adequate force of deputies and no more, secured a reduction of the fees by nearly one-half, and in every way managed the affairs of the office so efficiently and satisfactorily that above all expenses he was enabled to pay into the State Treasury during his management $32,000.49. In August of the year 1886 Mr. Luce was nominated by the Republicans in convention assembled at Grand Rapids, for the office of Governor of AMichigan by acclamation, and on the 2d of November following was elected by a majority of 7,432 over his chief competitor, George L. Yaple. In 1874 he became an active member of the farmers' organization known as the Grange. Believing as he does that agriculture furnishes the basis of National prosperity, he was anxious to contribute to the education and elevation of the farming community, and thus availed himself of the opportunities offered by this organization to aid in accomplishing this result. For a period of seven years he was Master of the State Grange but resigned the position last November. Fidelity to convictions, close application to business, whether agricultural or affairs of State, coupled with untiring industry, are his chief characteristics. As a farmer, legislator, executive officer, and manager of county as well as State affairs, as a private as well as a public citizen. his career has all along been marked with success. No one can point to a spot reflecting discredit ir_ his public career or private life. IIe is a man of the people, and self-made in the strictest sense. His whole life has been among the people, in full sympathy with them, and in their special confidence and esteem. Personally, Gov. Cyrus G. Luce is high-minded, intellectual and affable, the object of many and warm friendships, and a man in all respects above reproach. To the duties of his high position he has brought a fitting dignity, and in all the relations of life that conscientious regard to duty of which we often read but which is too seldom seen, especially among those having within their hands the interests of State and Nation, P-"-W~~ r GOV ERNORS OF MICHIGAN. r.,r,;I _____- _ 111 -............. d b -~-l~ ' ~l-^ 'aON. EDWIN B. WINANS, 4I~l^^ w^who began his duties as li j W5xGovernor of Michigan, January 1, 1891, is a son of the Empire State, of ~~^,^ " which his parents also were natives. From German ancestry on the father's side, he derives the instincts of frugality and careful consideration of ways and means, and 0.) these are strengthened by the substantial traits of the Puritan forefathers of his mother. Both lines have transmitted to him the love of country and home that has led thousands into untrodden wilds where they might secure that which would be for the future good of themselves and posterity. John and Eliza (Way) Winans removed from New York to this State in 1834, and settled on a farm in Livingston County, where the boyhood of Gov. Winans was passed. He was about eight years old at the time of the removal, having been born at Avon, Livingston County, N. Y., May 16, 1826. Up to the age of eighteen years he attended the district school, and he then entered Albion College, from which he -was graduated in 1850. The excitement attendant upon the discovery of gold in California had not died out, and young Winans felt a strong desire to visit the coast and try his fortune in the mines. He decided in favor of the overland route, crossed the plains in safety. and spent the ensuing eight years in seeking the precious metal-a quest that was fairly successful. Returning to Livingston County, this State, Mr. Winans bought land and engaged in general farming. He has retained the farm as his home through all the changes various official positions have brought him, and joyfully returned to it whenever his faithful discharge of public duty would allow. His estate now includes four hundred acres of land under a high state of cultivation and improved with buildings of the best construction and modern design. In connection with general farming Gov. Winans has given considerable attention to raising stock of high grades, and his understanding of agriculture in its various departments is broad and deep. He believes that his success in political life is largely due to his thorough identification with the agricultural interests of the State and no doubt he is right. The public career of Gov. Winans began in 1860, when he was elected to represent his county in the State Legislature. He served two consecutive terms, covering the period from 1860 to 1865. In 1867 he was a member of the Constitutional Con l8a ED WIN B W12V,4 NS.V~)I~ J'~.` --- —-- ------- -- ----- I --- —-— ~ --- —--- ------- --— re --— 2 —~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~S-Ac E1a.- WIN -aB Ws~-llh____IA'AiVS.C~~~;,;_ __(.-ll-ii~- i;.. vention of the State, and in 1876 he was elected Probate Judge of Livingston County for a term of four years. The next important position occupied by Gov. Winans was that of Congressman during the Forty-eighth and Forty-ninth Congresses, representing the Sixth District. It was always his lot to be nominated for office when the Democratic party was decidedly in the minority, but such were his personal characteristics and his reputation as one interested in the welfare of that great class, the farmers, that in every case he made a successful race. When he was put up for Congress the opposition had a majority in the district of three thousand votes, but he was elected by a plurality of thirty. While in Congress lie took an active part in all measures tending to the public good and served on the Committees on Agriculture and Pensions. In the fall of 1891 his name headed the Democratic ticket and he was elected Governor of the State. In his private life Gov. Winans has been as exemplary as in his public career he has been useful and influential. He is a consistent member of the Episcopal Church and in his religious faith and practice has the close sympathy of his wife, who belongs to the same society. His marriage was solemnized in Hamburg, Livingston County, in 1855, his bride being Miss Elizabeth Galloway, who was born and reared on the farm she still calls home, as it was bought of her father by Gov. Winans. She is a daughter of George and Susan (Haight) Galloway, who are numbered among the early settlers of Livingston County, whither they came from New York. She is an educated, refined woman, whose mental attainments and social qualities fit her for the position which she occupies as hostess of the Gubernatorial mansion. Governor and Mrs. Winans have two sons, George G, who is now acting as his father's private secretary, and Edwin B., Jr., a graduate of West Point. Gov. Winans has in former years shown himself capable of close application to the duties which lay before him, and his judicious decisions and wise course when attempting to bring about a worthy object, are well known to those who are acquainted with the history of the State. Although it is often said that it is scarcely safe to judge of a man until his career is closed, yet Gov. Winans has acted his part so well thus far in life that lie is confidently expected to add to the credit that already belongs to the great commonwealth of Michigan, and which to a certain extent lies in the hands of those who have been and are its chief executives. Among his personal characteristics are those of a love of truth, justice and progress, and a cordial, kindly spirit which makes warm friends and stanch adherents. a OLn~LiP ~~~~~~~ca~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~i%~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~y,~~~~~~~~~~~~ 0 I 11 6 —A% n I IPITRO DUCTO RY.,S.ACs T are CAh/l/N\M _ _ -fW~rr WVUW)V~V*WIYV ~ r~ -YJI~~~~~~# Lk 3C: - 0 ' ~~' ~:~~~^g HE time has arrived when it becomes the duty of the ~#:~ n^ ~l people of this county to perpetuate the names of their pioneers, to furnish a record.. of their early settlement, and relate the story of their t A'd progress. The civilization of our day, the enlightenment of the age and the duty that men of the present time owe to their ancestors, to '! L |l - themselves and to their posterity, ~ 1 [1 demand that a record of their lives X&2 fe i and deeds should be made. In bio6, i, / graphical history is found a power:Je,; ^to instruct man by precedent, to enliven the mental faculties, and to waft down the river of time a safe vessel in which the names and actions of the people who contributed to raise this country from its primitive state may be preserved. Surely and rapidly the great and aged men, who in their prime entered the wilderness and claimed the virgin soil as their heritage, are passing to their graves. The numbler remaining who can relate the incidents of the first days )f settlement is becoming small indeed, so that an actual necessity exists for the collection and preservation of events without delay, before all the early settlers are cut down by the scythe of Time. T'o be forgotten has been the great dread of mankind from remotest ages. All will be forgotten soon enough, in spite of their best works and the most earnest efforts of their friends to perserve the memory of their lives. The means employed to prevent oblivion and to perpetuate their memory has been in proportion to the amount of intelligence they possessed. Th' pyramids of Egypt were built to perpetuate the names and deeds of their great rulers. The exhumations made by the archeologists of Egypt from buried Memphis indicate a desire of those people to perpetuate the memory of their achievements, The erection of the great obelisks were for the same purpose. Coming down to a later period, we find the Greeks and Romans erecting mausoleums and monuments, and carving out statues to chronicle their great achievements and carry them down the ages. It is also evident that the Mound-builders, in piling up their great mounds of earth, had but this ideato leave something to show that they had lived. All these works, though many of them costly in the extreme, give but a faint idea of the lives and characters of those whose memory they were intended to perpetuate, and scarcely anything of the masses of the people that then lived. The great pyramids and some of the obelisks remain objects only of curiosity; the mausoleums, monuments and statues are crumbling into dust. It was left to modern ages to establish an intelligent, undecaying, immutable method of perpetuating a full history-immutable in that it is almost unlimited in extent and perpetual in its action; and this is through the art of printing. To the present generation, however, we are indebted for the introduction of the admirable system of local biography. By this system every man, thougE he has not achieved what the world calls greatness, has the means to perpetuate his life, his history, through the coming ages. The scythe of Time cuts down all; nothing of the physical man is left. The monument which his children or friends may erect to his memory in the cemetery will crumble into dust and pass away; but his life, his achievements, the work he has accomplished, which otherwise would be forgotten, is perpetuated by a record of this kind. To preserve the lineaments of our companions we engrave their portraits, for the same reason we collect the attainable facts of their history. Nor do we think it necessary, as we speak only truth of them, to wait until they are dead, or until those who know them are gone: to do this we are ashamed only to publish to the world the history of those whose lives are unworthy of public record. I:00:~^^ ^~ fE; PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 191 - o ii 'SON. CHAS. T. GORHAM, ~ loB President of the First x l11 x 1l ^ National Bank in Mar-. l /l*r h l shall, is one of the oldest c _ = '?bankers in the State, and: ^ k/ < ~one whose ability has q ) given' him unusual prominence in financial circles. He has, in a(ldi* 3 tion to this, a diplomatic record that stamps him as a man of tact and sound judgment, and no stran> ger in the city is long left in ignorance of his name and reputation. I The fact that a large amount of worldly goo'ls has come to him as a legitimate result of his business enterprise, is a matter of but slight importance compared with the fact that in none of his banking transactions has his paper been discounted or dishonored. The lithographic portrait presented on the opposite page represents a gentleman without doubt more widely known, both in the United States and abroad, than any resident of Calhoun County. Mr. Gorham belongs to a family which was prominent in political circles during the early days of the Republic, one of its members-Nathaniel Gorham-having been a delegate to the first United States Constitutional Convention, held in New York. The line is traced back to England, and those who established themselves in the Colonies, found a home in the New England States. He of whom we write is the third son of William and Polly (Weed) Gorham, who reared a family of four sons and one daughter. All rose to prominence, one son being a clergyman in Newark, N. J., another a lawyer in Burlington, N. Y.; the eldest, who used his fine literary attainments in the field of book publication and criticism, lived and died in Peekskill, N. Y. The birthplace of the Hon. Mr. Gorhamn, was Danbury, Fairfield County, Conn., and his natal day May 29, 1812. While he was quite young his parents removed to Oneonta, Otsego County, N. Y., where Charles prepared for college, fully expecting to complete the college course. He had, however, displayed marked business qualifications, which attracted the attention of a leading merchant of Oneonta, one of the most practical and successful business men in the interior of the State. Young Gorham was persuaded to abandon his intention of going to college, and accept a position in the extensive mercantile house of that gentleman, and there he remained five years. He showed the greatest fidelity to the interests of his employer and gave complete satisfaction to him. In 1836 Mr. Gorham came to Marshall and engaged in mercantile trade with C. M. Brewer, the. firm doing a large and successful business until 1840, when Mr. Gorham disposed of his interest to his partner, and opened a private bank, This he 192 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHrICAL ALBUM.I 192_ ---- _ —__ ---_. PORTRAIT AND, ----— ~~ BIORAPICA ALBUM. ------- ------- conducted until 1865, when it was incorporated as a National bank, of which he has since been President. Under his judicious and able management the institution has continued to flourish and prosper as did its precursor, the private bank. Mr. Gorham is now the oldest banker in the State west of Detroit. Some years since he was commissioned Major-General of one of the three divisions comprising the State Militia; in 1859 he was elected to the State Senate, and during his teim assisted in organizing the military system which is virtually ietained by the State to this day. Mr. Gorham was earnestly solicited to accept a second nomination to the Senate, but declined. Prior to 1848 Gen. Gorham was a Democrat, but so distasteful to him was the canvass of that year, that he withdrew from the party. A few years later lie assisted in forming the Republican party, of which he has since been a member. In 1864 he was a delegate to the Baltimore Convention, which nominated Abraham Lincoln for a second term, and in 1868 was a delegate-at-large to the convention held in Cincinnati, which nominated Ulysses S. Grant for the Presidency. In 1870 he received an offer of the mission to Chili, but declined to accelt; however, the same year, without the slightest solicitation, he was appointed minister to the Hague, which position he filled with honor to himself and entire satisfaction to his Government. As a diplomat, Gen. Gorham showed the greatest respect for the feelings and rights of the people to whom he was accredited, while maintaining the honor of his own Government, and performing the highest service in the interests of the people, who had made him their ambassador. His mission was free from selfish ambitions, and his action such that since his resignation in 1875, he has received many lighly complimentary notices from friends and the press in Holland as well as from those in this country. Ils Majesty, the King, sent his Minister of State to ascertain if Mr. Gorham would accept the honor of a decoration from the hands of his Majesty. stating that it would give him pleasure to confer the order. Mr. Gorham assured the minister that he appreciated the compliment but could not accept the decoration. A few months after his return from abroad, Mr. Gorham was appointed Assistant Secretary of the Interior under Secretary Chandler. He served from March, 1876, to April, 1877, then tendered his resignation, contrary to the urgent solicitation of Secretary Schurz. Gen. Gorham won the highest respect of the administration and his associates in office, and when his resignation was accepted, the man whom he had suggested for the office was appointed as his successor. For many years previous to his residence in Europe Gen. Gorham was a member of the school board, and then and now was counted upon as an ardent friend of the common-school system of the State. lie has belonged to the Presbyterian Church since 1844. Gen. Gorham was married April 10, 1839, to Miss Charlotte Eaton Iart, daughter of Dr. L. W. Hart, of Durliam, Greene County, N. Y. In that county Mrs. Gorham was born, and spent the greater part of her early life. Her mental powers and innate refinement were the foundation of her present culture and high breeding, and her character is in keeping with her intellectual endowments. She presides with gracious dignity over the beautiful home which, as it occupies an elevation, and is of imposing architecture, is one of the notable residences of Marshall. Within it is a fine collection of original paintings, selected by Mr. Gorham during his European residence, when lie traveled more or less over the Continent, and leccame familiar with most of the great works of art. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Gorham consists of one daughter and two sons. The daughter, Isabel W., is the widow of the late Col. Norris J. Frick, an honored citizen of Marshall. The sons, Col. Selden H. and Charles E., are engaged in the First National Bank, the one as Vice-President and tile other as Cashier. Er RASTUS R. NEWTON has grown to man's estate on the farm which he now owns on section 15, Pennfield Township. He is the son of one of the earliest pioneers of the township, and having lived here from early childhood, he is well posted regarding the history of this section PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 193 ---— II --- —--------— I- --- —-- I --- -- -------------- --------— — --- — --- -- I and its wonderful development, and justly proud of his connection with those who have aided in making it so flourishing a locality. His earliest recollections are of the wildness of a sparsely settled county, where clearings and cultivated fields were remote from each other, and the few homes of the frontiersmen were built of logs and rudely furnished. The howling of wolves was often heard around the humble dwelling which sheltered hinm, and deer and other denizens of the wilderness passed within sight, while members of the Chippewa tribe of Indians frequently passed the door. Mr. Newton comes of the old New England stock, and was himself born in the Empire State. His grandfather, Timothy Newton, was born in New Hampshire September 4, 1755, and went to Vermont when quite young. During the Revolution he was captured by Indians, who took him to Montreal, Canada, and sold him to the British for $8. He was kept in prison some six months when he and four or five others resolved to make a break for liberty. Mr. Newton succeeded in making his escape from his captors and returned to his home, where he carried on farm work until his death, July 9, 1834. He was a Methodist in religion. He reared a fatnily of eight children, one of whom, Barnabas, was born in Windsor, Vt., in 1806, and lived in that State until seventeen years of age. During the War of 1812, which began when he was but six years old, he cried to accompany his brother to the war. Upon leaving his native State, he went to New York, where, January 18, 1831, he was married to Clarissa French. This lady was born in Groton, Tompkins County, N. Y., August 3, 1812, and is a daughter of Calvin and Lucy (Woodruff) French, natives of Connecticut and New York, respectively. Her father, who was a farmer, died in Genesee County, N. Y., when fortyeight years old, but her mother lived to be seventysix. Barnabas Newton came to this county in the spring of 1836, making the journey through Canada with a team. There were but six houses in Battle Creek, and but few settlers within the limits of the county. He entered Government land which was two miles from the nearest neighbor, and brought his family hither in the fall. Building a log house he went industriously to work'to clear ip the farm, from the greater part of which he removed the timber, bringing the soil under cultivation. He was accustomed to go to Marshall with ox-teams for milling, that being the nearest point where the work could be done. HIe hunted much and his table was well supplied with venison, which in those days formed so important an article of diet on the frontier. Among the more savage animals whose depredations had to be guarded against, were bear and wolves, and some panthers. Mr. Newton once loaned his rifle to a Chippewa, who, after keeping it six months, considered himself the owner, and the consequence was a squabble between the two, in which Mr. Newton was victorious. Mr Newton belonged to the Democratic party in early life, and later became a Republican. He died April 25, 1883, ripe in years and in piety, having long been a member of the Methodist Church. His widow is still living, making her home with her son, our subject. The gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs, was born in Hartland, Niagara County, N. Y., and was two years old when brought hither. He pursued his studies in the log schoolhouses common to that early period, warming himself by the open fire in the immense fireplace, and sitting with his comrades on a slab supported by wooden pins. The schools were kept up entirely by subscriptions, and the first that he attended was carried on in a building three miles from his home. In common with the sons of other pioneers, he worked by his father's side in many duties belonging to the development of a country, beginning with such easy tasks as carrying brush, and from year to year doing harder work, until he was able to cut down trees, remove grubs, and do everything necessary to secure crops in the fields. Ile has had charge of the homestead since he reached man's estate, and has carried on extensive agricultural operations. The tract of land now owned by Mr. Newton, consists of two hundred acres, and is marked with the improvements usually made by an earnest and progressive farmer. The dwelling, which was built in 1848, is a large, old-fashioned frame house, which gives the observer the feeling that it is a home in the best sense of the word, Although it 194 PORT'RAIT AND BIOGRAPHICA;L ALBUM.I~ 194 ---- PR A A BU has stood so long, it is still one of the best in point of construction in the county, as indeed is the case genlerally with buildings. of that period, they having been put up for posterity. Among the ample accommodations for stock and crops, is a barn which was built in 1872, at a cost of $2,300. The wife of Mr. Newton was born in Seneca County, N. Y., August 25, 1849, and was known in her maidenhood as Miss Eliza J. Hale. The marriage rites between the two were solemnized January 1, 1861, and have been productive of mutual pleasure and happiness. To them have been born two children, one now living, a son, Fred. Mrs. Newton is a kind-hearted, capable woman, whose good qualities are appreciated in her home and by her neighbors. Mr. Newton gives his political sympathy to the Greenback party. He has been Treasurer of the Township, but has not otherwise held public office, preferring to devote his time and strength to his personal affairs, and to the duties of citizenship which can be performed in a quiet, unassuming way. lie has a large circle of acquaintances, and his name is known to many others as that of one who has done well in advancing the various interests of this part of a great commonwealth. HESTER CARVER is the representative of a long line of honorable ancestry and is a lineal descendant of William Carver, the noted Puritan Governor, the first ruler of the Massachusetts Bay Colony who came over in the 'Mayflower." Our subject inherits from his New England progenitors many fine traits of character that (listinguished the Pilgrim Fathers and have made him an invaluable citizen since he came to.this county. HIe is one of the most intelligent and (enlightened members of its farming community and lhas valuable landed interests in Battle Creek Township where he has made his home for many years. Mr. Carver was born July 7, 1836, in Cattaraugus County, N. Y., to Sylvester and Lydia (Locke) Carver. His father was an officer in the War of 1812 and he and a brother fought in the battle of Sackett's Harbor. On returning home at the close of hostilities the first sight that greeted their eyes was the old sword that had been carried by their father in the Revolution, which hung conspicuously on the wall and was revered by every member of the family. In the next generation the parents of our subject sent one of their sons to the front as a menm ber of the Fourth Miclligan Cavalry when the great Civil War imperiled the Union which his sires had fought to establish. He was but eighteen years of age when he enlisted and he served faithfully two years, until the war closed and then yielded up his life a willing sacrifice to his country, as he died ere he reached his home. The father of our subject died in 1881 full of years and honors. His wife had preceded him to the grave many years before, her death occurring in 1864. Mr. Carver was not an office-seeker but his high sense of the duties and responsibilities of citizenship led him to respond to the calls of his fellow citizens whenever they asked him to assist in the management of public affairs. He was a true Christian gentleman and a soldier of the Lord as well as of his country. For more than fifty years lie was a member of the Christian Church, which lie served as a Deacon for many years and was one of its main pillars. lIis wife who was a true helpmate was also a Christian and an active worker in the church. Chester Carver, the subject of this biographical review, brings a mind well-trained to his work as he has given the advantages of a liberal education in his youth. He was graduated from Eastman College, Rochester, N. Y., in 1860, and besides his literary attainments he has a fine musical education. After leaving college he entered the profession of a teacher and taughtiin the common schools, also in singing schools and atldifferent times has talught penmanship. In 1873 Mr. Carver abandoned teaching to give his attention to farming, buying then his present farm of two hundred and forty acres of fine land and has since devoted himself exclusively to the care of his property. Mr. Carver's marriage with Miss Rozelia A. Hungerford was solemnized February 5, 1862. Their marriage has been a particularly congenial PORTRAI~BT AND BIOGRAPH~ICAL ALBUM.l[ 195 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL-ALBUM --- —-. — 195 —, -- --- ----- --- 195- -- - ' - --- -^- =- -..............-..-. -..-.-., -.. _, =...................................-. _ -.- -. ---- -- ---- - - l - - -.-..........___ _................................................................................... _...... _ _.......~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ union as their tastes and inclinations are happily bllended and he has found in her a true wife and she in him a devoted husband. Mrs. CGarver is a woman of muchl culture, having Ilad a good education which fitted her for a teacher and she was for some years successfully engagedl iu that capacity in the public schools. She is also endowed with a fine musical talent and plays well on several kiadls of instruments, besides being a good singer. She sang in the choir until quite recently, but has gracefully given way to her children upon whom her mantle seems to have fallen, as t)hey are also musically,gifted and form quite a c!ioir hy themselves. They sing for the Baptist Church at Climax, in Kalamazoo County, and tlheir musical talents are also in dcemand at the meetings of tile Farmers Alliance Club, of which they are members, and also are called into use at funerals, etc. Mrs. Carver often assistedl her husband( in his professional d(uties as a teacher and was also of great help to him in his music classes of which she took charge when ill health prevented him from attendance. 1She is possessed cf considerable literary talent ana( occasionally contributes to the press. Mrs. Carver is a datugalter of Ezekiel and Nancy (McMaster) IIungerford, natives of Livingston County, N. Y. At tile time of their marriage thev resided in Cattaraugus County, that State, and wlhei they established their new home he had but fifty cents in money while the amother had the horse given her by her father, which she rode to tlheir new abode, a distance of fifty miles, and which served her and her husband in carrying on their farm labors for several years. By industry they accumulated a good competency and( wele almong the well-to-do citizens of Farmersville, N. Y., where they died after many years. They were both consistent C~hristians and members of the Baptist (Clurch of that town. The children born to our subject and hIis wife are as follows: Jessie, formerly a music teacher, is the wife of Wesley Healy, of Battle Creek; Gerford, the eldest son, lives at hlome with his parents; Glenial, who has studied photography but had to abandon his studies and return home to assist his father on account of the latter's ill health; Pearl, who has taught in the public schools and is now teaching music successfully, besides being organist at the Baptist Church and for the Alliance; Gerald, wlho is taking a full course of study at the College at Galesburg, and Gleason and Gail Luke who are at home with tlheir parents. IMr. Carver has a happy disposition and in spite of ill health is always genial and smiling and has a plleasant word foi' every one with whom he comes in contact. He and his family have a charminlg home and it is a pleasure to be the recipientof their hospitalities. Our subject is a man of high principles who is hionorable in all his dealings and of the strictest integrity in all thlings. Politically, he is identified with the Ivel)ublican party. His wife and two children are among the plrolninent members of lBaptist Churchl and take an active part in its every good work. Mr. Carver, thoughl well fitted for l)ublce life, cares not for its honors but lie has often beCn urgently requlested to accept some civic position and has had the offices of Path llmaster and 1 )rain Commissioner thrust upon hin. IIis public spirit is unquestioneld, and this influence is often felt in various nmeasures (levised for thle iml)rovemrent of township or county..... ON. GEORGE WILLARD. It has been 4;~ said that it is easy to write a biography, A iG/t an(d that the difficult thlinc is to live a life -)' wworth writing, yet it is with a certain timidity tha-t we enter upon a sketch of some men. When we feel deeply the worth of a character, the value of services rendered mankind, it is hard to express our admiration without being laid liable to a charge of fulsome flattery. It is for this reason that the pen falters over the life-history of one of so extendled a reputation as George Willard, of Battle Creek. The history of his ancestors is one of considlerable interest, and before giving the main facts in his own life. we will make mention of the distinguishling scenes and characteristics in those of other members of the family. The name Willard is of Saxon origin, comprised of the two words, "will" and "ard," which means a man of a willful disposition. This is perhaps a 196 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. characteristic of the family, at least it has been quite marked in many members. The family was first represented il this country by Simon Willard, who was born at Horsmonden, County Kent, England, in 1607, emigrated in 1634, and spent the first winter after ihis arrival in the New World at Charleston,'Mass. The following year lie joined the Rev. Mr. Bullock in establishing a colony at Concord, that being the first in the interior of the State. The next year he was elected to represent the new colony in-the general court of Massachusetts, and was successively re-elected until 1654, when he became a member of the Governor's Council, an office he retained until his death in 1676. About 1652 he and Edward Johnson were Commissioners on the part of Massachusetts to settle the boundary between that State and New Hampshire, and exploring the Merrimac to its source in Lake Winnipiscogee, left their initials cut in a rock at the head of the stream. During King Philip's War he was in command of the militia of Middlesex County, and led the relief of Brookfield, it being noted in history as providential that he came upon the scene just after a rainfall, for which the inmates of the blockhouse had prayed. The oldest son of Maj. Willard was Samuel. pastor of the Old South Church in Boston, and acting President of Harvard College. He has a conspicuous place among early contributors to the literature of New England, having been the author of a series of sermons that embodied the tenets of the Puritan religion. Many of his descendants have been prominent, one of them having been President of Harvard College, another commander of Ft. Dummer, the first settlement in Vermont, and still another having obtained the first patent for the township of Hartland, Vt., from the State of New York, but having been dispossessed of his title when the jurisdiction over that territory was awarded to New Hampshire. This Oliver Willard was the grandfather of our subject. Allen Willard, father of him of whom we write, was born in Hartland, Vt., February 10, 1794, and upon the death of his father was given with his brother Levi, who was two years older than himself, to Charles Pinneo, who carefully reared the two children. Allen was but four years old when de prived of a father's care, and therefore realized little of his deprivation. About 1816 he entered Dartmouth College, where he was a fellow student of Rufus Choate, afterward so celebrated an orator and jurist. For that gentleman Mr. Willard had the greatest respect. When the dispute arose regarding the control of Dartmouth, giving rise to the celebrated Dartmouth College case, Mr. Willard sided with the State. When the decision was made remanding the institution to the corporation chartered under Great Britain, he remained, but when the Supreme Court decided in favor of the newer charter, he left and went to Bolton, Vt. He had reached his junior year in college, but did not continue his studies, and instead took up the labors of life as a school teacher. After a few years he bought a farm on the Onion River, in Waterbury, and made it his home until 1836. He then came to Michigan with his family, arriving at Battle Creek July 8, having been two weeks coming from Detroit with ox-teams, and the entire journey from Vermont, via the Erie Canal, having consumed a month's time. Allen Willard was characterized by an indepen(lent way of thinking, and by an ardent love of literature, particularly the classics, in which he kept up his reading in the Greek and Latin languages to his latest year. The two books that during the last years of his life were made literally black with use were the New Testament and the Constitution of the United States. For visitors he had always some question ready regarding the teachings of Paul, or the Constitution. When Andrew Jackson was nominated for the Presidency, he was on*e of three men in his township to vote for that General, all the others depositing their ballots for Adams. When Jackson removed the deposits from the United States Bank, Mr. Willard forsook the Democrats, and in the new formation of parties that resulted from that act, he became a Whig, voting for John P. Hale in 1852. He opposed the Dred Scott Decision, but after it was made thought the country should acquiesce. So too before the war he said with Greeley, "Let the sisters go," but the resort to arms changed all this. He lived to the advanced age of eighty-two years, breathing his last February 12, 1876. In 1823 he PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHIC AL ALBUPM. 197 —. ~PRRI AN BORAHCLLBM19 was married to Eliza Barron, whose ancestors were among the early Irish settlers of this country. To them were born two sons: George, whose natal day was March 20, 1824, and Charles, who opened his eyes to the light April 24, 1827. Our subject was twelve years of age lwhen tie great hegira from the East to Michigan took place, and he accompanied his parents hither. lie pos. sessed an unusually bright mind, and in accordance with the custom among educated people, had at a very early age been taught branches that are now considered fit only for those of more mature years. lie had read the Bible through when but seven years old, and when eight had mastered Adams' Arithmetic within a month, being able to extract cube root as quickly then as now. When he was fourteen years of age, he read the Gospels in the Greek Testament, and his first lesson in Ilomer-seventy lines-was read by the light of a tallow dip at the same age. When sixteen years old he taught school at Leroy. Shortly after this he entered the branch of Michigan University at Kalamazoo, afterward Kalamazoo College, where he found himself far in advance of his associates in his knowledge of Greek and Latin. lie was ready for the studies of the junior year, when his "fancy lightly turned to thoughts of.love," and lie wooed and won Emily, daughfter of the Rev. John Harris, a prominent Baptist minister, their marriage taking place April 10, 1844. The institution which he unceremoniously left in order to enter the matrimonial state, in later years conferred upon him the degree of Master of Arts. After his marriage, Mr. Willard opened a select school in Battle Creek, and the next year taught in an academy at Marshall. Some months later he went to Coldwater to take charge of the public school, during all this time having been preparing to enter the ministry of the Episcopal Church. His ordination to his sacred office took place at Jackson in February, 1848, and he at once organized St. Mark's Church at Coldwater, remaining in charge as its pastor until 1855. He then returned to Battle Creek as pastor of St. Thomas' Church, and his interest in the moral aspect of slavery soon brought him prominently before the people and led to his being called upon to serve in public capaci ties. He wrote to Seward asking what a clergyman might do regarding the slavery question, and received this reply: "I am not certain that I can satisfactorily answer your inquiry, but truth in every department of human knowledge and action is entitled to open, free confession and vindication by all classes of society, and I know of no ground upon which any man, anywhere, much less any man in a Republic, can suppress his convictions or refrain from giving his support to truth on any great and vital question." The assault upon Senator Sumner drew forth from Mr. Willard a sermon that excited much attention, and directly led to his nomination as a member of the State Board of Education on the Republican ticket of that year, 1856. He was elected and served six years. In that year he was a delegate to the General Convention of thelProtestant Episcopal Church, a position lie also held in 1886 and in 1889. In 1860 Mr. Willard became Rector of St. Luke's Church, Kalamazoo, but two years later resigned the ministry because of the conservatism of the society, although he still retains his membership therein. In 1863 he was elected Regent of the State University, and by re-elections served ten years. The year in which he assumed the duties of that office, saw him taking the seat of Professor of Latin in Kalamazoo College-a chair that he held two years. In 1866 he was elected to the Legislature, and during the session served as Chairman of the Committee on Education. The following year lie was a member of the State Constitutional Convention, and again acted as Chairman of the Committee on Education. He took a prominent part in securing the services of Mr. Angell as President of the State University, and introduced the resolution to open the institution to women, a move in which after two or three years of effort, he finally succeeded. In 1872 Mr. Willard was elected Congressman, and re-elected two years later. His first speech in the House was on transportation, and attracted considerable notice. In 1875 he spoke in opposition to the Force Bill, his words creating quite a furore, as they were not relished by some of his Republican colleagues. In the Forty-fourth Congress he belonged to the Committee on Coinage, Reform of 198 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. the Civil Service, and the District of Columbia, and in 1876 on joint committee of the two houses that formed the bill for the Electoral Commission. This committee consisted of Senators Edmunds, Conkling, Morton, Frelinghuysen, Thurman, Bayard and Ransom on the part of the Senate, and Payne, Hewitt, Springer, Hunton, Hoar, McCrary and Willard on the part of the House. Our subject and Senator Springer afterward compiled the History of the Electoral Count. The Hon. Mr. Willard also served on the United States Silver Commission. lie was Delegate-at-Large in the convention which nominated Gen. Grant for his second term as President. Mr. Willard bought the Battle Creek Journal in 1867, and has since managed that able paper. For more than forty years Mr. Willard had the loving sympathy of the lady whom he won for his wife in his early manhood, and she lived to see him reach a position of high honor, bidding him and her family a long farewell November 3, 1885. Her departure from the scenes of time was mourned by two daughters and a son, all of whom are living in Battle Creek. They are Mrs. C. D. Brewer, Mrs. E. W. Moore and George B. Mr. Willard was again married, July 28, 1887, wedding Mrs. E. A. Willard, of Chicago. QE / to the soil and climate., He is breedinga Norman horses and generally has about a dozen head on the place. His sheep are Southdowns and 'Merinos, his hogs Poland-China, and his cattle Red-Polled. As the patronymic indicates, the Randall family was originally from Scotland. It was represente(l two generations ago by the Rev. Stephen Randall of the Methodist Episcopal Church. That gentleman was born in the old Bay State, but early settled in Genesee (now Monroe) County, N. Y., where he set up his home on a farm. His son Theophilus was born in Massachusetts, and wishing to become a physician was sent to the Burlington Medical College in Vermont and to the Geneva Medical College in New York, from both of which institutions lie was graduated. He went to Monroe County, N. Y., and built up a large practice, being able to make long rides'by having relay stations for medicines and horses. During the War of 1812 lie was a clerk in the commissary department. His wife, Electa Allen, was born in Rutland County, Vt., and is the daughter of I)r. Elihu Allen, a practicing physician in the Green Mountain State. 'o Dr. and tMrs. Randall three children were born who grew to maturity, but the subject of this notice is the only one now living. The natal day of Theodore A. Randall was September 30, 1829, and his birthplace Clarkson, Monroe County, N. Y. Although lie was early set at work on the farm which was his boyhood's home, lie still had good schooladvantages. After pursuing the course in the common school lie entered Hawley Seminary, but after studying a short time, was obligred to leave on account of sickness. Subsequently he entered Brockport Collegiate Institute, but before his course of study was completed smallpox broke out andl he was sent home. Mr. Randall after attaining to his majority went to Tuscarawas County, Ohio, where lie taught one term of school. He then returned to New York, worked on a farm and did some professional work there until the fall of 1853, when he determined to try his fortunes in this State. He traveled on the canal to Buffalo, crossed the lake to Detroit and completed his journey to Marshall on the Iailroad. He soon found occupation as a teacher and devoted himself with zeal to his duties until 1854, when he c1 HEODORE A. RANDALL. One of the ( large and well-developed farms of Convis Township is in the possession of the gentleman above named, by whose efforts principally it has been brought to its present condition.. The estate consists of one hundred and sixty acres on section 9, and one hundred and fifteen on section 4. The entire tract is well fenced and bears the requisite buildings for the work to which it is devoted and the comfort of the family. The residence is on section 9, and is a commodious and conveniently arranged structure, well furnished and so adorned as to indicate to a visitor something of the refinement and tastes of the inmates. Mr. Randall pays considerable attention to stock-raising, although lie by no means neglects the vegetable products suited 0 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 199 was recalled to New York by the death of his father. He came back the same fall and was engaged in various'ways during the ensuing twelve months. IHe then took a companion and established a home of his own at Convis Center. The young husband bought eighty acres of raw land which he brought under improvement and he also taught two terms in the townshi). In 1874 he located where he is now living, and a few years later became the possessor of-the property, purchasing also the adjoining tract, which is now included in his fine estate. The solemn nmatrimoniall rites which united the lives and fortunes of Mr. Randall and Miss Maria A. Detterich took place in Marshall, October 22, 1855. The bride wasborn in Marengo Township, this county, October 1, 1836, and was carefully reared by ler good parents, who encouraged her in the pursuit of knowledge in the schools of that time and taught her useful habits and fine principles at home. She is a capable housekeeeper, a careful, affectionate and judicious mother, and a sympathizing companion. She is withal a lady of intelligence and refinement. whose influence is felt far beyond the walls of her home. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Randall, viz: Fannie M., now tile wife of James Grinnell, living near her parents; Augustus E., who has crossed the river of death; FrIed E., who still sojourns under the parental roof; and Edwin A., a skillful taxidermist, who is also at home. Mrs. Randall is of German descent, but both her paternal and maternal ancestors have lived in Pennsylvania for several generations. Hier father, George D)etterich, was born in Stroudsburg, and her mother, Mary (Best) Detterich, in Mooretown. Both (lied in this county, tile one in 1858 and the other in 1879. Both had been reared on farms and Mr. Detterich was a tiller of the soil for many years. lie learned the trade of a weaver and devoted considerable time to it doing fancy custom work as well as the plainer cloth. He invented a fly-shuttle which was well thought of by weavers. After his marriage he removed to the Empire State, but about 1835 came hither, locating-in Marengo Township. There he cleared a farm, at the same time working at his trade. Later in the '30s he took possession of raw land in Convis Township where he was the first to settle. The land which he cleared is now owned by Mr. Randall. The Detterichs belonged to the Presbyterian Church in Pennsylvania. Few more intelligent and interesting gentlemen are to be met with than Mr. Randall. As a teacher he displayed the zeal that inspires pupils with a love of learning and the tact that governs quietly and successfully. His fellow-citizens have called for his services as Township Clerk, Justice of the Peace and Highway Commissioner, and he has also been an eflicient School Director. He was Postmaster at Convis Center four or five years, including the period of the Civil War. Politically he is an unwavering Republican and his services have been useful as a member of the Central Committee and a delegate to the county and congressional conventions. Both he and his wife belong to the Patrons of Industry at North Convis, of which lie is now Chaplain. They also belong to the Grange, Mr. Randall being Treasurer and his wife Pomonia. They are faithful members of the Methodist Episcopal Churchl at Belleview and Mr. Randall is one of its Trustees. lie evinces the true public spirit in giving his countenance and financial aid to local improvements and the moral and educational movements of the day. - -- — e --- -- l ENRY M. PORTER is profitably engaged in cultivating the soil and in raising sheep and other stock on his farm in Battle Creek Township. I-e is a native born citizen of this State, the place of his birth in Jackson County and the date thereof October 15, 1838. William L. and Roxannia (Beals) Porter, were the parents of our subject and they were among the early pioneers of Southern Michigan. The father operated a sawmill prior to coming to Michigan in 1836. After his arrival in this State he first located in Jackson County. lie remained there but a short time, however, and then removed to Battle Creek. Later lie once again took up tile westward march and his last years were spent in Missouri. His fa 200 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ther was an officer of high rank in the War of 1812. After the close of that contest with the English lie returned to his home and lived for many years in Livingston County, N. Y. Our subject was very young when his parents came to Battle Creek and located on section 30, where they lived some twenty years, and there he grew to a vigorous manhood under the influences of pioneer life. He bought the farm of his father in 1858 and-subsequently sold it and for one year lived at Burlington. He then returned to Battle Creek Township and bought eighty acres of the homestead on which lie now lives in 1867. In 1881 lie bought eighty acres of land adjoining and now has a substantially improved farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which lie devotes to general farming. He pays particular attention to sheep-raising and has a fine flock of sheep. He also raises other stock but has no fancy herds. Mr. Porter has succeeded well in his farming ventures and by active labor, directed by sound common sense and forethought, has placed himself far above want and enjoys a comfortable competency. With the aid of his good wife he has established a home that is cozy and replete with cornfort. They entered upon their pleasant married life January 1, 1865, and in the years that have followed four children have been born to them, of whom two survive-Wilbur II, and Walter M. Their wedded life has been tinged with sorrow in the death of their other children, one of whom, Charles, died in infancy. Mrs. Porter's maiden was Sherezada Beadle. Hier parents, Daniel and Jane M. (Rosefield) Beadle, were married in Genesee County, N. Y., in 1824. They subsequently settled in Richland County, Ohio, among its pioneers and there Mrs. Porter was born in 1838. They afterward came to Battle Creek Township where she has since resided. HIer father died here at the venerable age of eighty years, and her mother in 1884 at a ripe old age. I-Ier father was a teacher of long experience, and was thus engaged in early life in Ohio and his children attended his school. He was a great lover of books, an ardent reader and had a very retentive memory which remained unimpaired until the last. He did what he could to maintain the common I I I schools and keep them abreast of the times. Mrs. Porter's brothers and sisters reside in Calhoun County, and their names are: Thomas R., Daniel, and William N.; Betsey A., wife of George Bradley; Susanah, wife of J. C. Cadwell; Joseph W.; Nancy Jane, wife of A. J. Eastman; Mary E. and James C.; John C. died in childhood., EORGE W. MAPES is a native-born citizen of this county, a son of one of its prominent pioneer families, and since attaining to manhood, has won for himself a leading place among tile farmers and stock growers of Battle Creek Township, which is his birthplace. He was born on his father's homestead, April 27, 1848, and is the eldest of the six children of the late Anson and Maria (Blass) Mapes. Iis father was a son of John Mapes, Sr., and Anna, his wife, and he was born at I-oosick, Rensselaer County, N. Y., May 5, 1810. He was but eighteen years old when he left his fathler's farm and went out into the world to seek fortune's favors. The next eight years of his life were spent at Auburn, in his native State, where le made money by farming and teaming, and he then determined to try life in the wilds of Michigan, as he had heard much of the wonderful fertility of the soil and of the success sure to follow its cultivation. In pursuance of this determination, lie came to Michigan in 1835, and after a short stay at Hillsdale, took up his residence on section 30, Battle Creek Township, where lie invested in one hundred and sixty acres of land. Busy years of hard pioneer toil followed, but his persistent, well-directed labors were well rewarded, as in time he became an extensive landholder, having a valuable estate of nearly five hundred acres of choice land. Mr. Mapes was by no means unaided in his task of upbuilding a home in the wilderness, as a few vears after his settlement here lie was married to Mrs. Maria Fulton, the ceremony that made them one being solemnized March 25. 1847. Mrs. Mapes was born in Sharon, Schoharie County, N. Y., January 14, 1814. By her first marriage she had two PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 201 -~~~ --- —----- - - - - - - - -~~~~~~~~~~~- - -~ children, one of whom"survives. Her marriage with the father of our subject was one of unusual felicity, as they lived together very happily for more than a quarter of a century, death at last dissolving the union by removing the devoted husband and fond father from his beloved family, March 31, 1875. During his career, Mr. Mapes won a high record as an honorable, upright gentleman, and he was regarded as one of the best citizens of his community, whose removal was a loss to its best interests, both materially and socially. Hecontributed generously to:all enterprises that would in any way advance its educationalinterests 'or tie cause of religion, and his public spirit was a prominent trait in his character. The subject of this brief biography was carefully reared under'homne influences on the old homestead, which was his birthplace. He early selected farming as the calling to which he was best adapted and for which he had a decided taste. In 1871 he went to Missouri and lived there several months. The next year he returned to Michigan to claim his promised bride, Miss Prudence Jane Eggleston, a daughter of Marvin and Prudence (Hodges) Eggleston, well known and respected citizens of Battle Creek Township. After he was wedded Mr. Mapes returned with his bride to Missouri, and engaged in farmingkin Caldwell County, where he hafl bought one hundred and sixty acres of wild prairie land, which he improved. Four years later lie returned to Battle Creek, as he wisely concluded that his native State offered him many superior advantages for carrying on his vocation. Two years after that he exchanged his Missouri land for the homestead on which he now lives, giving $3,500 in addition. This farm then comprised one hundred and twentyv'acres, to which he has added thirty-eight acres of land adjoining. The land is exceedingly well tilled, and a neat dwelling, substantial barns and other outbuildings, make it one of the most desirable estates in the vicinity. Mr. Mapes conducts his farming operations after the most approved methods with good financial results, and he is classed among the solid men of his township. Happiness, peace and comfort have been the portion of our subject and his wife in their married life. To them have been born nine children, of whom their daughter Josie died at the age of one year. The eight children left to them are-Ida M., Carrie A., Harry, Kittie, Ada, Georgianna, Walter J. and Edna J. Mr. Mapes possesses in a full degree those sterling traits of character that mark a good man and a worthy citizen, who is always true to himself and others, and conscientiously discharges every duty that devolves upon him. He is a worthy representative of the citizenship of his native county, and in all the offices he has held has shown himself to be desirous of promoting the highest interests of his community. H-e is not a strong partisan in politics, though he generally affiliates with the Democratic party, but he often supports the candidates of other parties if he deems them better fitted for office. He has been Treasurer of Battle Creek Township. He formerly belonged to the Grange, and is now one of the leading members of the Patrons of Industry, of which he is Secretary. _ r., jar. > _ ENRY C. WINSLOW. If for no other reason than that in 1888 he who bears it put up an elegant building in Battle Creek, known as the Winslow Block, this name would be recognized by many of our readers. There are, however, other and better reasons why it is known and why he who bears it is deserving of representation in this BIOGRnAPHICAL ALBUM. Mr. Winslow is one of the prosperous business men of the city,his linebeing insurance, real estate and loans, in which he has been interested here since 1882. IIe is a direct descendant of Edward Winslow who came to America in the "Mayflower" and enjoyed the distinction of being the first Governor of the Plymouth Colony. That renowned man lost his wife March 24, 1621, and on May 12, following married Susannah, widow of William White and mother of Perigrine White, the first English child born in New England. Mr. Winslow's was the first marriage solemnized in the Colony. Snow Winslow, grandfather of our subject, was a sea captain, who (tied of yellow fever at Havana, 202 PORTIRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 2 2 P O T R I A N B I G A P I A A L B U M Cuba. His son Jacob, the father of our subject, was born in Maine and he also became a seafarer and master of a vessel. This gentleman married Elizabeth Clark, a native of New Brunswick, and to them was born a son, Ienry C., February 18, 1836, in Washington County, Me. This infant passed his early life in his native State and at the age of thirteen years went to sea and from that time ran the gamut of a seaman's duties from the position of cook to that of captain. He followed the sea ten years, his last experience being that of a hurricane off Cuba, where his vessel was capsized and sunk. Being in shallow water, Mr. Winslow and his comrades clung to an exposed part of the "Maine Law" (the name of the vessel) and after an exposure of several hours were taken off. Although taken to a hospital and kindly cared for, but two of the forty odd who had endured the terrors of the storm survived the catastrophe. Mr. Winslow returned to his native State and engaged in the mercantile business in Portland, as his health was too much shattered to admit of his going to sea again. In 1857 Mr. Winslow went to New Orleans with the intention of taking up the newspaper business, but the financial crisis checked his aspirations and he engaged in merchandising instead. When the Civil War broke out he tried to remain neutral, as his property interests were all in the Southern metropolis. He obtained permission to sell papers inside the rebel lines and had a monopoly of the business under the authority of Gen. Brarg, with whose army he remained until after the battle of Corinth. He has sold as many as fifteen thousand copies per day of daily papers. lie was with Gen, Bragg through the Kentucky campaign, witnessing various engagements alnd in time of battle assisting in caring for the wounded and dying. He had the fortune to witness tile first bombardment of Ft. Pickecs and Pensacola, and to be an onlooker at Shiloh, Pittsburg Landing, and the minor battle of Farmington, as well as Perryville and Stone River. At the last named his horse was shot from under him. He used to be called Bragg's pet and during the General's absence, just before the retreat from Kentucky, some parties who were jealous of him tried to have him mustered into the army. The officer in charge demanded that this be done but Mr. Winslow despatched a note to the General and was relieved from the necessity. Afterward, however, he was mustered in and promptly detailed as news agent to the Army of the Tennessee. Mr. Winslow gives an interesting account of the way in which he got away from the "land of Dixie." In 1864 he went to Bayport, Fla., where he bought a vessel for $40,000 confederate scrip, under pretense of running the blockade, the schooner, "Nancy Jane," sailing under English colors and being loaded with sea island cotton. The first United States vessel encountered by Mr. Winslow was a tender to the gun boat "Ft. IHenry," then lying at Cedar Keys, and his boat and cargo was confiscated. Hle was advised to employ counsel and try to hold them but this step did not avail. All that was saved was a check for $1,000 that was in his stocking. Even his suspenders had to go, as they were lined with $2G gold pieces amounting to $2,000. After the adverse decision regarding his claim Mr. Winslow went to HEavana, cashed his check and took passage on the "Matanzas" for New York. The night before their expected arrival the vessel collided with the "Locust Point," cutting her in two and occasioning a loss of twenty lives. 'Fhe "Locust Point" was bound for New Orleans. Surviving this catastrophe, Mr. Winslow continued his journey to Portland, Me., where he engaged in tlhe life insurance business, but after a number of years exchlanged it for the career of a merchant. In 1869 he came to Michigan, making his first home in Allegan, where lie was employed as a book-keeper. Removing to Battle Creek he held a position in a clothing-store for some time then went to Grand Rapids an(4 resumed the insurance business, to which he continues to devote his attention. He had his office in G rand Rapids about ten years, then returned to Battle Creek and made a permanent location here. At the bride's home in Topsham, Me., May 8, 1865, Mr. Winslow was married to Rebecca D. Howland. The record of the children born of this congenial union is as follows: Herbert It., whose natal day was October 20, 1866, is now connected with a large publishing house in Oakland, Cal; Eleazer R. was born in Allegan this State, January "I.,W. g ";: ~I;~; ~~~~.:: r ~, ~ ~I ~ ~~-~:,~ ~ -~:::.~ —I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 205 21, 1872; Bessie Louise was born February 24, 1875, and died in infancy; Frank S. was bornl in Grand Rapids, December 12, 1880. Mr. Winslow is a member of the Seventh l)av Advent Church, and a man of established reputation for uprightness and good citizenship. The mother of our subject, at this writing (1891) is still living, making her home in Portland, Me. At the age of eightynine years she is still hale and hearty. The father (lied when our subject was eight years old. r M E O N STARKW\ EATHER FRENCH, M.I). T'e first maximn among philosopliers is, that nlerit only makes distinction. This beingr true, Dr. French may well be calle(l a distinguished citizen of Battle Creek, as lis conduct, botll in business and private life d(uring several decides of resid(ence hlere has been in a higlh degree mneritorious. Ile hlas held various l)ositions of public responsibility and trust, has had muchl to do with political questions inl this section, andi has attained to a high standing in the ra:lks of the medical l)rofession. W\e are lleased( to p)resent to our readers a portrait of this pioneer and prominent citizen, without whose btiography our ALlBUM woul(l be incomplete. Luther French, father of our subject, was a l)liysician and surgeon, who serve(l in hlis professional capacity in the War of 1812, and who died at the early age of thirty-nine years, leaving a large t)ractice. Ilis wife, formerly Lucy Park, to whlo he was married in 181 1, survived him, livi)ng to be eighty-three years of age. Both tile Fren( h anid Park families had a natural bent toward tlhe l)rofession of medicine, the brothers of Mrs. French and their sons in turn bleilng plhysicians. l'ro)ably the influence of these relatives combine(l with the revered memory of his father, were potent factors in leading our subject to make a. choice of thle same calling. Dr. French has Revolutionary blood in his veins, his gran(dfatlher, Ebenezer French, having joined the Colonial army inimediately after the battle of 13Butnker Iill, when but nineteen years old. Although wounded at tile crossieg of the D)elaware, he survived the long struggle and years of Colonial life, living to be eighty-seven yea-s (old. 'lhe natal day of Dr. S. S. French was August 25, 1816, and his birthplace- Otisc,, Onondaga County, N. Y., where his father died when the lad was but five years oldl. Early in life lhe was thrown upon his own resources and secured an education entirely by his unaided exertions. He began teaching at the early age of eighteen years. Iie compln)ete(d his literary studies at Onondaga Academy and in January, 1842, was graduated with honors from thle Geneva, N. Y. Medical College. I-Te immediately began practice at Onondaga, but subsequently came to Battle Creek, where he has been actively engaged in professional work for lo, these many years. In his private practice he has successfully performed many delicate surgical oplerations, such as taking out the eye, etc., and the "Surgical History of tile Rebellion" reports a num1)er of intricate and delicate operations performed 'y him during his connection with the army. During the first year of the Civil War Dr. French was appointed Assistant Surgeon of the Sixtil Michligan Infantry, and the ensuing year became Surgceon of the Twentieth. Being attached to the Ninth Corps, lie traversedl eleven States and was present at five bloody engagements. IIe was constantly on the operating staff, always at the front and( a portion of the time acted as brigade or division medical director. After three years of faithlful attention to tile duties devolving upon an artmy sur'geon, ill healthi compelled his resignation. Since tile wer lie has been Examininog Surgeon for the United States l'ension Board. He is a rmemhber of various medical societies and( has been hono)red by being inmae President of the State Medical Society -a position lie filled withl great credit. Ile has written numerous papers whicll have been renal with interest and have served to exteiid lis na:me and fame far beyond tlle boundarlies of tlhe State. l)r. French was origin: lly a XVlhio ini politics. 'o lin b)elongs the llmi' of reading the resolutions that first preselleC(h tire name, R(epiblic:ln. as atlaching to the party. Thle first meeting held with a view to the organization of such. a lsody was called at Battle Creek, an account of wlichll was 206 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. published by W. W. Woolnough and subscriled to by Dr. French, W. W. Woolnough, Orlando Moffatt, Charles S. May and Chandler Ford. At a subsequent meeting the resolutions which had been formulated and adopted at the first meeting, were approved and ordered to be printed. Charles S. May of Kalamazoo wrote the resolutions in part, being aided by Dr. Orlando Moffatt, father of Congressman Seth Moffat, the Rev. Mr. Pitkin of the Presbyterian Church, Rev. Mr. Crawford of the Methodist Episcopal Church (now of Grand R:pil) and others. One of the resolutions declared, "cthe Whig party is dead; its epitaph is written upon its tombstone." The whole series possessed the true ring of loyal-principles and the meeting at which they were adopted was followed by that under the oaks in Jackson on the anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. The name, Republican, was proposed by Orlando Moffatt, it seeming to his mind appropriate, and was heartily endorsed by Dr. French. This Moffatt is said to have been "rough as a hedge fence, ready and keen as its briars," and steadfast and true in all he believed to be right. Some of the old-timers have declared that such a set of men for hanging together and pushing things as were those who attended the meeting in May, 1854, were never seen together elsewhere. Dr. French was united in marriage July 18, 1842, with Miss Ruth A. Cox, the sister of Dr. Edward Cox, one of tile leading physicians of this State. Their union was blessed by the birth of two clildren —a daughter and son. The latter, Edward, was graduated from the law department of the State University of Michigan in the class of 1872. The daughter passed from earth Felbruary 28, 1887, less than two years after the demise of the mother, wlich occurred in October, 1885. The Doctor was a second time married June 28, 1887, choosing as his wife Mrs. Libbie Jackson, and they have become the parents of one child-Therese, born August 28, 1889. The family are highly esteemed in the social circles of the community, and in their charming home their many friends are wont to gather and pass pleasant hours in the companionship of the genial host and hostess. Dr. French has been a member of the Odd Fellows fraternity since 1848, and has received all the honors in the gift of the State, having been elected Grand Patriarch and Grand Representative to the State Grand Lodge. IHe was Superintendent of schools five years while living in the Empire State and in Battle Creek has been a member of the Board of Education several years. In 1847, through his efforts tie different districts were united and the first union of the schools of the State was formed. A bout 1843, while Superintendent of Schools in Onandaga County, he established what is supposed to have been the first Indian school in the United States. The Doctor has served as Mayor of Battle Creek two terms, Supervisor four years, and one term as Alderman. His religious membershil is in the Independent Congregational Church. He enjoys the full confidence of his fellow-citizens and is most highly esteemed where lie is best known, being kind and courteous at all times and under all circumstances, possessed of warm sympathies and generous impulses and noted for his high sense of honor and his ready response to the call of the poor. EWIS PERRIN is one of the largest landowners in Calhoun County and one of the lmost extensive farmers and stock-dealers, the centre of his business being in Marshall, where he has made his home about a decade. He was born in Cumberland County, Ill., February 1, 1841. Iis rather. Hyde Perrin, was born in Woodstock, Conn., March 15, 1790, and was the son of John Perrin, of English descent. The mother of our subject was Sylvia Scribner, who was born at Stowe, Vt., July 1, 1800, was a daughter of Ebenezer Scribner, and like her husband, traced her lineage to England. After his marriage Hyde Perrin removed to the Empire State, later to Ohio, and thence to Cumberland County, Ill., in 1837. Hle followed the occupation of a general farmer until late in life when lie returned to Genesee County, N. Y., where lie died at the home of his son Noah. His family consisted of eight sons and one daughter, the sub PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 207 -i ject of this notice being the youngest. The ir other of this family died in this county in 1884. Mr. Perrin by his first wife had three children. She died during tlheir residence in New York. The early boyhood and schooldays of Lewis Perrin were passed in Cumberland County, 111., and he then went to Rochester, N. Y., and attended the public schools there. After completing his studies he learned the trade of a tanner and currier, and in the same city embarked in the leattler business, which he continued until October, 1864, when his establishment was destroyed by fire and lie lost everything. Lie then came West and found employment in Kalamazoo as a clerk, and for about ten years was partner in the hardware business until 1879, or about twelve years. In 18b0 lie came to Marshall to look after the estate of llis brother, the lion. H. J. Perrin, in whiclh he was an heir, and decided to make his home here. IHe now owns the Marshall HIouse, which lie has remnodeled and refitted and transformed into a pr;vate residence. I-e has built a good barn and ot11er outhouses, and keeps here good horses for di iving and farm work. Mr. Perrin owns nearly a thousand acres of land in this county, wlich is included in four distinct farms. IIe also has a cotton plantation of six hun(Ire e and forty acres in the South. While at Kalamazoo he was Chief of the Fire Department. In a financial sense lie is a fortunate man, having means witll whichl to gratify all reasonable desires, aid every good movement in which he takes an interest, and bear a prominent part in developing the industries of the country. C. WHEELER. So many fine farms are to be seen in this county that it would be hard to make a cloice between them were the opportunity offered. It is, however, comparatively easy to give a just meed to those which bear evidence of energetic and careful control and prove that the labors of their owner have resulted in financial prosperity. The biographical writer can therefore commend a tract of two hundred and forty acres on sections 34 and 35, Convis Township, which is found to belong to Mr. Wheeler. Twenty acres are left to timber culture, but the rest is divided into fields of from ten to forty acres in extent, placed under the plow or devoted to pasturage, garden or orchard. A large and comfortable-looking farm house, a horse barn 24x36 feet, another 32x106, and still another 20x36, together with corn-cribs and other buildings testify to the desire for comfort and wisli to facilitate the work of the estate that characterize its owner. Mr. Wheeler is of the oldc New England stock, althougha himself a native of the Empire State, having been born in Henrietta, Monroe County, December 23,1833. He was a child some four years old when taken to Genesee County where he grew to manhood on a farm. lie had the advantages afforded in the district school which was kept up by subscription and held in a log schoolhouse furnished in the most primitive fashion. In addition to the instruction received therein he learned many useful lessons from the precept and example of his parents for whom lie performed such services as were customary to farmer lads. When twenty years old, in the fall of 1853, lie came to this State and spent a few monthIs with a. brother in Eaton County. On New Year's I)ay following his arrival lie bought a stage route between Marshall and Lansing, which he traversed three times a week for six months. Becoming sick with the ague lie sold out and returned to his early home to sl)end the winter. In the spring of 1855 young Wheeler returned to tllis State and bought sixty-eight acres of land in Lee Township, this county. Locating upon this tract he made various improvements, making it the seat of his agricultural labors until 1863 when lie sold it and came to hits present location. Here he bought eighty acres, from forty of which lie removed the forest growth and all of wlicl lie still further developed. In 1878 he rented his farm an(l removed to Marshall where he resided seven years. While living there he took one thousand sheep to Franklin County, Kan., to winter them and spent eight months in that State. lIe sold his flock, realizing a considerable sum and subsequently spent other winters there. In 1885 lie returned to his farm where he is now carrying on general agri PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. culture, his crops being principally wheat, corn and potatoes. He formerly devoted ten to twenty acres to the vegetable named, and once sold over twelve hundred bushels which were produced on nine acres. His flock of high-grade Merino sheep usually ranges from two hundred and fifty to three hundred head and the fleeces from a single shearing have been worth $75. Mr. Wheeler has some fine standard-bred horses and has won his share of the ribbons on his equines and stock. The father of our subject was Col. Sineon Wheeler, whose title was acquired in the War of 1812. Ile was born and reared at Taunton, Mass., whence he went to New York during the early settlement of Monroe County. He located on a farm but in addition to its management continued to work at his trade that of a blacksmith. After some years he sold his estate, made his home near Batavia and worked at his trade, until he retired from active life. He was an old-line Whig. His wife, mother of our subject, was a native of the old Bay State and bore the maiden name of Rachel Pierce. She died in Genesee County, N. Y., during the childhood of the son of whlom we write, leaving nine children. Mr. Wheeler was so fortunate as to win for his wife Miss Harriet S. Hayward, a native of Convis Township and a daughter of Jasper and Hulldah (Dudley) Hayward, who were early settlers here, coming from Vermont. After obtaining the usual elementary instruction Mrs. Wheeler was given two years' schooling at Olivet College, thus becoming thoroughly educated and adding to her social qualifications as well. She is an estimable woman, wise and tender as a mother, helpful and sympathizing as a wife and manifests a spirit of neighborly kindness at all times. She has borne her husband four children-Carrie E., Donna G., Hayward C., and one deceased. The first-born still brightens the home by her presence under its roof; she is an intelligent and well-bred young lady, a graduate from the High School and a popular member of society in this vicinity. Donna is the wife of G. A. Marshal, a wholesale leather dealer in Chicago, and Hayward is a traveling salesman for Phelps, Dodge & Palmer of the same city. Mr. Wheeler belongs to the Masonic order, his membership b)eing in a lodge at Marshall. He is a Republicann i politics and has been a delegate to county and State conventions. As a school officer he has aided in bringing about the present efficiency of the neighboring school and during the two years in which he served as Township Treasurer he was spoken well of for his capability in that position. Hie belongs to the Calhoun County Agricultural Society, has been Superintendent of the horse department and for two years was one of the judges. Mrs. Whleeler belongs to the Episcopal Church in Marshall which her husband also attends and supports. — ~^ — ~ K. YRON H. JOY, member of the Calhoun County bar, has been actively engaged in the practice of law at Battle Creek for forty years, and has attained a position of prominence among the men of his profession in Southern Michigan. He is a native of the State of New York, born in the town of Perrinton, Monroe County, July 27, 1821. Ile isason of Warren and Dorcas (Aldrich) Joy, natives of Berkshire County, Mass., coming of old New England families. His father went to New York from his early home in 1808, when he was about sixteen years old, and he became a pioneer farmer of Monroe County. IHe married there, and in the winter of 1833, became the pioneer of a newly settled country, coming then to Michigan, and locating in Plymouth, Wayne County, of which he was one of the early settlers. In 1836 he removed from there to this county. He lived to see the development of Southern Michigan from a wilderness to a well-settled and well-improved country, and finally died at the ripe age of seventy-six years. His wife, whose death occurred in Barry County, lived to be seventy-two years old. They were the parents of five children, of whom two are living. Our subject was reared amid the pioneer scenes of his native State and Michigan, and in this county he began life for himself. He was ambitious to secure an education, and succeeded in obtaining one by his own efforts. lie had a decided taste for law, and prepared himself for that profession. In 4 I uZ7 1~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 211 ---- I ----— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~-~~~ — -~~` —~~- I - - -~- I - ~ - - - 1850 lie opened al office'at Battle Creek, and has been in continuous p)ractice in this city ever since, lie being the oldest practitioner in the county. He has a thorough knowledge of his calling, and has been deservedly successful in carrying it on, having in tlle course of years acquired a large clientage to whose interests he is devoted. Mr. Joy has established here a pleasant home, and to the lady who presides over it he was married in 1850. Mrs. Joy's maiden name was Adeline A. Cox, and she is a native of New York. She is a daughter of Silas Cox, who came to Miclhigan in 1844, and died in 1855. Mr. Joy has a long and spotless record of high personal worth, and of marked success as a lawyer. Allegiance to the law has been his master passion and he has been foremost in all that tends to maintain the usefulness of his i )rofession and uphold its character. IHe has a most accurate and comprehensive' grasp of legal principles, and applies them with a great deal of skill. While devoting himself to his beloved profession, lie has given some of his time to assist in thle managem-ent of municil)al affairs. Especially has lie concerned himself witll local educational matters, and was for twenty years a Trustee of the public sclools of Battle Creek. Ile lias been Justice of the Peace and City Attorney, and was at one time candidate for Circuit Judge on the Democratic ticket. lie is positive and assertive in his political views, and is a stalwart Democrat. ON. CHARLES AUSTIN. The success which rewards the patient efforts of mankind in any department of labor is nowllere better exemplified than in the life and business career of Mr. Austin, whose portrait on the opposite page will be recognized as that of one of Calhoun County's most illustrious citizens. A leading merchant in tle city of Battle Creek, lie is the owner and proprietor of a large wholesale grocery establishment on the corner of McCamly and West Canal Streets, and also has a well-appointed store for the sale of groceries and crockery at No. 44-46 West Main Street. He is numbered among the successful business men of this county, whose large enterprise, acute perceptions and marked financial ability have been so potent in giving the commercial interests of this section a new impetus within tlhe last decade. Mr. Austin was born in London, England, April 19, 1834, and is a son of Charles Austin, Sr. lie received his education in his native land, and ere yet lie had attained to manhood, ambitious to gain a better position in life than the Old World offered him, lie crossed the Atlantic and came to America in 1852. After a sojourn of fifteen months in New York lie came West in 1854 an-d located in Concord, Jackson County, Mich. From there he came to Ilomer, this county, during the following year, but did not remain in that place l)ermanently, goin( thence to Bedford in 1857, where he embarked in the general mercantile business, and continued thus engaged for about fifteen years. The principles of honor and uprightness which had been early instilled in his mind, proved of incalculable benefit to him in his various enterprises for, wherever he went, his fair dealing witl all and sincere and genial courtesy won him friends, whom once gained were his for life. In 1872 Mr. Austin caine to the thriving city of Battle Creek, establishing hinmself at once in the dry-goods business and occupying a fine store ir the Opera Iouse Building. In this venture lie met with uniform success and remained thus employed until January, 1884. The wholesale grocery business was inaugurated in 1883, and two years afterward Mr. Austin opened llis retail store on West Maini Street. When lie first became intereste(t in the wholesale business he purchased a commission house in which to carry on the enterprise, but the building soon became inadequate to tile growing demands of the business, and lhe therefore erected a large 1)produce and( grocery warehouse on the corner of McCamly and West Canal Streets. He has control of a large trade extending throughout this State and even beyond, into various other sections of the country. In the retail department he also }las a thriving trade among the citizens of Battle Creek and vicinity, and carries a fine grade of crockery and groceries. Mr. Austin was wedded to Miss Lucy D. Taylor, '21 2 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. of Concord, Jackson County, January 1, 1855. Their residence at No. 46, Green Street, is one of the attractive homes for which Battle Creek is noted, and its pleasant hostess and genial host make it tile center of a charming hospitality. Mr. and Mrs. Austin are the parents of three sons: Oliver ''., a commercial traveler; Charles J., manager of the retail department in his father's store; and Edward D., who is employed in the office of the Clover Leaf Railway Company in Tclcdo, Ohio. Since taking up his residence in this city, Mr. Austin has proved an invaluable addition to its citin zenship, not only as one of its most sagacious business men, but as an able civic officer who has filled various high and responsible positions in its government with honor, besides representing the district including this municipality,in the State Legislature with distinction. He is one of the leading Repnublicans of this locality, although he has not devoted much attention to politics since the expiration of his senatorial term in 1885, except to use his influence for his party. In 1875 our subject was elected an Alderman of Battle Creek, and in 1876 was still further honored by being called to the head of the city government as Mayor of Battle Creek. Under his wise administration of public affairs the city flourished, and so well were the people pleased with his devotion to their interests that they re-elected him to the mayoralty in 1877. In 1880 he was sent to the State Legislature to represent this district. He served on important committees while a member of that body, and displayed excellent statesman-like qualities, acting in all cases with an eye single to the interests of his county and State. In 1882 his constitnents, who had watched his course as a legislator with satisfaction, elected him to the State Senate, and his re-election two years later, proved his able and successful discharge of the duties of his responsille position. Throughout his entire term of service he was active in promoting all legislation that would in any way enhance the welfare of Michigan. He was Chairman of the Railway Committee, a mem)er of the Education and Insurance Committees, the Committee on Asylums for Insane, and also of the Ways and Means Committee. Aside from his business interests, Mr. Austin is - I --------— --- —--- ------------------- --- ------------- ---— ---- ----- also connected with the financial concerns of this section as Vice-President of the National Bank at Battle Creek, with which he has been identified for the past five years, being elected to his present position on its Board of Managers in 1889. He is prominent in Masonic circles as a member of the order of Knights Templar. Religiously he is a member of the Independent Congregational Church. ELLINGTON BIDWELL. This gentlem/ an is numbered among the pioneers of the county, having come hither in 1835, he being at that time a lad of twelve years. His early life was passed upon a farm and he has lived to see great changes, not only in the tract which was the family home, but in the surrounding country, which is now occupied by a happy and contented people, who in the pursuit of their various avocations are generally prosperous. lie and his worthy wife have aided in bringing about this pleasant state of affairs by long years of industry, prudence and generosity, and receive the meed of credit due them from all who know how their lives have been spent. They are now living in Allion, the city that has been their place of residence a number of years and with whose special growth Mr. Bidvwell is closely identified. The parents of our subject were Hloweli and Dorcas (Clapp) Bidwell, who were born March 22, 1793, and December 30, 1803, respectively. The father was reared at Kinderhook, N. Y., and was a schoolmate of Martin Van Buren. In his early manhood he went to Auburn, where lie had charge of one of the prison shops. He subsequently bought a farm in Wayne County, whereon the son of whom we write was born May 14, 1823. In 1835 the family came West and the husband and father located a quarter-section of land in this county, a portion of which is now within the limits of Albion. He built the first frame house in Sher. idan Townshipl, two and one-half miles west of the city of Albion where he died, which he assisted in organizing, and of which he was the first Clerk. He was also Justice of the Peace. Hie died in 1837, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 213 _ _ _................................................................................ _ _. _.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ leaving a widow andl seven children. The family was kept together )y the faithful mother and her industry and prudence enabled her to retain the farm. Regarding the family of which our subject makes one thle following facts may be noted: The firstborn. Ursula C., taught the first school in the township, it being held in a board shanty whic(h hier father had built and in which lie had lived until a better home was erected; slie married Lewis 1D. Crain and died some years later; Billings B., the second child, married Susan Gilliland; he was engaged in the mercantile business several years and accumulated a competency; he died in Albion in 1882; Walter H., a partner with his brother B. B., also (lied in Albion, leaving a widow wiho had borne the maiden name of Pearly Rich; Frances E., wife of Smith Woolser of Allion; Sarah J. is the wife of Joel Laberteaux of Albion; Alonson C. married Miss Anna Pease; lie went into business with our subject in 1852 and (lied in 1870. The parents of tills family belonged to the Christian Chulrcli and were well-known and highly valued for their integrity and fair dealing with all around them. When they came to the county there was much sickness and Mrs. Bidwell did muchl good in looking after the poor and the suffering. She gained the love and respect of all who knew her, and was sincerely mourned when called to her eternal reward. Wellington Bidwell pursued his studies principally in the common schools, but had the advantaLge of one term of attendance at the Wesleyan Seminary. He spent the winter months in teaching and tle summers in farm work for several years, having had charge of the farm from the time he was old enough to manage it. The property was finally divided and he, taking an acreage adjoining the city, thoroughly developed it and at the same time carried on tlle grocery business two years. In 1852 lie sold out, and in company with his brother Alonson crossed the plains to California, taking his wife and two children. He had been married April 20, 1847, to Miss Margaret A. Van Vranken, daughter of John A. Van Vrankeif and member of one of the original families from Holland who settled in New York. Mrs. Bidwell was born in Schenec tady, N. Y., Septemlber 30, 1830, and made the acquaintance of the gentleman to whom she gave ler heart and hand while lie was visiting in the EmpIire State. Upon reaching the Slope Mr. Bidwell located at Placerville, where he was engaged in mining and also carried on a store. Ile subsequently removed to Sacramento and engaged in the wood and coal business, remaining there thus occupied six years. In 1860 he was appointed Assistant Postmaster, and after serving in that capacity nearly three years, resigned the position and in comipany with his brother built a gristmill. The brother being elected County Clerk the plant was sold and our subject soon after returned to Michigan, where lie has continued to make his home. His first business enterprise after his return was the sale of groceries in company with F. A. Wheelock and this was followed by the dry-goods trade. To his commercialenterprises Mr. Bidwell brought keen comprehension, acute jud(ment and char acteristic tact, which won him at satisfactory degree of success. HIe is still doing business, but has abandoned his mercantile pursuit and is acting as local agent for the North America, Girar(, and Guardian Insurance Companies-thle last named of London, England. In 1878 tMr. Bidwell was elected Treasurer of Calhoun County and re-elected in 1880, thus demonstrating the fact that the confidence of the people was in nowise abused during his inincumbency of the office. Ile was Supervisor of Slheridan Townslhip four years, resigning that position to accept the one 1before mentioned. His political sympathy has been with the Republican party since its organization, and lie voted for Gen. Fremont when there were but twelve hundred persons in the State who opposed the extension of slavery irlto the territories. lie has had the sympatly of a good wife in all his hopes and fears, her counsel and encouragement in the affairs of life, and with her he is now enjoying the comforts of life and the sincere friendship of those whose regard they have won. ~ To Mr. and Mrs. Bidwell six children have been born, of whom we note the following: J. Van died in California at the age of twelve years; Dela A., crossed the plains and returned from the Slope, 214 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ---- -" ---~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- --— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ marrying George Encke; she died at the early age of twenty-eight, leaving one son, W. La Verne; Ellen T., who was born in Placerville, Cal., died in Sacraimento, when two years old; M. Ada was born in Sacramento, came east with her parents and married Will J. Johnson, now a resident of Detroit. They hiave two children Della M. and Roy B.; Lelie, born in Sacramento, was brought East when a babe and lived to be but nineteen monthss old; Willie II., was born in Albion, and died in 1878, in his thirteenth year. 8 TEIPHEN H. KIMBALL. The simple record of the life of an honest, industrious man is the best testimonial to his worth and the best monument on which to inscribe his virtues and thereby influence others. In the following paragraphs we purpose to thus deal with the gentleman above named, who is too well known and honored in this part of Michigan to need our commendation. lie is a farmer, pleasantly located on section 16, Lyons Township, Ionia County, where lie has an estate consisting of two hundred and eighty acres. The tract is well improved and, with the exception of sixty-five acres, was cleared and brought to its present condition by him. The residence he occupies was built in 1880 at a cost of 15,000 and is a neat, substantial brick structure, which is furnished in keeping with the financial ability and good taste of those who occupy it. Stephen Kimball, the father of our subject, was born in New Hampshire, and there grew to manhood and began his life work as a farmer. I-e went thence to St. Lawrence County, N. Y., where he marrie(l Mercy Stiles, a native of the old Bay State, who went to New York when a young lady. Early in tle '30s Mr. Kimball deci led to come West and with his family he traveled with a team to Calhoun County. lle made his home where the city of Marshall nowlvtands, until 1858, then came to Ionia County and finally died at the home of his son, our subject, at the venerable age of eighty-seven years. Mrs. Kimball died in Marshill in 1842. Within tlle limits of Calhoun County there were but few homes of white settlers when they located there, and the work they did was a potent factor in the development of the country. The family of Stephen Kimball and his good wife inclnded ten children of whom we note the following: William. who was born in Russell Township, St. Lawrence County, N. Y., died there at the age of fourteen years; two died in infancy; Julius breathed his last in Marshall when that place was being colonized, and Emily died there of scarlet fever; William L. passed away in Iowa, and Oliver S. in lonia County, this State; Laura died in Calhoun County; Albert W. is a resident of Iowa; Stephen H., the youngest of the family, is the subject of this life history. The natal day of the gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs was February 2, 1828, and his birthplace tlhe town of Russel, St. Lawrence County, N. Y. lie was a child of four years when his parents located at Marshall and there lie remained until lhe was twenty years old. IIe studied in the first schoolhouse built in Calhoun County, and made good use of the limited opportunities of the place iand period to acquire a knowledge of book lore. When lhe left home he came to Ionia County and began working by the month for his brother. IHe continued this for some time, but in 1852 went to California via New York and Panama. On the ship were two hundred and fifty persons, fifty-five of whom (lied in one week of cholera. After reaching the coast Mr. Kimball spent one month splitting rails, receiving $75 for his labor. lie then engaged in mining and at that occupation put in the rest of the two years of his sojourn. IIe made from twenty-five cents to $55 per day and averaged about $100 per month from the tino lhe left home until his return. Mr. Kimball returned to Michigan via Graytown, the Pacific steamer being "Uncle Sam," and the Atlantic, "Northern Lights." IHe spent a week in the metropolis, whence he came by rail to Marshall, then walked to Lyons, Ionia County. He had one hundred and sixty acres of land on sections 21 and 22, Lyons l'ownship, but after his return from the coast he bought the place he now occupies. He made some improvements here before his marriage and continued the work in later years, although the log *T I~liIiJ:"4 uT(: PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 217 house that still stands on tlle farm was occupied as a dwelling until the present residence was built. Mr. Kimball was married in 1858 to Miss Mary J. Wright, who was born in Marshall in 1838 and was reared there. For thirty years she looked( after the comfort of her husband and children and did all she could to equip lier family for the duties and obligations imposed upon them. She exchanged time for eternity in December, 1888, and her mortal remains were deposited in Lyons Cemetery. IIer children are, Henry L., who lives on the farm with his father; Frank TI., who died when five years old; Flora B., wife of Frank A. Herron, living on a farm in Gratiot County; Minnie C., Emma A., ard Laura A., who look after the home comfort of their father; Frankie M. an(1 II. Howard, wllo are also at home. During one term IMr. Kimball held the office of Townsllip Treasurer, but with this exception he lhas given his attention to general farming and stockraising. the enjoyments of social and domestic life, and the duties that (levolve upon all good citizens. lie possesses the true public spirit, contributes liberally to worthy enterprises and takes pritde in noting tile advancernentof the pleople. lie is social and agreable, intelligent and well-read, and an hour spent in his society is never thrown away......1,_r....m T-3 (.__.. industrious in business and now, in his declining years, is living in Marshall in the enjoyment of a handsome competency. Mr. Brown was born at Preston, New London County, Conn., December 9, 1812. His father, Nathan Brown, was born in 1774 and died in 1837; lie was a son of Amos Brown and his ancestors came from England and settled as farmers in New London County. The mother of our subject was Thankful (Kinney) Brown, also a native of Connecticut but of Scotch descent. Her patronymic was originally McKinney but the prefix was dropped prior to the time of her father, Lott Kinney. The gentleman whose life work it is our purpose to outline studied under clerical instruction, as was the custom in cases where ample means were at command. His classical lore was in its early stages acqired with Timothy Tuttle, Horatio Waldo and other well-known clergymen of the period. He spent a short time in Plainfield Academy, then went to Yale College and entered the law school, but was obliged to leave before graduation on account of illhealth. Going to Utica, N. Y., lie continued his legal reading and was for a time in the office of White, Beardsley & Crafts. In the spring of 1836 lie came West and spent a short time in Marshall after wlicll, with a companion named Swan, lie went to Iowa and laid out and platted what is now the village of Sabula. After a time Mr. Brown returned to Marshall and in 1839 was admitted to the bar and began the practice of llis profession. It has been his aim to acquire excellence in his chosen vocation and he has been truly successful, having prosecuted more cases in the circuit court and carried more before the Suprerme Bench tihan any other person in the county. At different times he has been associated in legal work with John Van Arman, Robert Cross, J. B. Greenough and J. C. Patterson, each of whom stands in high repute. The many cases he has won prove that his hours of toil have not been in vain, and his high talents and faithfulness to his clients and to the principles of law and equity are recognized by all who are acquainted with his record. In 1854 Mr. Brown was elected Prosecuting Attorney and at the close of his first term of office was re-elected in 1856. It is said of him that dur ON. WILLIANM 1. BROWN. It may be said of this gentleman that he is not only the oldest lawyer in Calhoun County, but is in fact the Nestor of the bar in Central Michigan. IIe has brought to his profession a high ideal of right and justice, keen perception and an accurate knowledge of the law of the various States in the Union. Coupled with these qualities is an unswerving integrity of character, a cordial geniality of manner and a steady persistence which accounts to a large degree for the success attending his efforts. His portrait shown on the opposite page represents one of the eminent men of Michigan and one who has for years filled various responsible positions with credit to himself and much benefit to the people. He has always been 218 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I-" --- —----— --- —" — - - —'-- --- —I — ----' —- — I -- — _. I, ~ - - - - — ~ --- —- ~ -- 1 - - - ing the entire four years of his official service he was so cautious in his arraignments that he never lost a case, although in one instance the jury (lisagreed. Ile was Assistant United States District Attorney for seven years,from 1864 to 1871. In the railroad compromise prosecution he was enogaed as attorney by Darius Clark, agent of the Michigan Central Railroad, in the prosecution of the conspirators, but on account of sickness in his falmily was absent during the trial. His fellow-citizens recognized his peculiar fitness for public duties, and realizing that he would reflect credit upon his constituency they often urged him to enter the political arena. In 1858 lie was asked to accept the nomination for Representative arnd later was solicited to become the candidate for Congress but he declined, preferring to devote his time entirely to his profession. In 1840 lie cast his first Presidential vote for William I-. Harrison and since the organization of the Republican party lie has been prominently connected therewith. During several campaigns lie used his eminent abilities as an orator in behalf of the candidates of the party, and his speeches were characterized by broad knowledge of the issues of the times and application of the principles of National Government. During the war lie gave his entire influence to the policy of the Government and strongly favored the Union cause. Mr. Brown has been twice married. The first ceremony was solemnized October 13, 1842, and the bride was Miss Jeanette E., daughter of Will. iam W. Backus, of Utica, N. Y. Of this union two sons were born, one of whom is now a civil engineer in Brooklyn, N. Y.; the other died in infancy. The second marriage of Mr. Brown occurred October 3, 1849, when lie led to the hymeneal altar Miss Mary M., daughter of Samuel -H. Addington, of Buffalo, N. Y. Mrs. Brown died. leaving no children. Since 1846 Mr. Brown has been a memlber of the Presbyterian Church, to the support of which he has contributed liberally. His library, in which he passes many of his leisure hours, is one of the largest and finest in the State and is the source of unceasing delight to the owner. Mr. Brown has aided in the erection of many of the public buildings in which the citizens take just pride, and has encouraged all projects having in:: e view the material advancement of the city, especially those tending to the thorough development of e(lucational advancement. The Herndon Hotel, a four-story brick building which was long the principal hotel in Marshall, was built by Mr. Brown and rebuilt by him after it was burned in 1875. It is still one of the institutions of the city, its present proprietor leing Mr. Wright. In disposition Mr. Brown is genial and social, possessing in an unusual degree the inherent and acquired qualifications of a popular man. As the twilight of life's closing scenes gather around Mr. Brown lie is able to contemplate the past without regret and the future with hope, and long after the grave shall have closed over all that is mortal of him he will live in the hearts of all who love tleir country and honor its pioneers. - OHN K. FISHER, proprietor of the LeRoy Steam Bending Works, is a well-known resident of this section of the county, as he ( has been connected with its interests since boyhood. He gave several years of his early manhood to the nation as a valorous and faithful soldier of the Union, thus testifying that the patriotic blood derived from ancestors who had fought in the Revolution and the War of 1812 has not been tlinned by time but throbs as warmly as old. Mr. Fisher belongs to one of the old fatmilies of the county, his parents, Christopher and Maria (Kane) Fisher, having come hither from their native State, New York, in 1834. Two years later they located on a farm, where they are still living, at the advanced ages of seventy-six and seventyfour respectively. The son of whom we write was born in Newton, September 9, 1844, reared on the farm and given the educational privileges which belong to the district school system. From an early period in his life he spent his summers in work upon the farm, pursuing his studies during the winter season, and thus promoted industrious habits and gained much valuable knowledge besides that learned in text books. At the age of eighteen years he was the owner of fifty acres of PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHIICALL ALBUM.1~ 219 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 219 good land and was laboring hard to improve it, but in his nineteenth year he sold it and entered the army as a private in Company A, Seventh Michigan Cavalry, the date of his enlistment being September 19, 1862. The only period during which Mr. Fisher was absent from his company was the three months following the battle of (ettysburg, when lie was an inmate of Sadley Hospital in West Philadelphia. After spending a short time in camp at Grlan Rapids the command was sent South, and within a few months of enlistment had taken part in engagements at Hanover and Huntertown. Being ordered to Gettysburg, they were in the thick of tlle fight, July 3, 1863, the regiment making a cllharge upon lhe enemy's infantry, with sharp-shooters on tllcir right flank, and Stewart's cavalry in their rear before they rejoined their friends. In this charge Mr. Fisher had his horse killed under him and was wounded in the right knee and left thigh. Upon leaving 1he hospital. about three months later, lie rejoined his company at C Ilpeper, Va., as they were drawn up in line for a charge. Within five minutes, during which he was greeted by a few of his comrades, the order to advance was given and lie was engaged in a furious fight. Following this conflict, September 12, came the engmgements at Morton's Ford, Robison River, James City, Brandy Station (q point near Bull Run),Buckland Mills, Stevensburg, Meadow Bridge, and later in the spring Chancellorsville and the Wilderness. The intervals between some of these battles were too short to allow any repose, and on several occasions the fighting was of daily occurrence. The next contest of any importance was at Beaver Dam Station, where the Union forces rescued two hundred and fifty l)risoners that had been captured at Spottsylvania the day before, destroyed a large amount of quartermasters' and commissary stores, and secured three trains of cars loaded with supplies, and three hundred prisoners. The next day came a contest at Yellow Tavern, then those at Mechanicsville and Gaines Mills, and early in June the company fought at Pavilion Station where they sustained heavy losses. After the battle of White House Landing Mr. Fisher went to Washington, where the dismounted men of the command were to receive horses, and while at the Capital was assigned to Fry's Provincial Cavalry to rel)el Early, who threatenedjto invade Washington. Under Fry lie fought at Poolsvillc, Rockville and Tennlytown, July 10, 11 land 12, and a(gain at Rockville July 13. I-e then returned to his re ILLIAM COREY is prominently identified with the agricultural element that has been so largely instrumental in the upbuilding of tihis county. lIe is one of the wealthiest and best known citizens of Atlens Township, where he has extensive farming interests. February 2, 1827, was the date of the birth of our subject in the town of Antwerp, Jefferson County, N. Y. Iis parents were Cyril and Charlotte (EdIner) Corey. Iis father worked in the mines. Ile lived to a ripe old age, finally dying in his native State in 1864. His wife survived him until 1883, when sie, too, passed to the land immortal. The Edners were of German origin. The worthy parents of our subject had five sons and two daughters, namely: MAalinda, now deceased; Martin; Leonard, a resident of Iowa; Sylvester, a resident of St. Lawrence County; Thomas, a resident of Jefferson County, N. Y.; and Malissa. When our subject was a little lad of eight years lie was bound to a Mr. James Foster, witl whom he remained until lie was nineteen years of age. IIe received but a limited education in tie common schools, but since his *youth has learned much from observation and experience, and has been more successful in life than many a highly educated man. At the age of nineteen years lhe came to this State and found employment on a farm at Climax, in Kalamazoo County. A year later lie returned to his native State and worked at the trade of a saddler some two years. At the end of that time he came back to Mlichigail and located at Battle Creek, where lie engaged at his trade over a year. From there he went to Climax, thence to Galesburg, where he was employed in a hotel. IIe subsequently worked on the Michigan Central Railroad from Lawton to Decatur, when it was in process of construction. In the spring of 1855 our subject ventured into new fields as he then purchased forty acres of land on section 3, Athens Township, for which lie l)aid $225, and since tlat time lie llas devoted himself assiduously to agriculture. lie built a cabin on his land, moved on to it, and cleared a portion of the estate. Three years later he sold that property and located on ninely acres of land on the same section. Six years after that lie disposed of tlhat tract at a good price and purchased one hundred and fifty-three acres of fine land, onehalf mile west. lie actively entered upon tlhe tlhe work of improving it, and subsequently added forty more acres to it, and still has that place in his possession. It is under the best of tillage and is supplied with fine buildings. In 1883 he settled where he now resides on eighty acres of land on section 2, andl has here one of the most attractive places in Athens Township. Tlie honorable career of our subject is well worthy of emulation by the youth of to-day, who..~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ^ ^ * ~~~~~~~~~~~~~. 224 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -- = are starting out in the world to seek their fortunes with no capital, as all that he is and all that he has lie owes to his indomitable energy, ambition and devotion to his work. From early childhood, as we have seen, he has had his own way to make in the world, and he has done well, for he has risen from poverty to be one of the wealthiest citizens of his adopted townshili. In the accumulation of his property he has been of great assistance in promoting the growth of Athens and has in other ways advanced its.welfare. In former years he gave his allegiance to the Whig party, but since the formation of the Republican party has been one of its most sturdy adherents. Our subject has had the companionship and encouragement of a devoted wife these many years, as he was married March 4, 1855, to Mary L. Barker. Eight children have been Lorn to them: Marian M., widow of C. Fuller; Neora Jane, widow of Martin V. Ensminger; Charles E.; Frank and Fred, twins; Ervin; Halsey E. and John. Mrs. Corey was born at Prattsburg, Steuben County, N. Y., and is a daughter of Enoch and Harriet (,Gillett) Barker, natives respectively of Massachusetts and Ontario County, N. Y. Her father was a son of Samuel Barker and his wife Olive (Johnson) Barker, who, duriig some period of their wedded life, removed from Massacilusetts to Yates County, N. Y., where they died on a farm. They were the parents of twelve children. Mrs. Corey's mother was a daughter of Jabez and Hannah (Holcomb) Gillett, who removed from Connecticut to New York, where they spent their last years. Mr. Gillett was a gallant soldier in tile Revolutionary War. Mrs. Corey's father was a farmer. IHe came to Michigan with his family in 1849 and settled on section 2, Athens Township, on a tract of eighty acres of land. He became quite prosperous, and in time owned one hundred and twenty acres of land, which he developed into a good farm, which remained his home until death called him hence in 1855, at the age of sixty years. His widow survived him until she reached the venerable age of seventy-seven years. They were both active and devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal Church for many years. They reared nine chil I I dren, as follows: Harvey S., deceased; Sallie, now Mrs. Servis; Oren, who died and left three chil. dren; Sophia, now Mrs. Wood, of New York; Mary; Melissa, who (lied; Charles, deceased; Martha, now Mrs. Fuller; and Martin, who was drowned in Oregon in 1861. ISS ERNESTINE J. HICKS, M. D. The sub jct of woman's rights has many phases and whatever belief we may hold regarding their use of the ballot we cannot deny that to the agitators, "cranks" as they are often called, is due the place women now hlold in the professions. It is now acknowledged that they are capable of efficient work in several lines, and in none are their services more highly valued than in medicine. Battle Creek is not without a representative of the true woman and able physician in tlhe person of Miss Ernestine J. Hicks, who is securing a fair share of r)actice, although she has been (stablished here but a few months. 1)r. Iicks is a daughter of William Chauncey and Jane. (Bunker) Hicks, natives of Genesee County, N. Y., and Morrow County, Ohio, respectively, the families from which they sprung being of New England origin. Her parents still live in P'ellnfield. Her grandfather, William H-licks, came to Michigan in the year 1836, locating in Pennfield, this county, where lie continued to reside until called hence in September, 1880. HIe devoted his attention exclusively to farming, and is well remembered by inhabitants of the same section, as a painstaking agriculturist and a kindly and upright man. He and his wife were blest with nine children, five sons and four daughters. The natal day of Ir. Hicks was July 4. 1859. She was educated in the country schools of this county, supplementing the instruction there received by a year's attendance in the Battle Creek Hig!l School. She turned her attention to the profession of a teacher, and taught in tlhe country schools several years. An aunt, Dr. Alice B. Stockham, proprietor and manager of the Sanitary Pub All. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ATLBUM, 227 lishing Company in Chicago, was indirectly the cause of her taking up the study of medicine, a taste for which seems inherentin the family. After some preliminary investigation of the principles of therapeutics, Dr. Hicks entered the Department of Medicine and Surgery of the Michigan State University at Ann Arbor, and pursued her studies there until her graduation in the Class of '89. She had taken the full three years' course, and had a year's practice in the hospital, so that she is as thoroughly informed in both medicine and surgery as any gentleman who has chosen the same field. Immediately after receiving her diploma, Dr. HIicks opened an office in Battle Creek, and has made a good start on the road to fame. She belongs to the Battle Creek Academy of Medicine, and to the Calhoun County Medical Society. Although carrying on a general practice, Dr. Hicks pays special attention to diseases of women and of the nervous system, feeling that here is the greatest opportunity and the greatest need. A womanly woman, her quiet and well-bred manners give constant refutation to the idea that professional life or high mental attainment must necessarily be accompanied by masculine traits and actions. She is regarded as one whose residence in Battle Creek reflects honor upon the city, and her future career is looked forward to with great interest, both for lher personal sake and by reason of the cause which in a certain phlase she represents. ILLIAM J. GREGG, Clerk of Calhoun County. That tile development of a country depends upon the energy and industry of its individual citizens cannot be better illustrated than by the career of Mr. Gregg, whose portrait is presented on the opposite page. Indefatigable, self-reliant and persistent, with genial manners and kindness of heart, it is not to be wondered at that his influence is great. He was elected County Clerk in 1888, assuming the duties of the position January 1, 1889, and bringing to his official labors I I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ tile shrewd judgment, keen insight into men and things, which has always characterized him in every position of trust and responsibility. After serving one term as Clerk he was re-elected in 1890 by the largest majority of any candidate, which attests his popularity not only in the ranks of his party, but among the people, and a man so eminently qualified for the place he occupies, should continue to be re-elected as long as he will accept the position. The early recollections of Mr. Gregg are associated with the pioneer scenes of Calhoun County, of which he is a native. He comes of good Revolutionary stock, his great-grandfather, Michael Gregg, having been an officer in the Continental army. He was born in Clarendon Township July 22, 1839, in the pioneer home of Michael Gregg, one of the early settlers of this part of Michigan. His grandfather, James Gregg, was born in Pennsylvania in 1785 and was of Scotch antecedents. Michael Gregg was also a native of the Keystone State, and was born in 1811; hie was reared on a farm, and having a natural taste for that calling, in due time became a tiller of the soil. Upon attaining to years of maturity he was united in marriage with Ruth W. Clark, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1815, and was a daughter of John Clark, a native of Maryland and of English descent. Their marriage was solemnized in their native State, whence, after the birth of one child, they removed in 1836 to Michigan, becoming early settlers of Clarendon Township. In the locality where he first settled in Calhoun County, the father of our subject improved a farm from the raw land and continued to reside there for several years. Some years afterward he removed to Homer and engaged in the mercantile business. He still resides in Homer and has attained the venerable age of eighty years; his faithful wife also survives at the age of seventy-six years. There were born to this good couple four children, of whom two only survive-our subject and his sister, Eva F., the wife of C. A. Barnum of Homer; Mary E. died in infancy; John C. was a brave soldier during the late war and died of disease contracted by exposure. He lies buried in Washington, D. C., where he (ied in 1863. William J. Gregg lived on a farm in his early 228 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. life and was given fair educational advantages in the Homer Academy where he pursued an excellent course of study and thus became fitted for the practical duties of life. After leaving school he spent five years as commercial traveler for a Detroit firm. He then entered the employ of the Michigan Central Railway Company as station agent at Homer and held that position for eighteen years, only resigning it when he was elected County Clerk in 1888. He makes a fine civic official, possessing an intelligent understanding of the duties devolving upon him, and winning favorable opinions on all sides for his faithfulness and efficiency. He has had other experience in public life, as he was President of the village of Homer for four years, Sclool Director for a number of terms, School Inspector one term, a member of the Conmon Council at Homer for one year, and Justice of the Peace for eight years. Politically, he is allied with the Republicans who value his counsels and have made him Secretary of the County Central Committee of that party. He is also earnestly interested in promoting the social and religious welfare of the county; he and his wife are among the leading members of the Presbyterian Church at Homer and he is a member of the official board of that church. Mr. Gregg has been prospered financially and has acquired a valuable property, as besides his commodious residence he owns a good orange grove of forty acres of land on which are planted six hundred trees that are in bearing, the grove being situated in Volusia County, Fla. Mr. Gregg and Miss Frances B. Henderson of Homer were married October 30, 1867, and of their pleasant wedded life one daughter has been bornEdytl L. Mrs. Gregg is also a native of Calhoun County and a daughter of Edward and Fanny (Bordwell) Henderson, who were pioneers here. An enviable position in social circles is occupied by Mr. and Mrs. Gregg, and those who visit the pleasant family residence at No. 205 Mansion Street are sure of a cordial reception by the genial host and his excellent wife. Sunday-school work has always engaged the attention of our subject and in its progress he is deeply interested. He is now President of the Calhoun County Union Sunday-school Association, which office he has held since its organization five years ago. He has the satisfaction of knowing that it has become a permanent institution of the county and an instrument of continual and increasing good to all its inhabitants. ARTIN FRENCH has met with unqualif ed success in his business as a farmer and stock-raiser, and is numbered among the most prosperous men of his calling in Burlington Township, where he has a farm that is firstclass in all its appointments and compares with the best in this vicinity. Mr. French is a native of Broome County, N.Y., July 18, 1842, the date of his birth. His parents, Thomas A. and Polly S. (Temple) French, were born in Massachusetts. His paternal grandfather, Thomas French, was a native of Massachusetts. He married and reared a family of children, as follows: Marietta, Samson, Nancy, Hiram, Polly, Thomas, Chauncy and Harriet. The daughters all died in New York; Samson died in Ohio; Chauncy in Iowa; and Hiram and Thomn'is came to Michigan to spend their last days. The father of our subject took up his residence in this State in the fall of 1843, coming hither by boat to Detroit, and from there making his way through the wilderness to Jackson, whence he came to this place and located on eighty acres of land on section 10, where our subject resides. He actively entered upon the pioneer work of putting his land into a tillable condition, but in the midst of a busy life was stricken by death in the month of November, 1848. He was still in the prime of life, only forty years of age, having been born in May, 1808. He was regarded as a valuable citizen by the people among whom he had come to live, and they early called him to assist in the management of public affairs. Thus it was that he held several of the township offices. His widow, who was born May 4, 1809, is still living at a venerable age. She is the mother of eight children, namely: Nancy, who died at the age of five years; Mary A., who died at the age of twenty years; Rebecca, who married and reared a PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 229 -I — ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ family; James M.; Sidney, who died at the age of nine years; Iallas A., who died, leaving a family; and Nancy A., wife of William Cowles. Our subject early became used to farm life. He ceived his education in the district schools and at Burlington, and when fifteen years old began to work out at $10 and $12 a month. Ile then returned to the parental home and worked his father's farm on shares. After marriage he located on forty acres of land, near which he now resides, which he purchased in 1861. He lived in Newton Township two years, and in the spring of 1866 purchased his father's homestead. lIe now has in his possession one hundred and seventy-three acres of choice, highly productive land, of which one hundred and forty acres have been cleared and have been most substantially improved. He has a fine set of buildings, including a commodious, conveniently-arranged residence, where comfort reigns supreme and hospitality abides. October 14, 1863, is the date of the marriage of Mr. French and Miss Belle Cole. They have had five children, as follows: May B., wife of James P'lillips; Delmont R., a resident of Hammond, Ind.; Edith R., who died at the age of thirteen months; Thomas G. and Rollin M. Mrs. French was born in Yates County, N. Y., and is a daughter of David and Betsey N. (Rogers) Cole, natives of New York. The wife and mother died in New York in 1849. Her father came to Burlington Township in 1854, where he carried on business as a farmer for many years until his death October 11, 1883, at the age of sixty-six years. IHe was twice marIied, and Mrs. French was the only child of his first marriage. The maiden name of his second wife was Thirsy Aldrich, and they had three sons annd one daughter, all of whom grew to maturity and married, with the exception of one. They were members in high standing of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Our subject started out in life with a capital of $250, which he has increased to a comfortable conletence and is now one of the substantial men of this township. Iis fellow-citizens, recognizing his ability and excellent capacity for the management of affairs, have called him to two very important oflices in the local government. Thus for four terms he was Treasurer and for one term he represented Burlington Township on the County Board of Supervisors. In politics he acts with the Democrats. Socially he is a member of,the Masonic fraternity. lHe has led an honorable life, and none but know him but to respect him for the genuine worth of his character. ON. JAMES WALKINSHAW. In the (death of Mr. Walkinshaw Calhoun County lost one of ler most plrominent citizens. He was an energetic, extensive and highly successful tiller of the soil, and for many years as a stanch Republican he was conspicuously identified with party politics. He was born in the parish of Barthwick, Midlothian, Scotland, July 10, 1810, acquired a common-school education, and at the age of twelve years began to learn the trade of a bookblinder. lie served the usual apprenticeship at the business, but after accompanying his parents to the village of Lochgelly, Parish of Auchterdern, Fifeshire, was employed in his father's coal works. In 1835 he was married to Miss Janet Henderson who was born in Kincardine, and was a sister of John Henderson, who is represented in this work and in whose sketch the ancestral history will be folund. In 1842 Mr. Walkinshaw with his wife and four children came to America, the first town visited being Detroit, where they arrived in June. Hearing good reports of Marshall, Mr. Walkinsbaw conclu(led to come here, which he did two weeks later. His first employment was warehouseman, under the State railroad authorities who at that time controlled the road now known as the Michigan Central. lie served in this capacity for five years in Marshall and Kalamazoo, and during his connection with the company purchased eighty acres of raw land in Convis Township. At the expiration of his year in Kalamazoo, he settled upon this land, and being pcssessed of an unlimited amount of tact and energy, he was soon able to add to his original purchase. At the time of his death the Walkinshaw homestead comprised over eight hun ) 230 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. dred acres, mostly improved and choice land, with a handsome residence and numerous and commodious outbuildings. The motto of Mr. Walkinshaw was that of poor Richard: " Ie who by the plow would thrive, Himself must either hold or drive," and upon that principle lie worked. This was the secret of his success and was exemplified by his persistent industry and careful thrift. He took pride in the raising of stock, from which source he added considerably to his wealth. His career as a farmer is a striking illustration of what a man of the proper calibre c(an accomplish when he sets out to do anything. The wife of Mr. Walkinshaw's early manhood died in 1849. She was the mother of six children, all living: Euphemia, now Mrs. Ht. DeMott, of Gratiot County; John, who lives in Missouri; James, a farmer in Convis Township; Henry, a prominent farmer in the same township; Anna, wife of A. R. Vary, of Marshall; and David, whose sketch appears in this volume. Henry is Secretary of the Farmers' Mutual Fire Insurance Company, of Calhoun County. He enlisted in Company I, Twentieth Michigan Infantry, August 12, 1862, and was one of the most noticeable figures in that body, being excelled in height but by two in the company. He took part in the battles of Fredericksburg, Leonard Station, London Heights, siege of Knoxville, the Wilderness and Spottsylvania. At the last-named engagement, May 12, 1864, he was woundled in the right leg, and being obliged to enter the hospital, remained there until his discharge April 12, 1865. The marriage of Mr. Walkinshaw to Miss Jemima Beatson was solemnized March 20, 1851, and was blest by the birth of ten children, namely: George, Charles, William, Abe Lincoln, Bessie, Mary, Hannah and Ellen; two died in infancy. The sons are engaged in farming in Convis Township; Mary is the wife of L. D. Nickerson, of Convis Township, this county, and the other daughters are at home. Mrs. Walkinshaw was born in the Parish of Burnt Island, Fifeshire, Scotland, November 3, 1827, was the eldest of a family of four children and the only one who came to America. Her early life was spent on the coast of the Firth of Forth and she received a liberal education in a ladies' seminary. In June, 1850, she left Glasgow in the "Herald Greenoch" and after a pleasant voyage of six weeks landed in New York City. She came to Oakland County, Mich., remaining at White Lake until a short time before her marriage. She occupies the homestead, having one hundred and twenty acres of choice land on section 9, with the finest farm residence in the county, and also owns a dwelling in Marshall. She is a thorough business woman, and since the death of her esteemed husband has carried on her portion of the farm very successfully. She is a devout Presbyterian, attends church in Marshall, and although not entitled to a vote, she is in principle a stanch Republican. The paternal grandfather of Mrs. Walkinshaw was Robert Beatson, who was a stonecutter by trade. Her father, David Beatson, who was born in Auchterdern, Fifeshire, Scotland, was a foreman or overseer of a large farm there. He died in 1882, at the age of seventy-nine years. He had long been an Elder in the Presbyterian Church. His wife, Elizabeth Ellis, born in Kinrosshire, Scotland, survived until 1886. Her father, John Ellis, was a millwright by trade and was a son of Robert Ellis who owned a good estate. This Robert Ellis and his wife were Jacobites, or followers of Prince Charles Edward Stuart, commonly known as the Pretender, and Mrs. Ellis baked bread and made cheese to send to the soldiers of "Prince Charlie." The Hon. Mr. Walkinshaw was associated with the Republican party from its formation, and after having been elected by his political friends to the County Board of Supervisors for sixteen consecutive years was in 1876 sent to the State Legislature, as Representative from the First District of this county. The legislators were in session one hundred and forty days that ear, and during the entire term, except one day, when excused on account of indisposition, Mr. Walkinshaw occupied his seat, thus manifesting a commendable interest in the affairs of the people he was representing. He was a conscientious, deep thinking man, and as a legislator rendered valuable service to the State, as well as to his own district. He was a delegate to nearly i I \-Z PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 233 --- -- -- I all the State conventions until the later years of his life, and participated enthusiastically in the political affairs of the county. About 1882 he removed to Marshall in order to free himself from the arduous labors of farm life, although he continued to superintend his business until February 14, 1887, when he had a stroke of paralysis. From that time until his death, August 18, 1887, he was in feeble health. Mr. Walkinshaw was a member of the Presbyterian Church and a grand good man in every respect. His funeral took place from his homestead in Convis Township the Sunday afternoon following his demise, and was attended by an immense throng, being in fact one of the largest ever known in the county. The services were conducted by the Rev. Mr. Spofford, who spoke from the text: 'If a man die, shall he live again?" The Scotch custom of having the surviving sons of the deceased bear the remains to the grave was observed, the eight sons of Mr. Walkinshaw acting'as his pall-bearers. < I EILLIAM H. ASON. The portrait on the opposite page represents a well-known business man of Battle Creek and one closely identified with its financial and social interests. He is senior partner in the firm of Mason, Rathburn & Co., lumber dealers, which is one of the foremost companies in the city and has been established for nearly a quarter of a century. His financial ability, acute perceptions and wise methods have resulted in winning from Dame Fortune a fair share of her favors, and he ranks among the men of substance in the county. Alfred and Charlotte (Goodrich) Mason were born in Vermont and Connecticut respectively and came to this county in 1836. Mr. Mason was a wagon-maker by trade. He opened a shop in Verona, then for years the rival of Battle Creek but now swallowed up in the latter, and after long years of usefulness and honor died here November 6, 1888, at the venerable age of eighty-three years. During the last ten or twelve years of his life he lived in retirement. To him and his estimable wife I four children were born: Mrs. C. H. Hodskin, now living in Manistee; Mrs. H. D. Toby, of Kalama. zoo; William H., and Charles S., a machinist with the Advance Thresher Company. Our subject was born here November 9, 1842, and was reared with a knowledge of farming. Although not yet of age when the Civil War began he felt the effects of the wave of patriotic fervor that swept over the North and determined to give the strength of his right arm to his country. He enlisted in Company C, Second Michigan Infantry, April 23, 1861, for three months and at the expiration of his term re-entered the service, this time for three years. He served the full term, although during the Peninsular campaign he contracted the typhoid fever from which he did not fully recover and therefore was put on detached duty in Hampton Hospital in the commissary department. He took an active part in the battles of Bull Run (the first), Yorktown and Williamsburg, and when unfitted for the hardships of campaigning did all he could to aid the cause by faithful work where he was placed and by his sympathy with the efforts of stronger men. After the war closed Mr. Mason returned to Battle Creek and entered into the lumber business with Messrs. Rathburn & Green, the firm becoming Mason, Rathburn & Co. lie was one of the first to become interested in the Advance Thresher Works and still retains his connection with that establishment, in the building up of which he has shown more zeal than in any other business. Mr. Mason was appointed Postmaster July 1, 1890. He has sat in the City Council six terms, and as an Alderman showed an earnest desire to add to the prosperity of the city by wise improvements and the encouragement of all good enterprises. IIe was at one time a candidate for the Mayor's Chair, but was unsuccessful in the race. The political allegiance of Mr. Mason is given to the Republican party. As would naturally be supposed he is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic; he also belongs to the Knights of Pythias and the Ancient Order of United Workmen. Hle was fortunate in being able to win for his wife Miss T. J. Kneeland, of Montgomery County, N. Y., with whom he was joined in wedlock October 16, 234 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 1870. The marriage has been blessed by the birth of the Grange. He was an earnest worker in the of a daughter, Cora B., now a student in Helmuth Baptist Church and devoted much of his time to College, at London, Canada, and already quite its interests. He was a good speaker and a fine accomplished. Mr. and Mrs. Mason belong to the singer, and his voice was often heard advocating best circles in Battle Creek, and at home and in some good cause or lifted tip in song and praise. society are agreeable, intelligent and courteous. He was a Deacon in the church, a position which his father had held before him. He was an upright, I `____'_______________ |_ _ ^__ ~honorable, straightforward man in whom there was no guile, and none knew him but to respect him for his great personal worth. I > ICHARD S. POOLE was for many years a Mr. Poole was eminently happy in his domestic prominent and influential citizen of Cal- relations. In early manhood he was married to houn County, was a successful farmer, own- Julia M. Dickinson, a native of St. Lawrence ing and managing a fine farm in Pennfield County, N. Y., and she co operated with him in Township, not far from Battle Creek; was well- his work and was ever to him a faithful wife and known in public life, and was a conspicuous figure true helpmate. She came to Michigan with her in social and religious circles. In the midst of an parents when but four years old and was here reared active and useful career his busy life was brought to womanhood. Her marriage with our subject to a close by his untimely death, when scarcely was solemnized February 9, 1859. In 1889 she past life's meridian. His community was thus removed with her family from the farm in Penndeprived of one of its best citizens, his family of a field Township, which is still in her possession, to loving husband and father, and his associates of a Battle Creek. To Mr. and Mrs. Poole were born stanch friend. eight children, as follows: Floyd, a telegraph Mr. Poole was born near Batavia, N. Y., Febru- operator at Battle Creek; Herbert 1)., a resident of ary 21, 1837. His parents, David and Maria (Chap- Evansville, Wi.; Richard Jr., who lives at Battle man) Poole, were natives of Connecticut. When Creek; Leroy, a resident of Marshall; Edith, a he was about sixteen years of age they came to school teacher; Grace, who is attending school; Michigan and located a little east of Battle Creek. Lillian and Harold. Richard was brought up to farming pursuits and in due time became a farmer on his own account and was much prospered in his calling. His farm was finely adapted to wheat growing purposes and he raised much of that grain, from the sale of which IHEODORE E. SANDS, M. D., is a young lie derived a good income. His farm was under physician who already occupies an important fine cultivation and had many valuable improve- position in the medical world as the head of ments, making it one of the most desirable pieces the well-known institution, "Health Home," which of property in its vicinity. His death occurred has gained a high reputation as a place for the October 23, 1885, and was mourned far beyond the treatment of various chronic diseases. The Doctor home circle, as he was a man who had drawn to was born in Shippingport, Pa., in 1860. His fahimself many warm friends, and his place in his ther was captain of a boat for many years on the community can never be adequately filled. Ohio River. Our subject passed his early life in Mr. Poole was active in public life and was often his native place and was given excellent school called upon to assist in the management of civic advantages. At the age of eighteen years he was affairs. At one time he represented his township graduated from the High School of Napoleon, on the County Board of Supervisors. He was Ohio, and he then turned his attention to the law. School Director of hib township and was promi- After pursuing a course of legal study, he was nent in Grange work, he being at one time Master regularly admitted to the bar, but soon abandoned PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 235 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 235 that profession to take up the study of medicine under Dr. Fairfield. He subsequently attended medical lectures in the Michigan University at Ann Arbor, and also in the Starling Medical College at Columbus, Ohio. After completing his course there he came again to Battle Creek to act as assistant to his old preceptor, Dr. Fairfield, in the "Health Home." In a short time Dr. Fairfield retired from the head of the institution, which then fell under the management of our subject. It ic all that its name implies, a "'Iealth Home." It is well fitted up, is perfectly ventilated, is supplied with every known modern appliance for the relief of suffering, and is admirably adapted to the wants of the patients who are accommodated here, some forty or fifty in number. Aside from the care of the "Home," the Doctor has a large private practice and is regarded as a rising physician. He is a constant student, keeping himself well informed in medical matters, and he is a tireless worker. Dr. Sands was married in 1888 to Miss Hilah Miller, of Battle Creek, who is a lady of fine character and( much culture, and is well calculated to assist him in his professional career. The Doctor is a man of excellent personal habits, is strictly temperate in all things, and is one of the pillars of the temperance organization, and a member of the Fraternal Mystic Circle. Lie attends the Independent Congregational Church, and is generous in his contributions toward its support. He is thoroughly independent in politics, bound by no party ties. HARLES B. CONVIS. In noting the great change that has taken place in this country during the last fifty years, due credit should be given to those who contributed to the gratifying result by expending physical strength, enduring self-denial and encountering dangers while leading the vanguard of civilization. It is due to the gentleman whose name introduces this biography to credit him with more or less pioneer work, while to his father an even greater meed of remembrance is due for the part he took in the early work of development here. Charles Convis was but an infant when the family came to this county, with whose interests he has been closely identified as boy and man. Lte is now pleasantly located on section 32, Pennfield Township, enjoying the many comforts which result from honest and industrious efforts, and pleased and proud to see around him a populous and prosperous region. Grandfather Convis was born in the Green Mountain State, but dlied in Chautauqua County, N. Y., at an advanced age. EHe was a farmer, and to that occupation reared his son Samuel, father of our subject, who was also a native of Vermont. From the Empire State Samuel Convis came hither in 1832, making the journey with an ox-team. He located land on the present site of Battle Creek, where there was at that time but one settler. Ie traded his first location for one on which Charles Merritt now lives, and still later made another exchange, becoming the owner of one hundred and twenty acres on section 2, Pennfield Township. There were many Indians in the county then, and they frequently visited his cabin. His wife learned to use the Pottawatornie language quite fluently. Deer were very numerous, and wolves scarcely less so, and some bears were encountered here nndl there. The year following his own arrival here Samuel Convis brought his family and established his permanent home. He removed the forest growths on most of the homestead, and gave his aid, as was the custom of the pioneers, to others from time to time, doing much hard work in those early days. lie attended the first Fourth of July celebration held in Battle Creek, and participated in the many gatherings which drew the settlers together for mutual pleasure and profit. Iis political adherence was given to the principles of Democracy, and he officiated in some township offices. He was not only an energetic and kind-hearted man, but one whose piety was sincere, and whose desire for the good of those about him was manifested whenever an occasion presented. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, in the faith of which he entered into rest, July 21, 1883. How much the trials of the pioneers were ameliorated by the faithful women who bore their share in the hardships with cheerful and uncomplaining spirit, cannot be estimated. Mr. Convis was fortu 236 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. nate in having for his companion a Christian woman whose strength of character especially fitted her for life on the frontier. She bore the maiden name of Matilda Gage, was a native of New York, and a consistent member of the Presbyterian Church. Six childien were born to them, viz: Lovica, Manley, Caroline M., Anna D., Charles B., and Asa, of w ](in (1} 11 The subject of this notice was born in Chautauqua County, March 23, 1831, and came to this county in 1833. He was educated in the subscription schools, the temple of learning in which he sought for knowledge being a log schoolhouse, with an open fireplace in one end, a writing desk around the wall, and slab benches supported on wooden pins. The first school he attended was in District No. 1, one and a half miles north of his present residence. Notwithstanding the disadvantages under which he labored, he secured a practical knowledge of the important branches, and laid a good foundation on which to build information gained by contact with mankind or by judicious reading. Iis recollections include among the earliest pictures, tile sight of deer and wolves, and the sound of the howls of the last-named around the home. He used to hunt considerably when old enough to landle a gun, and many a deer was laid low by his unerring shot. Young Convis worked on the farm until the gold excitement which followed the discovery of the precious metal in California, when he was roused to such a pitch of eager desire that he could not content himself with the uneventful life of a farmer. In 1852 he visited the coast, going by water and remaining in California nearly four years, seeking for the precious metal. He was more successful than many have been, but was satisfied after a few years to return to this State and resume an agricultural life. He bought a farm in Pennfield Township whereon he made his home until 1863, when he sold it and bought one hundred acres of his present estate. To this he has since added forty acres, and upon it he has made most of the improvements. The dwelling now occupied by the family was erected by him in 1863 at a cost of $900 aside from his own labor, and he built a barn in 1864 at a cost of $800. He has raised, considerable stock, prin cipally Holstein cattle, but by no means neglects the cultivation of the cereals. On October 7, 1857, was the date of an interesting ceremony by which Mr. Convis gained a helpmate and companion. The lady to whom he was then united in marriage, was Elizabeth Percy, who was born in Jefferson County, N. Y., March 14, 1835, and is an intelligent, capable woman. The marriage has been blest by the birth of three children, viz: Chapin G., Vernon B. and Ida M. The last-named died at the age of four years. Mr. Convis has been School Treasurer for nine years. lHe is a member of the Grange, and in politics is a Democrat. He is a good farmer as his success in life proves, discharges the duties of citizenship in an honorable way, and receives from those about him a just measure of respect. i- i_____ 4"*-^ 1y,?tL. __ m NDREW C. STAFFORD. Battle Creek Township is a rich agricultural center, and there are many choice farms and pleasant homes within its limits. Our subject is the fortunate proprietor of one of these well-improved estates, and he is managing his farming affairs wisely, deriving a good annual income from tilling the soil. Mr. Stafford is a son of Elhanan Winchester and Sylvia (Collins) Stafford, and he was born in Essex County, N. Y., October 16, 1829. His grandfather Stafford went forth from his home at the age.of eighteen years to take part in the fight against the British at the battle of Plattsburg, in the War of 1812, and while on his way to the field was wounded by a cannon ball. In after life he became a pensioner of the Government and lived to be nearly one hundred years of age. Both the parents of our subject were natives of New York, where the father carried on farming until his removal with his family to Ohio in pioneer times. He located first in Cayuga County, and afterward moved to Sangamon County, Ill. Our subject accompanied his parents to their new home in the wilds of Cayuga County, and subsequently went to Medina County, in the same State. At the age of twenty years he followed his father to Sanga I l~ i: ~~~~~~g ~'!ii i~ c,iii~'~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~:I...~?i.. i!: ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ i I;~j~~ ~ Pa~~:: ~ ~- -" ~~ ii i i~r~!~!~!Ii ~ir:~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~' -i~ ~,!~i'?~ ~, ~i~ "~i~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~:: -.i~~~~'?,~r, i~,?i~i~~ ~i~ ~:- ~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 239:7 -—, -- -- ------- ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 1- 1~- - --— ~` ~I — - I ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ^-~-~ I I - ~ - - - - mon County, Ill., whither the latter had preceded him two years before. Our subject remained there twelve years and industriously carried on farming in the Prairie State until he came to this State in 1861. H-e bought his present pleasant home in 1867, having previously farmed it for his wife's father. He has a neat farm of one hundred and six acres in two tracts, has his farm under fine tillage and supplied with an excellent class of buildings and good farming machinery. December 31, 1857, Mr. Stafford was married to Miss Rebecca Dubois, a daughter of Joseph and Nancy (Fowler) Dubois who were natives of Ulster County, N. Y. By this marriage our subject became the father of the following five children: George I)., who married Mrs. Celia Imos and lives at Battle Creek; Henry W., who married Ada Hull and is also a resident of Battle Creek; Nelson, who lives il Battle Creek Township and who married Allie Owen, a native of Genesee County, Mich.; Fannie married Guy Estell and lives in Battle Creek; and Edward, who lives at home. After an unusually happy wedded life of more than thirty years' duration, the beloved wife of our subject passed from life to death on her fiftysixth birthday, August 23. 1889. She had been an invalid for many years, but through all her sufferings she had borne herself witll calm fortitude, a sweet resignation to the inevitable and a neverfailing cheerfulness to the very last, that called out the love and admiration of all who came under her good influence and made her home a happy one for her devoted husband and family. She seemed to have the secret of perpetual youth, as, though she had passed the meridian of life, she looked many years younger than she was. In her the Methodist Episcopal Church had one of its most exemplary members. She passed away lamented and mourned by many far and near, and now lies at rest amid the quiet beauties of Goguac Cemetery. Mr. Stafford is universally respected for those qualities of head and heart that make him a loyal citizen and a man of sound integrity, generous and helpful in his relations with others. He has an intelligent mind and is in sympathy with the social movements of the day. He vgas formerly a Repub lican, but as he is decidedly against monopolies of all kinds, he does not now affiliate with either of the old parties. IHe is a strong advocate of temperance, though not always voting for the candi(lates of the Prohibition party. Our subject has never united with any church but upholds all in their efforts to do good. " --- —*o~^A —..; -^ HIARLES MINER. Among the men who are actively engaged in agricultural pur~~ suits in this county, and are potent factors in promoting its prosperity, stands our subject, and lie is also prorinent in its civic life. He is one of the principal farmers and stockmen of Battle Creek Township, and his well managed farm compares with the best in its vicinity. Our subject was born in Erie County, Pa., August 9, 1833. He is a son of William and Lucy (Sandiforth) Miner, who were natives of Connecticut and came of good New England stock. Mrs. Lucy Miner was a daughter of Daniel and Sarah (Kellogg) Sandiforth, and was a second cousin to the famous Henry Ward Beecher. Mr. and Mrs. Miner removed from their early home to Pent sylvania in 1817, and Mr. Miner was engaged in farming there for many years. To him and his wife were born nine children, of whom these four are living: William, a resident of Nebraska; Orpha living in Erie, Pa., who is the widow of George Hill; Sylvia, also a resident of Erie; and our subject. Charles Miner was brought up to farming pur I f ~ ~ ~ ~ -- I --- —--- ~ - suits, and acquired a thorough knowledge of agriculture in all its branches. He obtained a fair education in the common schools which has been supplemented by observation and experience, so that he is to-day a man of much information. He remained with his parents until he was thirty-two years old, giving his father much assistance in the management of his farm. In the spring of 1866 our subject took an important step in life, seeking greener fields and pastures new in Michigan, and locating on the farm where he now lives. His first purchase comprised eighty-two acres of land to which he has since added twenty acres and has here a cloice farm, that is amply supplied with buildings, and its well fenced fields are under fine tillage and yield good harvests. December 19, 1865, Mr. Miner secured one of life's choicest blessings, a good wife, in the person of Naomi A. Langdon, to whom he was then wedded. Mrs. Miner is a native of Erie, Pa., and comes of a long line of notable ancestry. She is a woman of many rare endowments and of much culture. She is gifted with keen powers of observation and a fondness for nature. She is much interested in ornithology and is a skillful taxiderment. She is a daughter of William and Roxy (Upham) Langdon, natives respectively of Connecticut and Massachusetts. Mrs. Mliner's paternal grandfather's name was John Langdon and his wife was Esther Whitman, a daughter of Maj. Eldridge Whitman. The father of John Langdon was Setl Langdon, and he married Sallie Sloper, a daughter of Gen. Ambrose Sloper. Both Maj. Whitman and Gen. Sloper were brave officers in the Continental army during the Revolution. The Langdons thus trace their ancestry to Colonial times prior to the Revolution and indeed to the early settlement of New England. Mrs. Miner's mother was an Uphanm and her mother's name was Susannah Tilden. Her mother in turn was Freelove F. Britt; her husband was a Scotchman by birth, but became a citizen of this country, and at the time of his death at the remarkable age of ninety-nine years, he owned the largest flourmills at Bridgewater, Mass., near Boston. Nathaniel Upham, grandfather of Mrs. Miner, passed his early life in Boston, Mass., whence he removed to Pennsylvania at an early day. r 6 ";, i 1;:..-~:I -fl;E 4 iv-::.r::::: ~;_;::~ —~:. —:i:.p~LW,4". i,a I i ~; aYf:r::i a -~-~11~ it ~cil $ilt "iI i IC! I a, 6 '(```` I-~~-~:~-.-.:: r;-:' —::: CfL`i.d Vfh fijr C"aj r:_CUYI 4i~::ar:~-:"~; n~ : ~~i;IL:II r: rr.~._~~ ii:::: i*I i.;r,.-I:-: Eil; ..i -..ii:i,~ r f _iI~:;~~.... 1:;" II ii:; ~-~~: A ~si '~; r 1;;I~ I 11I I11 I.1,,. 1"1J; iI: i,:,~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 397 -~~~~1 --- —-11-~~~~~~~~~~~~~9 ^ --- —------ ------ C I —~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Our subject and his wife have a pleasant, attractive home that is the center of refinement. It is tastefully furnished and is adorned with flowers and decorations of art. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Miner, as follows: F. Marion; Ella, a teacher in the public schools; Emma M., also a teacher; Luch J. who died November 8, 1886 at the age of thirteen years; and Charles E., at home. Mr. Miner possesses the necessary shrewdness, forethought and activity to be successful in life, and is classed among the good business men of the township. He is a man whose frank and open character and other pleasant personal attributes have attracted to him many friends, and his ability has made him useful as a civic official in the various responsible offices that he has held from time to time. He is unswerving in his allegiance to the Republican party, and is active in its interests. He represents Battle Creek Township as a member of the County Board of Supervisors, which position he has held with honor for two years, and he has also been Justice of the Peace for a like length of time. /l APT. EPHRAIM MARBLE, Treasurer of Calhoun County, was born in Somerset, Niagara County, N. Y., February 12, 1826, and is the youngest of the five children born to John and Anna (Kellog) Marble. His father, a native of Onondaga County, N. Y., was a son of Ephraim Marble, who was in turn a son of Solomon Marble, and his father came from England to America in 1711 and located in Massachusetts where he died. Ephraim Marble was a native of Massachusetts and was engaged there in his occupation as a farmer when the War of the Revolution broke out. He enlisted as a soldier in the Continental ranks and served until peace was declared. Among other battles he took part in the famous contest of Bunker Hill. He was an early settler of Onondaga County, and there he engaged in farming until he removed to Niagara County where the last days of his life were spent. The father of our subject was in the War of 1812 and fought bravely at Lundy's Lane, and at Buffalo. He engaged in farming at Somerset, where he died il 1826. He and his wife were Christian people and were Baptists in faith. The mother of our subject was born in Onondaga County, N. Y., and was a daughter of Stephen Kellog, a native of Connecticut and one of the first to settle in Onondaga County, N. Y. In the course of years he became one of the wealthy farmers of that section of the State but in 1839, during the latter part of his life, he came to Michigan with his son with a view of making his home here. He stopped with the mother of our subject at Saline and there died. He was of Scotch descent, while his wife was of German ancestry. The mother of Ephraim came to Michigan in 1834, and first took up her residence in Saline and later in Springport, where she died at the venerable age of seventy-five years. She had been left a widow when our subject was but six months old, with five children to care for by her own exertions. Nobly did she perform her task and her children revere her name and cherish her memory. Ephraim Marble was a lad of eight years when he came with his mother and other members of the family to Michigan, making the journey in twentyone days through Canada from Niagara County, N. Y., with three yoke of oxen. The first settlement was made near Saline, Washtenaw County, where he continued to live most of the time until he attained his majority. At the tender age of eight years he became self-supporting, working for his board and clothes and attending school only in the winter. His advantages were very limited and he may truly be called a self-made man, for it was only by the force of his ambition and character that he has attained the high position in which he stands to-day. In 1836 he accompanied Charles Hammond to what is now Union City, Branch County, and there witnessed the laying of the axe to the first tree felled for the erection of the first building of in that place. After spending the summer there Mr. Marble returned with Mr. Hammond to Washtenaw County, where he was living at the breaking out of the Mexi 398 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. can War. The patriotism and devotion to his couu- of the growth of Calhoun County. She was given try that had animated his grandfather and his father superior educational advantages, pursuing a good years before, stirred within him a true martial spirit course of study in a select school at Marshall and and he promptly enlisted as a private in the Fif- later at Olivet Institute. She was but sixteen years teentll United States Infantry. His regiment was old when she began teaching and followed that prosent to join Gen. Scott in the march from Vera Cru-z fession some eight years. Possessing true culture to the city of Mexico, and took part in many san- and refinement she understands the art of making guinary battles of that campaign. He and his corn- her home beautiful and attractive. While her husrades gained the first foothold and were the first to band was fighting his country's battles during the pull down the Mexican flag that was waving over late Civil War she was left alone with the care of the ancient castle of Chapultepec, hoisting the Stars three small children. In that trying situation she and"Stripes in its place. By order of Gen. Scott his showed no small business ability in looking after regiment had the honor of holding that citadel, the farm and financial interests, and bravely enwhile the remaining forces assaulted and compelled dured the constant anxiety for her husland. the surrender of the great city of Mexico. After his marriage the Captain settled on a small After the close of the war in 1848, our subject farm of eighty-six acres and divided his time bereturned to Michigan and for a short time sojourned tween teaching and farming until the breaking out at Clarence, in Calhoun County, where he met Miss of the great Civil War. Again he threw aside all Laurenda M. Hatch, and this acquaintance resulted personal aims and ambitions at his country's (all, in their marriage December 6, 1849. Mrs. Marble and in the summer of 1861 helped to raise a comis a daughter of Y. M. Hatch, a native of Connect- pany of soldiers, and on August 4, enlisted as Secicut. Her grandfather, Timothy Hatch, was also a ond Lieutenant of Company F, Ninth Michigan native of that New England State and was a soldier Infantry, in which he served more than three years. of the Revolution. IHe removed from Connecticut For his gallantry and coolness in action and his fidelto Cayuga County, N. Y., where he was a farmer ity on all occasions, he was promoted to be First until his demise. Y. M. Hatch carried on farming Lieutenant and was subsequently commissioned and in New York until 1837, when he brought his fain- ranked a captain by ex-Governor Blair. HIe took ily to Michigan and bought land in Clarence Town- part in all the engagements between Stone River ship, this county, thus becoming one of its earliest and the taking of Atlanta. He was actively engasettlers. He built in the woods and, clearing the ged in the battle of Murfreesboro in July, 1862, land around hlim, improved a choice farm and be- when lhe and five companies of his regiment were came one of the most successful farmers of his com- taken prisoners and sent South. There they suffered munity. IHis wife, who bore the maiden name of for three months at the hands of the rebels, being Hannah Swift, was a very energetic woman and had first imprisoned in Madison, Ga., and the remainder much to do with his success. She was born in Mass- of the time at Libby Prison. achusetts and her father, Jesse Swift, who was also Capt. Marble returned to his regiment after his born in the old Bay State, died in Cayuga County, discharge from piison just in time to participate in N. Y. Mrs. Marble's father died in 1882, at a ripe the battle of Stone River, December 30 and 31, old age. Religiously, he was a firm believer in the 1862, and January 1, 1863. From that time until Universalist faith, while his wife. who died in 1887, the battle of Chickamauga, he did duty as Acting at the age of eighty-eight years at the home of Mrs. Commissary Sergeant on the staff of;General George Marble. was Presbyterian and a consistent Chris- H. Thomas, then in command of the Fourteenth tian. Corps. During the battle of Kenesaw Mountain he Mrs. Marble was the eldest of five children and was assigned to duty as Acting Commissary Sergeant was born in Wolcott County, N. Y., December 2, on the staff of Gen. William Carlin, who was then 1825. She was twelve years old when the family in command of the First Brigade, of the First Diviscame to Michigan, and has been a witness of most ion, of the Fourteenth Army Corps, and he contin. -; I 1. 0. PORLCTRAIT AND BIOGRAPL-HICALI ALBUM. ~399 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 399 ued in that position until the fall of Atlanta, when he returned with Gen. Thomas to Nashville. Soon after leaving the army the Captain sold his farm in Clarence Township and purchased the place he now owns on section 15, Marengo Township, on which he has since made all the improvements. Here he has since resided with the exception of four years spent at Ann Arbor, devoted to the education of his children. His election to the office of County Treasurer, however, necessitated his leaving the farm and removing to Marshall when he entered upon the duties of his office, and he is now residing in that city. His farm comprises one hundred and twenty acres of choice, highly-improved land, amply supplied with substantial buildings and everything necessary for carrying on farming after the best methods. The farm residence is large and commodious, has all the modern conveniences, and is tastefully furnished. Mr. and Mrs. Marble have five children, all of whom have grown to manhood and womanhood. Their eldest child, Clara, attended the High School at Marshall and later was a student in the State Normal at Ypsilanti until her health failed. She afterward devoted some of her time to teaching, prior to her marriage to C. R. Fish, a farmer of Mnarengo Township. Milton, who is represented in this work, is Professor of Chemistry and Physics in the Hillhouse High School at New Haven, Conn.; Beecher and Anderson are mechanics and are em. ployed in the Peninsular Car Works at Detroit; May, the youngest daughter, is a graduate of the Marshall High School, and is at present a teacher in the school of this city. Our subject began his political career as a Democrat and held the offices of School Inspector, Justice of the Peace and Supervisor of Clarence Township through Democratic votes, till the fall of 1854, when he united his fortunes with the Republican party which was then being organized. That party elected him County Superintendent of Schools for two years, 1868 and 1869, and he was afterward for three years Secretary of the County Board of Teachers' Examiners. In the campaign of 1890, he was elected to the office of County Treasurer and is managing the financial interests intrusted to him with skill and fidelity. Socially the Captainl is a member of St. Albans' Lodge, No. 21, A. F. & A. M., at Marshall, and also of the Colegrove Post, G. A. R., in the same city. He and his wife are among the most prominent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Marshall, in which he has held all the church offices. Elsewhere in this volume the reader will observe a lithographic portrait of Capt. Marble. OSEPH M. FAILING. The earliest recollections of this gentleman are of pioneer scenes in this county, to which his parents came in the fall of 1833, when he was but an infant. lIe is probably as well informed regarding the changes that have taken place here as any man now living and his early life bore as important a part in the work of development as any. He is now living in the village of Tekonsha, but carries on a farm on section,33, of the township of the same name, and he is therefore intimately associated with both urban and rural affairs. His residence has been remodeled in accordance with modern ideas of beauty and convenience and is one of the most attractive dwellings to be seen in this locality. The main part of the house is 28x 30 feet, containing eight rooms, and there are two "L's", each 24x25 feet and twenty-two feet from the foundation to the cornice. John Failing, father of our subject, was a native of New York and traced his lineage back to Holland. He was a miller by occupation and worked at his trade continuously until he came West. His journey to this State was accomplished with a team and he located in Marshall, where his first employment was in the brick-yard of his uncle. He then went to work at his trade in the first mill that was put in the town. In 1837 he moved to the village of Tekonsha, then built a log house on section 23, in which he lived at intervals until 1841. Thence he went to Albion and again worked at his trade. He died March 26, 1843, leaving a widow and seven children7 The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Laura Mix, She was born in the Green Moun 4V0 0, PORTRAIT: N: IBIOGRAPHIICAL ALBUM. tain State and was twelve years old when taken by 1860, then went to Sac her parents to New York, where she grew to matur- farming near Stockton. ity and began her wedded life; she is still living and returned to this State and is now in her eighty-fourth year. She con- York City. tracted a second marriage in April, 1844, and the Mr. Failing did not cc union was blest by the birth of a son, Henry F. but stopped in Erie Coun Gilbert, who now lives in Albion. The sons and brated his marriage to Es daughters whom she bore to John Failing are as 1862. The bride was bor follows: Louisa, wife of Charles F. Aldrich, living was surrounded by such i on section 14, Tekonsha Township; Horace, whose estimable character and b home is in Tulare County, Cal.; Joseph M., subject that have since devolve( of this biographical notice; Nancy L., who lived their marriage Mr. and M to be but eighteen months old; Samantha, who died tion 14, Tekonisha Townsl at the age of four years; Peter N., whose home is living there twelve month in Tekonsha; and Juln C., who lives in Tekonsha. in the town of Clarendon. The son whose home is in California went there in they returned to farm life 1853 and his first return trip to his old home was section 23, Tekonsha Toy in 1883. one hundred and sixty ac In Orleans County, N. Y., Joseph M. Failing dred and ten of which was born, February 10, 1833. He was eight months June, 1872, Mr. Failing b old when brought to this county and his first school- which he remodeled and ing was obtained under his mother's instruction in some time past has been t tieir own house, in which she taught school. lie Mr. and Mrs. Failing are afterward pursued his studies in different places, Fred M., born November corresponding to the removals of his parents. Ie 1872; Charies A., born A remained with his mother until lie was nineteen attending school in Tek years old, and assiste, in the care of the family been graduated from the and in the rearing of the three children younger and attended the Normal than himself. He broke prairie with four or five Mr. Failing is a stanch yoke of oxen and did various kinds of work at who converses with him is which hle could find employment. When he began he stands on political que life for himself, he hoarded his resources in order appointed Postmaster at to advance his education, and was soon attending position until the summe the Union school in Milan, Erie County, Ohio. He signed on March 5, of studied there three terms and the ensuing winter relieved until July 13. put in his time in the Huron Institute. elected Township TreasurE In the summer of 1854 young Failing worked on terms and in later years h a farm in Erie County, then learned the trade of twice by appointment. I ship-carpenter at Milan, which was on the Iuron Constable, and he has beei River. lie followed the trade until the fall of Township Clerk, and is 1857, doing Government work a part of the time. been elected to the last-i He then returned to this State and remained here As a public servant he ha until February, 1859, busying himself with farming ting the interests of his cc and carpentry. He then started for Pike's Peak and social circles he has with a team, crossing the Missouri River at Platts- reputation as one who is s mouth and following the Platte River toward the of the times and does not West and South. He remained there until May 1C, ests at the expense of ramento and engaged in He was absent four years via the Isthmus and New )me at once to Michigan, ty, Ohio, and there celether Lowry, December 9, rn and reared in Ohio, and nfluences as to develop an ecome fitted for the duties i upon her. Soon after [rs. Failing located on sechip, this county, but after is, took up their residence In the spring of 1865, making their home on vnship, where they have 3res of fine land, one hunis under the plow. In ought his town property, refitted, and which for;he family dwelling-place. the parents of two sons8, 1865, died June 28, Lpril 21, 1871, and now:onsha. He has already High School in Tekonsha, School at Fenton. Relublican and no one s in any doubt as to wheie?stions. In 1874 he was Tekonsha and held the er of 1885. He had rethat year, but was not In April, 1865, he was er and held the office two as filled the same position n 1865 he was also elected n Highway Commissioner, now Supervisor, having named position in 1887. is been efficient in promonstituents and in business maintained an excellent alive to the requirements advance his own interothers. He has been a PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 401 ------— ---- -- I Mason since 1855, when he was initiated into Erie Lodge, No, 239, in Milan, Ohio; he now belongs to Washington Lodge, No. 7, at Tekonsba. He has filled every chair from Junior Deacon to Worshipful Master. His wife and mother belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church and are highly prized members of society. DEDWIN G. SHUMWAY is the fortunate possessor of a fertile tract of land, from the cultivation of which a good income is cerived. It consists of one hundred and twenty-seven acres on section 22, Tekonsha Township, whereon a full line of farm buildings may be seen. Tile dwelling, barns and other structures are substantial and convenient, and are accompanied by the neat fences, orchards and garden that enter into the appointments of a good farm and home. The land was cleared by the present owner and by him the various improvements were made. Parley P. Shumway, father of our subject, was born in Massachusetts October 2, 1790, and was engaged in calico plinting and tin peddling. His wife, formerly Eusebia Phillips, was born in the town of Florida, Berkshire County, Mass., October 8, 1796, and there became a bride January 9, 1815. In the year 1836 Mr. and Mrs. Shumway came to Eaton County, this State, and were among the first settlers in Walton Township. They purchased one hundred and sixty acres of wild land, put up a log house, and began the pioneer labor that was necessary to develop its resources. Indians were all around them and fifty or sixty camped in their sight for years. They remained on the place until 1854, then removed to this county and established themselves on section 22, Tekonsha Township. This tract was partly improved and on it they permanently remained. Mr. Shumn way died here August 13, 1868, and his widow February 10, 1884. The parental family consisted of thirteen sons and daughters, all now deceased except Norman, who lives in Bellevue; Parley, who lives in Olivet, Eaton County; and our subject. Anson, Anna ---------------------- -~ --- — and Persevery died in Rowe, Mass.; Anna (2nd) in Walton, Mich.; Cynthia, in Bellevue; Eliza, Benjamin, Mary J. and Royal in Olivet. The first to be torn from his parents by death was Anson, who died in 1830, the next was Royal in 1857, and Matilda Paxton died November 22, 1881. The birthplace of Edwin G. Shumway was the town of Rowe, Mass., and his eyes opened to the light March 30, 1834. He was two years old when he came to this State and his recollections are confined to its scenes and incidents. In childhood he saw the wildness of country and the absence of modern conveniences, and when old enough to go to school lie studied in the log scho:lhouse with puncheon floor and slab benches. When somewhat older he went to Olivet. where he took up higher branches and strengthened his taste for reading and knowledge. He returned to the homestead and remained with his parents until their eyes were closed in death. In 1869 Mr. Shumway won for his wife an estimable young lady, who has shown her ability to make a cozy and attractive home and watch over the interests of her family while taking a part in the kindly associations and benevolent deeds of the neighborhood. She bore the maiden name of Martha L. Perkins and was the eldest of seven children com prising the household of Stephen and Mary (Strole) Perkins. She was born in Marengo, but reared in Tekonsha Township. Immediately after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Shumway took up their abode on their present farm, and here eight children have been born to them. Two died in early infancy, Lillian on her fifteenth birthday, Kitty when seventeen months and Bessie when twenty-three months old. Nellie, the firstborn, is the wife of II. A. Horton and lives on a farm a mile south of her parents. Ara and Edwin R. are with their parents, the former being sixteen years old. Witlh the exception of a term as Patlhmaster, Mr. Shumway has not taken part in the public affairs of the neighborhood, but has contented himself with discharging the private duties of citizenship in an honorable manner. He is a Republican, but is sufficiently liberal in his political views to vote for the man rather than the party when there I 402 POT tTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. is decided choice of candidates. He belongs to the United States f Patrons of Industry, and is interested in the vari tion. He was ous projects that are agitated for the good of the during the late people, particularly those which will benefit the active work for agriculturists and the section of country in which butions, and b he makes his home. blessing to two In the work he was called, d i d --. — -~ —" ~ _ 'him success in and money to f f ARLOW D. BUSHNELL. The Bushnell by his own exa homestead, on which this gentleman has work. He was spent the greater part of his life, forms a his time withou part of section 21, Leroy Township. Here his place up to our subject was born December 29, 1849, and here tracts of the ne: he and his four brothers were reared to be honor- ings that now s able and useful members of society. Three of and the dwellin: this fraternal band are still living in the township. the township, a Morris LI. is farming near Petersburg, Va., and he did credit to George lives in Flint, Genesee County, this State. indeed, added t The parents were Dudley N. and Olivia Bushnell, every generatic who were of English and French Huguenot ex- prominence and traction, and who were born in Saybrook, Conn., this country da and Schoharie County, N. Y., respectively. They flower in 1620, were married and for a few years made their home from the land b in Connecticut; when their eldest son was an infant known mernber they came to this county. Here they lived many Bushnell, so fav years, honored and respected, and taking a foremost speaker and a v place in every good movement, and proving them- connected with selves both agreeable and useful in society. The Harlow D. Bu husband died September 5, 1870, but the widow near his home, survived until June 19, 1888. Their mortal re Olivet College f mains were laid away in the Congregational farming as his 1i churchyard, near the home in which they had spent homestead, whic so many pleasant years. He has given mi Mr. Dudley Bushnell was for years Township preference for sl Supervisor and Justice of the Peace, and he was about one hundi always in demand as a counselor when local affairs also feeds and were under discussion. He was not a doctor, but sometimes fully in the early times frequently prescribed for his lieves that those neighbors, who believed him equal to a professional best for all pract physician, as he had spent much time in reading In his early r medical works, and made practical use of the won for his wife knowledge thus obtained. He was an ardent ad- B. and Eliza Eld vocate of human liberty, irrespective of race or and their marria, color, and was active in the underground railroad 14, 1872. The w when this township became the banner one of the 1877, leaving tw. or its stand on the subject of abolialways a stanch Republican, and war manifested his patriotism by r the Union cause, by liberal contriy giving his encouragement and sons who entered the army. of the Church, Deacon Bushnell, as lisplayed the same energy that gave worldly affairs. He gave both time 'urther the cause of his Master and, mple, did even more to advance the a thorough farmer, wisely dividing t being a specialist, and he brought a high rank among the cultivated ighborhood. The substantial buildtand upon it were erected by him, g particularly was as good as any in nd better than most. In all things the honorable name he bore, and, o the name of the family, which in on has given to the world men of I thorough integrity. The line in tes back to the arrival of the Maywhen three of the name emigrated.eyond the sea. Among the wells of the family is the Rev. Horace orably known for his talent as a writer, although he is not closely our subject. ishnell attended the district school and also pursued his studies at 'our terms. Having decided upon ifework, lie lias remained upon the h he has operated most successfully. uch time to stock-raising, having a heep, of which lie keeps a flock of red head from year to year. He markets a considerable number, equaling those he retains. He bewhich produce fine wool are the tical purposes. nanhood Dr. Bushnell wooed and M iss Loda Eldred. daughter of T. red, of Climax, Kalamazoo County, ge rites were solemnized November rife was removed by death -May 14, o children-T. Dwight, who is now PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 403 in school in Montana, and Ada, who lives with her grandparents in Climax. A third child (lied in infancy. After a few years Mr. Bushnell contracted a second matrimonial alliance, wedding Miss Clara G. Wheeler, September 30, 1880. The present Mrs. Bushnell is a daughter of Otis and Jane A. Wheeler, of Leroy, and is an intelligent and worthy woman. Thle union has been blessed by the birth of two daughters —Madge and Bernice. In politics Mr. Bushnell has always been a Republican. He served one term as Township Treasurer, but decided to never again accept an office. preferring to attend to his personal affairs and those public duties which belong to every private citizen. Although he had been solicited to accept other positions of public trust, he has steadfastly adhered to his resolution.' -It is safe to say that the lustre of a name that has been-honurable and well-connected for many generations, is not dimmed by the character and life of thle gentleman of whom we write, and that it isTnot likely soon to be tarnished.,._, \ was a conspicuous figure in the public life of that section of the country, and at one time represented his district for two terms in the State Legislature at Albany. He was the Colonel of a regiment of State Militia with headquarters at Poughkeepsie, and was also Justice of the Peace for many years. Besides carrying on farming he engaged in the mercantile business in D)utchess County for many years. In 1845 he came to this State with his family, and settled upon the farm in South Albion, now owned by our subject which originally belonged to Seth Knowles. The present residence was then built and the improvements since added are of a high class. South Albion Postoffice was kept in his house at an early day, our subject being appointed Postmaster by President James K. Polk. His fellow-citizens recognizing Mr. Angevine's superior qualifications, naturally desired his assistance in the management of public affairs, and they honored him by nominating him to the responsible office of Supervisor of Albion Township, but he refused to serve. He was an old-line Whig in his politics, and stood stanclly by his party. Religiously he was a Presbyterian, strong in the faith. He transferred his membership to the church of that (lenomination at Homer, and later became identified with the Presbyterian Church at Albion. In 1854 lie retired from active farming, and removing to the city of Albion, resided there until his death in1856, at the age of eighty-two years. His venerable wife had preceded him to the grave, dying in 1850, at the age of seventy-five years. They were the parents of fourteen childre,, of"whon six are now living-our subject anl five of his sisters who reside in New York. He of whom we write was born November 9, 1816, in D)utchess County, N. Y. He was educated in the common schools, and it was his father's desire that he should have a military training at West Point, but he had no taste for a military life. Though he began life for himself at the age of twenty-one years he still remained an inmate of his parental home. After coming to Michigan he worked on his father's farm, and finally it fell under his management. After his father's death ihe became its sole possessor and has met with marked success in his farming operations. IHe is the owner of one hun LFRED U. ANGEVINE has been long and honoral)ly identified with the agricultural interests of this county, and his name is closely connected with the history of its cgrowth and development in this regard. He is a well-known and prominent resident of Albion Township, where he has a valuable and handsomely appointed farm, pleasantly located on section 36. His father, Eli Angevine, a native of New York State, was for many years a prominent citizen of this county, to which lie came in pioneer times. Trle family is of French extraction, the ancestors of our subject being among the Huguenots, who left France at the time of St. Bartholemew's massacre and settled in America, on Manhattan Island, near New York City. The mother of our subject was of German descent. Her maiden name was Sarah Ostrom. The parents of our subject were married in New York, and his father was engaged as a farmer in Dutchess County until he came to Michigan. He 404 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. dred and ninety-four acres of most excellent land, Byron married Lena Mount and they have two chilof which one hundred and seventy acres are under dren: Lottie Belle and Harry. Mrs. Kempf is a good cultivation. The farm is well stocked and lady of much culture and refinement. She is a our subject is doing a good business as a general musician of much talent, which has been carefully farmer. cultivated at Albion College, where she was graduIn 1868 Mr. Angevine rented his farm and took ated from the department of music. up his residence in the city of Albion, where he lived for nineteen years. After the death of his wife he returned to his farm. He has here a comfortable and luxurious home and is one of the substantial and wealthy men of the township. He is OHANN BAPTISTE MARTIN was born generous in the use of his means in promoting all June 17, 1866, in the village of Eigeltingen, schemes that will in any way benefit his community, in Baden, Germany. He was the youngest and is charitable towards the needy and suffering. (^^ of thirteen children, of whom seven sons He is a fine representative of the courteous, warm- and one daughter reached manhood and womanhearted gentleman of the old school and is popular hood. Johann's father, Fidel Martin, was himself and greatly liked by the entire community. His a talented musician, and was the first instructor of faith has been that of the Presbyterian Church and his children. In 1872 he, his wife, Rosa (Bachler) during the life of his wife, they were consistent Martin, and family removed from their native members of the church of that denomination at land and settled in America, making their home in Homer. In politics he has always given his alle- Upper Sandusky, Ohio, where he died December giance to the Republican party until within the 28, 1888, and where his widow and two sons still past six years when his strong temperance princi- reside. Each of the sons is proficient on one or ples have compelled him to support the Prohibition more instruments, but only the two youngest, party. He has been a Director of the local schools, Theodore and Johann are professional musicians. and we find him, with true public spirit, always Until the age of fifteen Johann attended school deeply interested in whatever concerns the welfare in Upper Sandusky and studied the flute and vioof his township or county. lin with his father and eldest brother. He then By his marriage with Miss Lousia M. Sheldon, went to Battle Creek, Mich., to study with his November 24, 1847, our subject secured one of the brother Theodore, who was then a teacher of the choicest of life's blessings, a good wife, who was violin at that place. Having laid a good foundaunselfishly devoted to him and their children. Mrs. tion for a musical education, he entered the JacobAngevine was a sister of J. W. Sheldon, the well- sohn School of Music, in Cincinnati, Ohio, when known banker at Albion, and was a daughter of he was twenty years old, in order to perfect himSquire James Sheldon, a prominent pioneer of self further in harmony and violin playing. Upon Albion Township. She was born in 1826, at Parma, his return to Battle Creek he established himself N. Y. After a wedded life of nearly forty years as an orchestral leader and teacher of various with its usual joys and sorrows, Mrs. Angevine instruments, acquiring a high reputation in both passed to eternal rest in February, 1887, leaving capacities. In 1887 he spent the season in Rockbehind her the memory of a true womanhood and ford, 111., engaged in professional work; but the of one who filled in a perfect measure the positions following summer he went to Chicago, where he of wife, mother and friend, remained until February, 1888, when he returned The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Angevine brought to Battle Creek. In January, 1889, he accepted them four clildren: Byron, who carries on the a position as first violinist in the French Opera home farm; Eugenia, deceased; Mary Carlinda, at New Orleans, returning again to Battle Creek familiarly known as Lennie, the wife of George at the close of the season. The high estimation Kempf, of Chelsea, Mich; and Mattie, deceased. in which his musical ability is held in this city g <.X - * 61-^~7 cy4/^^ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 409 is shown by the fact that these frequent changes and interruptions have not prevented him from retaining almost all of his old pupils and as many new ones as he can accommodate. The 25th of November, 1889, Mr. Martin married Miss Nellie HIinman Grandinc. She was born in Battle Creek, where she received her education in the public schools, from which she was graduated in June, 1889. Mr. Martin and his wife are people of higl personal standing and have a large circle of friends. 1 RAM A. PETERMAN, M. D. This gentleman and his honored wife several years since began the special study of that dread disease-consumption, and made the discovery that oxygen and electricity would cure it in its first and second stages, or early in the third. They now devote their time and talents to those wllo are suffering from it, and have established in Maars,all a Consumptive's Home, fitting up a building for the reception and adequate treatment of patients. Both Mr. and Mrs. Icterman are gra(luates of a reputable college and have for years been engaged in practice, doing much to alleviate suffering and having a rare degree of success in restoring the sick to health. The father of our subject was James Peterman, wlho was born at Plymouth, Pa., on the Schuylkill River, in 1780. Hle was an edge-tool maker and farmer. In company with a cousin, he took up a claim of sixteen hundred acres of land, but after it was paid for it was taken from him by a Crown claim from Great Britain. IIc married Ann Bachelder, daughter of Cephas Bachelder, of English lineage, the place of her nativity having been the city of Philadelphia. Mr. Peterman died when his son liram was about three years old and tie widowed mother subsequently took ler family to Monroe County, N. Y. In 1836 slie came to Marshall, where she continued to reside until called hen(e at the venerable age of ninety-six years. She was the mother of nine childen, Hiram being next to the youngest. The birthplace of Dr. Peterman was Sugar Loaf Township, Columbia County, Pa., and his natal day April 27, 1822. He received the greater part of his education in Marshall and pursued his studies one year at Ontario, Ind. He then taught school for a time, after which he took up the study of medicine with Dr. Cyrus Thompson, of Geddes, N. Y., at the time a suburb of Syracuse, now a part of tie city. On completing his office reading, young Peterman entered the Central Medical College in Syracuse, from which he was graduated in 1850. -He began the practice of his profession at South Onondaga, but in 1856, having determined to still further increase his technical teaching, he entered the Eclectic Medical College, of Cincinnati, Ohio, from which he took a second diploma. He then returned to New York, remaining in that State until 1859, the center of his labors being the village of Weedsport, Cayuga County. During the late war Dr. Peterman served a year,enlisting with the understanding that he would be assistant surgeon, but the forces being scatterel, he was sent to Gen. Thomas for special duty. tIe was mustered out in September, 1865, and returning to Marshall, resumed his practice, wliich he has carried on here with unremitting zeal, with the exception of two years. During that time he and his wife were located in Akron, Ohio, where they first introduced their new treatment of consulmption. Dr. Peterman was first married to Miss Lucinda Chapman, of Onandaga County, N. Y., who died, leaving two children-Martha A., now a resident of Onandaga, N. Y.; and Jefferson C., deceased. Tile present wife of the Doctor bore the maiden name of S. Amy Slout, and is the daughter of Plhilip and Hlelena Slout. She was born in Kingwood, Hunterdon County, N. J., but at the time of their marriage she was living in Cayuga County, N. Y. Mrs. Peterman was gr.aduated from thle Eclectic Medical College, in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1857, in the same class with her husband. She gives her entire attention to professional work and is an able eoadjutor to her husband, with whom sle has studied and investigated the disease. of the treatment of which they make a specialty, and others in which they are interested. 410 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. The Drs. Peterman do not claim to cure consumption in its last stages, but have determined the fact that in earlier stages it is curable, and had they done nothing else in medicine would be entitled to gratitude and respect. They have become well known in this part of tile county and their reputation is rapidly extending. In connection with this brief biographical review, their lithographic portraits are presented toiothe readers of the ALBUM. Socially Dr. Peterman Jis a member of the Masonic fraternity and a Knight Templar, and politically he is now a Prohibitionist. He and his estimable wife are consistent members of the Universalist Church and are held in high consideration by the entire: community. in the Empire Stat pursuit of knowledl have become histor settlements. The f county was kept in family living in the afterward put up f No. 1, built of logs It was fitted up, benches and a wri which the scholars made queer hierog teacher boarded arc her services was pro The home of Mr. from the nearest r shanty with a straw for six weeks, wiil being built. No r O 01IN Y. [lICKS. Those interested in pio- started with a flint neer experiences will derive much pleasure family failed to m: from conversation with this gentleman, who John had to go two well remembers many incidents of the early ing was done at A] life in this county. He is a son of William and from Detroit. The Abbie (Younglove) Hicks, who came to this county vicinity was a stage in 1836, finding here but a few who had penetrated mile. Deer and v the wilderness in advance of them. The parents bears were seen quil lived to be more than fourscore years of age, and a panther. Smaller witnessed and participated in the great changes and ducks abounde, which have marked the history of this county from as some deer, were the day of their arrival. In this developing process with his old-fasllior our subject bore a considerable part, beginning somewhat annoyed with the comparatively easy tasks which could be sometimes lost arti< performed by a lad who was not yet in his teens. the savages. Some interesting facts concerning the parents Much of the boy and grandparents of Mr. Hicks will be found in to clearing, as this ( the biography of his brother, Ephraim Hicks, on thing necessary for another page in this ALBUMI, and will serve to indi- the forests and remc cate from what sources our subject derived his one years old he be sturdy traits and in what school they were strength- the work of break ened and increased. He was born in Richmond, months he had cle Ontario County, N. Y., May 15, 1825, and was. forty acres on secti eleven years old when the family made the long which but little im journey to what was then considered the far West, added to it from tir traveling with a team, except from Buffalo to De- sisted of one hundr troit, which distance was covered by a boat. is all included in t The education of young Hicks had been begun has been thoroughly Le, and here he continued his ge under the conditions which ical in connection with frontier irst school he went to in this half of an old log house with a other part. A building was or school purposes in District and 18x24 feet in dimensions. as was the custom, with. slab ting desk around tle wall at who were sufficiently advanced lyphics with a quill pen. The )und1 and the remuneration for )cured by subscription. Hicks was more than two miles leighbor and was only a slab roof. This, however, was but le a substantial log house was natches being used, fires were,and one morning the licks ake their kindlings light and miles to get some coals. Mill[arshall, but flour was hauled only public conveyance in this and the fare was six cents per iolves were numerous, black te frequently, and occasionally game, such as turkeys, geese d, and many of these, as well brought down by Mr. Hicks ied flintlock. The family was by the begging of Indians and eles which were carried off by 'hood of Mr. Hicks was given country was timber and the first settlers to do was to cut down >ve the grubs. When twentyegan life for himself, taking up:ing land, by which in three ared $150. He then bought on 15, Pennfield Township, on provement had been made and ne to time until the farm coned and one acres in a body. It the valley of Battle Creek and r developed and made capable PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 411 of producing large crops of grain and the fruits and vegetables which are common to this latitude. Mr. Hicks has given considerable attention to stock-raising. The tasteful frame house in wlhich he now lives was erected in 1868, at a cost of $1500, and a good barn was built in 1876 at a cost of $500. The less conspicuous but equally necessary buildings which are adapted for the storage of crops or the sllelter of stock, are conveniently located and various arrangements have been made to expedite the farm work. The lady to whom the good cheer of the home is due, became the wife of Mr. H-icks in 1847, prior to which time she had borne the name of Amarancy Dunsmore. She was born il Orleans County, N. Y., lhad thle advantage of careful home training and practical schooling, and capably discharges the duties which fall to her lot. Mr. and Mrs. Hicks lhave had two children, but one of whom is now living: Ada, wife of Alson F. Mead, agent and telegraph operator on the Grand Trunk Railroad at Casopolis. Tl'e fitness of Mr. [Iicks for positions of public responsibility has been recognized by other members of the community and he has been made the incumbent of various offices. IIe has been Township Clerk, and Treasurcr for ten years and has filled minor positions. lIe is a member of the Grange and takes much interest in its workings. Politically, he is independent. IIe keeps himself well informed regarding the topics of the day, pursues his chosen work with energy and skill, and in social circles is entertaining, companionable and considerate. - --— w` * ~;-1 ~ '< ---- \ ERBERT E. WINSOR. This able member of the bar has been Prosecuting Attor1 ney of the county for four years closing January 1, 1891, and has proved himself an officer in whom the people had an earnest advocate of law and order, and an energetic laborer toward an end. He was born at Sterling lill, Conn., October 22, 1850, and is the only son of Horace W. and Sabra (Gallup) Winsor. He has two sisters-EmilyA., wife of Samuel L. McCord,of Mexico, Mo.; and Helen M., wife of James S. Almy, an employe of the Northern Pacific Railroad, whose home is in Glendive, Mont. Both parents were born in tile "land of steady habits," the year of the father's birth having been 1823. and the mother being three years younger. They are now residents of Dwight, Livingston County, Ill. The schooldays of Mr. Winsor were passed in La Salle County, 11., to which his parents had removed when he was about four years old. He prepared for college at La Salle, and entered Hillsdale (Mich.) College in 1869, completing the classical course in 1873, and receiving a diploma. He tlen studied law with William II. Brown and John C. Patterson at Marshall, and was admitted to tle bar in March, 1875. Immediately after being licensed to practice Mr. Winsor began his professional work at Marshall, in which he was actively engaged until the fall of 1876, when he was called upon to serve as Circuit Court Commissioner of Calhoun County. At tle expiration of the term of two years he was re-elected, and continued his official career two years longer. Mr. Winsor then practiced his profession assiduously until 1887, at which time he took Joseph S. Noyes in as a partner. The connection continued until September, 1888, when Mr. Noyes, who was tlhen acting as Prosecuting Attorney, resigned his position. Judge Frank A. Hooker, of the Fifth Judicial Circuit, in whose power the al)pointment rested, appointed Mr. Winsor to the vacant position. During the same year he wtas announced as a candidate and he was elected to succeed himself. In the fall of 1890 his friends again announced him as a candidate, but on this occasion lie wrs defeated by a small majority, owing to a combination of circumstances that have led to the downfall of many an honest and good officer in political life. The wife of Mr. Winsor bore the maiden name of May G. Eldredge and is a daughter of Ilenry Eldredge, of Chicago. She is an estimable woman, born in Conway, Mass., educated at the Normal University, of Illinois, given to hospitality and social enjoyment, but above all else devoted to her home and a consistent Christian. The marriage PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ rites were solemnized in 1876, and three children At the ope have come to bless the happy union, viz: Maude S., his majorit Dwight 0. and Mara A. interest an, During two terms Mr. Winsor represented the the Stars ai Second Ward of the city of Marshall in the Iowa Infan common council. His political allegiance is given cation. Ii to the Republican party. He is a member of the and lie aft Ancient Order of United Workmen. Both Mr. Southern 8 and Mrs. Winsor belong to the Presbyterian excellent s Church and the husband is Sunday-school Super- promotions intendent and has held that position for twelve Mr. Elen years consecutively. A couple of such mental army with culture, good breeding and genuine worth of char- after the cl acter could not fail to make friends, and it is year. Aft scarcely necessary to say that they are held in ness, first high repute in Marshall and wherever they are year, and t under the 1 merchant a gentlemen subject wa RCHIBALD R. HENRY, Treasurer of the Bank at Ir Seventh Day Advent Publishing Associa- that institu tion at Battle Creek, is an energetic and flourishing enterprising business man of marked finan- his present cial ability. lie was born January 28, 1839, in Advent P Van Buren County, Iowa, to James H. and Cornelia He was als (Robbins) Henry, natives respectively of Ohio and tion of Un Connecticut. for which The father of our subject was a farmer in early Buildings' life but he subsequently entered the ministry of 500 and th the Methodist Episcopal Church and was one of greatly ass the pioneers of the State of Iowa. He did a good subject. r work and was well-known as a truly pious and able ity of the man. His death which occurred in 1881 was a great connected, loss to the church. His wife had gone before him Adventists many years. They were the parents of two chil- not only t dren, Archibald R. and Emeline C., the latter of integrity o whom is the wife of Pleasant Smith, of Milo, Iowa. religious v Mr. Henry removed to Illinois with his par- Mr. Hei ents when he was but four years of age, and subse- Cottle, Oc querttly went to Wisconsin, where he lost his mother that made by death. At the age of twenty years he again Grove, Ill. became a resident of Iowa, and having entered the and two sc profession of a teacher he taught near Indianola, and Wirt ( following his calling for four or five years. Wish- in business ing to gain a good business education, he com- ful lad, is menced a course of study at Simpson's College. Mr. Hen ning of the war he had scarcely attained by. He watched its course with intense d with patriotic ardor enlisted to defend nd Stripes in Company C, Thirty-fourth ltry, before having completed his eduis regiment was dispatched to the West terward was in service in most of the >tates and showed himself possessed of oldierly qualities, having received several S. ry was honorably discharged from the a good military record, and returning lose of the war, engaged in teaching one,er that he entered the mercantile busias salesman, which position lie held one then on his own account with a partner, firm name of Sandy & Ienry, as general it Sandyville, Ill. For eight years these carried on business together, then our s elected President of the First National idianola, Iowa. He was at the head of ition eight years, and left its affairs in a condition when lie resigned to accept office as Treasurer of the Seventh D)ay ublishing Association at Battle Creek. o appointed the agent for the construclion College at Lincoln, Neb., a position his executive talents eminently fit him. are now being erected at a cost of $12,e success of the undertaking has been isted through the instrumentality of our Lo him also is due much of the prosperpublishing company with whichli he is and his relations with the Seventh Iay forming the association are a tribute to his acumen and talent, but also to the if his character and the soundness of his iews. nry was married to Miss Elizabeth E. tober 28, 1865, the marriage ceremony them one being performed at Rock They have established a happy home, mns complete their household —Horace E. C. The eldest is the agent of his father s, while the younger, a studious thoughtattending school. try is a truly religious man and is closely I 4 4) PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 415 identified with the Seventh Day Adventists. He is a strong advocate of temperance, and has a fine record as a total abstainer. He is a firm Republican and has always stood by his party. W ICHARD KEELER. The title of H-onorable, j which this gentleman secured by service in the legislative halls c.f tile State, is a term typical of a life that for more than forty years has shed its influence in this county. Mr. Keeler is now living on section 7, Pennfield Township, where he has a well-developed farm of seventyeight acres borderirg on Bear Lake. In carrying on his farm work Mr. Keeler displays both intelligence and energy, and a visitor to his home will see the evidences of neatness and order and of careful consideration of means and methods in every part of the estate. The farm buildings are well kept, and the dwelling indicates that its occupaits enjoy not only the material comforts of life, but the higher pleasures which come from the culture of mind and heart. Without any pretentions to elegance, the place is one which attracts to it acquaintances from far and near. The Keeler family in America is descended from three brothers who emigrated from WAales in Colonial lays. They settled in Connecticut, Vermont, and a region farther West, one marrying an Indian squaw, another a Scotchwoman and the third an Englishwoman. The subject of this sketci belongs to the Connecticut branch of the family and in that State his grandfather, Benjamin Keeler, lived many years. I-e was too young to serve in the Colonial ar'my at the time of the Revolution, but lla(d two brothers in the service, and when Washington's army was camped on the Iludson River lie carried his relatives a bag of provisions, making the journey of over sixty miles on horseback. In 1834 he removed to Monroe County, N. Y., where he followed the occupation of farming until his death, when seventy-eight years old. tIe was a devout Presbyterian, and Democratic in politics. His wife, formerly Eunice Olmstead, a native of Connecticut, lived to the ripe old age of eighty-six years. She was one of the old-fashioned, kind-hearted mothers, so pre-eminently characteristic of the time in which she lived. She reared a family of eleven children, one of whom, David, was born in Connecticut in 1799. This David Keeler, who was the father of our subject, was reared on a farm and in his early life learned the trade of a shoemaker. This he followed during his active life with the exception of ten years given to farming. Ile lived in the Empire State from 1834 until 1850, when he came to this county, and here lie carried on a farm until he died in 1861, at the age of sixty years. He affiliated with the Democrats until the organization of the Republican party, when he chcse the better principles, as he believed them, of the new political body. lIe held the office of Clerk of Pennfield Township one term. IIe was an active member of the Presbyterian Church, and his wife, a devout believer, was also identified therewith. Slie bore the maiden name of Betty Mead, was born in Connecticut March 9, 1798, and died September 9, 1828, at the age of thirty-one years and six months. She reared but two children, Henry and Richard. The birthplace of Richard Keeler was Fairfield County, Conn., and the (late of his appearance on the stage of action, March 1, 1825. He accompanied his father to New York when nine years old, and attended the district school there, as he had done in New Elngland. When eleven years old he went seventy miles from home and hired out on a farm at $4 per month. Ile continued to work in this way for eleven years, receiving from $4 to $12 per month and turning all his wages over to lis father until he was of age. He was married in his twenty-third year and September 22, 1847, started for Michigan with his newly-wedded wife. They came by rail to Buffalo, thence by boat to Detroit and the balance of the way to this county by rail. establishing their home on section 22, Pennfield Township. At that early day there were but three houses between the home of Mr. Keeler and Bellevue,and only four houses between his place and Battle Creek, then a small village. Plenty of Government land was yet to be had and comparatively little clearing had been done. Deer and wolves were *4 416 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. numerous and bears and panthers were occasionally regarding the progress of the world's history, the seen. Many Indians remained in this region and late developments of science and all matters which frequent visits were paid by them to Mr. Keeler's are of general interest. cabin for the purpose of begging and trading. He The lithographic portrait accompanying this was much troubled by the Indian ponies getting sketch represents a gentleman widely and favorably into his wheat fields, and on one occasion visited known, as his life and character merit. the Indian camp to enter a protest, after which the trouble ceased. He farmed his eighty-acre tract until 1880, improving it in good shape, and removing thence to the place he now occupies. The lady who was the choice of Mr. Keeler in HOIOMAS E. BREAKEY. A traveler in his early manhood was Eliza D. Ioyt, a native of Fredonia Township could not fail to notice Vermont, between whom and himself marriage A the improvements upon a certain tract of rites were solemnized September 5, 1847. She land on section 12, and would be very likely to shared with him the trials of pioneer life, bearing inquire who was its fortunate owner. Amcng the them with that Christian fortitude which is charac- farm buildings are two commodious barns, one teristic of her sex. She died in 1875. She was a 32x50, and the other 36x60 feet, which indicate member of the Methodist Church and a kind- that large crops and a considerable number of hearted and faithful companion. Mr. Keeler was domestic animals are raised here. Other buildinos married a second time, November 24. 1880, to Mrs. add force to this opinion, and a glance at the fine Mary J. Puffcr, nee Gifford, widow of T. A. Puffer. two-story dwelling is sufficient to impress the This lady was born October 31, 1840. She is a beholder with the belief that oil this farm the cornmember of the Methodist Protestant Church. The forts of home are considered of great importance. first marriage of Mr. Keeler was a childless one, The owner of this farm is Thomas E. Breakey, but the second has been blest by the birth of a who was born in Sullivan County, N. Y., near daughter named Clara N. Bethel, January 20, 1832. His father, Isaiah The political allegiance of Mr. Keeler is given Breakey, was a native of Ireland, but settled in to the Republican party. He represented the Sec- New York in 1819. He cleared and operated a ond Representative District of Calhoun County in farm there on which he died in 1871, when about the Michigan Legislature in 1877, receiving eight- four-score years old. lie was a son of James een hundred and eighty-one votes against ten Breakey, who was born in Dublin, Ireland, and hundred and forty given to his opponent. Itis was a prominent linen bleacher there. Grandstand on all questions brought before the House father Breakey was the son of Isaiah Breakey, a and his particular interest in the constituency he Baptist minister, and he too was born in the represented, is well understood by those who keep Emerald Isle. His father was an Englishman, who themselves informed of the progress of govern- established his home in Ireland in 1600. The mental aff.irs in this great Commonwealth. Other Breakeys are a long-lived race, and the grandofficial stations have been held by Mr. Keeler, he father of our subject lived to be eighty-seven having been Supervisor of Pennfield Township three years old. years, Commissioner of Highways three years and The mother of our subject bore the maiden name Township Clerk twenty-five years. He was Chair- of Mary Lyon and was Iorn in England. tier grandman of the County Board of Supervisors one term fathler, John Lyon, was also a native of that secand to him was given the task of taking the census tion of the United States, and so also was her of Pennfield Township in 1880 and 1885. He is a father, Thomas Lyon. The latter was one of the member of the Grange and also of the American first settlers in Sullivan County, N. Y., and there Legion of Honor. He is a man of more than or his daughter was married to Isaiah Breakey. The dinary intelligence, keeping himself well informed childreu born Qf this marriage were eight in num PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 417 --— ~-~~~~~~~~~~ —I --- — ------ — ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~I I ber, Thomas E., the subject of this notice, being fourth in order of birth. The others are James W., a Methodist minister who died in New York City during the session of Conference; Anna M., widow of George Fairweather, who came to Michigtn in 1855, and is now living in this county, her husband having died in 1888; Louis E. died in Marshall in 1875; William F., a prominent physician in Ann Arbor; John W., whose home is on a farm in Homer Township, this county; May J., who married Martin Beals and lives in Marshall; and Susan A., wife of James Nutt, living in Hancock, N. Y. The boyhood days of Mr. Breakey were spent in lhis native place and his first school privileges were enjoyed in an old-fashioned log school house. I-e continued to reside un(ler the parental roof until lie was of age, acquiring knowledge and good principles and fitting himself for the battle of life. He came West in 1855 with no worldly possessions except the clothes on his hack, but witl a good trade at his command and an unfiling supl)ly of determination. lie at once set about finding employment as a carpenter and joiner, and many a building yet standing records his skill as a mechanic. The first barn lie built was on sections 13 and 14, Fredonia Township, and here he has put up some thirty barns and houses. Several large qwellings in the village of Homer and others in Marshall have been erected by him. He built the first brick block in Homer and the first balloon-framed churlch in the State. The buildings on his own place are also the work of his hands and the condition of the land is due to his efforts. He made arrangements for buying the tract soon after his arrival in the county, determined to have a home of his own. At St. Joseph, Berrien County, August 15, 1858, Mr. Breakey led to the hymeneal altar Miss Frances Brown, an educated and refined lady who has made his home happy and wielded a strong influence for good over those with whom she has associated. She was born in New York City, and being left motherless when an infant she was reared by her aunt. To Mr. and Mrs. Breakey eight sons and one daughter have been born. A remarkable circumstance connected with the family is that not I one of the eight boys uses tobacco or liquor in any form nor profane language. The daughter, Norah, is now the wife of Lorenzo Root, who is a son of the oldest settler in Fredonia Township, and her home is on a farm. The oldest son, Lewis I., lives in Fredonit Township on the old Samuel Fairweather farm; Eugene R. is now in California; James W. lives in Chicago; Charles E. is a resident of Iomer, this county; William H., George E., Frank W. and Everett Kimbark are still living under the parental roof. Mr. Breakey is one of those who believe that the curse of the liquor traffic is one that is sapping the life blood of the nation and tliat until it is driven from the land our country will not take her proper place among the Governments of the earth. He is therefore identified with thle Prohibition party, whose chief principle he tllinks the all-important one among the issues of the day. He and his wife.belong to the Metlhodist Episcol)al Church, and he holds the office of Trustee. His earnest endeavors to live an upright and pious life are appreciated by all who know him, andt his influence is felt far and near, while the spirit he has shown in worldly affairs affords a lesson to others who begin life without capital. ILLIA1I MI. KNICKERBOCKEI R is hotnored as a pioneer of this county, who has been long and prominently identified with the interests of Albion Township, both as a successful farmer and as an invaluable public official in times past, and no history of this immediate vicinity would be complete that (lid not contain a biographical review of his life and work. Our subject, as his name indicates, comes from one of the old Dutch families that settled in New York in early Colonial times. It is generally believed that three brothers of the name came from Holland and settled in New York in the first days of its settlement, one at New York City, another on Dover Plains and another on Pine Plains in Dutchess County, and from the last named our subject is descended. The father of our subject -I -- -- ----- - — ii ----------— _- -- -'- — 1 ---- --- — ______1_1111 - 418 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAP when only fifteen years old, was taken to the leaked front by a brother-in-law, an officer in the Ameri- tion. can army and the youth served with him in the and t capacity of orderly. His eldest son, Peter, served could with a troop of cavalry during the War of 1812. round Tile mother of our subject was Rachael (Scram) and j Knickerbocker, and she was also a native of Dutch- with c ess County, and came of an old Dutch family. The Taylo parents of our subject married in the State of New indusl York, and passed the most of their days in Dutchess in du County. The father of our subject was at one time has ei a prominent farmer, but he afterward became un- are ne fortunate in business. He was active in political upon matters, and was an ardent supporter of Gen. Jack- neatly son. Both he and his wife were worthy members Aft of the Dutch Reformed Church. They died well and i advanced in years, his death occurring in 1845, and prosp( hers in 1858. They were the parents of thirteen summ children, all of whom grew to maturity, married 17th ( and reared families, all of whom are now deceased S. Ba except our subject. (rTupt William M. Knickerbocker was born August 29, cut, w 1811, on his father's farm in Dutchess County, N. the m Y. lie attended the common schools, and was very Janua well educated. As the youthful age of twelve or in Gel thirteen years, he became self supporting, going of the out from his home to work on a farm, and in the count: winter seasons he did chores for his board so that chase he might attend school. He devoted much of his and in earnings to the care of his father and mother. At of the eighteen years of age, Mr. Knickerbocker went to tain in Genesee County, N. Y., to take charge of the farm nent n and family of his deceased brother John. In 1835, holdin he took a new step that had an important bearing died J on his life, as in that year he became a pioneer of had o Michigan. Ile purchased some Government land ond wi in Van Buren County, which he sold in the sum- dren b mer of 1836, in order to take up his residence in born ( Calhoun County, and ever since that time for more mothel than half a century he has lived upon this farm, cock d where he is spending his declining years with his age. good wife in the pleasant home that is the product April I of their united labors in earlier life. His first pur- in Gen chase of land here comprised forty acres, of which *school but four acres were broken, and six acres fenced. fully se A little log shanty was on the place which was too to her low to allow any one to stand upright in it, and it Dire r~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1 'HICAL ALBUM. d and was otherwise in a dilapidated condiOur subject gathered his neighbors together hey spliced its length or altitude so that one stand erect in the rude dwelling. The surling country had but very few inhabitants, Albion was then but an insignificant hamlet one little store kept by a man whose name was r. Mr. Knickerbocker worked with untiring try to place his land under cultivation, and e time purchased more land, so that now he ghty acres of fine farming land, whose fields eatly fenced and well tilled, and the buildings the place are ample for their purposes, are arranged and well ordered.:er our subject had become well settled here, had provided a shelter for himself and his active wife, he returned to New York in the er of 1836 for his promised bride, and on the of August was united in marriage to Hlarriet bcock. IHer parents were Asa and Lydia per) Babcock, who were natives of Connectivhere the father was born March 19, 1787, and other March 22, 1794. They were married ry 2, 1812, and spent their entire wedded life nesee County, N. Y. Mr. Babcock was one first pioneers of the town of Elba, in that y, purchasing his land from the Holland PurCompany, when it was in a wild condition, nproving it fully before his death, into one best farms in that vicinity. He was a capthe War of 1812, and was a very prominan in the public affairs of his community, g many of the local offices. His first wife June 15, 1822, and he again married. Ile ne clild by that marriage, and after his secife's death he married again and had two chily his third marriage. Four children were of his marriage with Mrs. Knickerbocker's r, two of whom are now living. Mr. Babeparted this life May 17, 1869 at a venerable His daughter of whom we write, was born 18, 1816, in the pioneer home of her parents iesee County. She received a good commoneducation and taught school very successeveral terms in the State of New York prior marriage. ctly after their wedding. Mr. and Mrs. PORTRAIT AND BIOG RAPHICAL ALBUM. 421 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 421 Knickerbocker came to this county, and took up their residence in the humble dwelling of which we have written. They were in limited circumstances and in common with other pioneers had to suffer many hardships and privations, and to sacrifice much before they won a competency. The furniture in their little home was of a rude description. Their first bedstead was made of rails, and their chairs were also of home manufacture. They have lived on this farm for fifty-four years, and have faithfully shared the joys and sorrows that have fallen to their lot during this unusually long wedded life. In this home where their children had been born to them, and whence they had gone forth into other homes or been taken from them by death, this venerable couple celebrated their golden wedding August 17, 1886. Many friends gathered around them to offer congratulations, and to talk over with them the past with its many pleasant memories and sad recollections. Four children have been born to our subject atid his wife, of wliom but one is now living, Jane Ellen, who is the wife of C. W. Dalrymple, of Albion, and the mother of two children, Nellie May and Hattie Anna. The names of those who died are George M., Harriet Eleanor (wlo died in infancy) and Sarah Arabelle. The latter was the wife of Byron S. Nelson. Of thle two children born to her and her husband, but one is now living, Jennie E., who is a teacher at Greenville. George was given a fine education, as were the others also, all of them attending Albion College. He was kept in school until he was twenty-one years of age, and he taught school one term. Hie went to California in the spring of 1859, and when the war broke out enlisted as Orderly Sergeant in a California regiment and was subsequently promoted to the position of Lieutenant, and had the command of his company the most of the time during the war. IIe came back to his old home in 1867, and staid upon the home farm for a season. He then went to Kansas, where he married and settled in McPherson County. His health failed and he gave up farming to go into the mercantile business at DeSoto, Kan., where he died in 1878, aged forty-one years, he haring been born October 16, 1837. He left a widow and two children, who now live in Iowa. Mr. Knickerbocker has always taken a deep interest in political matters, and has been active in local politics. During the war he was one of the most earnest members of the Union League, and performed valuable service as enrolling officer of the township. He was also a member of the Grange. He has always been a firm advocate of temperance in word and deed, and in early days here he took an active part in the Washingtonian movement. Our subject was for many years a conspicious figure in the civic life of his community, and held many important offices. For fifteen years lie was Commissioner of Iighways, was Township Treasurer for two years, was Justice of the Peace for three years, represented Albion Township as a memler of tie County Board of Supervisors for three terms, and he has been a member of the local School Board for many years. In all these offices his course has been characterized by an earnest desire to promote the public good, by the prompt and faithful discharge of his duties, and by the strict honesty and integrity with which he has guarded every interest entrusted to his care. tie and his wife have been long identified with the Methodist Episcopal Churcll, of which she has been a consistent member some fifty-nine years. He has been Steward and Trustee of the church for a long period of time, served as chorister of the choir for forty years, and was Superintendent of the Sundayschool for many years. ____ _,l?.?i r _ __-RANK M. RATHBIUN. Firm in principles, upright in character, and energetic in disposition, this gentleman justly receives the high regard of the community where, for many years, he has lived and labored. To those, who, in spite of adversity, win success in the busy world and who, throughout temptation, retain the principles instilled in their minds during childhood, much praise is due. A worthy representative of that class of honorable business men, upon whom the prosperity of the world in a large measure depends, Mr. Rathbun is closely identified with the interests of Calhoun County as a member of the well-known 422 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. --- --- I lumber firm of Mason, Rathbun & Co. The attention of the reader is directed to his lithographic portrait presented in connection with this sketcll, and also to the main events of his life as given below. The family of which our subject is an honored representative, are of French extraction, and for several generations have been farmers. They were among the early Colonial settlers of Rhode Island, and were people of recognized worth of character and energy of disposition. The gentleman of whom we write was born in Otsego County, N. Y., on the 20th of October, 1844, and is a son of Stelhen and Plhehe (Johnson) Rathbun, natives of New York. Stephen Rathbun was the son of Capt. James Rathbun a native of Pennsylvania, and an officer in the Revolutionary War. A farmer by occupation, the father of our subject was well known as an honest, upright man, and when he died August 19, 1878, at the age of sixty-six years, he left behind him the record of an honorable life. About two years after his death, in 1880, the widow came to Battle Creek, in company with her son-inlaw, Mr. Cook, who was one of the first to interest himself in the Advance Thresller Works, and her daughter, Mrs. Emma Cook. Mrs. Rathbun is a daughter of David and Mary (Cappell) Johnson, who were among the early settlers of Otsego County, N. Y., going there before the organization of the county, and when that part of the country was known as Otego. David Johnson served in the War of 1812. IHe was a farmer and blacksmith by occupation, and also owned and operated a sawmill. He en lured many privations in early pioneer days, and was often troubled by the Indians, who would come into the house during the night, and lie around the fireplace; they were unmolested, for it would not have been good policy to disturb them. Mr. Johnson had a large house, and was obliged to accommodate a good many passers-by, as he was on the main road leading from Albany westward. Frank M. Rathbun, the subject of this biography, was reared to agricultural pursuits and gleaned a substantial education in the public schools. At the age of twenty-two years he left his home and came to Battle Creek, where for nine months he was em ployed by a lumber company. At the expiration of that time, in 1868, he and his friends, William H. Mason and Henry Potter, purchased the lumber interests of the company, and they have since been engaged in the business on their own account. They are well-known, ranking among the most enterprising and ho orable lumber dealers of this section, and enjoying a large trade extending far beyond the limits of the county. Our subject was wedded to Miss Mary Hughes, November 10, 1870. and they have established a charming home in this city, to which their many friends are attiacted by the pleasant manners of the hostess and the genial courtesy of the host. Mrs. Rathbun is a daughter of William P. ilughes, a well-known resident of Battle Creek. Four children have come to our subject and his wife in their happy wedded life, whom they have named —Louie, Stephen J., Henry J. and Earl. As a man of intelligent, well-balanced mind, keen business talent, and much enterprise, our subject occupies a prominent position not only in business circles, but in the public life of the city. lie has held various important civic offices, having been a member of the City School Boar(t seven years, Supervisor one year, and in 1885 was at tie head of the municipal government as Mayor of Battle Creek. In politics he is a stanch Democrat, as was his father before him. Socially he is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, Knights of Pythias, Legion of Honor, the Royal Arcanum, and the Royal Adelphi. Religiously he is connected with the Independent Congregational Church. "e 5. _..? AREI) B. ARNOLD. Probably no resident in Fredonia Township has been more closely identified with the progress of civil affairs here than the gentleman above named, who is also numbered among those who have borne a prominent part in the agricultural work which has given it its present standing among the divisions of the county. He is located on section 14, where he owns a well-improved farm of one hundred acres, whose neat fences, substantial buildings and I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 423 --- ~~~-~~ -— ~~-~~- ~~~-~~~~' ~~-~~~~~~ ----~~~~-~~ — ~~~~~~~ — lI ~~~ ---~~~~~~ ---~~I ---~~~~ -------— L — -------- -~~~~~~~~~_-1__ 1__1~~~~__11 _ ~~~___C --- —--------— II~~~~~~~~ --- —-— ~~ groves of forest and fruit trees have been placed here, almost without exception, by himself. The original value of the tract of land has been greatly increased by the improvements, as well as by the added productiveness caused by wise methods of cultivation and the removal of those growths that consume the chemical properties of the soil. In Kent County, R. I., the eyes of Mr. Arnold opened to the light of day, December 4, 1829. His parents, Alfred and Olive (Stafford) Arnold, were born and reared in the same place and there began their wedded life. The father worked in a cotton factory there until 1835, when he brought his family to Michigan and located on wild land in Eckford Township, this county. Lie brought the soil under cultivation, erected necessary buildings and made the place his home a score of years, then came to Fredonia Township. His wife had been removed from him by death February 2, 1867, having breathed her last on tle farm which was her only home in this State. The bereaved husband survived until June 6, 1876, when he too entered into rest. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Arnold consisted of John, Jared B., Betsey Ann, Vindex, John S. and Ilannah W. The first-born died in Rhode Island when two years old; the others are still living. The subject of this biographical notice was a child of six years when brought to this county. His first schooling was obtained in a corn crib and he subsequently went to the district school, where lie became practically well informed in the ordinary branches of study. He remained with his parents until he was twenty-four years old, after which he began farming for himself. In a short time he bought property in Eckford Township, but removed from it to his present location in 1867. At that time this tract of land had been but partially developed, twenty acres only being under cultivation. The entire tract is now made useful or beautiful and no relics of its former wilderness can now be seen. The lady who is at the head of the household affairs on the Arnold farm became the wife of our subject January 15, 1857, their marriage rites being solemnized in Fredonia Township. She bore the maiden name of Maria Voorhees, was born in New York City June 17, 1835, and lived there until ten years old, when she came with her parents to this State. She is a well-informed and capable woman, devoted to those she loves, and sympathizing and kindly in her intercourse with all about her. To her have been born five children, as follows: Julia D., who died at the age of fifteen months; Henry, who is now in Dakota teaching; Edward, who remains with his parents; Olive May, wife of Theo. Corlis, at present living with our subject; and Francis V. who is teaching in Dakota. All belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church and are honored members of society. Mr. Arnold is now serving his twenty-first term as Justice of the Peace and his sixteenth year as a member of the Township Board. He was formerly Commissioner of Highways, but is now Iealth Officer. In the educational affairs of the neighborhood he has taken considerable part, having-served as School Trustee and Director. The vote he casts on election day is always a I)emocratic one. I-e and his wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church in Land Lake and he is the oldest member of the society. lie is Trustee, Steward and Class-Leader and a member of the Music Committee. In every movement that is likely to advance the material, moral or spiritual welfare of the citizens, Mr. Arnold is ready to bear what part he can, and he and his wife are always to be relied upon when there is need of neighborly services or friendly advice. tIARLES F. ALDRICH. A large and wellimproved farm in Tekonsha Township is owned and occupied by Mr. Aldrich, and its possession gives conclusive evidence of the ability with which he has prosecuted his calling. It consists of three hundred and twenty acres on sections 13 and 14, and is the seat of quite extensive stockraising as well as farming. A passer-by will note with pleasure the orderly arrangement and neatness that characterize the place, and the evidences of a pleasant home life that are seen about the residence. Mr. Aldrich is a native of Clyde, Wayne County, 424 PORTRAIT' AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 424 --— 1 --- 11__ PR A IT_~_C-~- _ _ _AN.D.. B.I OGR PHCA ALBU.... N. Y., and was born April 13, 1827. His parents, Nelson and Elizabeth (looker) Aldrich, were also natives of the Empire State and there spent their lives until 1837. The father was born December 12, 1798, and when old enough to adopt an occupation became a blacksmith. The mother was born at Stillwater, August 6, 1800, and is descended from the Hookers who came to, America in the "Mayflower." During the year 1836 Nelson Aldrich made a trip to this section of the United States, and selecting a location in this county for his future home, he brought his family hither the following year. lIe built a log house on section 13, Tekonsha Township, and here he worked at his trade while improving his farm. Here he spent the rest of his life, passing away in September, 1876. His widow survived until October 1, 1885. Their family comprised Charles F.; Russell, now deceased; Marion, living in Battle Creek; Catherine, deceased; Rebecca, a resident of Battle Creek; and Henry P., whose home is in Tekonsha. The subject of this biographical sketch was eleven years old when he accompanied his parents hither. 'He had begun his education in his native State, and here lie continued his studies in a log schoolhouse near his new home. It was the desire of his honored parents to give him good advantages, and he subsequently attended school in Olivet three terms. He assisted in the work done on the homestead until after his marriage, in 1851, when he located on section 13, of the same township, on a farm that before lie took possession had noimprovements. Beginning with a humble residence, he supplied it with necessary buildings sub. stantially constructed, and brought the land under thorough development. From it lie subsequently removed to his present location and here also lie has done much to add to the value of the land. In addition to this property he has an interest in the old homestead and he is therefore financially well situated. The lady who has made the dwelling of Mr. Aldrich a home in the truest sense, was known in her maidenhood as Miss Louisa R. Failing. She was born in Clarkson, N. Y., October 28, 1829, and accompanied her parents, of whom mention is made in the biography of her brother, Joseph Failing, to this State in 1833. She is a true Christian, a devoted wife and mother, and has many friends throughout the section in which she has so long resided. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. To Mr. and Mrs. Aldrich two daughters have been born-Ella, whose natal (lay was l)ecember 12, 1851, and who married James W. Langrell, and lives on her father's homestead; and Julia Nettie, who married Harry Schabinger, agent and telegraph operator at the Tekonsha depot. Mr. Aldrich was Iighway Commissioner several years and Justice of the Peace for some time. IIe belongs to Washington Lodge, No. 7, F. & A. M., in the village of Tekonsha and is an ardent supporter of Republican principles. His school privileges were well improved and he has added from year to year to his store of knowledge by careful observation and reading, and few farmers are better informed than he. In a county whose agriculturists are almost without exception men of intelligence, well abreast of the times, this fact speaks well for his mental ability and taste. As a,itizen and a man lie is considered honest and reliable, as well as friendly and kind. BRA HAM BURKHARDT has for many i years been industriously engaged in farmR ing pursuits in Southern Michigan, and. since 1869 has been associated with the agriculturists of this county, owning and occupying a farm in Burlington Township. He was born September 23, 1820, in the city of Stuttgart, Wurtemburg, Germany. His parents, Jacob F. and Catherine (Stierle) Burkhardt, were born in the same place as himself, and there reared a family of sixteen children, four of whom died in infancy. Their eldest son, George, married and died in Germany, leaving a family of five sons and two daughters. The father of our subject left the Fatherland in August, 1847, with nine of his children as follows: Michael, who died in Fredonia Township; Gottheb, who fell overboard and was drowned as the i c PORTRAIT AND BIOGRnAPH ICAL ALBU AL 425 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALI3UM. 42 - vessel in which the family crossed the water came in sight of New York City, he being then twentyone years of age; Frederick, who served three years in the war as a blacksmith and is now an inmate of the Soldiers' Home at Grand Rapids; Charles; Christopher; William, who went to the Black Hills with a party in 1872 and has not been heard from since; Catherine, Mrs. Slabler; Dora, Mrs. Abbar; and Rick, a miller. Jacob Burkhardt entered the German army when but eighteen years old and served for three years dluring the first war with Napoleon. After coming to this country he settled in Fredonia Township, Washtenaw County, and at the time of his death, August 9, 1849, at the age of fifty-nine years, he had improved a farm of one hundred and forty acres. His widow survived him until April, 1873, when her death occurred in Ann Arbor at the venerable age of seventy-six years. Both were devoted members of the Lutheran Church and took an active part in its upbuilding, they having been reared in that faith and were always true to its tenets. Jacob Frederick Burkhardt, the paternal grandfather of our subject, who was a farmer, was born in the same place as himself. [ie and his good wife reared a family of four sons and one daughter, all of whom with the exception of one son married and liad families, the father of our subject being the only one who came to the United States. Our subject's grandfather Stierle was a p)rominent man in his town, which lie served as clerk during the whole of his active business life. lie reared a son named Frederick and a daughter, the mother of our subject. A braham Burkhardt was well trained in all that goes to make a farmer in the Fatherland and received an excellent education in the schools of his native town, which he attended as required by German laws, until he was fourteen years old. A part of his education consisted of studying the Bible, and he had to attend a school conducted by the church every Friday and Sunday until he was eighteen years old. In his youth he learned the trade of a linen weaver. In the month of August, 1843, he and his brother Fred left the land of their birth to seek a new home on American soil. After 'landing on these shores Fred remained at Buffalo, N. Y., while our subject made his way to Ann Arbor in this State, arriving there the 23d of September, 1843. For four years he worked by the year on a faTm, receiving the first year as payment for his labor $6 a month, and his wages were increased until for his last year's service he was given $114. After his father came to this country he remained with him until his death, assisting him in the management of the farm. In the spring of 1850 he bought his first farm, which comprised one hundred and forty acres of land located in Freedom Township, Washtenaw County. He subsequently sold fifty acres of it to a brother, and bought forty acres more land. In February, 1869, he sold his property in Washtenaw County and purchased a quarter of a section of land, on whicll he has ever since lived in Burlington Township. This is a part of section 12, and has a fine situation. He has cleared the land, placed it under good tillage and has all the necessary buildings, including a comfortable residence and a good barn. H-e has acquired this property by the exercise of a good capacity for hard work, seconded by excellent judgment, as when he came to tils country he had no means whatever. During the war he sent a substitute to help figlht the battles of his adopted country. Politically, he is a sturdy Democrat. lie is a man of sterling habits, who is honest in his dealings and is upright in his relations with his neighbors, who regard him as well worthy of their respect. Coming here in the opening years of a stalwart manhood our subject in a few years had earned enough to admit of his establishing a home, and accordingly he was married January 26, 1850, to Dora M. Braun, and to her cheerful help hie is greatly indelted for his present prosperity. Mrs. Burklardt was born March 17, 1831. in Hoppinger, Borean Herenberg, Wurtem berg, Germany. Her parents were Andrew and Mary Dora (Wacker) Braun, who were natives of the same place as herself. Her father, who was a butcher by trade, was a soldier in the Napoleonic war. He and his wife were the parents of eleven children, of whom the following were reared: Andrew, who died in Germany, where he was a professor in a college; Barbara; Salma, Anna M., Dora M., Jacob and Cath I I 426 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. erine. Six of these came to the United States and married, the wife of our subject coming with her sister Barbara in the fall of 1849 and settling in Freedom Township. Her father and-mother followed them to this country in the spring of 1850 and spent their last days in Freedom Township, where her father was engaged in farming. They were devoted members of the Lutheran Church. Her father was a son of John George Braun, who was a farmer. Ie was twice married, and Andrew was the only one of the first set of children to come to the United States. By his second marriage the grandfather of the wife of our subject had two children —John and Margaret. Our subject and his wife have reared seven of their tel children, as follows: Catherine, wife of George Coggawell; Charlie G., a resident of Marshall; Anna M., wife of Henry Mahley, of Burlington; Hannah, widow of John Graff and a resident of Marshall; Jacob A.; Helena Fredrica, wife of Frank Brinkerhoff, a resi(lent of Marshall; and William A. Our subject and his good wife are members of the Lutheran Church and are strong in the faith. q~~~se) ~:;T A ttsP I I~~~~~~~~ father, Nehemiah Harrington, was born in Massachusetts, and when grown to manhood was engaged as a farmer and blacksmith. The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Jane Patterson, and was born and reared in Vermont. She was the third wife of Mr. Harrington, and be of whom we write was their second child and eldest son. The lad was reared in New York and Vermont, and in the latter State received his first school privileges. At the early age of eleven years he began the battle of life, securing work on a canal in the Empire State and retaining his position two years. HIe then hired out to peddle tinware and glass, and after a year of travel for the company returned to New York and found a situation as general chore boy. A year later he entered the employ of Whitlesey & Miller to sort tobacco and cigars, but after following that occupation a year he came to Michigan. This was in 1854, when he was in his fifteenth year. The first stopping place of Mr. Iarrington was at Kalarazoo, and his first work was driving a stage from that town to Grand Rapids. The route was the plank road, which was being laid at that time, and was consequently in a rough state. In 1854 the young man made a trip to Illinois, but returned hither the same year, and soon after went back to the Empire State, where he peddled boots and shoes. In 1856 he returned to this State and hired out by the month until after his marriage, when he located in Marshall and engaged in business. He bought a house and lot and worked at the baker's trade for a time, then entered the railroad employ. In 1861 he enlisted in the Second Michigan Cavalry, and going to the South took gallant part in the battles of New Madrid, Shiloh and a number of others. At the Corilith Hospital he was discharged for disability, and returning to Marshall, entered upon the sale of reapers and mowers. He next bought and removed to his present residence, his original purchase here being one hundred and sixty acres. In Marshall, in 1856, Mr. Harrington was married to Matilda C., daughter of Henry and Hannah (Smith) Belleiars. The bride was born and reared in England, and her natal day was February 24, 1838. She was educated in Europe. She has one* AMES W. HARRINGTON. A well-improved farm of two hundred acres, all under cultivation and supplied with every needful farm structure, is that owned and occupied by James W. Harrington. It is located on section 4, Fredonia Township, and has been the home of its present proprietor since 1866. Mr. Iarrington gives his attention to general farming and keeps considerable fine stock. He has three thorough-bred colts, one Black Cloud and the others Wilkes, and excellent work horses of standard breeds. In fact all his stock is of a high grade or thorough-bred. The farm has been supplied with all kinds of fruit and in every way made to subserve the comfort of its occupants as well as to advance their financial interests. Among the machines and implements, with which it is well supplied, are two threshers and a clover-huller. The natal day of our subject was July 4, 1837, and his birthplace Wayne County, N. Y. His I i I; I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 427 sister younger than herself —Mary, who is the wife of John Gleeck and lives in )regon. Mr. and Mrs. Hirrington are the parents of twelve children, viz: Jane, Henry W., James G., Grant N., Franklin E., Arabelle, Robert R., Susan, Lovina, Mansfield, Quina and Gertrude M. Quina died at the age of seven weeks; Susan and Lovina are now attending school in Marshall. The elder sons and daughters have been given good practical instruction, not only in the schoolroom, but at home, and all are being as carefully prepared as possible for the duties that will devolve upon them in later years. The fine estate of Mr. Harrington is a standing monument to his industry and thrift, and the many fine improvements he has made upon it testify to his good judgment and "desire to use his means for the comfort and happiness of his family. In all his efforts he has been ably seconded by his wife, who even aided hin in the harvest field when they began the building up of their home. Mr. Harrington is a Republican in politics. A steady-going and reliable citizen, a thorough angriculturist and a man of good character, lie receives his due measure of respect, while his wife and children occupy their proper place in the comnmunity. I -RANCIS FRANCISCO, who is an old resiil r ) dent of this county, has long been one of its /!a most successful farmers and stock-raisers, though now living somewhat retired from active business, and he has one of the finest and best equipped farms in all Newton Township. He is a native of Ontario County, Township of Bristol, N. Y., where his birth occurred January 25, 1823. His father was Thomas Francisco, and he was also born in the State of New York, near the Mohawk River, and was of Dutch descent. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, was in the battle at Ft. Erie and was also present at the burning of Buffalo. He owned a farm of one hundred acres in the Empire State and was engaged in its cultivation until 1839, when he came to Michigan and identified himself with the pioneers of this county. He was accompanied on the tedious journey hither by his family and they traveled with wagon and team coming through Ohio, and while crossing the famous Black Swamp had a hard time of it and made very slow progress. Mr. Francisco settled one half mile west of the place occupied by his son, he having purchased one liundred and fifteen acres of wild land. In the busy years that followed he evolved a good farm from the wilderness and acquired a comfortable property, increasing the area of his farm by a further purchase of two hundred acres of land of exceeding fertility. In pioneer times he raised wheat for forty cents a bushel. His death occurred when he was sixty-eight years and eight months old and lie left behind him the memory of a good man, a worthy citizen and an honored pioneer. In early life he was a Democrat but after he came here his political sentiments changed and lie joined the Whigs. The maiden name of his wife was Lydia Wood and she was a native of Vermont. She left that State when quite young, and for many years lived in the State of New York. She was twice married and was the mother of eleven children, nine of whom grew to maturity. She died at the age of sixty years and nine months, not long after the family settled here. Francis Francisco, who is the principal subject of this sketch, was mostly educated in the district schools of his native State, but he attended school for some time after coming here. He helped to build the first log schoolhouse in this district, and went to school in it for three winters afterward. It was provided with slab benches that had wooden pins for legs, and it was heated by means of an open fireplace with a stick and mud chimney. A slab was fastened against the wall to serve as a writing desk. The old rate bill system was then in use, by which each family had to pay a certain sum for tuition and each scholar had to furnish a certain amount of wood for heating purposes. There were many Indians here when the family located in this township, and they used often to come to the house to beg for flour and eatables. There was a large number of (leer in the forests and timber openings, wolves were plentiful and there were some bears here. Though our subject was usually too busy to hunt he occasionally indulged in the pleasures of the 428 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. chase, and has killed some deer and other wild labor that was a game. township and cou Mr. Francisco worked at home for his father until lie life as an incu he attained his majority. He then engaged in break- tions. Ile has be ing land for neighbors for some years. After that of Supervisors a he bought one hundred acres of land in compny Treasurer for five with his father, moved on to it and actively worked for his township to improve it. In 1852 he purchased his present heavy calls came place, which was but very little improved. A log tute which cost l house stood on the land and he built another of duties of'citizens] hewed logs on the site of his present residence, and is classed among there he and his family dwelt comfortably until it ing deservedly es was burned in 1867. He replaced it in that year by cle of friends and the roomy and attractive frame house which he now occupies and which, aside from his own labor, cost him $2,500. He has a large horse barn, sheep barn and stock barn, a corn house, granary and tool shed, ice house, smoke house and hen house, which ' StIBEL are all well arranged and were built at different N. J., AJ times at a great expense. IIe has now two hundred 1 moved t( and forty acres of valuable farming lands, of which / New Yo one hundred and ninety are under a good state of life, publicly pr cultivation and his farm as a whole is considered Christ, and was one of the best in the township. Lie has raised some Baptist Church by of all kinds of stock and has dealt quite extensively denomination his in sheep, feeding several hundred every winter and tinned until the l: buying and selling a good many. His enterprise to Michigan, and and excellent business capacity in the management South Albion, on of his affairs have brought him a handsome prop- eldest son, J. HI. erty and as he no longer feels the necessity of hard of his active life, labor, he lives somewhat retired from business. that made Michii Mr. Francisco is undoubtedly much indebted for long term of year his good fortune to the capable assistance of his the Peace, and wa wife, formerly, Miss Florettie S. Lewis, to whom he cer. Some fifteen was married in 1846. Mrs. Francisco is a native of life, and leaving t the State of New York, and was born in Steuben eldest son, remove County, town of Greenwood, March 5, 1826. She balance of his lif is a woman of many Christian virtues and is a mem- enty-eighth year ( ber in high standing of the Congregational Church. For more than For forty-four years she and our subject have en- great sufferer froi joyed life together and their marriage has resulted spine and incapa in the birth of four children, all of whom are living Yet by prudent m and are well settled in life. Their names are as fol- his business, he i lows: Martha A., (Mrs. W. G. Carnes); Emma, accumulated a go (Mrs. J. C. Deuel); Louisa, (Mrs. J. A. Under- quick perception, wood); and Frank A. ment and tender Our subject has not only aided in the pioneer with the order of lecessary in the upbuilding of his inty,jut he has'mingled in its pubmbent of various responsible posieen a member of the County Board nd he was at one time Township e or six years, also enrolling officer during the Civil War. When the for more men he hired a substihim $1,025. He has fulfilled the hip with efficiency and fidelity and our most trustworthy citizens beteemed and honored by a large cirI acquaintances. --— ~ --- -+s --- HOWELL was born in Hanover, pril 21, 1793. In early life he re) Cayuga County, in the State of rk, where he married, settled in ofessed faith in the Lord Jesus baptised into fellowship of the y the Rev. Mr. Jeffries. With that sentiments and sympathies conast. In the year 1834 he removed in the following year settled in the farm now occupied by his Howell. Here he spent the most aiding in the development of all gan the pride of her sons. For a rs he filled the office of Justice of.s, in the best sense, a peace offiyears since he retired from active he homestead in the hands of his id to Albion, where he spent the fe, and where he (lied in the sev)f his age. thirty years Mr. Howell was a m an accident that affected his citated him from manual labor. anagement and strict attention to not only lived comfortably, but od property. He was a man of of slow utterance, sound judgsensibilities. EHe was connected Free Masons, and his funeral ser PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 431 vices were conducted under the auspices of this order at the Baptist Church. He died at his home in Albion. At a special meeting of Lodge No, 14, A. F. & A. M., held September 1, 1870, the following preamble and resolutions were adopted: "WHEREAS, In keeping with an immutable law of 'passing away,' our venerable Brother Ashbel Howell has left the scenes of earth for that bourne whence no traveler returns, therefore, Resolved, That in the death of Brother Howell the fraternity has lost a worthy member, a just and upright Mason, one who so regulated his life by the plumb line of justice, and squared his actions by the square of virtue as to gain the esteem and confidence of his brethren. Resolved, That thts lodge tender to the family and friends of Brother Howell the condolence of tile Brotherhood, and that the Secretary transmit a copy of the above to the family, and that proceedings be published in each of the Albion papers." G. W. STONE, WALTER BIDWELL, Committee. F. W. SHELDON. ILLIAM H. PORTER, A. B., A.M. The profession of the law in which this gentleman has earned prominence, was one for which he manifested his fitness in very early life. Htis ardent love for his work has not diminished with the lapse of years, but on the contrary he retains all his youthful energy and studiousness, and has a higher ambition even than when lie set his mark and began to climb the ladder of fame. Mr. Porter is a native of this county, born in Marengo Township September 27, 1839. Ilis father, Robert B. Porter, M. I)., was born in the Empire State and was of Irish extraction. lie came to this county in 1836 and after practicing his profession until 1880, retired and now lives with his son-in-law in the town of Marengo. Although in his seventy-ninth year, he is still in fair health and enjoys life better than many a younger man. His wife, formerly Mary Northrup Bull, was born in Washington County, N. Y., near tile Vermont line. She was the daughter of Henry Bull, a prominent business man and local poli tician. She breathed her last in 1864, leaving three sons and three daughters. The subject of this biographical notice is the eldest of his parents' children. His boyhood was passed at home in Marengo Township and his first schooling was obtained in the district school. When fifteen years old he entered Kalamazoo College, where he completed a four years' course and was graduated in 1859. After one year of release from mental labor he entered the law department of the Michigan University at Ann Arbor, from which he received the degree of Bachelor of Laws in 1862. Ex-Governor Phelps was one of the examining committee who granted him admission to the bar. A few months after receiving his license he came to Marshall and entered the office of II. A. & L. G. Noyes, and on the death of the latter, in April, 1865, he formed a partnership with the former. The connection contirrued until 1877, when Judge Noyes retired on account of ill health and their business fell entirely into the hands of Mr. Porter. He is entitled to practice in all of the courts and has a fine business, to which he gives himself with untiring zeal, bringing all the powers of his mind to bear upon the cases for which he is retained. In 1866 Mr. Porter was married to Miss Frances E. Reed, of Jackson, who lived but six months after marriage. In 1869 he led to the hymeneal altar Miss Jessie Cheeseborough, a native of Connecticut, and at the time of her marriage a teacher in the grammar school in Marshall. The powers of her mind have been developed by study and strengthened by use, and it is her constant aim to keep her faculties from rusting, and not fall behind the times in knowledge. She understands the art of making her home attractive and the evidences of her refined taste are manifest on every hand. Mr. and Mrs. Porter have had four children, two now living, named Jessie C. and Anna B. Robert Burnham passed from earth at the age of seventeen years, and George W. died when but six months old. Mr. Porter has borne his part in municipal af fairs, having been City Attorney four terms, and also holding the office of Mayor during four terms. In 1884 he was Prosecuting Attorney, and for ten 432 PORTRAIT ~AND BIOGRAPHIC~HIAL ALBRUM. 432PORTRAIT AND B ALBU. j or twelve years was a member of the Board of Education, and President of the same for several years. He has always acted with the Democratic party. Socially, he belongs to St. Albans Lodge, No. 20 F. & A. M., of which he was Master two years, Lafayette Chapter, No. 4, R. A. M.,and Marshall Commandery No. 20, K. T. For the past two years he has been High Priest. The oratorical ability which was conspicuous in his early years is still his and his conversational powers are pleasing and graceful. He and his wife are popular and highly respected. The portrait of Mr. Porter, presented on another page of this volume, will be welcomed not only by his associates in the practice of the law, but by all who enjoy his acquaintance. =- And== --- —---— ^ --- ATHAN H. HOLLON was variously identified with the industries of this county for many years, and though he is now living in retirement from active business in one of the pleasantest homes of Marshall, he is still connected with its agricultural interests as the proprietor of one of its best farms. He was born July 14, 1826, in Saratoga County, N.Y. His father. whose given name was Joseph, was also a native of that county, and was a son of Nathan HIollon, who was one of its early pioneers. The latter was of German and English ancestry, and was a native of Massachusetts, whence lie moved to the Empire State when quite young. The mother of our subject, who bore the maiden name of Marie Frink, was born in Oneida County, N. Y., and was a daughter of Nathan Frink, who was likewise a native of New York, of which he was a lifelong resident, dying in Jefferson County, that State. Joseph Hollon remained in the State of New York during the early part of his life, and carried on farming till 1834. In that year he entered the employ of a railway company, and was engaged on the railway between Saratoga and Albany till 1836. In 1842 he came to this county and cast in his lot with the pioneers of Fredonia Township, near the city of Marshall, where he remained till 1849. In the meantime lie had become prominent in public affairs, and in that year was elected Sheriff of Calhoun County, and when he entered upon the duties of his office he took up his residence at Marshall. He remained in this city till 1873, when lie moved to Jackson, in Jackson County, where he died July 4, 1885, in the eighty-first year of his age. His wife survived him but a short time, dying the following March. Of the six children born to them, four sons and two daughters, but three are now living. He of whom this biography is written is the oldest son and second child of the parental family. lie passed his youth in his native State, where he was given excellent educational advantages in the common schools and the academy at Utica, where he studied faithfully for three years. After that he came to Michigan with his parents and assisted his father on the farm till 1850. In that year he came to Marshall, and for two years was engaged in operating a brewery. At the expiration of that time he obtained control of the Marshall House, which he managed for three years, with good financial results. His next venture was in the hardware business, which he carried on successfully four years. In 1866 he entered upon another enterprise, opening a factory for the manufacture of carriages, buggies and all classes of wheeled vehicles. In 1874 he abandoned that business to devote himself to farming, becoming the proprietor of a good-sized, choice farm of two hundred and twenty acres, finely located in Fredonia Township. There he was engaged in general farming and in breeding Galloway cattle till 1886, when he retired from work, as he had gathered together abundant means to pass his remaining days free from the necessity of labor. In 1887 Mr. Hallon purchased a residence on West Main Street, which is now his home, and here he and his good wife are enjoying a wedded life that has already lasted forty-five years, as it was begun November 4, 1845. In politics, our subject stands firmly by the Democratic party, and is a strong advocate for tariff reform, and is hostile towards all monopolies and trusts. He possesses a keen judgment in regard to business matters, and has always managed his affairs with prudence, fore 483 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.,..... --- -—: — _ _ _ _ _ thought and sound discretion. H-e is a man of sturdy, self-respecting character, who commands in turn the respect of others. He has held public offices of importance. While living on his farm in Fredonia Township, he represented that township as a member of the' County Board of Super. visors for a number of years, and also served as Town Clerk. Socially, lie is a member of St. Alban's Lodge, No. 5, A. F. & A. M. Mrs. Hollon, who was formerly Ann Fridenburg, iwas wedded to our subject in Fredonia Township. She was born in Columbia County, N. Y., and she is a laughter of John and Bethia (Van Hagen) Fridenburg, who were of mingled Dutch and German blood. IIer parents came to this county in 1836, and settled in Fredonia Township, near the borders of Lyon Lake. The motller died there in 1863, at the age of sixty-six years. The father departed tllis life in 1874, in his eighty-fourth year. 7.W A ARTIN C. BENHAM is the representative of an old and respected pioneer family of this county. I-e 'has loIg been connected with its agricultural interests as a prosperous farmer of Albion. lie was born at Roxhury, Ielaware County, N. Y., May 22, 1822. His parents were Norman and Eleanor (Crispell) Benhan, born respectively near Iartford, Conn., in 1795 and Ulster County, N. Y., in 1800. Tley were married in the latter county, and immediately removed to I)Delaware County, and soon settled upon a piece of land which Mr. Benham had previously purchased. Nine children were born them; Emma, now deceased, who married Clarles Doolittle and settled near Iomer, Calhoun County; IIor.t,io, who died in this county; Louisa, who married William P. McAllister, of HIomer, and became the mother of seven children, six of whom are living-Emma, Lizzie, Ada, Lydia, John, Ella and Seth; John tI., who resides on the old family homestead in Albion Township; Charles, now deceased, who married Libbie Snellgrove and settled in Montcalm County, where he died; Kate, wife of George Doolittle, of Albion; Willis, born in Michigan, gave up his life for his country in the late Civil War, he being a member of the Sixth Michigan Infantry, Company A., and dying of exposure near New Orleans; and Melissa who died young. Mr. Benham was a man of considerable education and taught school for many years. In 1836 he came to Michigan with his brother Eliakim, driving through the intervening wilderness with a horse and wagon, and after arriving at Michigan they had to ford the streams as there were no bridges, and they made slow progress over the rough roads. After looking over the country for a suitable location Mr. Benham and his brother purchased two hundred and forty acres of land in what is now South Albion, paying $12.50 an acre for the place. They returned to New York by wagon and in 1837 the father of our subject returned with the family, traveling with teams and being several weeks on the way, staying their journey for awhile to visit some uncles in Genesee County. The land was partly improved, as seventy acres were under plow; and there was a log house on thle place, with two rooms, eighteen by twentytwo feet in dimensions, and heated by means of an old fashioned fireplace. The homestead is yet in the family, the deed being still in tile name of Norman Benham and it has never been changed from the time of its purchase more than half a century ago. Tlhe lhumble log cabin of early (ays was replaced by a more substantial and commodious residence, a~lnd in time, under Mr. Benham's able management, the farm became one of the best in tlhe vicinity. The first crop that lie planted was thirty acres of wheat and it had to be drawn to Albion for milling. The father of our subject died in January. 1843. lIe was a man of strict integrity, his word being as good as his bond, and though he belonged to no church his life was guided by Clristian principles. In early life he was a Whig and a great admirer of Henry Clay. I-e was well posted on all political matters. lHe early became conspicuous in local educational afiairs and was repeatedly elected to tile office of School Inspector, which position le held till his death. le was generous in word and deed, was very charitable to the pot)r and no man went away from his home hungry. His widow survived 434 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. him many years, her death occurring in 1875 at the advanced age of seventy-five years. She joined the Methodist Church at South Albion after its organization, and died strong in the faith. She was a good wife and mother and assisted materially in making the home. The subject of this sketch was the eldest of the family. He was educated in the common schools, which after he was twelve years old he only attended in the winter season, as he had to assist his father in the farm work in the summer. After the death of the latter, the whole responsibility of taking charge of the farm was thrown upon his shoulders, he being then only twenty-one years of age. Nobly did he perform his task and in time had the satisfaction of paying for the farm and settling up all debts connected with it. He remained at home till he was thirty-four years old when he married and established a home of his own. After marriage he settled upon a piece of land in Albion Township upon which he had made improvements, erecting a substantial house. In 1864 he moved into Albion where he has built up a comfortable home in which he and his good wife are enjoying the fruits of their early labors. Mr. and Mrs. Benham began their married life in 1856, and it has been blessed to them by the birth of five children, three of whom died young. Their daughter, Ellen A., is the wife of H. L. Brown, of Parma, Jackson County. Their daughter, Cora, is a graduate of the High School at Albion. Mr. and Mrs. Benham's chief aim in life has been to educate their children and to secure a competence for their old age. Mrs. Benham was formerly Miss Lorissa Howell. Her parents were Ashbel and Clarissa (Hall) Howell. Her mother was a native of Cayuga County, N. Y. Her father was born April 21, 1793. He was twice married. First to Lydia Wellington, January 27, 1819. She died March 3, 1824, without issue. His second marriage was with Clarissa Haasz and took place June 10, 1824. They became the parents of ten children, namely: Malvina, born July 12, 1825, married' James McGee, and died in Albion; Helen H., who was born November 10, 1826 and died in Albion; Lorissa, born September 11, 1829; Frances was born May 8, 1831, and married J. W. Aldrich, who died in Albion, of which she is still a resident; Jackson A., born in this city October 20, 1832, married Emy Hamilton of Homer; Sivilla, who was born December 1, 1834, and died at Albion at the age of eighteen years; Adelissa, who was born November 23, 1839, and died at the age of two years; Albert J., who was born February 15, 1842, and died in Chicago at the age of forty-four years; Adelaide, who was born September 15, 1843, and died at the age of eighteen months, and Josephine, who was born May 20, 1846, and died at the age of seven years. Mr. and Mrs. Howell died in 1871. They were members of the Baptist Church; the wife was a Methodist until a few years prior to her death when she joined the Baptists with her husband. Mr. Howell was prominent in public affairs and served as Justice of the Peace and Assessor in an early day. He was ore of the pioneers of the county. coming here in 1836. Mr. and Mrs. Benham and their daughter Cora, are members in high standing in the Methodist Church in Albion. Hie is a sturdy Republican in politics. Coming to this county in boyhood, he grew up with it as it were, and has lived to see a great transformation from the wilderness to finely settled and rich country, and he may take pride in the fact that he has had a hand in developing its resoures. He is a man of consistent Christian character, whom to know is to respect and esteem. __, __ --- --- '2 g1 '- - F RANCIS H. JOHNSON. The beautiful farm on section 21, Leroy Township, on which this gentleman makes his home, is that on which his father settled in 1845. * The almost wild land with its forest growths, on which the family then located, long since by diligence was transformed into a cultivated tract with good buildings, where excellent crops were raised and the comforts of life enjoyed. The family of George and Theodosia (Harrington) Johnson consisted of eight children, four of whom grew to maturity and are still living. Our subject is the eldest of these, ris~-: ~'5!~ "' "" - rlj ~;js'; -~~~ l"a /LQe"," f Wi: EI p PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 437 I~ ' the others being Martha, wife of Clinton Bigelow; Crowel, who is unmarried; and Betsey A., widow of Samuel Snedaker, a soldier in the late war. The father died in 1873, but the mother is still living, and at the age of eighty-seven years is quite hale; she makes her home with her son Francis on the old homestead. The subject of this biographical notice was born in Lawrence, Otsego County, N. Y., February 7, 1833, and had not yet entered his teens when the family came West. In his native State and here he enjoyed the school privileges which the system in vogue in the vicinity gave opportunity for, and under the careful training of his parents learned those lessons of life that are more necessary than book knowledge. Iaving determined to devote himself to the pursuit of agriculture, lie has made a study of his calling and is regarded as one of the most scientific farmers in this section of the State, and one whose constant aim is to be thorough in all he undertakes. Ile has therefore been unusually successful, and from the eighty acres of his farm gains a larger income than many would from a tract of greater size. The wife of Mr. Johnson bore the maiden name of Sally A. Jordan, and is a daughter of William B. and Roxie (Cuinmins) Jordan. Hier parents removed from Erie County, N. Y., to Kalamazoo County, Mich., during the early settlement of the latter, and there the daughter opened her eyes to the light. When she was five years old she became a resident of Leroy Township, this county, and here her marriage was solemnized January 18, 1857. The happy union has been blessed by the birth of two children —Adelina, wife of Elmer N. Reed, of Leroy Township; and Nettie, wife of Harry Verney, who also lives near the Johnsons. Upon the daughters a good education was bestowed, and they add to their literary knowledge the cultivation of their musical talents. The elder taught seven terms of school with good success, and since her marriage has engaged more or less in teaching music. The younger daughter also taught school, but abandoned that profession to devote her entire time to music, and as a performer and teacher has an excellent reputation. In regard to his political life Mr. Johnson has always been an unfaltering Republican. He takes pains to keep himself informed regarding events that are transpiring in various parts of the world, and interests himself, as every good citizen should, in enterprises that will tend to the future welfare of this section. Mrs. Johnson is a member of the Congregational Church and so also are the daughters and their husbands. The aged mother of Mr. Johnson belongs to the Baptist Church and the deceased father was a Methodist. The entire family are looked upon with respect and esteem as good types of the intelligent, energetic and useful inhabitants of the agr:cultural disticts of this great commonwealth. 3 EORGE H. GREENE, M. D. The calling | of a physician is an arduous and responsi_lA( ble one and brings into play some of the most important characteristics of man. A successful practitioner must have a broad knowledge of the construction and needs of the body, keen perceptions and a thorough understanding of the principles upon which therapeutic science is based. The best success cannot be attained without a generous sympathy and tender regard for the suffering whom it is the province of the physician to relieve. His extensive practice and many friends attest to the professional skill of our subject. Dr. Greene, who has been for some time living in Marshall, was born in Tompkins County, N. Y., June 20, 1841. He comes of honorable ancestry, tracing his lineage from Henry Greene, who, during the French and Indian War, came with Gen. Wolfe from London, England, in the British Army and was present with that famous leader at the battle on the Plains of Abraham near Quebec. The next in the direct line of descent was Jacob Greene, and following him was Jacob S. Greene, who was born in Tompkins County, N. Y., August 26, 1806. The last named married Almira, daughter of James and Mary Lewis, and there were born to them nine children, of whom six still survive: Evvert Greene, of Elmira, N. Y.; Mrs. C. F. Fox, of Union City, Mich.; Mrs. Almira Bowen, of Quincy, Micb.; Mrs. Joanna Fry, of Indian River, Mich.; Mrs. f 0 438 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Eva L. Smith, of Burlington, Mich.; and our subject. The parents came from the Empire State to this county in 1865 and settled on a farm in Burlington Township, where the mother died September 26, 1885; the father is still living. The school days of Dr. Greene were spent in Ithaca, N. Y., and Ann Arbor, Mich. After acquiring a fair supply of fundamental and general knowledge he began the study of medicine under Dr. John F. Burdick, of Ithaca, N. Y. In 1863 lhe entered the medical department of the State University of Michigan, from which he was graduated March 23, 1865. After practicing medicine six months in Genoa, Cayuga County, N. Y., he removed to Burlington, Mich., in December, 1865, an(t there opened an office. HIe made that town the center of his practice until 1882; in the meantime, from 1870 until 1874 he was associated in partnership with Dr. A. L. Fox, in the practice of medicine and the drug trade in Burlington, Dr. Fox having been a student of Dr. Greene. In 1882, the Doctor sold out his interests in Burlington and removed to Homer, and after a sojourn there of only three months, he came to Marshall, which has since been his home. In the fall of 1882, being anxious to become more thoroughly acquainted with certain lines of medical work, he went to New York City, and spent three months at the college connected with Bellevue Hospital. Returning he resumed his practice here and has continued it with unremitting zeal. In 1885 lie purchased a stock of drugs and now carries on a drug store in connection with his practice. The Doctor met with assured success from the start and soon won the confidence of the people, for they recognized in him the elements of a true physician, who possessed unusual ability and came to them well grounded in medical knowledge. His practice constantly increased and to-day his reputation as a physician of learning and skill is unsurpassed in this county. The lady who on November 4, 1874, became the wife of Dr. Greene was Miss Emma E. Spaulding of Albion, Mich. She is a daughter of Truman and Almeda Spaulding and was born in Albion Township. The happy union of our subject and his estimable wife has been blessed to them by the birth of three children: George S., Grove and Wade-bright lads, who are being carefully trained in all that goes to make up true manhood by their culturedl mother and father. During their residence in Burlington, the Doctor and his wife.were active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, but since their removal to Marshall they have been prominent members of the Presbyterian Church, to which the two eldest sons also belong. Dr. Greene was President of the Village Board of Burlington in 1870, and in 1886 he was elected Mayor of Marshall by a complimentary majority. He is connected with the American Medical Association, which he joined in the year 1876, the Michigan State Medical Society, of which he has been a member sin,3e 1883, the Southern Michigan Medical Association, in which his membership dates from 1872, and the Calhoun County Medical Association, of which he was President in 1882. The Doctor was a member of one of the first Good Templar lodges, organized in 1853, in Ithaca, N. Y. He is a member of St. Albans Lodge No. 20, F. & A. M., Marshall Chapter, R. A. M. and and Marshall Commandery, K. T. His first vote was cast for Horatio Seymour for Governor of New York, and his last for Grover Cleveland for President, and the Democratic candidates received his suffrages in the interim. In 1886 he was Mayor of the city of Marshall. In whatever position of trust and responsibility the Doctor is placed, it is his aim to do all within his power to advance the interests of the people, and he enjoys the esteem of the entire community. A lithographic portrait of Dr. Greene is presented on another page of this volume. HARLES S. ANDREWS. The village of Sonoma is the seat of some thriving business establishments, prominent among which is the grocery store of Andrews & Owen. The senior partner began the battle of life at the early age of sixteen years, and alone, and unaided but by wisecounsel and words of cheer, he has advanced to a position of financial prosperity and business PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 439 standing. I-le was engaged in his present business about four years before he took in as an associate Mr. J. Owen. IIe and his partner cater wisely to tlle needs of the community, deal honorably by tleir patrons, and treat every visitor to their store with the courtesy due them. 'The parents of our subject were Sylvester and Mary (Guyant) Andrews, the former a native of New Jersey and a school-teacher by profession. Hle died when Charles was less than a year old, and the little lad passed his boyhood under the care and training of a devoted mother, who tried as best she could to fill the place of his deceased parent as well as ller own. The natal day of the son was September 28, 1842, and his birthplace Ada, Kent County, tlhis State. His early years were spent in the usual manner and when he began to do for himself lie hired out to work by the month for Philetus Gould, receiving ten dollars per month. -He remained with the same employer until after Ft. Sumnter had been fired upon, when his excitement and enthusiasm culminated and he made an early offer of his services to his country. The name of Charles S. Andrews was enrolled in Company Hi, Merrill Horse, August 31, 1861, tlhe enlistment being for three years. The young hero particip.ated in every fight into which his company entered during a period of more than two years after his enlistment and was never absent from duty during that time. In September, 1863, he was ill and was sent to the hospital at Duvall's Bluff, but slortly afterward transferred to Little Rock, that city having been captured by the Union forces. There he remained until March, when he came home on sick leave, having refused a discharge. In June he rejoined his company and did light duty until his term had expired, when he was discharged at St. Louis, Mo. September 15, 1864. He had taken part in the engagement at Memphis, Mo., at Moore's Mill and Kirksville, and in the Little Rock campaign, where more or less heavy skirmishing was a matter of every day occurrence. He was so fortunate as to escape wounds, but has never fully recovered from the illness he had, and on that account has recently been granted a pension of fourteen dollars per month. After his return from the South Mr. Andrews found work in a saw-mill owned by Payne, Quick & Co., and for ten years worked off and on there, his mother and sister keeping house for him. He then bought a third interest, which he still holds. In 1877, lie bought a farm of sixty-two acres on which lie afterward built a nice house and barn, thus adding considerably to its value. He subsequently traded it for his present dwelling in Sonoma and the buildings in which he carries on his business, together with a stock of goods. He then turned his attention to the sale of groceries which he still carries on. The graces of mind and heart possessed by Miss Helen A. Owen, daughter of Uriah and Catherine (Holmes) Owen, formerly of Orleans County, N. Y., but more recently of this county, won the earnest regard of Mlr. Andrews, and this feeling being reciprocated, the young couple were married March 3, 1875. Mr. Andrews is not a church member, but for the last five years has been one of theTrustees of the Methodist Episcopl Church of Leroy. He is a member of Farragut Post, No. 32, G. A. R., in Battle Creek and of Climax Lodge No. 52, F. & A M., at Climax, Kalamazoo County. He is loyal to the Republic an party and has often served as a delegate, scarcely ever failing to attend the county conventions. lie has been active and useful as a public servant, having been Township Clerk ten years and Supervisor five consecutive terms, at the last election having no opposition. Mr. Andrews took the State census in 1884 and the United States census in 1890 in Leroy Township. Both Mr. and Mrs. Andrews are respected and count their friends by the score. ONATHAN H. CORNWELL is conducting an excellent business as a general farmer, and as the result of his persistent and welldirected labors, his farm on section 7, Fredonia Township, is under admirable tillage, and it is well supplied with a good class of implements. Mr. Cornwell was born November 11, 1832, the 440 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - II --- --_I- __ I _ - ----- I place of his birth being in the town of Henrietta, Monroe County, N. Y. Ambrose Cornwell, his father, was also a native of New Yolk and was there reared. As soon as old enough to adopt a calling he became a carpenter and joiner. He married Sarah Halstead, a native of New York where she grew to womanhood, their marriage taking place in Cayuga County. They located at Henrietta, and there the mother died after the birth of these seven children: Jonathan H., Willett, Albert, Moses, Amanda, Mary and Ansel, all of whom are living. Our subject is the youngest son of the family, and the early years of his life were passed in his native State, where he obtained his schooling. He lived with his parents until his marriage, April 1, 1867, to Lucy A. Stone. Mrs. Cornwell is also a native of Henrietta, where her birth occurred December 14, 1837. She grew to womanhood in the place of her nativity. She was the fifth child in a family of five daughters and two sons, whose names are: Mary, Maria, Elizabeth, Caroline, Lucy, Jeremy and George. Her parents were Danford and Delia (Alcott) Stone. IHer father, who was a farmer by occupation, died in New York, which was his native State. The mother, who was a native of Massachusetts, came to Michigan and spent her last years in Battle Creek. In 1867, the year of his marriage, our subject came with his bride to this State and took up his residence in Emmet Township on a farm four miles south of Battle Creek. Two years later he pur.. chased the place where he now resides, which was then in a wild condition, the only attempt at improvement being a shell of a house. By hard labor lie has wrought a great change and has his one hundred and five acres of land under good cultivation, and well supplied with all the necessary buildings and first-class machinery for carrying on farming operations properly. He devotes himself to general farming and has his farm well stocked. Mr. Cornwell is a member of the Masonic order at Marshall, belonging to St. Albion Lodge. In him the Republican party finds a sturdy advocate of its principles. He is a man of sterling worth, who is neighborly and obliging in his dealings with those around him and, with his good wife is I I I ~ ~ ~ ------ — ' very much respected by the entire community. Mrs. Cornwell is a woman of consistent Christian character, and a member in good standing of the Congregational Church. B tARZILLA ELLIS. Among the many fine farms which Tekonsha Township boasts,that of the gentleman above named is deserving of the attention of all who are interested in the agricultural development of the country. It consists of two hundred and forty acres on section 6, which is devoted to general farming and stockraising, but with the greater part of the acreage under cultivation. It has been the home of its present owner since 1834; and has been in his charge since he was old enough to carry on the work. When it was taken possession of by his father there was a log house upon it and thirty acres had been cultivated. The natal day of Mr. Ellis was January 9, 1839, and his birthplace a farm near Fredonia, N.Y. On the same tract of land his father, Barzilla Ellis, Sr., was born and reared. The latter was for some years a cattle drover, his market being in New York City. December 30, 1834, he married Jerusha Arnold, a native of the Empire State, and together they labored and enjoyed for almost half a century. In death they were not long divided, the husband passing away May 30, 1882, and the wife August 16 of the same year. They were the parents of four sons —Harrison F., who died in the service of his country in 1863; Barzilla, of whom we write; Alonzo, who lived to be but two years old; and Samuel, who gave his young life for his country, dying in Danville prison when but twentyone years old. The father was twice married and had one child by the first union, a daughter Marion E., whose home is at Willoughby, Ohio. The first schooling of our subject was obtained at his native place prior to his fifteenth year. At that time he accompanied his parents to this county. He continued his studies in Tekonsha and was with his parents so long as they lived, since which time he has remained upon the homestead. He ac~lt 7~ — r _ ~~cctc~ ~~X~~4 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 445 followed the example of his father in being a Rowena, Margaret, Phoebe and William, All of stanch Republican. He has been Justice of the the children married and reared families, and all Peace sixteen years and is now a member of the passed their entire lives in New York, with the School Board, on which he has served for some exception of Abner and Robert, the former of time. He was at one time connected with the whom died in Indiana and the latter in Kansas. Grange. He is an energetic agriculturist, a reli- Grandfather Carpenter did excellent service for able citizen and a good neighbor. He is still liv- his adopted country as a soldier in the War of ing in single blessedness although, as the oldest 1812, and was a sturdy supporter of the Whig resident of the neighborhood yet living, he has party in politics. After an upright life he passed arrived at years of discretion sufficient to choose away in Bristol, N. Y., leaving behind him the a wife. His grandfather was a soldier in the War memory of his good deeds and noble character. of 1812, and one of his maternal ancestors fought The gentleman of whom these lines was written in the Revolution. was born near the town of Naples, N. Y., August 6, 1834, and is the son of Calvin L. and Eleanor D. (Pierce) Carpenters natives respectively of New -<*-*: — x^ _. I: York and Massachusetts. The father was a farmer in his native State and came to Michigan in 1853, | ENRY L. CARPENTER. It is with plea- renting land in Sherwood Township,Branch County, ure that we present the lithographic por- where he sojourned until 1859. Then, purchasing traits of Mr. Carpenter and his good wife forty acres of land on section 31, Athens Townto the readers of this volume, and with ship, Mr. Carpenter removed thither and began equal pleasure we trace his history through the the difficult task of clearing and improving the principal events of his past life. At present a farm. After placing it under good improvement resident of Athens Township, he is enjoying the he sold it in 1870 at a good price. His next purcomforts of life, and that which is better than chase comprised one hundred and thirty acres in silver or gold-the esteem and confidence of his the southeastern part of the township, while his fellow-men, who realize the worth of his character, wife owned property in the southwestern part. lHe the extent of his mental attaniments and the good led a busy and useful life until death terminated he has accomplished. A prominent farmer and his career in March, 1885, at a ripe age, he having stock-raiser, he is conducting his business with been born August 26, 1808. He was twice markeen sagacity and good judgment, and is num- ried, his second wife being Mrs. Betsy Wilder. bered among the substantial citizens of the cor- The mother of our subject died on the old munity. homestead on section 31, Athens Township. She Robert Carpenter, the grandfather of our sub- was a daughter of Henry L. and Halah (Manley) ject, was born in England, and in Colonial days, Pierce, the former a carpenter and farmer. Mrs. in company with his parents and sister, he started Pierce died in Naples, N. Y., and later Mr. Pierce for America. While on the sea the father and removed to Michigan in 1855, and died at Shermother died, and the two little children thus sadly wood in 1868. He was the son of William Pierce, orphaned were brought to New York City and a Revolutionary soldier, who moved from Rhode placed in an asylum for orphans. They were soon Island to New York during the latter part of his separated and never met again or knew of each life. To the maternal grandparents of our subject other's fate. Robert Carpenter was reared and the following children were born: Eleanor D., Ellis, educated in New York, and was both a teacher Lucinda, William, Harriet, Oliver, Alexander, and a farmer. To him and his wife, whose maiden Cyrus, James and Henry. Fourteen children were name was Phoebe McNair, were born fourteen born to the parents of our subject, of whom twelve children, of whom the following grew to maturity: grew to maturity, namely: Armida, Mrs. Wilson, Abner, Sallie, Benjamin, Calvin, Betsey, Robert, who died, leaving five children; Calvin L, Jr.; _~ 446 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - ------- -- I I~. Henry L.; William W., a resident of Duluth, Minn.; Ellen M., Mrs. Simmons; Robert, a resident of Grand Traverse; Melissa, Mrs. Brownell; Phoebe J., Mrs. Brownell; Rial A., Alva A., Thomas J. and Abner L. The two who (lied young were Oliver L. and Rowella. During youth our subject was thoroughly drilled in everything pertaining to the management of a farm and to his lot here fell a large share of the work necessarily accompanying the development of land. The educational facilities of his native town were rather meager in his younger days, but observation and experience have been good teachers and he is to-day a well-informed man and self-educated in the truest sense of the word. At the age of twenty-one he began life for himself, working by the month on a farm. When he married he became more independent and worked on shares two years. In the spring of 1858 he purchased forty acres of the place where he now resides on section 31, Athens Township. This part of the township was then but little improved and very sparsely settled. He made the first improvements on the section and built the first house upon it. He now owns two hundred acres of valuable land, one hundred of which he has cleared with his own hands, and besides this he owns onethird interest in the homestead of his wife's pnrents. Hle has erected a fine residence, a large barn, and other substantial outbuildings, and his place bears evidences of superior skill and management. Our subject has by no means been without assistance in the upbuilding of his attractive home, as by his marriage August 31, 1856, to Miss Susan Palmer he secured the cheerful co-operation of a capable wife. To them have been horn the following children: Lillie A., wife of Frank G. Woodruff; Ziingary M. and Carl W. Mrs. Carpenter was born at Batavia, N. Y., to Ira M. and Lydia (Cooley) Palmer, natives of New York. Her grandfather was Philip W. Palmer, a farmer and a native of Cattaraugus County, N.Y. Her father, who was a farmer, came to Sherwood, this State, in 1837, and there both he and his wife died. He was a valued citizen of that place and held many responsible township offices. His first wife died February 22, 1851. By that marriage these four I I children were born: Susan, Jane, Walter C. and John Q. By his second marriage with Lucy Fitch he became the father of three children, namely: Elsie C., Isabel L. and Alice I. IIe died September 14, 1888, at the ripe old age of eighty years, having been born May 13, 1808. Mr. Carpenter showed his loyalty to his country by enlisting March 20, 1875, in Company A, Twelfth Michigan Infantry, and serving faithfully one year at Camden, Ark., receiving his discharge in March, 1866. Hle has always honored industry in word and ideed, and hence his prosperity. Hle is a man of excellent character, whose reputation for truthfulness and honor is second to none in his neighborhood, and all who have dealings with him place perfect trust in him. 3-^ ----*.oto.<5^<^g0..oto. ----^8 QUIRE MOSES HAVEN. Among the pioneers of this county who laid the foundations of its prosperity and are still actively identified with its interests is Squire Haven, who is widely known throughout this region as one of its most intelligent, practical and prosperous farmers and stock-raisers. He is conducting his farming and stock business in Albion Township, where he owes a valuable, finely improved and well arranged farnm, pleasantly located on section 11. Our subject was born December 3, 1821, in the State of New York. Tis father, Martin Haven, was a native of Massachusetts, and was of sterling New England stock. He became a cabinet maker in early life. He was married in the State of New York, to Elizabeth Rennick, a native of Scotland, who came to America when she was thirteen years old. They resided in the Empire State a number of years and finally came to Michigan to spend their last days. He died in 1862, at a venerable age and she in 1863. They were the parents of seven children, our subject being the fifth in order of birth and four of them are now living. The father was a man of strong mental calibre and of marked intelligence. He was well informed, as in his younger days he had been a great traveler and. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 447 ----— ^ --- —---------- ------— L --— I ---— I- I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ — I-~~~~~~~~~~I~ was always a great reader and had a remarkable memory. He was prominent in educational matters. Ile and his wife were both firm Methodists and were charter members of the first church of that denomination established at Livonia, N. Y. Mr. Haven belonged to the Masonic order. Hle was conservative in his political views. lie had many friends and acquaintances with whom he was popular, and no man was his enemy. Squire Haven passed the early years of his life in his native place and received an excellent education il the common schools. At the age of nineteen years, a strong, stalwart, self-reliant youth, full of resources and of an energetic disposition, lie started out in the world to see what life held for him and finally arrived at Jackson, Mich., where he found himself, with but fifteen cents in his pocket. Nothing daunted by the low state of his finances, he manfully set to work at any occupation by which he could turn an honest penny. His first employment was in cutting cord-wood on the very spot where the Michigan Railway car shops now stand. Lie continued to work at anything he could find to do, and prudently saved his earnings, so that in 1842 he was enabled to buy one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 13, Albion Township. This land was in a perfect state of nature and lie immediately entered upon the pioneer work that lay before him of preparing it for cultivation. Hie had to face many hardships and to sacrifice many of the comforts to which he had been used in the early years of his settlement on the place. He first built a small house to shelter him from the inclemency of the weather, and the first chairs that he bought to furnish it, he brought from Spring Arbor with a pair of oxen attached to a stone boat as he had no wagon. In those days he used often to have to let a letter from his friends in New York lie in the postoffice two weeks before he could get together the necessary twenty-five cents to pay the postage. The Squire was a strong rugged man in his younger days and was able to do a vast amount of work so that in time, by rising at four o'clock in the morning and laboring incessantly until ten o'clock at night, he cleared off and placed under cultivation one hundred and thirty acres of his land. Ile continued to live on that place until 1863, when lie sold it and removed to Albion. Ile remained a resident of that city five years and then bought his present farm and he has since lived upon it. Ile has here one hundred and twenty acres of very fertile and productive farming land, of which one hundred acres are under cultivation. FHe has placed upon it an excellent class of improvements, including the commodious and well-built residence that he erected in 1871, and the good barn that he built in 1873. IIe carries on mixed farming and has a high grade of stock. lie gives much attention to raising sheep and his fine flock of Merinos are among the best to be found in the township. Our subject has had the assistance of a capable wife in the up)building of his pleasant home. They were married in 1846 and their forty-four years of wedded life has been blessed to them by the birth of four children, of whom two are living, namely: Mairtin A., who married Miss Ellen E. Oaks and lives with his parents; and John B., who married Ella M. Loder, and lives at Jackson. Mr. HIaven gave his children good educations and Martin is a grraduate of Prof. Mlayhew's Commercial College. Prior to her marriage, Mrs. Haven's name was Laura Pierce, and she was born June 3, 1823, in the State of New York. Ier parents were Amos and Emily (Steadman) Pierce, who were natives of Connecticut and early pioneers of Michigan. They came here in 1834 and first settled in Lenawee County, whence they removed to Hillsdale, and from there came to this county and were early settlers of Sheridan Townshipi. Mrs. Haven is a sister of Mrs. R. B. Shipmnan, who is now deceased. This brief sketch of the life and work of our subject, shows him to have been very useful as a citizen in aiding in the agricultural develolmentof this section and he hias also been serviceable in its public life and in advancing its educational, social and religious status. He has been a member of the Local School Board, and he is now an incumbent of the office of Justice of the Peace, whose duties he is discharging with discrimination and fairness. He is a member of the Masonic order at Albion, being identified with the Blue Lodge and also with the Chapter in that city. He has always kept wellinformed concerning political issues. He was a I I r::::::;;.;:-_.;::_;::::. -;: -. 448 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Democrat until the formation of the Republican party and since then has been an unswerving Republican. He and his amiable wife are both menbers in high standing of the Metliodist Episcopal Church at Albion. He is exemplary in his habits and though lie has lived in this township fifty years, during that half-century has never drank a glass of liquor here yet. He is of an intelligent, investigaing turn of mind and is fond of reading as we gather from the fact that he takes eleven papers. Though past three-score years and ten, Mr. and Mrs. Haven are still in vigorous health, and are enabled to enjoy the many comforts and luxuries that are the fruits of their early labors. AVID N. SLOAT is one of the substantial farmers of this county, who is carrying on a good business as a general farmer, paying much attention to raising fine horses and other stock. His farm on section 21, Albion Township, was a tract of timber land when it came into his possession. and its many improvements are the work of his own hand. He comes of sterling pioneer ancestry. His father was John A. Sloat, who was a native of Orange County, N. Y., where the early years of his manhood were passed as a farmer and a blacksmith. EIe was married in his native county, to Sarah Van Brunt, who was also born there, and there they passed the first years of their wedded life until 1831, when they came, to Michigan and were early pioneers of Wash. tenaw County. They settled first at Lodi Plains, but a short time after they removed to Sharon Township. The surrounding country was a wilderness peopled by Indians and wild animals, and but very few white settlers had made their appearance in Southern Michigan at that time. They settled upon a tract of wild land which had been bought by the grandfather of our subject, who obtained over four hundred acres of timbered openings, lying along the Raisin River. Mr. Sloat cleared his land, placed it under good cultivation and finally disposed of it at a good price. He then removed to Jackson County, and settled upon a farm in Liberty Township, which he afterward sold and bought another in Napoleon Township, which remained his home until death removed him from the scenes of his labors in 1877, at the age of seventy-seven years. His widow, who has attained the venerable age of eighty-two years, is still living on that farm. She is the mother of eleven children, of whom nine are now living. She is a woman of true Christian worth, and is a Baptist in religion. 'Ihe father was a man of much practical intelligence, possessing sound common sense, and took a deep interest in schools, and in all things that would in any way enhance the welfare of his community. He was a strong Universalist in his religious views; and politically, was a sound Democrat. David Sloat, of whom this biography is principally written, is a native of this State, born in the humble pioneer home of his parents in Washtenaw County, July 15, 1832, and to him belongs the distinction of being among the first white children born in Sharon Township. His educational advantages were limited, for, as he was the eldest son, he was much needed at home, and much of the farm work fell upon his shoulders. Hle thus early acquired a good knowledge of farming in all its branches. He remained an inmate of the parental household until he was twentyone years of age, assisting his father in the management of his farm. Hie learned the trade of a blacksmith, and at twenty-two years of age left the place of his birth and the ensuing two years worked at blacksmithing at Moscow, in Hillsdale County. After marriage he settled at Norvell in Jackson County, where he erected a blacksmith shop, and was actively engaged at his trade for four years. HIe then lived in Hanover two years, and in 1864 came to Albion Township to make his home on a tract of timber land, as he had decided to give his attention to farming. The primeval forests still covered his land, and he cut the first tree that had ever been felled upon the place. He entered with zeal upon his pioneer work, and now has seventy of his eighty acres of land under fine cultivation, and has erected a comfortable dwelling, good barns and other buildings. He carries on mixed husbandry, raising considerable grain and stock. He um.~ 449 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALB. I interests himself especially in raising sheep and horses, his sheep, of which he has a fine flock, being of the fine wool Spanish Merino breed. For the past three years he has especially interested himself in breeding fine trotters, and owns some valuable horses. The marriage of our subject with his estimable wife, Miss Olivia M. Richards, was solemnized January 1, 1857. She is a daughter of Henry and Mary Ann (Patterson) Richards, natives respectively of Washtenaw County, N. Y., and Rutland County, Vt., the former born in 1811, and the latter in 1816. They were married in Vermont, and two years later came from that State to this, stopping a short time while on the way in Niagara County, N. Y. They arrived in Michigan in 1837, and settled at Hanover in Jackson County, of which they thus became early pioneers. Mr. Richards located land near Hanover Village, and (luring his lifetime made it into a fine farm, and in his later years having secured an ample competence, he was enabled to retire from active work to a pleasant home in the village of Ianover, where he died in 1887. His widow still survives him, and she has attained the venerable age of seventy-five years. Mr. Richards was a prominent man in his community and held many offices, such as that of Assessor, Highway Commissioner, etc. He and his wife were the parents of seven children, six of whom are now living. Mrs. Sloat, who is the second child of the family, was born in Niagara County, N. Y., September 8, 1836. She was very young when her parents brought her to Michigan, and her girlhood was passed in Hanover Township, where she received a very good education il the common schools. Her marriage with our subject has brought them these three children: Frank, who was born in July, 1863, and died in January, 1867; Ella May, born May 13, 1868; and Clara L., May 8, 1872. These daughters have been given superior educational advantages, and are accomplished young ladies. Miss Ella, who is a graduate of the Albion High School, is at present a student in Albion College. She has also had experience in school work as a teacher. She is gifted with artistic talents, and some fine specimens of her paintings in landscape, animal and human figures adorn the par lor walls of her home. Miss Clara has a genius for instrumental music which is being carefully cultivated. Both daughters are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and take an active part in the Sunday-school. As before mentioned, Mr. Sloat is particularly interested in horse breeding, and is fast becoming known throughout this section of Southern Michigan for the excellency of his stock. He has a very fine three year old colt, "Bonnie S," a very promising Edmot Fremont, dam by Greenwood, Jr.; her dam by Hambletonian George; lie by Masterlode, whose dam was by Marshall Chief. Mr. Sloat is a useful citizen of Albion Township in other directions besides that of an enterprising farmer and stockraiser, as he does his share in carrying forward its public work. He has been Highway Commissioner four years altogether, and lie has also been School Director. He keeps well posted in political affairs, and affiliates with the Democratic party. He is a temperance man in principles and practice, and he has a good reputation for fair dealings. EORGE R. MERCHANT, who is a fine type of the old settler of this county, is an honored citizen of Newton Township, with whose agricultural interests he has been identified for many years, and where he still owns a valuable farm, though he is not now actively engaged in its management. He is a worthy representative of fine old New England stock, and numbers among his ancestry some who came over in the '" Mayflower," and some who ilelped to fight the battles of tha Revolution, and to free the American colonists from the mother country. Our subject was born in Glenville, Saratoga County, N. Y., January 22, 1812. His father, Joel Merchant, was a native of Connecticut, and a son of Gurdon Merchant, who was also a native of Connecticut, and was of English descent. The grandfather of our subject was a blacksmith by trade, and shod horses for the Continental army all through the Revolutionary War. He was with the <~~~~;Xf 450 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I - - = army when it wintered at Valley Forge and had a hard time of it there. He moved from Connectict t to Saratoga County, N. Y., where his remaining (lays were quietly passed until death closed his life at the age of eighty years. He and his good wife reared a family of four sons and one daughter. The father of our subject was quite young when his parents removed to New York, and much of his after life was spent there in farming. He served as a volunteer soldier in the War of 1812, took an active part in the battle at Lundy's Lane, and was stationed for a time at Sackett's Harbor, spending one winter there. For his services during that war he afterwards drew a pension of $12 a month and received from the Government a land warrant for one hundred and sixty acres of land. In 1843 or 1844 he came to Michigan and farmed here for some years, and then returned to the State of New York, where he (lied at the venerable age of seventy-seven years and eight months. He was a man of more than ordinary intelligence, and was prominent in public life. He was a stanch Democrat in politics. HIe served fifteen years as Justice of the Peace in Saratoga and Oswego Counties, N. Y., and was also a member of the County Board of Supervisors while a resident of Saratoga County, besides holding various other offices. The maiden name of the mother of our subject was Esther Reynolds, and she was a native of the State of New York. Her death, at the age of fifty-six years, rounded out a pure Christian life. She was quite of a religious turn of mind, an(l was a devoted member of the regular Baptist Church. Her father, Jeremiah Reynolds, was a native of Pittstown, N. Y. le was a grocer and general storekeeper at Glenville, Saratoga County. He was a patriotic soldier in the Revolution, and served with honor throughout the war. * At the time of his death, at Avon, Livingston County, N. Y., lie was eighty years of age. Ile was of good, old Yankee stock, and the first of his ancestors to come to this country came from England in the "i Mayflower" in 1620. He reared a large family of children. Our subject is one of seven children, all of whom grew to maturity, and are named as follows: Caroline, George R., John, William, Aaron, James and Sallie. Four of these children are now living. George Reynolds Merchant laid the foundation of his education in the district schools, and had the advantages of an excellent course of study in the Rensselaer Oswego Academy, located at Mexicoville, N. Y. In early life he learned the trade of a cooper, at a time when all the parts of a barrel were made by hand directly from the raw material. When twenty-nine years old he abandoned that trade, and in July, 1840, started for Michigan, journeying to Buffalo on foot, from there by boat to Detroit, whence he walked to Battle Creek, through a wild, sparsely settled country. He found but a few buildings in the now flourishing city of Battle Creek, and a mill was the only sign of a manufactory, where manufacturing is now so largely carried on. Ile first located near here and spent his first fall in this region in making flour barrels. lie utilized his education by teaching in the Graham district that winter, and in the summer of 1841 lie worked by the month for a farmer by the name of John Pearle, who then lived on the farm now owned by David Gould. While there he received $15 a month for his work. The winters of 1841 and 1842 he engaged in teaching, in which vocation he had considerable experience, as he taught eiglht terms altogether, two in the State of New York and six terms here. Mr. Merchant first farmed on his own account as a renter, leasing a farm across the street from his present homestead. HIe carried on farming there three years, and then purchased the farm on which he has since lived on section 19, Newton Township. There were no improvements on the place wlen it came into his hands, as it was merely a tract of new land. Deer, bears and wild turkeys were still plentiful, and Mr. Merchant occasionally indulged in the pleasures of the chase, and on the Fourth of July helped to kill four deer. There were Indians here then, of the Pottawatomie tribe, and as their trail ran across his farm near his house the savages frequently stopped at his dwelling and begged for food. Our subject plowed up from his land a set of elk horns, which were twelve feet long from lip to tip, and were the largest ever known in this country, the Indians saying that they had never seen any of such remarkable size. PORTRAIT AND BIC Mr. Merchant began life here as a pioneer, building a log house, 16x24 feet, which he,and his family occupied for nearly twenty-five years. He has made all the substantial improvements that adorn the farm and make it one of the most desirable pieces of property in the township. It comprises one hundred and seventy acres of well-cultivated land, from which fine harvests are reaped. Mr. Merchant carried on mixed farming, raising stock and grain during his active business life, but for the past five years lie has rented the farm to his youngest son, who is managing it very skillfully. When he came here our subject's only earthly possessions consisted in the clothes that he wore and in $30 in money, but lie had sufficient resolution to work steadily and exercise prudence and economy until lie had acquired a good start, and to-day he is in comfortable circumstances, and can afford to pass his declining years free from incessant toil. Mr. Merchant and Miss Eliza Brott were married May 2, 1843, and to them have been born seven children, all of whom have grown to maturity and are named as follows: William, Ella (Mrs. Walmsley), Emma (Mrs. Palmer), Flora (Mrs. Potter), Hattie (Mrs. Simmnons), Carrie (Mrs. Ilickling), and Orrin. Mrs. Merchant is a true, womanly woman, an earnest Christian, and a firm believer in the Baptist faith. Slie was born in Seneca County, N. Y., October 6, 1820. Her parents, Anthony and Cornelia ()ecker) Brott, were also natives of the State of New York. Her father was a shoe manufacturer. After living seven years in Genesee County, N. Y., he came from there to this county in 1836, and settled in Emmet Township, where he took up eighty acres of land. He farmed there until the death of his wife, when she was sixty-six years old, and he then made his home with his daughter and ourt subject, until he died at the age of seventy-two years, a highly respected pioneer of the county being thus taken away from the scenes of his usefulness. Mrs. Merchant's grandfather Decker was a soldier in the Revolution, while two of her brothers served in the late Civil War, bravely giving up their life for their country, one dying of starvation in Andersonville prison. Our subject has been a witness of much of the growth of this country, and has had an honorable )GRAPHICAL ALBUM. 451 part in promoting its material prosperity. He has likewise done good service in civic office. He was one of three commissioners at one time before the day of supervisors. He has been School Inspector and has held other minor public positions. He has always done his duty as a citizen, and his reputation as an honorable, upright man is of the highest. In him the Democratic party has found one of its firmest supporters. ONRAD BRUKNER who came to Fredonia Township many years ago, in the busy years that have since intervened has developed a farm from a heavily timbered tract of land, and is spending his declining years in peace and plenty, surrounded by the comforts of a good home. Our subject is a native of Germany, and was born March 4, 1819. His father, who bore the same name as himself, was also born and reared in the German Fatherland, and was there married, his wife also being a native of Germany. Those worthy people were the parents of six children, of whom our subject is the fifth in order of birth. Conrad Brukner received his education in the excellent schools of his native land which he commenced to attend at the age of eight years. When he was twenty years old, in accordance with the custom of his country, he entered the army and served the Fatherland faithfully six years. He was married in 1845 to Ann Weimer. She was the fourth child in a family of six children, and was born and reared il Germany. Their wedded life has brought to them six children, one son and five daughters, namely: Anna, (deceased), Katie, Conrad, Mary, Barbara and Louise. After leaving the army our subject located on a farm in Germany, and engaged in cultivating the soil there until 1854. In that year, shrewdly thinking that America, the Mecca toward which so many of his countrymen turn, would afford him better opportunities for carrying on his occupation prosperously, he emigrated to this country with his family. LIe landed at New York City, and coming to Michigan, spent a year and a half in Wash m 452 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. tenaw County. In 1856 he located on his present farm, which was then but very little improved. He at once busied himself in placing the land under cultivation, and now has one hundred and fifteen of his one hundred and fifty acres in a finely tilled condition, so that he reaps rich harvests in repayment for his toil. He has placed upon the farm many good modern improvements, including a roomy, two-story frame house, well-arranged barns and all the necessary buildings. He also has a good supply of farming machinery, and is carrying on his operations with practical ability. Mr. Brukner's military life in Germany has proved valuable since coming to America, and for twenty-one months he gave his adopted country good service at Washington as a member of the Fourteenth Michigan Light Artillery. He and his wife are most excellent people, who are held in respect and esteem by all about them. They belong to the Evangelical Church, and are true and consistent Christians. J AMES W. HATCH, who has during the most of his mature years, and even in his youth, been closely connected with the agricultural interests of this State, now occupies a farm on section 3, Fredonia Township. He has there one hundred and forty-four acres of wellimproved land, supplied with a complete line of substantial farm buildings and with such fruit and shade trees as render it pleasant to the sight and add to its monetary value. Having had a stroke of paralysis, Mr. Hatch is not able to engage in hard work, and therefore rents his land, taking only general oversight of his financial interests. Hie has been prosperous in his worldly affairs and has a sufficient amount of property here and elsewhere to give him an income ample for all his needs. The paternal family has been known in the Empire State for several generations. The father of our subject, Young M. Hatch, was born in that State near Auburn, and there grew to manhood. He married Hannah Swift, who was born in Mass I achusetts but reared in New York, and immediately afterward took up his residence on a farm. He came to this county in 1836 and located in Clarence Township, near Duck Lake. He had traveled from his former home to Buffalo, N. Y., with a team, and after crossing the lake to Toledo, Ohio, he continued his journey in the way in which he had begun it. In going through the Maumee Swamps he was two days and a half covering a distance of six miles. On reaching his destination he set industriously to work to improve his farm, on which he built a good house and made other improvements, such as are common among enterprising farmers. This was his permanent residence until he laid aside the cares of life and entered into rest. The parental family consisted of three sons and three daughters, one of whom died in infancy. The survivors are Lorinda, Emerett, James W., Susan and Emmett. The Empire State claims James W. Hatch as one of her sons, he having been born in Wayne County near Red Creek, June 6, 1829. He was about nine years old when his parents came to this State, and he continued his studies in the log schoolhouse which was not far distant from his new home. Under the guidance of his father he learned the practical value of industry and various items belonging to farm management, and became well fitted to carry on the work of an agriculturist. I-e had not long passed the twenty-first milestone of life's journey ere he established a home near Duck Lake, Clarence Township, on land of his own. Several species of wild animals infested the forest there and in many respects the surroundings were of a primitive nature. Buoyed up by the hope of future success, and their sympathy with and love for each other, the husband and wife bravely took up the duties that lay before them, and ere long saw much improvement in their property. In 1852 Mr. Hatch crossed the plains with horses and cattle, being six months on the way. Reaching the gold regions he engaged in mining, remaining in the West three years, and returning to this State via the water route to New York, and thence westward by the common thoroughfares. The "Yankee Blade " and clNorth Star" were the vessels on which he took passage from 1 5 B i i I:1; ~:i iyfct 04 455 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. = Aspinwall to New York. He resumed his agricultural work and in 1869 changed his location to Ihe farm he is now occupying. Mr. Hatch was fortunate in winning for his wife Miss Julietta Austin, who was born in Scottsville, Genesee County, N. Y., October 20, 1833, and came to this State with her parents when a child of four years. The wedding rites were solemnized at her home January 5, 1851, and have been blessed by the birth of three sons and three daughters. The first born, Florence, married George Cobb and lives in South Dakota, near the Black Hills; Jesse, who married Nellie Willard, is practicing law in Marshall; George is a farmer in Nebraska; Minnie married Stephen Smith and their home is in' Burlington Township; Grace married Zina Enos, a farmer in Fredonia Township; Ernest remains with his parents. Mr. Hatch enlisted in Company B, Eighteenth Michigan Infantry il 1865, and was under the command of Gen. Thomas until his discharge at Nashville later in the same year. He is not at present ilentified with any social order, although he was at one time an Odd Fellow. Politically he is a Republican. Both lie and his wife belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church and have good standing in tlat organization and in society at large. -. *. e 6 'I )byILLIAMI STOLP. A striking illustration of the force of industry in a man, of the benefit of small means carefully saved, and of the power which an honorable life exerts over others, is furnished by the gentleman of whom this biographical sketch is written and whose portrait will be noticed on the opposite page. Mr. Stolp rose from an humble position to one of affluence simply by the constant exercise of industry and frugality, and can now look back upon a career of honor, and a life whose standard of duty has been the faitlful discharge of even the smallest duties in a truthful spirit. Not only is Mr. Stolp an old settler of Michigan, but he is also numbered among its prominent farmers and stockraisers. Upon his valuable farm in Newton Township he has for. many years been extensively engaged in raising fine blooded cattle and horses, and has also operated successfully as a tiller of the soil. The grandfather of our subject, whose given name was Peter, was a native of Prussia, Germany, and, coming to America in Colonial times, located in the State of New York, where lie carried on farming and where he died at the venerable age of ninety years. In New York the father of our subject, who also bore the nanle of William, was born and reared. An ardent patriot, he served in the War of 1812 and participated in the battles of Oswego and Sackett's Harbor under Gen. Brown. He followed farming in Onondaga County, wllere he owned tlhree hundred acres of land, and was extensively engaged in raising cattle and horses. He passed from the busy scenes of life when fifty-four years of age, and his death deprived the community in which lie had lived of a valuable citizen and an an earnest Christian who was ever active in the cause of religion. Politically, he always favored the Whig party. His wife, whose maiden name was Hannah Barnes, was a native of New York, and died at the early age of thirty-three years. Of the four children born to her and her husband only two grew to maturity-William and Catherine. A native of Marcellus, Onondaga County, N. Y., Mr. Stolp was born July 4, 1812. fie comes of a long-lived family and one of lis uncles attained the advanced age of ninety-seven years. Hie of whom we write was reared on a farm and was carefully trained to the calling which he adopted as his own when lie reached years of discretion. In the meantime lie received such educational advantages as could be obtained at so early a day. When twenty-one years of age he entered upon his career as an independen t farmer and until 1837 carried on his occupation in the State of his nativity. IHe was ambitous, however, to avail limself of the many advantages offered by the rich virgin soil of Michigan which was then a comparatively new country, and in the year above mentioned came to this State to investigate and judge for himstlf as to the fertility of the soil and the advantages held out to emigrants. IHe found the State almost in its primitive wildness with its dense forests I e * PORTRAIT AND BJOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 456 scarcely broken by the ax of the pioneer; deer, hears.being the only member who was ever a Democrat, and other wild animals were plentiful, while the and is known as a radical supporter of that party. Indians still lingered around their old hunting He is a man upon whose vigorous constitution age grounds. He returned to New York, deciding not seems to have made no impression, as he is still to locate here at that time, and accordingly farmed strong and active. [He is also well endowed menin the Empire State some years longer. ally, possessing a keen quick intellect and has more In the fall of 1849, Mr. Stolp again visited Mich- than ordinary ability and business capacity. It igan, and this time with the view to settling here is to him and such men of enterprise that this counpermanently. He purchased two hundred acres of ty is indebted for its high standing as a great agriland on sections 28 and 29 which is now included cultural center. in his present farm in the township of Newton. There were no improvements upon the place and his first work was to build the substantial frame @ 4 house that is still the pleasant abode of the family. As year after year went by he became more prosperous and bUsides continually adding first class L ON. JOHN HOUSTON. This name will improvements, he bought more land from time to be at once recognized by many readers as time until he now owns over seven hundred acres that of a prominent financier of Marshall, of the choicest land in this section of Michigan, ( and a man who has been connected with two-hundred forty-seven acres of it lying in this business and official affairs of the county for many township, and the remainder in other parts of the years. He may well be classed among the old setcounty,besides three farms in other parts of the tiers, having come to the county in 1833 when but State. The most of his land is cleared and under a boy, and having grown to manhood amid someexcellent cultivation, while the homestead is sup- what primitive surroundings and even taken a part plied with a suitable class of well arranged build- in the development of the natural resources of the ings. section. He is now Vice-President of the City In 1833 our subject was married to Martha National Bank, an institution that he helped to orKinyon who was born in the State of New York in ganize and in which he has held his present place 1815. Their married life was one whose happiness from the start. As a financier he is acute and continued until the death of the amiable wifeat the quick to take advantage of commercial opportuniage of thirty-nine years. She was a woman who ties, but at the same time cautious and prudent and filled in perfect measure all the relations that she therefore trusted and relied upon. bore towards others and her untimely death was a John and Sophia (Green) Houston, parents of severe affliction to her family and was mourned be- him of whom we write, were born in New Hampyond the household circle by all who knew her. shire and solemnized their marriage there. Mrs. She was the mother of nine children namely: Milo, Houston was the daughter of Russell Green, a Jay, Hannah, Polly, Randolph, Florence, Mary, )e native of the Granite State, who was of Scotch Forest and Mlartha. ancestry. After spending some time in New York, Mr. Stolp has devoted himself assiduously to Mr. and Mrs. Houston came to this county during raising all kinds of stock and takes great pride in the year before mentioned and located on new land his fine cattle and horses, and well he may, for they in Fredonia Township. There they spent the remare of the best blood and are classed among the nant of their days and passed peacefully away. most valuable stock in the county. He has taken They were the parents of five children, John being premiums on everything that he has exhibited in the eldest and born May 16, 1824, in Clarkson, the county fairs and has over thirty diplomas se- Monroe County, N. Y. cured in that way. The removal of the Houston family to this Our subject is distinguished in his family as | county took place when he of whom we write was PORTRl~AIT AND) BI[OGRAPHI[CAL ALBUM. 457 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 4~7 about nine years old, and he well remembers the scenes that met his view on the journey and the surroundings of his early home here. He attended the common school in the neighborhood of his home, and worked on the farm, giving valuable aid to his father in developing the property, and enduring, in common with other youths, the privations inseparable from the surroundings, but which were offset by the spirit of good fellowship and the pioneer recreations. Mr. Houston remained on the homestead until after he had reached his majority, then began farming on his own account. He was quite successful as a general agriculturist and was able to place good buildings upon his land and bring the one hundred and twenty acres to a high degree of productiveness. Hle has been engaged as a livestock dealer and for many years kept a fine herd of blooded cattle and a large flock of fine-wool sheep. Other enterprises lhave from time to time engaged his attention, among them that of the manufacture of cider and vinegar, for which he has as complete an outfit as can be found in the county. In 1882 lie became interested in milling and now owns and olerates a flouring mill at Burlington, this county, which has a capacity of fifty barrels per day and turns out flour equal to any in the State. Mr. Houston led Miss Harriet Hurd to the hymeneal altar July 3, 1849, and their marriage has been blest by the birth of one son who bears the name of Russell. Mrs. Houston was born in Orleans County, N. Y., in the town of Yates, February 20, 1827. Her parents were Josiah and Mila (Portage) Hurd, natives of the Empire State, who settled in Michigan in 1843. Under their loving care she acquired a knowledge of the principles that should actuate one's life, and of domestic arts, and also gained mental culture. She is a member,f the Baptist Church and a consistent Christian. In political affairs Mr. Houston began taking an active part many years ago, affiliating with the Republicans, and from time to time holding official positions with credit to himself and his constituents. From 1862 to 1866 he served as Sheriff of Calhoun County. From 1875 to 1876 he was a member of the Legislature and during his presence in the legislative halls he took an active part in securing the passage of important bills. Ile has an honorable record as a man whose probity of character is well known, was outspoken in his opinions, and brought the full power of his mind to bear upon the various questions upon which he was to act. z EORGE ERRINGTON. Calhoun County, like other sections of the United States, is K)| indebted to foreign lands for some of her best and most honored citizens. One of this number is the gentleman above named, who is now living on section 27, in the township of Pennfield. He has lived in the county long enough to be fairly entitled to be called an old resident and can look back to scenes very different from those that now meet his view. There were plenty of deer, bear and wolves here when he began his work, and the country was still cleared and developed but in small tracts, with large expanses covered with forest or field growths that had been untouched by the hand of civilization. Mr. Errington is the direct descendant of an English soldier who was killed at the battle of Culloden, fighting for the Stuarts. The next in direct line was Benjamin Errington, born in Northumberland and a wealthy merchant; he died in his seventyeighth year. Following him in the ancestoral line was George Errington, who was also a wealthy merchant and whose account books, used duriug the eighteenth century and now in the possession of our subject, show the business he transacted. Ite married a Miss More; a relative of Hannah More, the noted poetess. They reared one son and two daughters and to the son was left an annual income of eight hundred pounds. George Errington died when seventy odd years old in 1795. His son, who was christened by the same name, was born in England in 1764 and married -arriet Notcutt, who was born in the city of Ipswich, Suffolk County. The second George Errington, who was the father of our subject, carried on a large merchlndising business and was an extensive ship owner. Ile at one time owned eight vessels which cost quite a sum each and he was quite wealthy. During S 458 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. the French Revolution he was President of the worked for them eleven years. He then started Revolutionary Club, and his views being somewhat on a westward tour, going up the Hudson River radically expressed, he received notice from the to the city of the same name and then walking English Government that unless he kept quiet in forty miles to Great Barrington, Mass., and back to the club and maintained silence he would be ar- Albany. He then took a line boat on the Erie rested and imprisoned for high treason. He and Canal, disembarked at Lockport, and thence walked his wife belonged to the Unitarian Church at Yar- through Canada to Chathamn, where he engaged a mouth. He died in 1839 in the seventy-eighth passage on a boat to Buffalo, thence to Cleveland. year of his age, and she survived him until 1857, From that city to Akron and back he made a pedesbeing then seventy-nine years old. Their family trian tour, then came by boat to Detroit, landing consisted of eight children, the following of whom in that city July 10, 1844. ITe walked to Battle grew to maturity: Harriet, Elizabeth, Charlotte, Creek, a distance of one hundred and forty miles, Georgiana, George and Frank. Mr. Errington and selecting a location, paid $5 per acre for tlhe met with some business reverses when about sixty- one hundred and twenty acres he now occupies. five years old and, although he enjoyed comfort, There was a log house on the land but nothing did not recover his wealth. else in the way of improvements. NotwithstandThe maternal grandfather of our subject was ing the fact that Mr. Errington had never (one a William Notcutt, a merchant in Ipswich, England, day's work on a farm and could not even harness a whose business was extensive. He is said to have horse, ie went to work with a will and cleared up been so afraid of a horse that he walked to Lon- the entire tract. He now has it under high cultivadon, a distance of seventy miles, twice a year until tion and supplied with all that is needful in the he was sixty years old. When returning from his way of farm buildings, orchards and groves. The last trip, having walked fifty-two miles and being peach orchard was raised from seeds which he hired quite tired, he was induced to get into a chaise with boys to pick up on the streets of New York City. a friend to ride the remainder of the way. The The commodious frame house now occupied by horse ran away and he was thrown out and killed. the family was built in 1869 at a cost of $2,000. This line of ancestry is traced to old Puritan stock Mr. Errington had but $312 when he landed here, and several members of the family in former gen- and from this small capital has grown his present erations were preachers. The Independent Church property, which is of considerable monetary value at Saxon was presided over by them for one hun- and is the source of an abundant income year after dred and twenty-five years. Through his mother, year. The owner has given his attention to mixed lie of whom we write traces his descent from farming, and by his intelligent comprehension Gen. Payne, an officer under Cromwell. There and careful observance of the methods of others as is a tradition that, one of the maternal great- well as of natural phenomena, he has more than grandmothers of our subject foretold that on counterbalanced the ignorance of farm life with a certain day, forty years in the future, she would which lie began. strike her nose in such a manner as to cause her The marriage of Mr. Errington was solemnized death; and it is related that the prophecy was liter- in 1853, his chosen c,)mpanion being Miss Nancy ally fulfilled, as on the appointed day, while busy Beach, an amiable and refined woman who was born in the pantry, she accidentally hit her nose against in Essex County, N. Y., August 31, 1826. Nine a shelf and died from the effect of the blow. children have been born. eight of whom grew to The gentleman whose name introduces these maturity, named respectively, Harriet N., Martha notes was born in Yarmouth, England, February E., Frank B., Fanny E., Susan, Helen, Georgiana, 25, 1820, and came to America when but twelve Charlotte and Edith. They have been given good years old. Reaching New York City he soon opportunities to cultivate their intellectual powers found employment in the printing office of Harper and develop characters that will not detract from Bros., where he served an apprenticeship and the honor of the name they bear. Politically, Mr. I I s, r: ': PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 461 Errington is now a Prohibitionist, he being one of those who believe that the liquor question is the all important one in National policy. IIe was for. merly a Republican and is one of the three in Pennfield Township who voted for John P. Hale, on the Free Soil ticket. Realizing that an honored ancestry entails upon a man obligations to industry, honesty and true worth, Mr. Errington has endeavored to live in accordance with that belief and to act well his part in the battle of life..._., OSHUA A. R)OBINSON. Among the many worthy pioneers of Calhoun County none are more (leserving of representation in this ALBUM than tlhe gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphls and whose portrait appears on the opposite page. Ile came hither in his youth and assisted in the arduous task of reclaiming a portion of Le Roy Township from its primitive condition. H-e knows what it is to wield the axe on heavy timbler, to burn brush and grub out stumps, and in fact understands the entire process of making the wilderness to blossom as a rose. Looking backward hle recalls the days when wild game was abundant here, and some of the more savage animals still lingered in the wilds, making it dangerous to be out after nightfall. Mr. Robinson has made a study of agriculture, especially in the department of horticulture, and manages his interests in Le Roy Township after the most approved modern methods. Our subject is a worthy descendant of wellknown New England ancestry. His paternal grandfather was one of the twenty-one members of the famous Boston Tea Party that emptied the tea from British ships in Boston Harbor and thereby proved that they firmly believed in the principle that " taxation without representation is unjust." His grandfather, Jeremiah Robinson, fought in the ranks of the Continental army during the Revolution. Though a small man, physically,. he possessed undaunted courage, and one time in a single handed combat with an Indian, who had fired at him from ambush, took a rifle from his foe...Thle gun is now preserved as a relic in the family and our subject has heard his grandfather, who lived to an advanced age, tell the story of its capture, besides relating other thrilling tales concerning his life as a Revolutionary soldier. The father of our subject was a soldier in the War of 18'12, although only for a short time. Our subject was born at Elbridge, Onondaga County, N. Y., January 17, 1818, to Joshua and Harriet (Upham) Robinson. In early life his father was a carpenter and joiner, but as he had a large family of boys, he concluded to purchase a farm, and with their assistance engage in agricultural pursuits. He bought a farm in Wayne County, N. Y., and lived on it about five years. At the expiration of that time he exchanged it for land in Michigan, partly or mostly owing to our subject's great desire to live in this part of the country. 'rhe family made their journey hither in 1838 in the winter season in a covered wagon, coming through Pennsylvania and Ohio, and arriving at their destination in Le Roy Township March 1 without any casualties. The mother carried in her arms a babe three months old. They took up their residence in a rude shanty of loose boards intended only for summer use. The season was a very unhealthy one, and the father, mother and the oldest brother were sick for months with chills and fever, though on the days when the ague loosened its liold they helped others who were sicker than they. Under the circumstances it was impossible to build a more substantial structure for the winter, and the family was destined to live in the shanty through the coming cold weather. At one end a huge fireplace was built and the cabin was provided with rude furnishings. Thesick became better, but by no means strong and well, and the winter passed without any fatality. Immediately after settling here the family entered upon the work of clearing their land and the first year rented some to cultivate. Our subject, who fortunately retained his health during the sickness of the others, worked very industriously and laid in fourteen tons of wild hay for the winter; with the assistance of a brother he broke twenty-five acres of land and sowed fifteen acres to wheat, the remainder of the land being used for 462 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. the corn and oat crops of which they obtained cauliflower' and parsnips from such land. In this good harvests the next spring. After that season connection, we may say that Mr. Robinson. is a the family enjoyed good health and were prospered pioneer in using tile for ditches, as he has ever accordingly. been foremost in taking advantage of all new When he attained his majority, Mr. Robinson methods for improving or cultivating his land. It learned the trade of a cooper and followed it for is to such men that this country is indebted for its some time, working at Paw Paw and Grand Rapids continued prosperity. in 1841 and 1842. He at length felt justified in Mr. Robinson has always rejected offers of establishing a home of his own, and in April, 1844, office, remarking that he was born a farmer and he was married to the lady whom he had asked to preferred that others should have the honors and preside over it, Miss Caroline B., a daughter of emoluments of public positions while lie devoted Charles and Clarissa (Horton) Dolph of Athens himself to his work. This refusal to take part in Township. Her parents came from Rochester, public affairs has not prevented him, however, in N. Y., to this State in 1836, and became pioneers being very active in all enterprises designed for of what was then an unbroken tract of land. The furthering the progress of agriculture in Southwedded life of our subject and his amiable wife ern Michigan. He was one of the leaders in establasted nearly forty-four years, and then was lishing the Calhoun County Agriculture Society, brought to a close by the death of the amiable and for many years represented the western part wife, March 31, 1888. To her faithful devotion of the county as a member of the Executive Comto his interests Mr. Robinson owed much of his mittee, till failing health compelled him to rehappiness and prosperity, and her children found sign his position. He was among the first in the in her that best of friends, a wise and tender organization of the Horticultural Society at Battle mother. Two sons and a daughter were born of Creek, which flourished for quite a number of this union, namely: John D., who remains at home years, and was productive of much good in rousing and assists his father on the farm; Hattie C., Mrs. the interest of the people in horticulture and in Z. W. Miller, who keeps house for her father and giving this department of agriculture an impetus cares for his comfort; and Charles Emmet, who that has been widely felt. Mr. Robinson was a married Cora Brown and lives at Battle Creek. charter member of the Grange at Battle Creek, and Mr. Robinson's homestead is one of the choice was its Secretary for some years till he obtained a and well-equipped farms of Battle Creek Town- demit and joined the Grange at Le Roy, of which ship, and here he has devoted his life to agricul- he has been Master for three years. In politics ture, horticulture and stock-raising. In the latter our subject has been moderately active, usually branch he keeps good grades of stock, having some attending primary meetings and using his influence full-blooded Short-horn cattle, and a flock of one in favor of the Republican party of which he has hundred and fifty sheep of standard varieties. He been a member since its organization. has a natural taste for horticulture, and at one time had sixty-five distinct varieties of apples that he could name, which he raised more for a test than for profit. In pears he has made costly but unsuccessful experiments, fire,blight being the RETER T. JOHNSON, M. D. This name greatest enemy with which he has had to contend. ) will be recognized by many of our readers In small fruits he raises enough for family use. He as that of a man located in Battle Creek and has been very active in experimenting on muck J practicing what may be called clairvoyant land and at the end of five years is quite sanguine Eclecticism. The gift of clairvoyancy has been of meeting with good success in making this land Dr. Johnson's from his earliest recollection and very valuable for cultivation. During 1890 he when a child was often declared by his mother to raised a fine crop of onions, carrots, cabbages, be bewitched, In later days lie made a study of I ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~~~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 463 the principles of clairvoyancy, became firmly convinced of their usefulness to mankind, and combining them with his knowledge of medicine has thoroughly satisfied himself and converted many to his own belief. He uses his clairvoyant power in making examinations, and has performed some wonderful cures, in cases where the seat of the disease could not be determined by ordinary means. He has a fine practice, extending over a wide circuit of country. Dr. Johnson was born in Genesee County, N. Y., November 22, 1828. Eis parents were Calvin and Nancy (Powers) Johnson, natives of the Empire State, and the father a farmer by occupation. In 1837 the family came to this State, establishing their home in Kalamazoo County, where the father died in 1858. The mother survived until 1874. To them were born seven children, of whom the survivors are Daniel L., a miller of Yorkville, Kalamazoo County; Seymour C., a resident of San Francisco, Cal.; and the subject of this notice. From the time he was old enough to take a part in such labors until he was seventeen years of age, l)r. Johnson was principally engaged in driving a yoke of oxen, plowing, cradling, raking and binding, and chopping and logging. lie attended school during the winter months only, but in this way laid the foundation of his present knowledge. At the age noted he went to Kent County, where he worked in the sawmill a year, after which lie took up cabinet-making, spending some time at this trade. During tie first year he received $25 and was obliged to clothe himself; the second year $30 and the third year $50. When he finally determined to engage in business for himself he kept on at his trade, doing a very satisfactory business for a number of years. In Kent County Dr. Johnson married his first wife, Rhoda Darrow, the ceremony being performed January 24, 1848. To them were born four children, but one of whom is now living. This is Mary, wife of William Mason, whose home is in Ypsilanti. The devoted wife and mother died in 1875. Dr. Johnson was married to his present wife Mrs. Cordelia A. Cassidy, nee Fish, in 1880. Doctor Johnson began the study of medicine with his father-in-law, Dr. John Darrow, who followed the Thompsonian system. He continued his studies with Dr. Young, an allopath, and in 1853 began practicing in Kent County. Early in the '60s he removed to Galesburg and thence to Ypsilanti. In 1875 he took a course of lectures at the Cincinnati (Ohio) Eclectic College, and followed this up until his graduation in 1879. At that time he was located for practice in Coldwater. In 1887 he made a permanent location in Battle Creek, where as elsewhere, his peculiar powers have been tested and his ability is duly appreciated. The religious feeling of Dr. Johnson is expressed in the words of the poet"Belongs to no sect, no creed confined, The world is my home, my brethren, all mankind." He is a member of the Spiritual Society for which he lectures every Sunday evening. He has traveled quite extensively as a lecturer, having given himself more or less to that work since 1853. ' BRAM MINGES is one of the famous socalled "49er's" who sought fortune's favors in far-away California, in that ever-mernorable year in the history of this country, of the discovery of gold. The beautiful farm in Battle Creek Township, on which as the shadows are lengthening on the dial, lie is passing the declining years of a life well spent, was purchased by money that he obtained during his stay on the Pacific Coast, and is ample evidence that where so many failed, he succeeded. Mr. Minges was born June 30,1818. His parents were Christian and Hannah (Shabell) Minges. His paternal grandfather came from the Highlands of Scotland in Colonial times and settled in Cumberland County, Pa. The maternal ancestors of our subject were from Germany. His father was a shoemaker and he worked at the bench somewhat during his youth. But at the age of twenty-two years he came to Michigan and learned the trade of a millwright, which he followed for several years. 464 PORTRAIT AND BIOG~RAPHIICAL ALBUM. In 1849, when the excitement caused by the dis- bought the farm of two hundred acres in Battle covery of gold in California was at its height, he Creek Township, on which he has since lived abandoned his work to join a company that was which is now one of the most pleasant in all this bound for the Golden State. The others forming region of beautiful farms, as well as one of the the party were Charley Cooley, Chas. Lowell, most productive estates in this vicinity. It is amChristian Hanna, Thomas TenEyck, George McCam- ply supplied with a good class of farm buildings; Iey, George P. Burrell (who was our subject's part- the fine barns were built by his own hands, and he ner), Joshua Cook, Samuel Cook and Albert Dewey. also assisted in building his commodious residence. Of this number only four are known to have re- Our subject was married February 15, 1852, to turned to this part of the country, while three are Elsie Ann, daughter of Charles and Elizabeth still living hi California. (Cushman) Cowlam. To them were born two chilThe little company started on their long journey dren, who died in infancy. This happy marriage across the plains and mountains to Sacra mento, Cal., was of brief duration, as it was brought to a close from Battle Creek, March 5, 1849, with five wagons by the death of the wife, September 20, 1856. and ample supplies. They were six months and ten December 24, 1862, Mr. Minges was again mardays on the way; but they arrived at their desti- ried, Miss Eugenia Amidon becoming his wife, and nation in good health and spirits. Mr. Minges was in her he has had the helpful co-operation that only first employed in making coffins at Sacramento. a capable and true wife can give, and she has made lie soon went to Sonoma, however, and began to his home comfortable and cozy and has contributed work in the redwood forests, getting out timber in a great degree to his prosperity and happiness. with a whip saw as there were then no sawmills in Mrs. Minges is a daughter of Orlow and Rhuama California, except the Sutter mill on the American (Cavada) Amidon. who were natives of the State Fork. The timber thus sawed was valued at $700 of New York, and were 'among the pioneers of per million. The next year Mr. Minges went to M ichigan, coming here when their daughter, of mining and was thus engaged seven months. His whom we write, was thirteen years old. Three next enterprise was in keeping a stock ranch, which sons have been born to our subject and his wife, he manIaged with good financial success during the whom they have named Erwin G., Orlow A. and remainder of his stay in California. The rough Frank. Erwin married Cora C. Cummins, and life and many hardships that he had to endure did lives near his parents; Orlow married Theda HJamnot compensate our sulject for the comfort of his lin, a graduate of the Battle Creek High Sclhool in old home, although lie was making money, so he the class of '83 and a teacher in the public schools turned his face homeward, coming by the way of the ensuing five years till her marriage; Frank is the Isthmus of Panama and arriving at Emmet, now in his senior year at the Battle Creek High this county, December 26, 1851. During his stay School. in California, and while on the way, he had many Mr. Minges had but very meager educational strange experiences of the frontier life. He saw advantages in his youth, but by continual study much of the Indians, and became well acquainted and reading he has made up for the early deficienwith their modes of living and customs. While cies in his education and is a man of extensive and crossing the plains, he and his companions encoun- varied information, who has a broad outlook on tered hostile savages, but always managed by small life. He has been foremost among his fellow-citigifts to leave them in good humor. A squad of zens in advancing education and all other things emigrants shot at the Indians one day and the that will in any way contribute to the well-being of latter revenged themselves by killing a horse and a his township and county and he has been an influmule, which luckily belonged to the very ones who ence for great good in his community. In antehad done the shooting. bellum days he was a strong Abolitionist and has With the hard-earned savings of two years of been an unswerving adherent of the Republican toil and sacrifices and privations, Mr. inges party ever since its formation. lIe has always done 4~~~~ T: -~I"`~'~'-I-~ ~,~;1.,':.~; ~:.D CJ-AP I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 467 what he could to further the cause of Prohibition. Ile has been one of the active and intelligent members of the Patrons of Husbandry since the organ ization of the society fifteen years ago. A man of Mr. Minges' intelligence, high standing and true citizenship, has of necessity had much to do in the management of public affairs, and we find that he filled every town office from Pathmaster to Supervisor. He was Highway Commissioner for eleven years, when he resigned to rid himself of the office. ice was Justice of the Peace five years, and was a member of the County Board of Supervisors a like leingth of time. He has been School Director and hlas held other civic positions too numerous to mention.,:_,,,-.C 5 - I —. —q M ).-_- |p fl)UFUS 1). BURR. The task of a biographical writer is a pleasant one when he is called \ upon to give the facts in the history of a man so conspicuous in the social and financial improvement of a locality as is the gentleman named above. Mr. Burr is a pioneer of Sheridan Township and still occupies the farm whose iml)rovement he began in 1838, although it was in his possession prior to that time. Iie located here before the organization of the township and before Albion was known, and with one exception is the only survivor of the little band of neighbors who sympathized in each other's privations, shared each other's joys and who tried as best they could to make life easy and agreeable to each other. The exception is Mrs. Minot Peck, formerly Miss Rebecca M. Iall, of whom mention is made in the biography of her son, Daniel B. Peck. The Burr and Dodge families, of which our subject is a representative, were old New England people, his parents were natives of Connecticut, and Robert Burr, his father, was a blacksmith and later in life a farmer. His maternal grandfather, Rufus Dodge, was a native of Connecticut, and in later years kept a tavern in Dutchess County, N. Y. Throwing aside his blacksmith's apron, Robert Burr went one day to the home of Miss Betsey Dodge and finding his sweetheart at the washtub, persuaded ler to become his wife then and there. The Squire making his appearance the words were pronounced that made the couple man and wife and years of wedded happiness followed. For a long period. they remained in their native State, then removed to Monroe County, N. Y., where the husband turned his attention to farming and also owned and operated grist and saw mills. He next removed to the vicinity of Rochester where his death occurred in 1826. The widow remained in the Empire State until 1840, from which time until her death, in 1850, she resided with her son Rufus, in this State. Besides our subject, the only one of the five children now living is Benjamin, whose home is at Stevens' Point, Wis. The eyes of Rufus D. Burr opened to the light in Greene County, N. Y., January 13, 1809. He was privileged to attend the district schools and proved himself a studious and thoughtful pupil, ~although never averse to the jokes and games which were rife among the lads. The habit of close thought and concentration of his mind upon the task before him, which he gained in the schoolroom, has characterized him through life. He continued to make his home under the parental roof until he was of age, when he began working by the month as a farm hand, the stipend received per month being $11. From this small sum he was able, by economy and care, to lay aside something with which to buy property and establish himself in the world. After five years of farm work Mr. Burr came to Michigan, and with the money he had hoarded, purchased land upon which he is now living. It consists of one hundred and sixty acres on section 21, Sheridan Township, and was at the time of his purchase devoid of improvement and in its primitive condition. The deed was signed by Martin Van Buren, at that time President of the United States. Not having the means with which to improve the place and being decidedly averse to mortgaging it, Mr. Burr returned to New York, found a position as foreman of a farm, and remained there until he had saved sufficient to justify him in beginning pioneer life in the West. He has from that day to this adhered to his principle never to mortgage his land, but to live strictly within his 468 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICALL ALBUM.M means, even at the cost of self.denial or hardship. occupies another page in this book; Emma was Frugality, industry and good management have formerly the wife of G. F. Mack, from whom she resulted in his ability to add to his real estate and was removed by death, June 18, 1887; Charles, nake many fine improvements. He now holds tie who was born June 28, 1844, married Julia Powers, title to two hundred and fourteen acres and still and lost his wife July 16, 1884; he has two chilkeeps busy on the place, although he has given up dren, Clinton C., born December 30, 1870, and all hard labor. Clara, May 24, 1878. March 15, 1838, Mr. Burr was united in marriage The physical comfort of Mr. Burr and the care with Miss Jane Tompkins, daughter of Gabriel and of his home now devolves upon a housekeeper, and Phebe Tompkins, natives of New York and resi- he has been very fortunate in securing the services dents in Dutchess County. Mr. and Mrs. Tomp- in this capacity of Mrs. Melissa Romes, a woman kins belonged to the farming community. The of intelligence and good judgment and an efficient wife died in her native State and the husband sub- housewife. She is a native of Cayuga County, sequently came hither and breathed his last in Al- N. Y. Mr. Burr, although not identified with any bion some years since. A few months after their religious body, has always contributed to the supmarriage Mr. and Mrs. Burr came West, crossing port of the church, believing in its elevating inthe lake to Detroit and there hiring a team which fluence. Some years ago he left his farm and took conveyed them to Plymouth. At that point up his residence in Albion in order to afford his Mr. Burr bought a wagon and a yoke of oxen and cllilren better school facilities and they not only loading up his household effects, started for his attended the public schools but the Albion Seminlhomestead, seventy-five miles distant. Mrs. Burr ary. He has been a member of the local School was afraid of the oxen and bravely set out to walk, Board for'a number of years and served in oilier completing the entire distance on foot. public capacities. While living in Albion he was Upon reaching his farm Mr. Burr at once set a member of the first City Council, and in Sheridan about preparations for building a frame house andi Township he has been Treasurer, Constable, Road began breaking the land preparatory to putting in Overseer and Poor Master. Politically, he was his crops. Ilis residence was one of the first built first a Whig and later a Republican. -ie has always and was enclosed within a week from tie time he been temperate in his habits and quiet and unasbegan cutting the timber in the forest. The large suming in his manners. His nature is a jovial one farm lie now owns has been brought under the )low and it will be hard to find a man who more thorby himself, with the exception of twenty-five acres oughly appreciates a good joke or shaft of wit which is left to forest growth. The property is than he. A lithographic portrait of Mr. Burr apdevoted to the purposes of general farming and pears elsewhere in this volume. stock-raising and is the source of an abundant income. __ The devoted wife of Mr. Burr was removed by death after fifty-two years of congenial companionship, breathing her last May 11, 1890. She was EORGE FRENCH, who is engaged in farmborn in Dutchess County, N. Y., June 16, 1818. (, ing on section 15, Tekonsha Township, is a A member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, she | foreign-born citizen who has become thorwas a truly pious woman, and extremely benevo- oughly identified with American interests through lent and charitable, both in word and deed. Of her years of residence in the United States. He has it might well be said she was "a perfect woman, been living in this county some forty years and the nobly planned." The children who called her entire period has been spent on his present farm, mother were three in number and were named a valuable piece of property consisting of one hunMary E., Emma A. and Charles B. The first-born dred and fifty-four acres on section 15. Of this is o ovw the wife of Da iil 131, Peck, whose 'sketch tract one hundred and thirty acres are under culti iI II I I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 469 ---- -'~'~~~~~~I^" —` ~ ~ - I~'`-~-~' ~ ~ --- -- I-~~ —I -- - I vation and are so used as to produce large crops and thereby furnish a good income. The improvements upon the place are almost without exception due to the present owner, as he bought the land when very little had been done upon it. The parents of our subject were James and Louisa (Hopings) French, natives of Warwickshire, England, who lived in their own country until after they had reared their family. 'hey lIad nine children, two sons and seven daughters; all now living, except our subject, are Mrs. Elizabeth Mander, a resident of Palmyra, N. Y.; Mrs. Hannah Roese, whose home is in Manchester, N. Y.; and Mrs. Harriet Vaw, who lives in Palmyra. In 1851 Mr. and Mkrs. French came to America, landing at New York City and locating in Palmyra, Wayne County. There they spent the remainder of their lives, the husband engaged in gardening as long as his strength would permit. That occupation had been followed by him in his native land and he was a master of the business. He lived to the venerable age of ninety years, the year of his death being 1883. His wife had departed this life in 1862, when about sixty-three years old. In Warwickshire, England, June 4, 1826, George, fourth child of the couple above mentioned, was born. tie remained with his parents until he was nineteen years old, acquiring knowledge of various kinds and preparing himself to do a man's work in the world. He came to America in 1845, landing at New York and going thence to Palmyra, where he worked by the month and day on a farm for several years. In 1852 he came West and selecting his present location, bought the land that under his care has been developed into a fine estate. Here he has carried on general farming and stock-raising and lived the life of a law-abiding and steady-going citizen. At Palmyra, N. Y., in 1846 Mr. French was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Robbins, who has been a capable and sympathizing companion. She was born in Gloucestershire, England, August 14, 1829, but when sixteen years old accompanied her parents to America. To her twelve children have been born, those now living being Mrs. Louisa Taylor, whose home is. near Mosherville, this State; James, who lives in Kalamazoo; Mrs. Hannah Whicker, who lives in the village of Tekonsha; Mrs. Lillie M. Cook; and George, who is with his parents. Mr. French has served as Pathmaster, but with this exception has devoted his attention exclusively to his personal affairs. He is a member of the Republican party. At home and in society he manifests characteristics of his nationality, but mo(lified by his long contact with American citizens, so that he is more American than English in his manners and habit of thought. ] LMON G. BRUCE, M. D. This gentleman 6 is one of the prominent medical men of Albion, to which place he came a few X|y years since in order that his children might have the benefit of attendance at Albion College. lie had previously practiced his profession within the bounds of the State and had the many calls of a busy and successful man. He comes of good old stock, and by inheritance and training the many traits of character and mental abilities of his progenitors have been strengthened and developed in him, making him a worthy representative of the family. Jesse Bruce, grandfather of our subject, was a resident of Franklin County, Vt., where on April 29, 1815, the father of our subject was born. This child was christened Augustus S. and was six years of age when his parents changed their residence to Hiram, Ohio. There he grew to maturity and married Jane Fidelia Whiting, a native of the Buckeye State, who bore him two children, Almon G. and Robert L. The latter served three years during the Civil War, in the Fourteenth Michigan Infantry; he died January 8, 1871. The wife and mother passed away in 1846, and Augustus Bruce subsequently married Miss Jane Hare. This lady was a daughter of Jacob Hare, the first settler of Columbus, Ohio, and the maker of the original plat of that city. Mr. Hare accumulate a large property, and eventually became quite wealthy and at his death willed all of his property to the needy and: I I 470 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. destitute of the city of Columbus, Ohio; the estate was valued at $20G,000 and the city built of this fund what is known as Hare's Orphan Asylum. Mr. Bruce was a Whig until the Republican party was organized, when he gave it his support, affiliating with it until his death. That event transpired in 1868. In Quincy, Ill., November 6, 1844, Almon G. Bruce opened his eyes to the light of day. His school days were spent in Medina County, Ohio, and he gained a good knowledge of the branches taught in the common and high schools. Young as he was when the Civil War began, he was roused to enthusiasm and nothing but his youth prevented him from taking his stand with the defenders of his country. As soon as it was possible to do so lie entered the army, enlisting for three months and being enrolled in Company G, Eighty-sixth Ohio Infantry. Going into Virginia the company did guard duty until their time had expired and they were mustered out. In July, 1864, young Bruce again enlisted and as a member of Company C, One Hundred and Seventy-sixth Ohio Infantry, took his place in front of Nashville, Tenn. I-le was detailed as clerk at Gen. Rousseau's headquarters and retained the position until the close of the war. ized between Dr. Bruce and Permelia A, daughter of the Rev. Abel Wood. The bride was born in 1851, in the town in which her wedding was celebrated. She is well informed, devoted to her family, and possesses the character that wins and retains friendship. Thie children born to Dr. and Mrs. Bruce are three in number, named respectively, Carrie Maude, Lottie E. and Bessie. The eldest is now the wife of Prof. E. C. Glenn, of the Upper Peninsular Business College in Marquette, this State. She is a young lady of culture, having been graduated from Albion College in 1889. Socially the Doctor is Past Commander of E. W. Holling Post'No. 210, G. A. R., and has been a member of the Masonic order since 1865 and is now the High Priest of Albion Chapter, No. 32, R. A. M., also Thrice Illustrious Master of Albion Council No. 57, R. & S. Masters. He and his family are all members of the Methodist Episcopal Church in which the Doctor is Steward. E IASHA WILSON is successfully operating a farm that is finely improved and is considered one of the most desirable in regardl to its productiveness in Fredonia Township. Our subject was born in the State of New York, in East Bloomfield, July 6, 1840. He is a son of Robert I-. Wilson, who was a native of Cambridgeshire, England, where he was bred to the life of a farmer. He came to America in 1832 or 1833. He married in Ontario County Sarah M. Fielders, who was also born in England and was ten years old when she came to America with her parents. In 1844 the Wilson family came to Michigan by team, arriving at Marshall April 10. The father took up the homestead on section 2, Fredonia Township, and they lived there three years. They located on section 16, the same township, in 1847. Mr. Wilson had to perform much pioneer labor, as the land had to be cleared and broken before he could put in his first crop, which was ruined by a hail storm and he lost his horses with the black tongue in the same year. Notwithstanding these many discouragements he placed his land under Returning to.his Buckeye home Mr. Bruce began reading medicine in the office of Dr. Henry Warner, a prominent physician of Spencer. In 1866 he began attending lectures in Charity Iospital Medical College at Cleveland, Ohio, from which he received his degree in 1870. Three years later he left the Buckeye State to establish his home in Corunna, Mich., where he worked up a good practice. In 1882 he removed to Detroit and a year later came to Albion. Here, as before stated, he has taken a high stand among medical men and secured a large following of citizens. He is earnest and thoughtful in all that pertains to his profession, expending his time and energy upon it to the fullest extent. He s a Prohibitionist, an outspoken and earnest worker in the cause of temperance and has received a number of nominations for office in the My and in the State legislature and Congress at different times. In Spencer, Ohio, the marriage rites were solemn PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 471 good improvement, fenced it neatly, and at the time of his death in 1869 was the owner of a good farm. His widow is still living on the old homestead and is now seventy years old. They were the parents of the following children: Elisha, Joshua, Mary, William, Jane, Cornelius H., George D., Polly, Elmer; and the following who ale deceased: Sallie Ann, a twin to Betty; Charles and Sarah. Elisha Wilson, of whom these lines are written, is the eldest son of the family, and he was four years old when his parents brought him to Michigan. He obtained his schooling in Fredonia Township, and during his youth assisted his father in the labors of the farm. Hie at one time helped to draw one hundred cords of wood to Marshall. He was never away from the parental home but nine months until he was married, June 4, 1872, to Sarah Butler. Mrs. Wilson was born in England April 25, 1857, and was twelve years o!l when she came with her parents to this country. She is one of the nine children of William and Delina (Carter) Butler. They came to Michigan in 1863 and located in the town of Concord, Jackson County. The mother died October 25, 1887. The father is still living and makes his home with his daugllter and son-in-law, our subject. Mr. and Mrs. Wilson have two sons and one daughter, whom they have named( William E., Ernest H. and Mabel. They all reside at lhome with their parents and are being carefully trained to good and useful lives. The same month that he was married Mr. Wilson took up his abode on the farm which he still owns and occupies. It then comprised sixty acres of land which had been given him by his father. He has since increased its acreage to eighty acres and las it mostly under substantial cultivation. It is amply supplied with buildings of a good class, including the neat and roomy two-story frame house that he built, the main part of which is 18x26 feet and the wing 14x24 feet, the foundation being one foot and a half in depth. He has also a good and conveniently-arranged barn, 30x40 feet in dimensions and posts sixteen feet high. He conducts general farming and stock-rais. ing and has some good stock on his place. Mr. Wilson is accorded a high place among his fellow-citizens, as he is a man whose character is above reproach and who is kindly and charitably disposed towards all. He and his wife and sons are valued members of the Congregational Church, of which he is a Trustee. Iis political views are in accord with the principles of the Democratic party. He is now; holding the office of Highway Commissioner,'and does all that lies in his power to promote the best interests of his township, materially, socially and morally. _ - l- M44-b144~ Q ---------------— 'f i a nn i - IV ENRY MUIR, the popular and well-known ) conductor of the limited train from Battle /l Creek to Clicago, was born in Canada May 15, 1844. His parents were John and Charlotte (Thompson) Muir, who were of Scotch and Irish antecedents. His father was a life-long farmer, and died in Canada in 1884 at the ripe old age of eighty-three years. The mother died when our subject was four years old. Henry Muir passed his early life on a farm, but railroading had decided attractions for a lad of his venturesome spirit, and he finally left his old home to enter the employ of the road now known as the Chicago & Grand Trunk. He was employed in the shops at Marshall, Mich., for about three years in different departments and gained a good insight in that line. At the expiration of that time, he accepted the position of baggageman at Battle Creek for the Michigan Central for about three years. lie then was appointed baggage master and express agent for the old Peninsular road, his run being between Battle Creek and Charlotte and later, the road being extended, his run was from Lansing to South Bend. This position he held for about two years. In 1873 he was promoted to his present position as conductor, and has been in continuous service in that position nineteen years. He now has charge of the limited train from Battle Creek to Chicago. No other conductor on the Grand Trunk R. R. can approach him in length of service, or can surpass his record for efficiency and fidelity. In the performance of his duties he has travelled over one million miles, and never has a train under his care been wrecked, or a passenger 472 PORTRAIT AND J3IOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I --- —-— - --- —------------ = sustained a serious injury. He enjoys the confidence of his employers and the travelling public in a marked degree, and is one of the conductors on whom the Chicago & Grand Trunk depends in part for its popularity with its patrons, as his uniform courtesy and consideration make him a favorite. He is an active member of the Order of Railway Conductors. Mr. Muir was married in 1882 to Miss Mattie C. Callow. Mrs. Muir is a native of Rochester, N. Y., but came to Flint, Mich., in early life. Mr. and Mrs. Muir have an attractive homs, and their pleasant home circle is completed by their three children, Grace Adelaide, Charles Henry and Arthur James. k is^s? I I- - - -- - moved with his fam remained there imp spring of 1854 he s and went to pass his John and Sylvanus section 26, and in tl his eyes in death in several years before ber, 1861. Her mai( and she was the d( farmer of New Yorl man descent. Our subject is the the two sons and sin He remained an inn the spring of 1851, Pruella Lusk, a da whom see a sketch e place in the month ( J OHN VROMAN, who was formerly identified After marriage ] with the farming interests of this county, is shares until 1854, v now living in retirement from active busi- land in Marengo To ness in the enjoyment of a good income, ill cultivated and a lo: his pleasant home at 56 South Marshall Avenue, which he and his fa in the city of Marshall. He was born in Durham- tively entered upon ville, Oneida County, N. Y., December 13, 1824. veloping the farm ai Iis father, Abraham Vroman, was born in Mohawk At the end of that Valley, N. Y., and was reared as a farmer, which Township and again was his father'soccupation before him. The latter 1856 until 1859. H was a native of Holland, who had emigrated to land on section 23, ii America and settled in the State of New York. it in 1860. lIe again The father of our subject was one of the pioneers years. In 1861 he r of this county. In June, 1836, accompanied by his gaged in teaming in family, he started from his old home to the wilds of In the fall of 186 Michigan, coming all the way by team. After his Harbor, Michigan, a: arrival here he bought eighty acres of land on sec- the copper mines un tion 36, Eckford Township, on what is known as back to this county. Cook's Prairie. WVith the exception of fifteen acres A. D. Smith's interes that had been bioken, it was wild land and corn- our subject's brothel pletely unimproved. He erected a log house in idence thereon. In 1837, and then sold that property and bought one Homer and soon afte hundred and twenty acres on section 35, a part of of land for village pi which was improved. There was the frame of a house to prospect in the mi standing on the place which he finished and made Col. September 1, 1l his dwelling until the spring of 1839. He then dis- ward with his gains a posed of that place and bought forty acres of land erty in Homer in the on section 12. He put up a house into which he lived for a year with ily and during the years that he )roved the whole tract. In the sold that farm to A. D. Smith, s remaining years with his sons,, on a farm owned by them on ieir comfortable home he closed May, 1876. His wife had died, her demise occurring in Octoden name was Rachel Miumbrue. aughter of John Mumbrue, a k, his native State, and of Gere elder son and second child of l daughters born to his parents. nate of the paternal home until when he was married to Miss ughter of Augustus Lusk, of lsewhere, their marriage taking of March. MIr. Vroman worked land on vhen he bought eighty acres of wnship. A few acres of it were g house stood on the place, of Imily took possession. I-Ie acthe pioneer task of further dend remained on it for two years. time he returned to Eckford n worked land on shares from e then bought twenty acres of nproved ten acres of it and sold worked land on shares for two noved to Marshall and was enthis city two years. i3 Mr. Vromvn went to Eagle nd was engaged in teaming in til July, 1864, when he came After his return he bought out st in a farm owned by him and r Sylvanus, and took up his resthe fall of 1875 he removed to er exchanged the eighty acres roperty. In 1880 he left Homer nes at Oreco, Dolores County, 81, lie retraced his steps homeand after disposing of his propspring of 1883, he and his wife Mrs. Maria Remsen, Mrs. Vro PORTRAIT AND BIOG~RAPHI[CAL ALBUM.\LZ 473 PORRAI AN IGAHCLABM 7 man taking care of her during her illness. Our subject then removed with his family to Central City, Neb., and there gave his attention to buying and selling stock and real estate. l He finally settled up his affairs there and July 1, 1886, returned to this county and bought some village property in Marshall, where he has since made his home. Our subject has been twice married. The maiden name of his present estimable wife, to whom he was wedded in May, 1873, was Maratta Remsen. Her father, James Rensen, is a well-known millwright and farmer at Fredonia. Coming to this county in his boyhood with his father, our subject has seen the most of its rise and growth from the wilderness that abounded here in those early pioneer days. Game was then plentiful and in his time he has killed many a deer and wild turkey. His schooling was confined to the primitive district schools of the early days of the settlement of the county, but his education has been gained mostly from experience and travel. He is one of the most stalwart Republicans of his district. He cast his first Presidential vote for W. 11. Harrison in 1840, and supported the grandson of the old General in"the last Presidential campaign. He is a man of stanch reputation and is classed among the most worthy members of the Bapl)tist Church. C HARLES T. HALL is engaged in business with his brother at Battle Creek as a contractor and builder. IIe is a fine representative of the patriotic volunteers of the Civil War, in which he rose from thle ranks to an official position in his regiment, and won a military record which reflects credit on the soldiery of this his native county. Ile is of pioneer antecedents, and comes of an old and distinguished family. The Halls, Moses and Tolman, the former the father of our subject, were prominent in the early records of Battle Creek. They were sons of Moses and Experience (Tolman) Hall, who were of Puritan descent, and the stern Puritan religion has exercised a marked influence upon the lives of gen erations of the name. Moses Hall, Sr., served in the Revolution as a soldier with credit to his patriotism. In 1832 Moses Hall, Jr., left the hills of his native Vermont for a journey westward. He traveled by boat line on the Erie Canal to Buffalo, thence by schooner to I)etroit. and from there on an Indian pony to Marshall. At that place he bought of the Rev. J. D. Pierce a quarter-section of land, for himself and his brother Tolman, just east of the limits of Battle Creek, paying for it $280. HIe returned to Vermont, and in 1835 again came here with his family to make a permanent settlement. He immediately set about rolling logs for a house which he roofed with "shakes," and this humble abode served as a shelter for himself, his wife and five children. He soon after purchased the old Foster house, which he occupied with his family until 1837. In tie years that followed his settlement here lie improved his land and made of it a fine farm. He became very prominent in public life, and held various important offices. He served one term in the State Legislature, was Justice of the Peace for many years, and was acting magistrate at the time of his demise, which occurred May 12, 1860. The delath of Moses Hall, while yet in the full vigor of his powers and in the midst of a useful life, was a severe blow to the interests of Calhoun County, with which his own had beern so long identified. He was a man of commanding figure and noble presence, of strong intellectual faculties, of clear outspoken views, and with a self-poise that wvrs admirable. ile was firm in the administration of justice, never allowing himself to be biased by partisan feeling or influenced by a wrong motive. His general reading and culture, his close observation and liis fine colloquial powers made him an agreeable and companionable man. IIc was one of the founders of the Presbyterian Church at Battle Creek, and remained one of its most active and in. fluential members until his death. Mr. Hall was well-known as a firm advocate of temperance, and lie delivered the first temperance speech that was ever heard in Battle Creek. At the first general election held in this city, which lasted two days, all the Democrats were called to 474 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. meet at night in the largest hall in the place to ar- so as to protect th range to bring in voters on the morrow. At the boats. From Mac meeting a decanter of whiskey was set forth, and Sorghum. Colum all present were invited to partake of the liquor, there he and his fe It was handed around until it came to Mr. Hall, nel their way to lil and he was the first to refuse a drink, and he the loud breathing then and there made a strong plea for temper- the asthma. Aftel ance that produced a lasting effect on the minds of ous places, and at 1 several present. Especially were many young men selves once more moved to solemnly declare that they would never they were transpor taste a drop of intoxicating liquor again, and they of truce. Mr. Hal held to their word. Thus the influence of such a le saw the work of man of strong religious principles as Moses Hall and he judged ths contributed greatly to elevate the moral status of end. He was finall Battle Creek. camp at Annapolis Charles T. Hall was born March 10, 1844, in the a commission as ca pioneer home of his parents not far from Battle tion of his gallant Creek. IHe was a mere youth when the war broke battlefield. He ret out, but he did not hesitate to offer his services to eventually muster4 his country, as coming of such antecedents and the 1865. grandson of a Revolutionary soldier he could not After his return be otherwise than patriotic. At the age of seven- subject engaged w teen he entered a signal company of engineers, business two years. which went out with Fremont for three months. selves as contractor After the removal of Fremont tile company was they are still follow discharged, and our subject re-enlisted in Company They went to Chic: D, Thirteenth Michigali Infantry, January 12, engaged in buildir 1862. The following July for his gallant and dar- well known, not or ing conduct in battle, he was promoted to the posi- surrounding count tion of Second Lieutenant. He took part in the contracts on hand, battle of Shiloh, and in the engagement at Steven- this section of the son, Ala., he fought with his regiment at Stone their work. River, faced the enemy at Perryville, and was in To the lady who the heat of the terrible battle at Chickamauga. On cordially co-operate the second day of the engagement at the latter fortable and attract place he was wounded and captured by the rebels. in marriage Decem Mr. Hall was retained a prisoner there thirteen come to them, wi days after his capture, and was then forwarded by Mrs. Hall was form cattle cars to Libby prison, where he was incarcer- daughter of John ated eight months. He was one of the prisoners County, Ill. Our s who gained their liberty by means of the tunnel, in commemoration but he was recaptured and was put in a dun- Army of the Repub geon, and then sent to Macon, Ga., where he re- he interests himself mained two months. From there he was dispatched ing allegiance to th to Charleston, where he and others effected their stance of his devoti escape, but they were recaptured, and were made tion that while a pr to act as guard to the rebels, by being placed allowed the prisoner::~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ em from the fire of Union gun-;on, our subject was sent to Camp bia was his next destination, and llow-prisoners again tried to tunberty, but they were betrayed by of one of their party who Ihad X that they were confined at varithe close of the war found themin Libby prison, from whence ted down the James under a flag 11 says that while in Libby that f evacuation was going forward, It-the war must be nearly at an y discharged while in the parole, and on arriving home he found ptain awaiting him, in recogniry and valuable service on the,urned to Washington, and wais ed out of the army, July 25, home on leaving the army, our ith his brother in the provision They then established themrs and builders, which business ving with good financial success. ago just after the great fire, and ng there two years. They are ily in Battle Creek, but in the try, and have many important and many of the buildings in country are fine specimens of presides over his home, and so es with him in making it a com-;ive abode, Mr. Hall was united iber 28, 1876. One child hls iom they have named Harold. erly Mary McCartney, and is a and Jane McCartney, of Lake 3ubject's military record is held by his membership in the Grand lie. As a good citizen should, in politics, and gives unswerve Republican party. As an inon to his party, we may menrisoner at Sorghum, the rebels rs to hold an election, thinkingr PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 475 that they would undoubtedly vote for McClellan, because the administration had not taken steps to secure their exchange. The Southerners, however, had not measured the depth of the devotion of the Union prisoners to their country, as almost to a man the whole fifteen or sixteen hundred men voted for Abraham Lincoln, in whom they had the greatest confidence. /rG EORGE W. BENTLEY. the well known President of the National City Bank, in Marshall, is one of the oldest residents of the township and one of its most successful financiers. Iis labors in life have resulted in the accumulation of a property that insures him against want in his later years and enables him to gratify every reasonable desire, either for personal gratification or for the public weal. His handsome residence occupies a choice location on section 29, has all the modern improvements, and is accompanied by a complete line of substantial farm buildings. It is surrounded by broad fields where golden grain waves in the summer wind and groves of swaying trees cast flickering shadows over the green sward. John Bentley, grandfather of our subject, was born in England, and his son John, father of our subject, who was born January 6, 1767, was also a native of the mother country. The given name of these two gentlemen is one which has been borne by members of the family for many generations, and is one of the clues by which the various branches trace their relationship. John Bentley, the younger, was reared on a farm and came to America in the spring of 1818. Ile spent a short time in New York City, then went to Schenectady County where he was engaged in farming until the spring of 1838. HIe then turned his footsteps westward and arriving in this county located in Convis Township. Here he resided until his death in 1845. His wife, formerly Nancy Femby, a native of England, died in Convis Township in 1852. They were the parents of seven sons and six daughters, eleven of the number growing to maturity. George W. Bentley was born in England, Fcb I I I I i i I ruary 24, 1809, and when a lad of nine years he accompanied his parents to this country. He grew to manhood in the Empire State, acquiring a practical education in the common schools and learning the trade of a carpenter and joiner, becoming a practical and skilled mechanic. He worked as a 'journeyman, then as a contractor and builder for several years, but in 1837, three years after coming to Marshall, he bought land and turned his attention to farming. His property consisted of one hundred and sixty acres in Convis Township, and was held in partnership by himself and his brother Joseph, who was two years his junior. The connection continued five years, when it was dissolved by mutual consent, and our subject, selling out his interest, removed to Marshall Township and located on section 16. Mr. Bentley brought his land to a high state of cultivation, erected the fine buildings which adorn it, and added to his acreage until his landed estate together with his son's, amounted to four hundred and forty acres. In the operation of this large property he has won an independent fortune and thoroughly deserves the reputation he has, of a farmer who has not been excelled in skill and energy in the entire township. He has now retired from farm work, but still holds the position of President of the National City Bank-an office to which he was called upon its organization in 1872. He had been largely instrumental in forming this banking-house and was considered the most suitable person to stand at its head. On October 18, 1890, a large barn on the estate of Mr. Bentley was consumed by tile devouring element, and onie thousand bushels of wheat, over one hundred tons of hay and muchl valuable machinery was also food for the flames. The graces of mind and heart possessed by Miss Nancy M. Chapin, daughter of Ashbel and Theresa (Sanderson) Chapin, led Mr. Bentley to desire her presence in his home, and his wooing proving successful, they were united in marriage. The wife, who was born in Monroe County, N. Y., passed to the silent land in April, 1885. Shie had borne two children: John, who died in infancy, and George Curran, who lives on the homestead. The latter was born in Marshall, December 10, 1842, was I 476 PORTRAIT ~AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUZM. 476 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. reared on the farm and has received a liberal education. He attended Albion and Olivet Colleges, and likewise an institution at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., where he took a commercial course. He married Sarah Knight, daughter of Thomas Knight, formerly of Yorkshire, England, who is represented in this work. She was born in Marshall Township and is a worthy companion, looking well to the ways of her household, sympathizing in the desires of her husband and carefully molding the tastes of her children. Mr. and Mrs. George C. Bentley have,five children: Ben, Jessie A., Rupert A., Ninnie M., and Murray C. The oldest son is a graduate of the Agricultural College at Lansing and the second is a student there. Ben is now in Colorado. Mr. Bentley has been a stanch Republican since the organization of the party, but is one of those who earnestly advocate tariff reform. During the war he was an ardent supporter of the Union cause and of all measures which bore the Ship of State toward a safe harbor. His commanding appearance attracts the attention of any stranger and it is hard to believe that he is more than fourscore years of age, so erect is his body, so decisive his movements, and so active and able his mind. He is one of those of whom it can be said that "time does not wither him," but who draws from his own experience and observation a fund of instruction for himself and others. instructive, but which in the limits of a sketch like this, can only be touched upon in its more salient featu res. Mr. Weever is of English, German and French lineage and is the grandson of a Revolutionary soldier. The patronymic was originally Weaver, but has in recent years been changed in spelling. The father of our subject was Peter Weaver, a native of Bucks County, Pa., and a weaver and cooper by trade. After devoting himself for some years to his handicrafts he removed to Northampton County and engaged in farming. He subsequently resided in Monroe County, N. Y., six miles from Rochester. In the spring of 1836 he turned his footsteps westward, and reaching Detroit bought a team and drove on to this county and spent the winter in Marengo Township. He had bought property in Lee Township prior to his removal, and here he established his home in the spring of 1837. He built a log house in the depths of the forest and cleared the eighty ar acres aroun nd him anplaced it under good cultivation. There he died in the spring of 1862, strong in the faith of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he was a Whig. The mother of our subject was known in her maidenhood as Miss B. Elizabeth Cratzer. She was born in Bucks County, Pa., and was of French and German descent. She died on the homestead in this county May 19, 1860. She was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, was well versed in the Scriptures and made them the rule of her daily life. She bore her husband eight children, named respectively, Caroline, John, Aaron, Margaret, Nancy, Reuben, Samuel L. and Sarah. John now lives in Burlington Township, Reuben in California, and Sarah (Mrs. Carver) in Lee Township, this county. Four of the circle have crossed the river of death. The birthplace of Samuel L. Weever was near Honeoye Creek in Rush, Monroe County, N. Y., and his natal day October 21, 1829. In his early home he began his school life and received the first "whalings" that then formed a part of every boy's experience. Although so young when he came here, he recollects every incident of the trip as if it were but yesterday. He at once began to aid in the development of the parental acres, - - fail — f-z —=' s AMUEL L. WEEVER. This honored resident of Lee Township is one of those who can recall the scenes of pioneer times, and paint in forcible language the condition of the country at that time, and its gradual change to its present beauty and development. He came here with his parents when a lad of seven years and was soon doing what his strength would permit of pioneer labor and taking a part in the enjoyments of frontier life. Other privations besides those of pioneer life have been his lot, as he is one of those heroes of the late war who suffered not alone the dangers of battle, but the tortures of prison life. There is much in his history that is interesting and I PORETRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 477 PORTRAIT-~ AND_~~ BIOGRAPHICAL.~~ AL3UM.477-I I and when but ten years old worked out, driving seven yoke of oxen on a breaking plow. This work was continued off and on until the lad was sixteen years old, and from that time until he was of age he aided his father by work at home or by laboring by the month as occasion called for. During those years wild game was abundant and the young man killed many a deer, fourteen falling be fore his rifle one fall. He became an excellent marksman and his reputation as a good shot has not yet left him. Young Weever finally bought forty acres of land in the southern part of Lee Township, where he began making improvements. It was what is known as oak openings. In a short time the property was sold and one hundred and seven acres on section 16 was purchased from the Government. Here Mr. Weever built a log house and began the systematic course of development and improvement which has made it attractive and remunerative. His labors were crowned with success and he became the owner of over one hundred and fifty acres which has been reduced to ninety-five. This tract is all undler tillage but twenty acres, is well-fenced and supplied with all necessary buildings, including a commodious barn 34x48 feet. Groves and orchards lend beauty to the scene and the fruit trees furnish the family with various delicacies in their season. Mr. Weever keeps good grades of cattle and hogs and draft horses that have a strain of Clydesdale blood, and raises grain of a No. 1 quality. Mr. Weever enlisted in the Eighth Michigan Cavalry, August 16, 1864, and was mustered into Company M, at Jackson. He first smelled the smoke of battle near Henryville, Tenn., November 23, where the company was sent out on a dash, but was met with such dauntless courage that it was completely demoralized and nearly every member was taken prisoner. Mr. Weever was one of the unfortunate humber who fell into the hands of the enemy, and after being kept on the road some time was sent to Meridian, Miss., and on the 1st of January transferred to Andersonville. There he was kept until the close of the war and until the prison doors were opened for the last captive. He then canme North and was mustered out at Camp Nelson in June, 1865. After he became a prisoner he was nearly starved and sustained his life at one time by eating corn that was dropped by the mules. Some distance from Duck River, hard tack was dealt out and he in his eagerness to get his portion, climbed onto a wheel, when he was struck with the butt end of a musket, knocked down and three ribs broken. At Andersonville his fare was one sanitary cup twothirds full of corn meal per day (cob and all ground together), a piece of meat an inch and a half square every second day, a sanitary cup two-thirds full of black peas and three spoonfuls of molasses, every other day. The lady who presides over the household economy at Mr. Weever's home was united to him in marriage at Flowerfield, St. Joseph's County, April 7, 1857. She bore the maiden name of Matilda A. Beers, was born in Ontario County, N. Y., February 6, 1839, and was reared and educated at her birthplace. She is the eldest of eleven children born to Miles and Sally A. (Rowley) Beers. Her parental grandfather, Ezra Beers, a native of the Empire State, was a soldier in the War of 1812, and in civil life was a farmer. Her father followed the same occupation in his native State until the spring of 1855, when he came to Michigan. He improved a farm in St. Joseph County and still owns and operates eighty acres there. lie is a member of the Republican party and a devout believer in the principles and practices of the Church of Christ. Mrs. Beers was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., her father being Charles Rowley, a native of the same State, and an agriculturist. She is still living. To Mr. and Mrs. Weever eight children have been born, of whom we note the following: Elveritte E. attended Olivet College and adopted the profession of teaching, but is now at home; Frank A. died in infancy; Minnie lived to be but two months old; Millard H-. is farming in Lee Township; Emma, Mrs. John Sellen, lives in Partello; Miles B. is a resident of Lee Township; Nettie is with her parents and Edith is deceased. For years Mr. Weever served as a school officer, but he finally resigned. Although not a politician in the ordinary sense of the word, he keeps himself well-informed regarding the issues of the (lay and gives earnest support to Republican principles and candidates. He belongs to the Patrons of Industry 478 PORTRAIT AND Bit and is a menlmber of Lewis Clark Post, G. A. R. at Olivet. His wife belongs to the Woman's Relief Corps, in which she has held official positions. Both are consistent and highly-respected members of the Church of Christ. Looking abroad from his doorway, and seeing about him commodious and substantial buildings, carefully-tilled fields and all the appurtenances of advanced civilization, Mr. Weever realizes the forcible contrast of this picture with that of the time when Indian boys were his playmates, and even of the later period when the red men were expelled from tis section and white settlers became numerous. When tile Indians were expelled from Michigan they were captured in the swamp just south of Mr. Weever's home. )GRAPHICAL ALBUM. w I I - ---- ------------------- -------- ------ their home on a fa caine to this county, They settled on se( taking possession ol was placed under qui they removed to Te improved a second rest in 1858 and t silent land in 1863. couple consisted of viz: George, Mary, I Julia, Henry, Laura Linard, Margaret E grandfather, George Detroit to trade wit that came up, he finally adopted as a son by being kille escape several times G EORGE BORN. Since 1871 this prosperous tive seven years sue f agriculturist has been located on section 22, to New York. Clarendon Township, where he owns one The eyes of tll hundred and sixty acres of choice land. HIe has notice opened to th( improved this property in many ways and has a June 21, 1823. Ile rural home which any reasonable man might be his parents came to pleased to possess. Other farm lands are owned by way from his form him, one tract consisting of one hundred and studies in his native twelve acres on section 27, and a second of eighty county he continue< acres on sections 15 and 23. Mr. Born carries on until it was burned quite extensive agricultural work, raising a var- Detroit were consul iety of crops and a goodly number of domestic lore gained in early animals. He has active oversight of the work, but cation which comes hires plenty of help, feeling that his age entitles careful observation him to more ease than he had in earlier life and At the age of foi wishing to enjoy that which he has won by hard working by the m( work and prudent management. his father until lie The paternal grandfather of our subject was kept on as a farm 1 George Born, a native of England, who came to which he located on America in the early Colonial days and fought with He set up his home the Colonists in the Revolution. lie was taken midst of a tract of prisoner by a brother who was fighting in the Brit- on the, developing ish army. In his family was a son Linard, who then sold out and n was born in Schoharie County, N. Y., reared there He operated that and taught the trade of wagon-making. This gen- County and bought tleman married Elizabeth Faling, who was born another forty withir and reared on the banks of the 'Mohawk River. home five years, du After their marriage Linard Born and his wife made provements. He tl 0:~~~~~~~~~~~ rm there until 1833, when they traveling with a team of horses. ction 2, Clarendon Township, f a tract of wild land which ite good improvement. Thence konsha Township and Mr. Born farm there. He entered into ius widow followed him to the ~ The family of the honored four sons and seven daughters, Nancy, Elizabeth, Linard, Anna, l, Margaret and John. Of these and Mary are deceased. The e Born, came in an early day to th the Indians and in a difficulty was made prisoner, and was son by a squaw, who had lost a Ad. He attempted to make his s and finally after being a capeceedcd, and then made his way e subject of this biographical e light in Monroe County, N. Y., e was a lad of ten years when this State, and lie walked all the ier home. He had begun his e place and after reaching this d them in the log schoolhouse and all the books this side of med. He has added to the book years the better and wider eduof contact with humanity and of men and things. urteen years young Born began onth, turning over his wages to vas twenty-three years old. IIe iand until his marriage, after section 34, Tekonsha Township. in a log house that stood in the raw land and there lie carried process about twelve months,. noved on to his father's farm a year, than went to Branch L forty acres, to which lie added n two years. He made it his ring that time adding many imhen sold it and bought a farm 4 - i ~~~~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 481 - - -- -- -- --- -- -- on ion section 34, Tekonsha' Township, this county, and again madel improvements, building a good house and adequate barns. In 1871 he sold that property and located where lie is now living. Mr. Born secured the blessing of a good wife, November 13, 1851, being on that day married to Miss Alvira Keyes, who was born in LeRoy, Ohio, January 4, 1833. She is of New England parentage, her father, Daniel Keyes, having been born in Vermont and her mother, Thankful (Rodgers) Keyes, in Massachusetts. They came to this State some time in the '40s and died at the home of their son-in-law, Mr. Born. Under their careful guidance Mrs. Born became skilled in domestic arts and gained mental culture and fine principles. To her and her husband three daughters and three sons have been born, one of whom died in infancy, Cleora in 1856 and Adelia in 1860; Henry, the third child, now lives on section 27, Clarendon Township, where lie is engaged in farming; Charles is an agriculturist on section 15, of the same township; Ettieis the wife of Parley Shilling and their home is on a farm in I-omer Township. Mr. Born has always endeavored to keel) the run of current events and gain an insight into all topics of general interest. He does this by means of reading, observation and converse, and is an agreeable companion. lie has served as Highlway Commissioner in an acceptable manner. Politically speaking, he is a Republican. A quiet and unassuming man, honorable in his business relations, a kind neighbor and an expert farmer, he is entitled to and receives respect and goodwill. community. In early pioneer times this venerable gentleman came to Michigan and during the first year of his residence here operated as a tiller of the soil, and also built a barn for the man for whom hie was working, and afterward was engaged mostly in carpentering. However, he did not locate in this State permanently until 1857, since which time he has been connected with the farming interests of this section and for more than a quarter of a century lie has owned and managed a farm in Le Roy Township. The town of Hopewell, Ontario County, N. Y., is the birthplace of our subject and there in the pioneer home of his parents, Nathaniel and Lydia (Warren) Cowles, he first opened his eyes to the light of the world January 9, 1814. HIs father, who was born in 1755, was a loyal soldier in the Revolution, and our subject well remembers his accounts of the battles in which lie fought, especially in the battle of White Plains, which was to him the most impressive. The old Revolutionary patriot died in New York, at the ripe age of eightythree years. Mr. Cowles' mother had a brother who served in the War of 1812. Our subject p)assed his youth on his father's farm until lie was twenty years of age, when he learned the trade of a carpenter. HIe pursued that vocation some fifteen years and since that time has been a farmer. Precisely thirty years after he had abandoned carpentering he built for himself the substantial house in whicl he has lived for the last fifteen years. Mr. Cowles first came to Michigan in 1836. He spent the winter at Coldwater, and then took up his abode at Eckford, wliere he staid a year, actively carrying on his trade, and whence he went to Climax. While there he was prostrated by sickness for a long time, and as soon as convalescent returned to his tiative State. lie remained in New York until 1857 and then'came with his family to reside permanently in this State. In 1859 lhe bought thirty-two acres of land in Battle Creek Township, where he lived five years. At the expiration of that time he sold that property and bought his present homestead of one hundred and twenty-two acres of arable land. He is not a specialist in -farming, but devotes himself to gen ANIEL W. COWLES. The fertile soil of Callboun County affords sustenance to many enterprising farmers and their families, and also supplies the wants of a large number of business men, farm products finding a ready market. Among the successful tillers of the soil in Le Roy Township is Mr. Cowles, whose portrait appears on the opposite page and who occupies a leading position among the citizens of the 482 PORTRAIT AN D BIOG RAPH ICA L ALBU M. 482: POTRI AN BIGRPHCL LBM eral husbandry, and has thereby secured a competence sufficient for all his needs. The marriage of Mr. Cowles with Amanda, dalughter of Warren and Olive (Brown) Scofield, of Parma, N. Y., was duly celebrated July 29, 1845. Their union has brought them two children, both of whom survive: Emily is the wife of hIarvey Mills, of Coldwater; Oliver is still under the parental roof. In early life our subject was quite active in politics, but age has somewhat cooled his ardor, though lie still takes an interest in political affairs and generally votes the Republican ticket. He was a member of the organization of the Sons of Temperance when it was in vogue, and later identified himself with the Grange. A man of excellent sense and good judgment he has led an inlustrious, upright life, and none know him but to accord him his true meed of respect and esteem. i Ninon A 9 d~-~ -- c YRON SNYDER. Worldly goods and an influential position have been won by this gentleman who has an extended acquaintance in that part of the county in which his life has been passed. He was born on section 15, Clarence Township, and until 1877 made that his home. He then removed to section 21, where he has remained, prosecuting a career in which he had already secured satisfactory results. He is the owner of three hundred and twelve acres of land, one hundred and sixty being included in the home farm. As the name indicates, Mr. Snyder is of German lineage, but his parents, John B. and Betsey E. (Collins) Snyder, were natives of New York, the one born in Cayuga and the other in Clyde County. They were married in their native State which they let in 1838 to take their place among the earliest settlers in Clarence Township, this county. The tract upon which they set up their home was raw land, quite heavily timbered, and all about them was a new and almost unbroken country where Indians and wild animals roamed at will. The father improved his farm and had it largely under cultivation before his death. He was called from time to eternity September 12, 1870, when past the age of sixty-two, and his widow died in June, 1881, at the age of about seventy-one. Their family comprised nine children, of whom those now living are: Hiram, Alonzo, William, Myron and Mrs. Emily Fenton. The father was Townslip Supervisor, Township Treasurer and in charge of Clarence post-office for many years. His interest in local affairs and in politics was manifested by active work and he never failed to vote the Democratic ticket. The subject of this biographical notice was born February 15, 1841. He received a common-school education in the district schools and under his father's instruction and guidance learned how to manage a farm and prepare unbroken land for cultivation. He began life for himself when of age, his first enterprise being to work the home farm on shares for three years. IIe was obliged to give up his work on account of sickness and for three years was unable to resume it. He then again rented the homestead for three years, during which period the father died. When the estate was settled our subject secured the homestead, paying the portion due to each of the other heirs. When he finally removed from it to his present location he took possession of improved property where a full line of substantial outbuildings gives him adequate accommodation for the 'stock and storage for the grain he raises. Among the domestic animals kept by Mr. Snyder have been some fine-wool sheep. The wife of Mr. Snyder was known in her maidenhood as Miss Cornelia J. Southworth and is a daughter of John 11. and Emeline (Granger) Southworth, whose home is in Lee Township, near Rice Creek Church. She is the second of five children and was born September 3, 1844, in Tekonsha Township. She received a commonschool education and grew to womanhood in possession of the character and knowledge that commends her to neighbors and acquaintances and make her the central figure in a happy home. Her marriage to Mr. Snyder was solemnized November 5, 1865, and has been blest by the birth of two chil PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 483 I dren. The only one now living is Jay C., who was born April 2, 1869, and was married December 1, 1886, to Miss Hattie Sine, daughter of John and Mary (Leonard) Sine. The young couple reside with our subject. Mr. Snyder has always been interested in politics and since the right of suffrage was conferred upon him has cast a Democratic ballot. He has had a share in the township offices, having served as Treasurer five years and Supervisor six years. His continuance in these positions so long a time clearly proves the confidence of the people in his ability and worth. IHe is identified with the Ancient Order of United Workmen and Patrons of Industry, the lodge of Workmen in which he is enrolled being at Springport. He is a model of good citizenship and an example of the successful man to whom wealth has come as a legitimate result of well-directed and untiring efforts. A AMES I. POND. Among the men who are J cultivating a portion of the soil of Marshall Township is the gentleman above named, i whose pleasant home is located on section 8. The dwelling is comfortable and substantial, and the accompanying outbuildings are well designed for their respective purposes and include every needful and convenient edifice. Among them is an ample stable for horses, a barn 30x70 feet, a grain and wagon shed 24x56, a hen house, hog pen sheep barn, and windmill and tank. A thrifty orchard and groves of forest trees enhance the beauty and add to the value of the property, which the passer-by will readily believe is owned and operated by a man who understands his business and is enterprising in its pursuit. The paternal grandfather of Mr. Pond bore the given name of Paul and was a Revolutionary soldier. He was born in Massachusetts and was descended from one of two brothers who settled in that colony upon emigrating from England. He removed from that State to Franklin County, N. Y., and in later years went to Ohio with a son, eventually dying in that State. For years he had been supported by the pension received from the United States Government for his services during the struggle for independence and as a partial offset to the wounds he received. Simeon Pond, father of our subject, was born in Vermont and after his marriage established his home in Franklin County, N. Y., where he cleared a farm. He died there when the son of whom we write was but twelve years old. His wife, formerly Susan Adgerley, a native of New Hampshire, lived to the age of seventy-five years and died in the Empire State. Her father, Joseph Adgerley, was born in the Granite State, but spent the last years of his life in Vermont. The family of which James E. Pond is the fifth member consisted of eleven sons and daughters. He was born in Franklin County, N. Y., September 14, 1820, enjoyed but limited school privileges and was early set to work, his father dying before he had entered his teens. He went two and a half miles to school during the cold winter weather, when the schools were held in log houses and kept up by the rate bills. When fourteen years old young Pond went out to work, having his own way to make and also being obliged to do what he could for the younger members of the family. He cleared timber and made black salt and made his home where he was born until twenty-two years old. Ie then started for Wisconsin, traveling overland to Buffalo, crossing the lake to Detroit and thence with a team to Marshall, where he stopped with a family of friends. He made up his mind to remain in this section instead of continuing his journey, as his resources were almost entirely exhausted and he thought the opportunities for employment were favorable. His cash capital consisted of fifty cents, but he borrowed $14 and was ere long at work, making and saving. His first occupation was chopping cordwood during the winter of 1842, and in the spring he engaged as a farm hand. During the ensuing four years he took various jobs connected with the development of land and worked on the Michigan Central Rail. road between Marshall and Ceresco. In February, 1846, Mr. Pond was married to Miss Eliza A. Stillson, who was born in Jefferson County, N. Y., and came hither with her parents in 484 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 1843. The ceremony was solemnized at the bride's years, but declines all other public offices. The balhome in Eckford Township, and the young couple lot he casts is always a Democratic one and he has began housekeeping on a farm which the husband been a delegate to county conventions. He has at worked on shares. He continued this manner of various times been a member of the petit jury and life until 1853, when he bought his present home in the celebrated Starkweather case which lasted farm, a few acres of which had been broken, but fourteen days before a verdict was agreed upon. which had no improvements upon it. Locating His wife, a capable, energetic woman, has been a here Mr. Pond gave his days to hard work, clear- faithful helpmate and with him commands the esing, removing grubs and breaking the virgin soil, teem of their fellow-citizens. and ere many years had elapsed he saw about him the cultivated fields and good buildings which re- |-__ - - paid him for all the labor he had expended upon the property. The farm is now considered one of the choice tracts of the township. In 1873 Mr. ILLARD A. BEGOLE. The native-born Pond bought eighty acres in Emmet Township, / citizens of this county are well represented which is also improved in good shape. by this gentlemen, who is now a promiThe description of Mr. Pond's property, inade- nnt and successful farmer and stock-raiser in the quate as it is to the merits of the place, issufficient place of his birth, Fredonia Township. Here lie to indicate that success has crowned his efforts in owns and occupies the homestead that his father his chosen work. He devotes his attention to gen- purchased from the Government many years ago, eral husbandry and deals extensively in stock, and which now constitutes one of the finest farms keeping Hambletonian horses, Shropshire sheep in all this region. and good cattle.and hogs. At this writing he has Our subject was born on the farm upon which thirteen head of horses, among them one fine colt he lives, March 1, 1859. He comes of good old and one fast trotter. He has raised some of the pioneer stock. His father, Thomas Begole, was finest horses ever seen here and has sold aspan for one of the early settlers of this county, and was as high as $500. He formerly fed cattle quite ex- for many years closely identified with its farming tensively, but now cares only for those raised on interests, contributing his quota towards the develhis own farm. opment of its rich agricultural resources. He was a The children sent to Mr. and Mrs. Pond are five native of Steuben County, N. Y., born near the in number, and the parents have taken great pains town of Danville, and was reared in the place of with their minds and morals, giving them the best his birth to the occupation of a farmer. He came of school advantages and instilling into their hearts to Michigan in 1833 or 1834 and was identified those principles of conduct which will make them with its useful pioneers. In the course of time lie useful and honored members of society. The first- improved a good farm on section 22, the same on born, Mrs. Jennie H. Walker, is in the empIoy of which our subject now resides, and the latter has the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad in in his possession the deed of purchase from the Galesburg; James Henry, is a tiller of the soil in Government signed by Martin Van Buren. South Dakota; George A., is farming in Marshall Mr. Begole was a very industrious man and Township; Myrtie and Baker are at home, the lat- when he settled upon the wild tract of land that ter attending Krug's Business College at Battle he had purchased he actively entered upon the Creek. work of clearing and preparing it for cultivation, Mr. Pond belongs to the Calhoun County Agri- fencing it into neat fields and erecting suitable cultural Association, has been judge at its exhibits buildings. In the pleasant home that he built up and exerts much influence by both precept and ex- here his death occurred in 1881. He was a man ample upon those of his own calling. He is a mem- of sterling worth and stood high in the regard of ber of the School Board and has been for fifteen the entire community, where more than fifty years:: 0~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ : 1:',:::::;.:I __::::::_; —:~:;:i -:-::::-::::ji:::~ ~~:-~ -~:. —~~ ~~ ~.:: L.. i - iii RESIDENCEOF J. M. CONVERSE, SEC.. BURLINGTON TP. CALHOUN CO. MICH. mm.0 RESIDENCE OF WILLARD A. BEGOLE,SEC.22. FREDONIA TP. CALHOUN CO.MICH. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 487 of hlis life were spent. He was twice married. Of his first Inarriage with Elizabeth Ketchum five children were born, one daughter and four sons. The daughter, Mrs. Eliza Arnold, a resident of Marshall, is the only survivbr. The second marriage of tlhe fatller of our subject, was to Mary A. Alexander, a native of Albany, N. Y. When she was a small childl her parents came to Michigan and were among its early pioneers. Her marriage with Mr. Begole took place in Fredonia Township, and her wedded life was passed in the home that sle assisted her husband in building up on section 22, where her death occurred in 1880. Two children were born of that marriage, our subject and Kittic M., who resides in Marshall with her grandmother, Sarah Alexander, a venerable lady of eighty-eight years. Our subject has passed his entire life thus far on the old homestead which was his birthplace, and here has one of the pleasantest homes in the township. His education was conducted in the local district schools, and under his father's instruction he gained a sound practical knowledge of agriculture in all its branches that has been very useful to him in his career as a farmer and stock-raiser. Lie lived with his parents until their death, and at the age of twenty-one years took charge of the homestead, which subsequently came into his possession after his father's death. The farm comprises one hundred acres of valuable land, twenty acres of which are covered with fine timber, while the rest of the place is exceptionally well cultivated. The estate is well stocked and supplied with a substantial class of buildings, including a two-story frame house, of which the main part is 20x30 feet in dimensions. It is nicely arranged and tastefully furnished, is the center of true comfort and the abode of a charming hospitality. Mr. Begole also has good barns and other necessary outbuildings, and has fine farming machinery for cultivating his land. A view of his homestead on another page represents one of the fine farms of Fredonia Township. Mr. Begole was happily married May 3, 1882, to Miss Dora A., daughter of William and Elizabeth (Kanouse) Begole. Mrs. Begole was born in Washtenaw C6unty, Mich., in the Township of Sylvan, November 5, 1856. She passed her girllood days there and gained the preliminaries bf her education in tile district schools, afterwards attending the Union School at Chelsea. Her father, who was a native of New York, came to Michigan in 1830 and was one of the pioneers of the State. IIer mother, a native of New Jersey, came to this State in 1829 with hler parents who were early l)ioneers. Mrs. Begole's father was twice married. By his first marriage with Abigail Nowland, he lhad seven children. By his second marriage, two children were born-Mrs. Begole, who is the elder; and her brother George, who is a resident of Chelsea. Mr. and Mrs. Begole's pleasant home circle is completed by their two little daughters: Estella A., born March 19, 1884, who is now attending school, and Irene E., born October 12, 1890. Mr. Begole is a man of sound common senes, whose business capacity, energy and excellent judgment have been duly recognized by his fellowcitizens as valuable traits in a civic official, and they have called him to the important and responsible office of Treasurer of Fredonia Township. lIe is prompt, methodical and straightforward in the discharge of the duties of his position and guards the finlancial interests entrusted to his care with vigilance and honesty. In his political views he is a decided advocate of the principles of the Democratic party. i/ OHN M. CONVERSE is one of the principal farmers of Burlington Township, where lie has valuable interests. IHe was born in the town of Ausville, Oneida County, N. Y., February 15, 1829. His parents were Manning and Mehitable (Denison) Converse, natives respectively of New York and Connecticut. His father, who was a farmer, moved with his family in 1839, to Byron, Genesee County, N. Y., and thence to Elba, Monroe County. In the fall of 1844 he came to this State, traveling by water to Detroit and from there into the interior of the country to Marshall. He located on section 7, Burlington Township, on eighty acres of land. 0 488 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Here, in time, Mr. Converse cleared and devel- Germany. They were married in the State of New oped a neat farm, which remained his home until York and he finally died there. Eight children his death at the age of sixty-five years, February were born to our subject of his first marriage, of 22, 1863. His widow, who was born in July, 1800, whom the following four were reared to maturity: survived until June, 1884. They were among the Eugene, Warren, Alid, wife of Lyman Babb, of leading members of the Methodist Episcopal Almedo County, Cal.; and Julius. The peaceful Church and were warm-hearted, charitable people, happiness of the abode of our subject was broken always ready to extend a helping hand to any who by the death of the kind wife and mother, Februmight need assistance. They had eight children ary 28,1867. The maiden name of Mr. Converse's of whom the following were reared to maturity: present wife was Emeline Hyde, and four children Clarissa, Seldon, Amos, John M., Titus (deceased) were born to them named as follows: Curren, and Jane, a resident of California. The maternal Mabel, Burr and Frank. Our subject is known in grandfather of our subject, Ebenezer Denison, was social circles as a Mason in good standing. lie a farmer by occupation. He removed from Con- has one of the most desirable homes in the townnecticut to the State of New York and was mar- ship and those who are permitted to share its hosried to Mehitable Denison. They spent their last pitalities are sure of a pleasant time. We invite vears in Oneida County, N. Y. the attention of the reader to a view of the comr The youth of our subject was passed on his fortable residence, where Mr. Converse and his father's farm in agricultural pursuits and in attend- family are pleasantly domiciled. ing the local schools where he gleaned a very good education. In the fall of 1844, at the age of fif- c teen years, life began for him in earnest. For six | r years he worked out by the month; running a thresher for twenty years and a breaking team ILLIAM D. MILLER. This name is fatwelve years. Ite carefully saved up his money \ miliar to many residents in thecounty, and and in 1850 he purchased eighty acres of land particularly to those of Eckford Township, which is included in his homestead on section 7, as he who bears it has been connected with the Burlington 'ownship. This he has mostly cleared, affairs of that locality for some years. He is now and improved with a set of comfortable buildings. Postmaster at Wilderville, and agent for the CinHe has one hundred and sixty acres of land here, cinnati, Jackson & Mackinaw Railroad, and also including his father's old homestead, and owns buys and sells grain, and carries on a general store. forty acres on section 8, besides forty-five acres on These various occupations afford him scant opporsection 9. tie started out even handed when he tunity for idleness, yet he finds time to keep himcommenced the battle of life by himself, but he self well-informed and to bear the part of a good conquered every difficulty in his way and can look citizen in local affairs, both civil and religious. with pleasure upon what he has accomplished. He The great-grandfather of Mr. Miller in the pawas drafted during the war but commuted instead. ternal line, emigrated from England to America. For the past nine years Mr. Converse has served as The grandfather, Jacob Miller, was born in PennHighway Commissioner and has been very active sylvania, and for several years was engaged in in securing good highways and byways for the banking in Allentown.- He came to Michigan in benefit of those who travel. In politics he is active 1834, making the journey with teams, and going on in Democratic circles. to a farm gave his attention to tilling the soil unMr. Converse has been twice married. Ilis first til his death. William J. Miller, father of him of marriage which took place December 29, 1853, was whom we write, was born at Allentown, Pa., in to Julia Hyde, a native of Newton, this county. 1815, and coming to this State with his parents, Her parents were John and Margaret Hyde, far- continued to make his home with them until he had mers of that township, who were both born in attained to his majority. He afterward bought PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 489 I thirty-eight acres on section 10, Eckford Township, and on this tract of wild land built a frame house and established his home. Ere long he added forty-two acres to the estate, and still later bought an eighty-acre tract. About 1870 be purchased forty acres additional, each portion having been wild land when it came into his possession. lie cleared and improved the entire property, building a large dwelling house, and such ample barns and sheds that all his stock was under cover, and his crops well housed. He laid aside the cares of life to enter into rest February 11, 1888. 'T'he mother of our subject was known in her maidenhood as Miss Eliza Iincbauch. She was of German descent and born in Danville, Monture County, Pa. She bore her husband ten children, of whom we note tile following: Peter M. died at the age of thirty-eight years; Sarah is now living in Eckford, and is the widow of John Bartholomew; Eliza died in infancy; lenry J. and William D. are twins, the first-named being a farmer in Eckford Township; Noah J. died at the age of seventeen years; Frank is a farmer in this section; Ella married Joseph Iiehl, who is in partnership with our subject; Herbert is engaged in farming in North Dakota; Alice married Sylvester Bartholomew, and they occupy the old homestead. When the father of Mr. Miller came to this State wild game abounded, including bear, wolves and deer. Ile once went out hunting with friends from the East, and a big buck having been wounded by them, he ran up to the animal and held him by the horns until the others came and cut his throat. The gentleman whose name heads these paragraphs was born April 1, 1848, in Pennsylvania, while his parents were visiting their native State. During his early years he attended school in the winter season, and aided in farm work in the summer. When twenty-one years old he went to San Francisco and found employment on a farm in that vicinity, but after working seven months went to White Pine, Nev., and entered a silver mine. He wielded the pick a year and a half, then changed his location to Camp Floyd, Utah, where he mined three years. He next went to the southern part of the Territory, to the San Francisco mining district, and there took up fourteen silver claims. He sold these November 8, 1874, a few months after locating them, and returning to Michigan, settled down to a farmer's life and for six years worked his father's place. He then bought seventy-five acres on section 5, Eckford Township, which property he still hlolds and manages, while with his partner carrying on the business before mentioned at Wilderville. Mr. Miller won for his companion on life's journey, Miss Elizabeth Bender, who came to him as a Christmas gift in 1878. Her father, William Bender, who died in 1880, was a farmer in Eckford Township. She received a good education, and under her parents' roof learned many lessons which fitted her for usefulness after reaching womanhood. She is a devoted mother, a true wife and a kindly neighbor. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Miller consists of two sons and a daughter, Charlotte being the baby of the family; Clarence E. is attending school, and Floyd W. is beginning his pursuit of book lore. The parents are anxious that their children shall become well educated and fitted in every possible way for usefulness and honor when they shall have grown to maturity. Mr. Miller is a stanch Republican, whose first Presidential vote was cast for U. S. Grant. He has been Treasurer of Eckford Township, and Justice of the Peace during the past four years. He belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is held in excellent repute as a man of strict integrity, intelligence and good breeding. -EORGE W. GREEN, M. D. There is no State in the Union within whose bounds a ~fiu greater number of first-class physicians and surgeons can be found than Michigan, nor are they confined to the medical colleges and various institutions which the physical characteristics of the State have given rise to. They are engaged in practice in every city and town, contributing by their studiousness and zeal to the honor of the profession, and gaining by well-directed efforts such a share of worldly goods as to supply their every want. Battle Creek is the home of not a few of f 490 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. these skillful and earnest men, one of them being then went to New York an Dr. Green who, in a few short years has secure(l a to a course of special stud recognized position among the practitioners of confine his future practice the State. In recent years he has made a specialty throat. On the terminat of diseases of the eye, ear, throat and nose, to work he located in Battle 4 which his entire time is devoted. time Ihe has become well Dr. Green traces his ancestry back through sev- reputation extends throngl eral generations which present an unbroken line of Dr. Green owns a hands adherents of the Baptist religion, during a period erty here, and enjoys a of two hundred and fifty years in America. tHe is blest with a wife and chil a direct descendant of one of the band who went refined, and well calculate4 with Roger Williams into Rhode Island and aided circle. His cherished co in establishing the first Baptist Church in America. Niagara County, N. Y., The next in the direct line of descent was born in 1862, prior to that time 1767, entered the Revolutionary army in 1779, Miss Nancy E. Bugbee. and is said to have been the youngest Colonial have three sons and two soldier. IIe was one of the unerring sharpshooters daughter in infancy. Fra of that historic period. Nathaniel Green was a dentist in tils city, and W member of the same family. The father of our thle same profession in the subject was tlhe next in direct line of descent. lie with the expectation of lbe was born in Chemung County, N. Y., in 1803, and Blanche, a young lady of died in the year 1875. The marriage between Jesse aid accomplishments las M. Green and Zilpha Lovell was blest by the birth lhome, and Grace and G of six children, the subject of this biographical their studies from its she notice being the fourth. His mother was born in the ancestral example in Plainfield, Mass., in 1809, and bid adieu to the in the doctrines of the Ba scenes of earth in 1882. ned member of that relic The natal day of Ir. Green was March 6, 1837, t) the social order of the and his birthplace Madison, Lake County, Ohio. During his youth he took a course of study in the University at Oberlin and began the study of his chosen profession, in which he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine from the University of OHIN IIENI)ERSO] Michigan at Ann Arbor, in 1862. After a brief John," which is cc period devoted to practice, he became assistant sur- this gentleman by t geon in the Twenty-eighth Michigan Infantry and is indicative of the was among the last enlisted men to be discharged hearty friendship, genial in 1866. He resumed the general practice of medi- attainments. He is one oi cine, making Hudson the center of his labors, and vis Township where he going in and out among'the people for ten years in hundred and twenty acre tlhe successful pursuit of his beloved work. been identified witli the in After a decade of arduous and unremitting prac- well nigh half a century, h lice, Dr. Green removed to Chicago where, for ten his well-directed efforts, years he was engaged in the manufacture and cor- interesting anecdote of the pounding of remedial agents. On account of his As his name indicates failing health he closed out the business and devoted Scotch ancestry. His fa some time to recuperating his physical vigor. He named, was a practical id gave himself zealously y, having determined to to the eye, ear, nose and tion of his preparatory Creek where, in a short known an(d whence his hout the State. some and valuable prophappy home life, being dren who are educated, d to adorn the domestic mpanion is a native of an(l became his wife in having been known as I)r. and Mrs. Green daughters, and lost one ink A. is a rising young alter J. is now studying University of lMichigan, iing graduated this year. f fine mental attainments not yet left the parental eorge are still pursuing lter. Dr. Green follows being a faithful believer ptist Church and a valgious body. He belongs Knights of Pythias. N. The title of "Uncle )mmonly bestowed upon Lhose who know him well, e value they place on his l nature, character and f the old settlers in Conowns and operates one es on section 16. HIe has terests of this county for ias won a competence by and can relate many an e pioneer times. s Mr. Ienderson is of ither, for whom he was mechanic who served a PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 49i seven years' apprenticeship as a cabinet-maker, carpenter and joiner, and who followed the occupation of a finisher of houses. HIe also carried on a cabinet shop. ITe was in good circumstances and died when comparatively a young man, strong in the faith of the Presbyterian Church. Iis wife, formerly Euphemia Reekie, was born in Fifeshire and was the daughter of Andrew Reekie, a farmer there. After her husband's death she took her family to her own shire and established her home in Auchtertool where she breathed her last. She was a Presbyterian in early life and later a member of tile Christian Clurch. Mr. Henderson, who was the fourth of five children, was born in the parish of Kincardine, County Clackmannan, Scotland, February 9, 1823, and lived there until after the death of his father. lIe was a little lad three years old when his mother returned to the vicinity of her birthplace, and he spent the ensuing few years witll her or withl an uncle. When old enough to attend school he was given good advantages, becoming an inmate of the home of his Grandfather Reekie, on whose farm he remained until fourteen years old. Hle was then apprenticed to a (damask weaver in i)unfermline, a large manulfacturling town, and after serlving his tlhree years worked as a journeyman a year. IHe then retumned to his Grandfather Reekie, spent a summer season in school and followed this by work on a farm with his stepfather two years. At the expiration of that time he determined to come to America, believing that here lie would more rapidly better his condition. In June, 1844, Mr. Henderson left Glasgow on the sailer ISulperb," and after a voyage of six weeks landed in New York. lie traveled on the river and canal to Buffalo, crossed the lake to Detroit, continued his journey to Albion by rail and by stage to Marshall. There lie found employment until the next year wlhen he came to Convis Township and took the management of the farm of Mr. Walkinshaw. After operating that estate two years lie worked for George W. Bentley in Marshall Township a year. The next step in the career of Mr. Henderson was to take a wife and set up a home of his own on rented land in Convis Township. His bride was Mary E. Talmage, who was born in Massachusetts and came to this county about the same time as himself. The wedding ceremony was solemnized at her home in Newton Township, December 31, 1848, and has brought to its principals mutual happiness. After laboring two years as a renter Mr. Henderson bought forty acres of raw land, built a log house in which to shelter his family, and began the process of improvement, driving four yoke of oxen on his breaking plow. To this he added adjoining acres in 1864 and 1889. The second tract purchased is the site of his pleasant and homelike residence, which is surrounded by well-kept lawns, beautiful groves and thrifty orchards, and in its green setting is a beautiful picture. It was built in 1882, and is of modern design and furnished in accordance with the good taste and ample means of those who occupy it. Among the many farm buildings which belong to his fine property is a barn, 34x46 fee;, erected in 1871. The principal grain crop raised by Mr. Henderson is wheat, and the domestic animal in which lie deals most largely is sheep although lie keeps some cattle and hogs. When Mr. Henderson began his residence in this county game of various kinds was plentiful, and ihe ere long became known as tlie "crack shot" of the township. He hunted with a double-barreled rifle and brougolt down game innumerable. Deer was a favorite target and so steady and accurate was his aim that he often killed them when on the run. Venison was a saleable article and formed an important feature on tlhe tables of the settlers. Mr. lenderson killed two bears one afternoon on the farm adjoining his own on the west, shooting both through the neck. -Ie was in the habit of devoting about a week each fall, and a day now and tlhen during the winter to lunting, and never failed to return with all that lie could carry of game either large or small. Mr. and Mrs. Henderson have two childrenMary and Henry-the younger of whom is the chlief assistant of his father on the farm. The daughter is the wife of H. Arnold, an engineer, wlose home is in Kansas. Like others of his nationality Mr. Henderson is not content to take the judgment of others without having himself investigated and given thought to any subject on 492 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. which he desires to have an opinion. When once he has arrived at a conclusion he is decided in his adherence to it and earnest in his support. Having come to the conclusion that the Republican party is the one nearest right he is an unfailing supporter of its ticket. He was reared under the tenets of the Presbyterian Church, and although he may have departed somewhat from the rigor of his ancestors he is yet firm in his faith in its fundamental doctrines. He has been School Moderator for years, and for three years has done etficient service as Commissioner of Highways. I I f~~~~~~~~~~~~ - Elizabeth Swanger. ty, this State. Her 1 born in Germany, an ica established his h whence he finally rern County at the age of Revolutionary soldii that of the Lutheran The subject of tl his parents and o)pe Wayne County, Oh Temained with his par old, having gone w when fourteen. Hi schools in the old-fas gained all the prac V W ILLIAM MILBOURN. Passing years had opportunity. B have brought to this gentleman a goodly worked out, giving amount of worldly possessions as a reward After lie became of ao for well-directed and continuous labor in his chosen his own, buying a sm callings. He is a practical farmer and a no less engaged in farmtng ai practical veterinary surgeon, and is well known later he began the pr throughout this and Eaton Counties, where for which lie continued u many years he has lived and labored. He has re- ordinary success. tired from veterinary practice after thirty-five years In 1851 Mr. Milbot steadily devoted to it, and now gives his attention the journey with a t entirely to agricultural pursuits. He owns one County upon forty a hundred and four acres of land on section 14, Lee later he removed to tl Township, and forty acres on section 15, which are acres of raw land in Le well improved with good fences and ample farm and made improven buildings, a thrifty orchard and pleasant groves, circumstances warrani and a homelike residence. size until he had some The paternal grandfather of Mr. Milbourn was of this was cleared I a Revolutionary soldier and the father fought in placed his sons on eig the War of 1812. The later received seven wounds, down his own acreage six being from a bayonet, and one from a bullet erty and derives a vi which finally ended his life by producing a fever it. The land which sore. He was born in Virginia and during the ear- twofold purpose of { ly years of his manhood located in Wayne County, some fine horses of, Ohio, near Manchester. He cleared a farm and cattle may be seen in finally became the owner of several tracts. I-e sheep are also found cleared land in Huron County also, and at various is used in tilling the so times lived in Richland, Seneca and Crawford ucts. Counties, and in 1851 came to this State and estab- In Richland County lished his home in Eaton County. There lie died in rites of wedlock were 1862. The wife of Andrew Milbourn was born bourn and Miss Ma in Cumberland, Pa., and bore the maiden name of born in Ashland Cou She also died in Eaton Counfather, Abraham Swanger, was id upon emigrating to Amerome in the Keystone State, oved to Ohio, dying in Wayne f ninety-six years. He was a er. His religious belief was Church. iis sketch was the first born of ned his eyes to the light in io, November 2, 1822. He rents until he was twenty years ith them to Richland County e attended the subscription shioned log schoolhouse, and tical knowledge for which he efore he became of age he his father all his earnings. ge he established a home of all tract of land on which he nd stock-raising. A few years ictice of veterinary surgery, until quite recently with extrairn came to this State, making team, and locating in Eaton acres of land. Seven years his county and bought eighty ee Township. This he cleared ients upon, adding to it as ted, buying tracts of different e four hundred acres. Much >y his own efforts. He has ghty acre farms, thus cutting,but he still has a good propery satisfactory income from he retains is devoted to the grain and stock-raising, and Abdallah stock, and Galway the fields. Large flocks of here, and modern machinery oil and garnering in the prody, Ohio, May 11, 1843, the celebrated between Mr. Milria Forsyth. The 'bride was Lnty, February 2, 1823, and PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 493 --— ` 1-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ reared in the county which was the scene of her wedding. She is a daughter of William and Jane (Smith) Forsyth, both of whom died in the Buckeye State. Her father was a native of Pennsylvania and was an early settler in Ashland County, Ohio; he was a tanner by trade but during his later years gave his attention to farming in Richland County. He lived to the age of seventy-five years. Mrs. Forsyth was the daughter of James Smith, a Scotchman who emigrated to Pennsylvania, afterward lived in Ohio and still later in Indiana. She belonged to the United Brethren Church, in the tenets of which she reared her children. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Milbourn consists of three sons-William H., Andrew J. and Eugene, all living in Lee Township. William is now living in Olivet, Eaton County, but his brothers occupy their farms. All are intelligent and are worthily following the example and precepts of their parents. Mr. Milbourn has refused various offices within the gift of the people, preferring to give his entire attention to the duties of private citizenship and his vocation. He belongs to an Odd Fellows lodge in Springport. He is a stanch Republican and has been a frequent delegate to the county conventions. lie has probably as extended an acquaintance in this and Eaton Counties as any man living, and as good a reputation for integrity and thorough manliness. LEXANIER GORDON. The late AlexG1 L ander Gordon was a pre-eminently successful farmer and financier, and a man long to be remembered as one who aided in bringing the county up to her present high condition of development. He began his work here in 1839, and from that time until his death, November 15, 1883, his life was characterized by industry, prudence and economy without niggardliness. By the exercise of these qualities he accumulated a fine property, consisting of upwards of two thousand acres of land in Pennfield and Convis Townships, and the requisite stock, machinery and implements for carrying on extensive work. Mr. Gordon was born in Windham County, Conn., in 1813, and was a son of Judge Gordon and brother of J. Wright Gardon, who served as Governor of Michigan in 1841-42. When seventeen years old he accompanied his parents to'New York State and soon after hired a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Ontarfo County, paying a rental of $400 per annum. The property was pleasantly situated two and a half miles from the town of Geneva. After operating it two years Mr. Gordon purchased one hundred and forty-four acres at $27 per acre in Senec: County on the banks of the lake of the same name. He made a cash payment of $1,700, and gave a mortgage for the balance. The place was improved and cultivated by the new owner six years, then sold for $55 per acre. In 1839 Mr. Gordon came to this county with his parents and bought a farm of two hundred acres in Pennfield Township. Upon it he built a log house and gradually put in other improvements, making it both habitable and attractive. To it he brought his bride in 1853, Miss Phebe C. Gifford. To add to the joys of the happy home six children came, and five were reared to years of discretion. The fifth child, Phebe Louise, died at the age of twenty. The living are: James W., George A., Edward G., Katherine H., and Maurice S. The home of the widow is exceptionally well kept and ranks among the best in the township in its furnishings, containing everything that will add to the welfare of its inmates and conduce to their enjoyment. Mrs. Gordon was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., February 28, 1831, and came to this county when six years old. She was educated in the primitive log schoolhouse common to sparsely settled regions, but whose rudeness of construction did not prevent the gaining of knowledge by those who wished therefor. Mrs. Gordon had a remarkably active mind and in and out of school gained facts on various topics, and throughout her life has kept up her habit of reading and observation, thus becoming more than ordinarily well informed. From a kind and efficient mother she learned the care of home and the ways in which to be useful to those about her, and in her own household and among: w f~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 494 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - -— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ her neighbors she has manifested goodness and charity. She belongs to the Episcopal Church in Battle Creek. Since the death of her husband she has shown that she possesses a good business tact; as her affairs are carefully and judiciously conducted. The Giffords'are of Irish descent, but the family has lived in America several generations. Abraham Gifford, grandfather of Mrs. Gordon, was a native of Massachusetts and was a farmer and school teacher; he also kept a shop and made chairs. He died near Buffalo, N. Y., when seventy years old. He was of the Friends' religion and a preacher in the society. He reared a family of eleven children, John S. being the father of Mrs. Gordon. He was born in Massachusetts and when twelve years old went to New York, where he followed farming when grown to manhood. He was a natural mechanic and could turn his hand to almost anything in the line of handicraft. In 1837 Mr. Gifford sold his land in New York and went to Huron County, Ohio. There he taught school during the winter and came to this county in June, 1839. Ile entered land in Pennfield Township, put up a log house and cleared a part of the tract, but finally sold out and bought one hundred acres in another neighborhood. That piece he improved and operated until he ceased from active labor. He passed away in 1883 at the age of eighty-one years, the last of which were spent in the home of his daughter Phebe. He was first a Whig and later a Republican in politics. Ile was Justice of the Peace twelve years and helped to organize the township. The mother of Mrs. Gifford bore the maiden name of Hannah Thompson. She was born in Saratoga County, N. Y., and there her father, Josiah Thompson, also began his career. She bore her share of the trials of pioneer life with Christian fortitude and cheerfulness, and labored earnestly for the good of her family and friends; she lived to the age of sixty-eight years and died in her daughter Phebe's home strong in the faith of the Methodist Church. She had borne her husband four children, those who grew to maturity being Abram, Edward and Phebe C. She was of English lineage, and her father, a farmer, was a Quaker preacher. He spent most of his life in Cayuga County, N. Y., and died there when about seventy years old. IIe and his Quaker wife reared eleven children, four of whom are still living. W-,TILLIAM GOSS, a large landowner of Convis Township, is one of the leading citizens of this part of the county, with the interests of which he has been identified for many years. His life affords a striking example of what may be accomplished by a determined and tireless spirit, even with nothing but vigor of body and an active mind as capital. A self-made man in a wide sense, Mr. G(ss has gained wealth, but while doing so has remembered that there are others in the world as well as himself, and has treated those with whom he came in contact in the most straightforward and honest manner, carrying out the Golden Rule in all his dealings. The parents of our subject were Josiah and Lydia (Goddard) Goss, natives of Massachusetts. The father was a wagonmaker. Ie vwent to Cato, N. Y., when our subject was a babe, and worked at his trade there until he died of consumption. His widow breathed her last at the home of a daughter, in 1885. The family consists of Jothan, now living in New York State; William, subject of this notice and Mary whose home is in the Empire State. Tie third child, Josiah, died in Bellevue, this State. The natal day of William Goss was January 28, 1814, and his birthplace Boylston, Mass., two miles from Boston. When eighteen months old his parents went to Cato, N. Y., and there he lived for some years. At the early age of ten he went to live with a Mr. Dudley with whom he remained until lie was of age. During that period he was obliged to work very hard, was kept out of school and for compensation received but $130 when he was grown. He often worked in the harvest field, reaping and binding, until he was so tired he could scarcely stand, and lie also did big work as a wood chopper, at which he excelled. When of age he began working by the month, receiving $13,:: t -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I :: ^7 ^^^^::::::::::~: f::: X De:- f S V PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 497 excellent wages for the time. He was able to do the work of two ordinary men, as notwithstanding the hard labor he did in youth le was stout and robust. In 1835 Mr. Goss came to this State, making his journey on the Erie Canal to Buffalo, thence across the lake on the 'Governor March" and on foot from Detroit to Marshall. His worldly possessions were brought on his back from Detroit and his entire journey cost him $7. He had $214 and this he paid on one hundred and sixty acres of land in Bellevue Township, Eaton County. He did not locate on the property, but continued to work by the month for two years, during which period he did not lose a day. In the spring of 1838 he traded for a part of his present farm, on section 7, Convis Township, and here he established a home. The country abounded in game of all kinds, and he had to make a tight pen for his pigs, so that tile wolves could not get at them. Ile has seen seventeen deer in a lherd, and various wild animals, some of which would be dangerous companions. Mr. Goss began his labors in this township by taking contracts to break prairie, and a large acreage was placed in condition for cultivation by him. The primitive sod was very hard on the plow shares, and at noon the young man would take the one lie had been using, weighing fifty pounds, walk three and a half miles to the shop, and return with the one he had left there the previous (lay in time to begin his work after the noon hour. Ile improved his own land, reclaiming it from the raw condition, and by hard work, energy and economy, was able to add to it and finally become wealthy. His motto is "drive your business; let not your business drive you." He now has four hundred and eighty acres of the choicest land in the county, this tract being improved with good buildings and located in the township and section before mentioned. lie also owns two hundred and ninety-six acres in Bellevue Township, Eaton County, which is improved in two farms and is equtlly as good as his land here. His Calhoun County farm is on the south bank of Battle Creek and the residence is three miles from Bellevue. Mr. Goss has raised some very fine sheep, his flocks ranging from five hundred to one thousand head. All the stock that lie keeps is good. In his farm work he gives constant employment to four teams. At the bride's home in Marshall Township February 5, 1837, the rites of wedlock were celebrated between Mr. Goss and Miss Chloe Sterns. This lady was born in Saybrook, Conn., September 27, 1821, came to Michigan when ten years old and was reared here. Her grandfather, John Sterns, and her father, Griswold Sterns, were natives of Connecticut and went from that State to New York. lThe father, after growing to maturity married Hannah Norton, who was also born in Connecticut. At an early day the good couple came to this section of country and made it their home during the remainder of their lives. Mr. Sterns preceded his wife to the silent land and his widow afterward made her home with Mr. and M rs. Goss. The only living child of our subject and his wife is Mary, wife of Dwight Brackett whose home is in Bellevue. She was given excellent school privileges and did credit to the love and care that was lavished upon her by her parents. Since lhe became a man and has had means with which to carry out his wishes, Mr. Goss has done much to advance civilization in this part of the State and to add to the material advantages of its inhabitants. Iie has served the public as Commissioner of Highways and School Director, and has helped to build schoolhouses and churches. In politics he is still, as he was in early life, a believer in the Democratic principles advocated by Andrew Jackson. /3EORGE W. DAVIS. Like other cities, Battle Creek is well supplied with expoundG\u ers of the law, their abilities varying and their success diverging as widely as their respective talents. Some have been established here so long that their names are almost household words, others are newcomers and have yet to build up their reputation and their practice. Among those who are comparative strangers to our courts, yet have been here long enough to extend a welcoming hand to the very recent arrivals, is George W. Davis. whose portrait appears on the opposite page. lie is still 0 498 PORTRAIT AND BI( climbing the hill of Time, and in all human probability has many years in which to add to an already good reputation as a lawyer and a man. Mr. Davis is of honorable ancestry, descended in the paternal line from a native of Wales and in the maternal from a son of "Old England." The first of the Davis name to come to America was a passenger on board the "Mayflower." The greatgrandfather of our subject, Isaac Davis, was a soldier in the Colonial army, going into the struggle against Great Britain as a private, and laying down his arms when peace and independence were secured, as a Major. He was wounded in the arm, and lived to be about one hundred years of age. When the second conflict with the "Mother Country" began, the grandfather of our subject laid aside the implements of farm life and gave his services to his country, rising to the rank of Captain. His bravery made him a conspicuous figure among his comrades. It is related of him that on one occasion he and a companion were tearing a plank from a bridge when it was pierced by seven balls, but the only effect upon the two men was to strengthen their determination that the bridge should be destroyed. Mr. Davis lived to be ninety-six years old. The father of our subject was christened Moses, for his father, and is living a retired life. His brother William was a soldier in the Mexican War and died about a year after his discharge. Moses Davis, Jr., married Mary Gove, who like himself was born in New Hampshire. They became the parents of six children: Sarah, deceased; Mary, wife of Charles Brown, their home being in New Hampshire; James, a farmer in the same State; Charles, whose home is in the same neighborhood as the last-named; Henry, who lives in Goffstown; and our subject, the second on the family roll. George W. Davis was born in Grafton County, N. H., December 7, 1847, and received his educa. tion in the district school, the High School in Worcester, Mass.. and at Kimball Union Academy, there taking both an English and classical course of four years, finishing his work at the last-named institution in 1865. Later he took up the vocation of teaching, carried on that work three years and during the period was Superintendent of Schools. )GRAPHICAL ALBU M. r F -- -- - - - -- - He then began his legal reading with E. L. Cushing, alternating his studies with professional services in the schoolroom some two years. He next studied under the instruction of Charles Eddy and E. C. Stoughton, and in 1870 was admitted to the bar. A year longer he taught, then laid aside the teacher's mantle and gave himself entirely to the other profession that he had chosen for his life's work. For six years he was located in Cheshire County, N. H., then came to Battle Creek and after a short interval of resumption of pedagogical labor, during which he was becoming known to the citizens, he entered the legal arena once more. Mr. Davis is a natural orator, ranking, when at sclhool, the highest in his class in that department, and has gained an extended reputation as a public speaker. During political campaigns and on various occasions he is frequently called upon to make speeches which are always eloquent and effective. A short wedded life was shared by Mr. Davis and Mary Gale, daughter of William Gale, of New Hampshire, who were married July 1, 1876, and separated by death June 2, 1879. Mrs. Davis entered into rest after a long and trying illness, patiently borne. She left one child, a daughter, Ella M. Mr. Davis belongs to the Knights of Maccabees and the Masonic order. In politics he is Democratic. An able, honest and upright gentleman, of marked ability in his profession, with a judicial mind and great intellectual energy combined with force of character, he has excellent standing and his future is bright with promise. C HOMAS C. ANTHONY. The ne plus ultra of farm life is to be seen on section 19, Sheridan Township, where Mr. Anthony owns and operates an estate of two hundred and fifty acres. A traveler approaching this farm will almost believe he is nearing a village, so numerous are the buildings and so well grouped are they. There is a cluster of four barns connected by covered passage ways, granaries, tool houses, hog pens, etc., that give shelter to the farm produce and ma PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 499 I__ chinery, and comfort and convenience in the care of the stock. The climax of the beauty and utility here is reached in the residence-a handsome one, not excelled in the vicinity in its pleasing exterior or internal arrangement and furnishing. Mr. Anthony belongs to a family that is of English origin, and of the old Quaker stock. His grandfather, Jonathan Anthony, was born in Rhode Island, and so also was his father, Silas Anthony. The latter was a cousin of the well known United States Senator, Henry B. Anthony. Grandfather Anthony removed to New York, settling in the neighborhood of Albany when his son Silas was three years old, and there the lad grew to manhood and began his personal career. Le liad but six months schooling, but being naturally intelligent, ambitious to acquire knowledge, and very persistent, he became more than ordinarily well informed, and durino his entire lifetime did a vast amount of readSilas Anthony married Mary hi. Brown, who was born in New Jersey, came of the old Quaker stock, and received a fair district school education, togesther with much information regarding domestic and neighborly duties. The wedding took place in the Empire State, where the couple resided until the spring of 1865 when they came to Michigan, settling where the son of whom we write is now living. Mr. Anthony had learned the carpenter's trade and worked at it until lie was about thirtyfive years old. lie rose from poverty to fair circumstances before he came to this State, and securing a tract of land, he still further advanced his financial interests. He bought a farm that was in a rough state, and had some indifferent buildings upon it, but supplied it with a well-built residence and many of the outbuildings that now make it so conspicuous a property. Two hundred and thirtyfive acres was placed under the plow and fifteen acres left in timber. Since the property came into the possession of the son, a tenement house and barn have been added to the buildings, and its thorough cultivation continued. The birth of Silas Anthony occurred in April, 1798, and he lived to a good old age, dying in April, 1885. He was an Abolitionist, and was one of seven men who voted the first Abolition ticket in the township in which he was then living, in Wayne County, N. Y. During the Civil War he was an enthusiastic worker for the abolition of slavery. He was in advance of his time in all his political views and, although for some time he refrained from voting, he worked in other ways for the radical principles which he held. In later years lie took sides with the Labor party and voted the Greenback ticket. Hle was domestic in his habits, and refused to hold office, his taste leading him to prefer the society of his family and the cares of his home to the turmoil and excitement of public life. He was strictly and absolutely temperate, and was always connected with the Society of Friends. A firm believer in practical education, lie was an ardent advocate of self-effort, and particularly interested in a system of affairs which encouraged personal effort and made theories available in daily life. A good conversationalist, fond of a joke, and of social nature, he made many friends and by his upright character retained their esteem. The subject of this sketch was the first born of his parents' children. Hle has one sister, Eliza C., now Mrs. Albert Austin, who lives in Marengo Township, and has four children. His mother, who was born in August, 1806, died in 1878. His father had been married previous to his union to Miss Brown, and one of the seven children born of the first union is now living. This is Joseph S., whose home is in Wayne County, N. Y.; Nathaniel S., who for eighteen years resided in this county, and married Miss Emogene Barnes, removed to Kansas in 1883, where he (lied April, 1890. The mother of these gentlemen bore the maiden name of Betsey Sheldon, and for some time after her marriage her home was in Ontario County, N. Y. The family subsequently removed to Wayne County, where she breathed her last in 1844. Thomas C. Anthony was born in Wayne County, N. Y., July 26, 1847. After attending the district schools he passed two terms at Walworth, (N. Y.) Academy. He has always been a tiller of the soil, and now carries on an extensive enterprise in mixed farming, handling a high grade of sheep and cattle and marketing fine crops of grain. He lived with his parents until his marriage, after which his father lived with him. For years before the death of 500 -PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ~~~ --- —--------------------------------— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ the parent, the practical management of the farm had been in the hands of the son, although the father was nominally at the head of affairs. The lady whom our subject won for his wife was Miss Augusta Whiting, a native of Rockland, Plymouth County, Mass., with whom he was joined in matrimonial bonds June 14, 1876. The date of her birth was May 25, 1844. Her parents having come to this State, she attended Albion College and was graduated in the Class of '63. She subsequently took a post-graduate course of one year. She is a lady of high literary qualifications and of ability in preparing music for the press, and has put her talents to good use in preparing articles for the press and in work done for literary societies. She spent three years in the lecture field, and ably assisted her brother in his work as a lecturer, composer and author, and has herself published articles in Eastern periodicals and music books. Her literary productions, aside from the work done for societies, are mainly to be found in the "Banner of Light," and her music in the "Spiritual Harp." She is interested in all reforms, and has a prominent place in the social life of the neighborhood. The father of Mrs. Anthony was Albert Whiting, a native of Rockland, Mass., and a shoe mantufacturer in his native State. The family record from the middle of the seventeenth century is as follows: James Whiting, of Hingham, Mass., married Mary Beals in 1647, and in 1658 received a land grant in the town. His house was burned by the Indians in 1676. He died in 1710 leaving a large landed estate in Hingham, Scituate, Abington and Hanover. His son, James, Jr., born July 15, 1651, died February 20, 1725, after a lifelong residence in Hingham; Benjamin Whiting, born in 1693, and a son of the above, married Sarah Tower in 1716 and settled at Queen Anne's Corners. His son Thomas, born January 29, 1718, married Lydia Pratt and settled on Whiting Street, Hanover, being one of the earliest residents there. He died September 23, 1793, and his son Thomas kept up the home in Hanover. The latter was born June 3, 1743, married Rachel Peakes in November, 1770, and died December 13, 1805. He had six children, the fourth of whom was Charles, who was baptized June 27, 1784, and married Betsey Pool, of Abington. The oldest child of this couple was Albert, father of Mrs. Anthony. The mother of Mrs. Anthony bore the maiden name of Rachel G. Bennett. Her marriage to Mr. Whiting was solemnized in East Bridgewater, Mass., March 8, 1835, and her home was made in Rockland until 1853, when they came to Michigan. They settled in Brooklyn, Jackson County, and the husband engaged in farming until his death, which occurred in 1859. His widow removed to Albion in 1860, and died there in 1874. Mr. Whiting possessed strong mental powers and an even temperament; he was a Free-thinker. The mother of Mrs. Anthony traces her paternal line back to very early times in England. The first of the family to come to America settled in Abington, Mass., and was of tile fourth generation prior to herself. Nathaniel Bennett, of the next generation, was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and died of disease during the service. His son George served through the War of 1812, and finally died of consumption. Iis fourth child was Mrs. Whiting. The maternal grandmother of Mrs. Anthony was Leah Gardner, who was connected witl the Englisll families of Marlborough, North Guilford and Dudley. Mr. and Mrs. Whiting were the parents of three children, one of whom died in childhood. Those who grew to maturity were Albert Bennett and Augusta, now the wife of our subject. Albert was born December 14, 1835, received a common-school education and spent one year in a private academy. Lie began lecturing when but eighteen years old, and continued in the lecture field about eighteen years. He was unusually eloquent, and his phenomenal powers as a medium brought him prominently before the people in most of the large cities of the Union. He atone time submitted to a most thorough examination before Harvard professors, and much interest attached to a debate on spiritualism which took place at Decatur, this State, between him and the Rev. Joseph Jones, a minister in the Methodist Church. Mr. Whiting often improvised poems upon subjects given him by persons in his audience. A large number of his poems were set to music by himself, and published by Peters, of New York. He also published a work I i PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 501 --- —----- I --- — I I called "Religion and Morality." His biography, written by his sister, was published by William White & Co., of Boston, in 1872. This brilliant man was called to try the realities of the other world( in September, 1871. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony consists of three children-Albert B., Irene Pearl and Mabel. Mr. Anthony is deeply interested in questions of political economy; he cast his first vote when thirty years of age with the Greenback larty, but has more recently affiliated with the Democratic party on the Free Trade platform. lie is a disciple of Henry George, an ardent believer in the single tax principle, and at local meetings often speaks on that and similar points. Ile takes an active part in the local literary societies, is interested in educational affairs, and gave the land on which to build the district schoolhouse. He has been Supervisor of Sheridan Township, Road Overseer and Justice of the Peace, and was a candidate for the Legislature. EORGE IIARRINGTON. A traveler in ((| Convis Township would note with pleasure the evidences of prosperity to be seen on the farm of Mr. Harrington on section 13. The estate comprises one hundred and twenty acres of fine land, whose natural advantages have been made the most of by careful handling, and plroduce large crops. A complete line of farm buildings, the largest of which is a barn 36x46 feet, is to be seen here, and the most casual observer will note that they are substantial and conveniently located. In the fields some good roadsters are seen and a large flock of Merino sheep and a drove of Poland-China hogs shows that Mr. Harrington appreciates blooded animals. Mr. Harrington traces his ancestry back to England, but the more recent generations have lived in New England. His grandfather, Uriah Harrington, a Revolutionary soldier, was born in Massachusetts, spent some years in Vermont and died at Ypsilanti, this State. Elisha lHarrington, father of our subject, was born in Rutland County, Vt., April 13, 1805, and was reared on a farm, He I I possessed unusual strength and while yet a young man he and a brother-in-law mowed six and a half acres in half a day, the biggest day's work known in that country. After spending some time in Saratoga County, N. Y., Elisha Harrington came to Ypsilanti and engaged in teaming and jobbing. He was out early and late, in rain and shine, going between Detroit and Allegan with loads of goods and produce. He went back to New York, married, and followed farming there until 1847, when lie again came to Michigan. He bought land near Marshall, improved eighty acres and lived thereon until 1854, when he bought an equal amount on section 13, Convis Township. Here he farmed and also put up and run a shingle mill. He did well in business, but being a liberal, easy-going man and one of a speculative turn, he never became a large property owner. He was abundantly supplied with enterprise and was as honest as the day was long. He voted the Republican ticket. In the Methodist Episcopal Church he was a Class-Leader and an active supporter of all its interests. He passed away August 14, 1876. The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Hepsey Charles, was born in New York City in 1814, and is now living with a daughter at Hickory Corners, Barry County. HIer father, William Charles, was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and when small went with his parents to the North of Ireland. There he remained until lie came to America. He was a weaver and worked at his trade in New York City and later in Saratoga County. lie was an earnest Christian and for years was an Elder in the Presbyterian Church. His daughter, Mrs. Harrington, is of the same faith and under Christian principles carefully reared her children. IHer family consists of Mrs. Sarah Adams, of Barry Township and county; George, the subject of this notice; John A., who is represented elsewhere in this work; James E., residing in Hope Towlshiip, Barry County; Mrs. Hannah Fobes, of Barry Township and county; and Willard A., of the same locality. The earliest recollections of George Harrington are of scenes near Galway Corners, Saratoga County, N. Y., where he was born August 23,1844. — — ---' --- —- --- —— I 502 POR-TRAIT AND BIOG RAPHICAL ALBUMrl[ In the spring of 1847 he came West with his par- Ida Moss, whose estimable qualities of mind and ents and in 1851 became a resident of Convis heart had deeply impressed him. They became I Township. His father settled in beech timber and husband and wife April 6, 1870, the marriage befrom the time George was ten years old he was ing solemnized at the bride's home in Convis kept busy hauling logs and shingles with oxen. He Township, where her mother is still living. Mrs. was at times overtaxed with work, being the oldest Harrington was born here September 19, 1848. boy, and his educational advantages were limited Slle is a daughter of George and Abby (Warren) to a short attendance in the winter season. For Moss, natives of New York, born respectively in some years it was his habit during the summer to Cayuga and Wyoming Counties. Mr. Moss was a rise at two o'clock and start for Marshall, where he farmer and came to this State when eighteen years would arrive about five. Disposing of his load he old. He was married here to a Miss Madison and would return home before the heat of the day and after her decease won for his wife the mother of would then do a day's work packing shingles at Mrs. Harrington. Their marriage was solemnized the mill. Ie became an expert ox driver, doing in Branch County, whither the bride's father, Alanall his teaming for eight years with these animals. son Warren, had come in an early day. That genYoung Harrington was an ardent Abolitionist tieman was engaged in preparing potash and block and early in the Civil War desired to enter the salt and also for some time operated a farme. lie service, but his mother objected so strongly that he finally retired to Marshall and breathed his last remained at home. In 1865, however, being in his there. lie was a soldier in the War of 1812. twenty-first year, he carried out the desire of his The father of Mrs. [larrington became the owner 'heart, enrolling himself as a recruit for the navy. of two hundred and twenty acres of land in Convis lie went to town with his customary load of wood Township, where he prosecuted the labors of life but sent the team home by a boy and saved his successfully until his death in 1876. His father, family from the sad pleasure of the farewell. He Paul Moss, was born in Poland in 1770. When was mustered in at Chicago and sent to Cairo, be- fourteen years old he went to sea and worked his ing attached to the Mississippi squadron. lie was way up to the position of captain. I-e sailed in placed on board the iron-clad man-of-war "Oriole," all the waters of the globe. In 1819 he retired which operated between Memphis and New Orleans and in New York City went to work as a slip until the close of the war, and at Cairo he was carpenter. lie subsequently removed to Cayllga mustered out, September 1, just six months after County and in 1836 came hitler. His name is his enlistment. among those of the very first to make a home in Returning home young Harrington located on a Convis Township. He bought some five hundred forty-acre tract of land he had previously bought acres of land and followed farming until his death, on section 12, and turned his attentionenergetically in 1853; he was a Catholic. to farming. In 1870 he bought eighty acres on Mr. Harrington has been Township Treasurer section 13, located upon it, and subsequently added several terms, and Commissioner of Highways five to it a forty adjoining and an eighty on section 14. terms. He is a stanch Republican, has frequently In 1887 he sold the second eighty to David Walk- been a (delegate to county conventions and a meminshaw, retaining that which is on section 13. He her of the Central Committee. He belongs to the began his labors with $200 which he had saved Patrons of Industry at North Convis and the from his soldier's wages and which he paid on his Grand Army Post at Marshall. Mrs. I-arrington first real estate. He is now numbered among the is Vice-President of the Convis and Marshall Lasubstantial farmers, with a valuable property and dies' Aid Society. Having no children, she has means to carry on his work to the best advantage more time to devote to neighborly and social afand supply his family with every comfort. fairs than some of her friends and she is an efficient Realizing that it is not good for man to live worker wherever woman's influence or activity is alone, Mr. Harrington won for his companion Miss needed. Mr. Harrington is truly a self-made man PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 503 as to education and property, and is deserving of credit for the way in which he has improved opportunities and sought for means of increasing his knowledge and usefulness. As a citizen and farmer, he is enterprising and progressive, and as a companion he might well be called " a jolly good fellow," being appreciative of good fellowship in its best sense. His Grandfather Harrington was a soldier in the Revolution..^- b4I —'.^^ ^>-alp-9~ " OLIVER C. PERREN. The real estate interests of the city of Marshall and Calhoun County are ably represented by the gentleman wliose name introduces this brief biographical review and whose life record is closely identified with the growth and progress of this section of Michigan. Although not a native of this county, he has resided here for more than a decade and has come to be regarded as one of the prominent citizens of this community. The family of which he is a member are widely known as people of wealth, culture and enterprise, and he is no unworthy scion of an honored ancestry. On August 30, 1836, Mr. Perren was born in Medina, Ohio, to Iyde and Sylvia (Scribner) Perren, the former a son of Calvin Perren, whose ancestors came from England to America in 1635. The father was born in 1790 in the State of Connecticut, while the mother, a native of Vermont, was born in 1800 to Daniel Scribner and his good wife. To the parents of our subject eight children were born, of whom seven lived to maturity, six soms and one daughter, our subject being the fifth in order of birth. Hyde Perren was married in Penfield, Monroe County, N. Y., from which place he removed to Ohio, and after a short sojourn in the Buckeye State, came west to Cumberland County, Ill. There he located on a farm, which he improved and cultivated for a number of years, but in his old age he returned to New York, to make his home with a son, and in Genesee County he passed away in 1873, honored and esteemed by all who knew him. The mother departed this life in 1883. The boyhood of our subject was passed in Cumberland County, Ill., on his father's farm. He was early initiated into the mysteries of agriculture and gained a practical knowledge of its various departments. He received excellent educational advantages and made d e good use of the opportunities afforded him, passing through the different grades in the public school, thence entering the Brockport Institute at Brockport, Monroe County, N. Y. After leaving school he became book-keeper for a firm in Rochester which, after filling satisfactorily for some time, lie left to accept the position of cashier and book-keeper in the Perren Bank at the same place. He remained with that institution urtil 1863, when the bank closed. It now seemed an opportune time to come West, and accordingly Mr. Perren bade adieu to the friends in the East, and coming to Kalamazoo, this State sojourned there until 1880. Prior to his arrival, his two brothers, Joel and Levi, had settled in Kalamazoo, and were carrying on the mercantile business under the firm name of J. J. Perren & Co. Our subject entered the firm as a partner in 1871 and continued thus engaged until 1880, when he sold out and came to Marshall to look after the interests of his brother, Horace J. Perren. The latter is remembered as one of the honored pioneers of Calhoun County, coming here in 1846 and utilizing the Kalamazoo River water power in various milling and manufacturing enterprises. He also operated as a banker for many years and owned a large amount of real estate, both in this county and other places. His death in 1880 deprived the community of one of its most useful and influential citizens, and one who had always been interested in all enterprises calculated to advance the welfare of the county. Our subject, after the death of his brother, Horace J., assisted in settling the vast estate, which was in litigation several years, and upon the division of the property he was given the old Perren homestead and what is known as the mill and water power, one of the best in the State of Michigan. He also owns the noted Lyon Lake Farm, which is beautifully located and improved by a fine resi 504 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. dence, substantial outbuildings, and carefully tilled of John Powers,a farmer and horse trainer at Homer; soil. The barn is especially noticeable and is one Daniel is a grocer and Postmaster at Riverside, of the best in the locality, and there each year is Mich.; Esther, a resident of Iowa, is the widow of stored the golden grain which the fields yield to George Mitchell; and Theodore, our subject, is the the husbandman. Socially, Mr. Perren is a mem- youngest of the family. bey of the Masonic fraternity, A. F. & A. M., and In the fall of 1831 Mr. Cook, accompanied by is also a Knight Templar. Politically, he casts his his wife and children came to Michigan, and while vote in support of the candidates who are pledged his family staid in Detroit Mr. Cook explored this to the principles of the Democratic party. section of the State and was so pleased with the beauty and fertility of the plains west of this vil_._n_. __ _ _lage that he resolved to settle here. Hie returned to Detroit, but his wife fearing that the Indians would molest them persuaded him to abandon IHEOD)ORE COOK. The name of Cook has the idea of living here, and they settled at Saline, been associated witl the rise and progress Washtenaw County,where they spent the following Add of this county from the early days of its set- winter. Mr. Cook was not satisfied there, and his tlement, and as the representative of a family that wife finally giving her consent, he sold his land lhas done its full share in advancing its interests and came hither by an Indian trail with two materially and otherwise, we are pleased to place wagons drawn by horses. That was an ever-mema review of the life of Theodore Cook on these orable journey for the family, through the pripages, dedicated to those who have in any way meval forests and across the prairies. When Mr. contributed to the welfare of the county. He was Cook had visited this region tile year before, there born March 8, 1839, on the farm where he has were no signs of habitation, but on their arrival always made his home on section 36, Eckford they rejoiced to find that they would have neighTownship, and to-day stands among the foremost bors as a family of Pennsylvanians had taken up farmers and stockmen of this section of his native their abode here. The first duty was to build a State. log cabin for the shelter of the family, which was Henry Cook, the father of our subject, was born a rude structure 20x22 feet in size, covered with at Palestine, Montgomery County, N. Y., Febru- 'shakes." This was one of the first houses built in ary 16, 1788. His father, Sylvanus Cook, was a Homer Township, of which Eckford then formed native of Germany. Henry Cook was reared to a part, and it afterward served as the first schoolfarming pursuits and after he had attained his house in the township. majority worked for his father by the month for a Mr. Cook lived on the homestead that he purtime. Hie subsequently removed to Oneida County chased from the Government until death rounded hllere he was united in marriage with Miss Maria out his long and honorable life September 14, Mumbrue August 7, 1814. Her parents were de- 1874, at a venerable age. He was one of the scendants of old Holland families who were early most prosperous of the pioneers who first settled settlers of New York and farmers by occupation. in this county and he became one of the richest The following is recorded of the children born men in this locality. He acquired a fortune and to tle parents of our subject: John, an experienced was one of the largest landowners in this region, apiarist, is unmarried and lives on the old homestead owning at one time more than five hundred acres. witl his brother Theodore; Sylvanus is a retired In the acquirement of his wealth he was an imporfarmer living at Homer; Elizabeth, deceased, was tant factor in enhancing the financial standing of the wife of J. M. Eman; James is a farmer at his adopted county, and his name stands high Homer; Jane M. died in infancy; Christina, de- among those of the pioneers who were most zealceased, was the wife of O. Buckingham; Stephen is ous in promoting its well-being. a fruit grower at Benton Harbor; Rachel is the wife A man of true Christian worth, Mr, Cook was i; i ii:: 1-:,1 I - I I. I. I 1, I'' -,,,, -: I I I1 I. 1. I I I I I -- RESIDENC E' CE OF THHEODORE>? RL5CMNG O. EL CKFORD P CALHOUN OU. MICH. + RESIDENCE OF GEORGE H.MARSH,SEC.g4. CLARENDON TR CALHOUN CO.MICH. i r r r PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 507 - - - - - - - - - - I-~~~- - - - - - - - - - -I-I — - -~~~- - - -- -- ------- --- among the foremost in the upbuilding of the Presbyterian Church at Homer, of whicJl he was Deacon until his death, he and his wife having helped to organize that church in 1834. It was originally known as the Congregational Church at the Plains, but was subsequently merged into the Presbyterian Church at Homer, which was organized in 1838, when he became its Deacon. Mr. Cook was likewise a man of prominence in politics and public life. lie was a Whig until 1856, when he joined the Republican party and helped to organize it in this township. Ile was sent as Representative to the Legislature when Detroit was the capital of the State and he served one term. IIis good wife preceded him in death, dying in 1872. Our subject has passed his entire life thus far on the old homestead which was his birthplace, and which came into his possession at the time of his father's death by the will of his father. It comprises two hundred and sixty-seven acres of exceeding fertile land whose valuable improvements and fine appointments constitute it one of the choicest farms in all the county. Thle residence, a view of which appears on another page, is a handsome brick structure, the main part of which was built by the father in 1854. Since his deatlh the son has remodeled and enlarged the house and barns. Thie farm buildings, which are of a substantial order, are conveniently arranged and include four large barns for the gathering of the rich harvests that are reaped in the fields and for the stock for which the farm is famous. Mr. Cook gives his attention to general farming and breeding stock, all of which is first-cliss. He has Short-horn and Durham cattle and about two hundred Spanish-Merino sheep, besides other stock. His practicality as a farmer is demonstrated by the fact that lie is one of the wealthiest, if not the wealthiest, farmer in the county. The maiden name of the wife of our subject who presides so well over his home and so cordially co-operates with him in extending its bounteous hospitalities to their numerous friends was Julia E. IHafer. Her parents, who were of Dutch descent, came to Michigan from Pennsylvania and settled in Colon, St. Joseph County, where they carried on farming. Our subject and his wife have no children of their own, but they have an adopted son, Ray Cook, upon whom they lavish all the care and attention that they would give to an own child and he will never lack for a father's love or a mother's devotion. Mr. Cook possesses a clear, well-balanced mind, a keen insight into business matters, and other traits that have made his own life successful and have madle him potent in advancing the material prosperity of his native township and county. He is always alive to all public interests and there are none more generous than he in promoting them. Lie is a true-hearted, whole-souled man, firm in his friendships, and is looked up to with confidence and respect by his large circle of friends and acquaintances. He and his wife are consistent members of the Free-Will Baptist Church on the Plains, andi he has been Trustee of the church. In politics lie is an unswerving adherent of the Republican l)arty. I EORGlE II. MARSH. The attention of the ( traveler is often attracted by the elegant \J residences and pleasant homesteads of Calhoun County, but perhaps none will awaken greater admiration than the beautiful home of Mr. Marsh, picturesquely situated on section 24, Clarendon Township. The fine residence, a view of which is shown on another page, can be seen for a long distance, and stands on a rise of ground from the lawn slopes in every direction. With the L, it comprises fifteen rooms, all furnished with an exquisite taste that bespeaks the refinement and culture of its inmates. In the rear will be noticed all those buildings, which add to the convenience of the farmer, and furnish shelter for stock or farm machinery and storage for grain. The homestead comprises one hundred and fiftyfive acres, and besides this Mr. Marsh owns an eighty acre tract of land in Muskegon County, twelve miles north of the city of that name, and bordering on Blue Lake. On this lovely location he is talking of building a cottage and making a summer resort for his family. On his home place he devotes considerable attention to stock-raising, and is now 508 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. breeding imported Shropshire sheep, having about learned the butcher's trade and worked for some fifty head. He has erected three barns, one for time in a market in Hartford. grain, 40x40, with an eleven-foot basement; a In the years 1849-50 thou ands went to Califorsheep barn, 24x60, with a twenty-five foot addition, nia in search of gold, and our subject was one of and a stable, 26x36, two stories in height. These the number. The trip was made by water over the various buildings were erected at considerable ex- Vanderbilt route to the Isthmus of Panama, thence pense, the cupola alone costing $75, and containing to San Frnncisco and later to Sacramento, where he a copper ball that was brought here in the " May- engaged in the market business. After being thus flower," a vessel plying between Cleveland and occupied for one and a half years, he returned to Buffalo. This relic is one of the most valued pos- his Eastern home via Gray Town. One incident sessions of Mr. Marsh, and no offer of money would which particularly dwells in his memory is that of induce him to part with it. He also has a wash- a snake swallowing an old lien and eleven chickens, bowl made out of one of the balls on the " May- and after the snake was killed and slit open, the flower." chickens and hen came out alive. After arriving Mr. Marsh comes of English antecedents, his in Hartford he again embarked in the business grandfather, Hczekiah Marsh, being a native of which had formerly occupied his time, and was England, whence he came to America and located prospered in his enterprise. in.Connecticut at an early day. He is supposed to Mr. Marsh was first married in 1852 in Pennsylllave been connected with the Revolutionary War. vania, Miss Jane E. Buell becoming his wife. This His wife, who bore the maiden name of Sarah Kil- lady was a native of Hartford County, Conn., burn, was of English birth and lived to the ad- whence her parents, Hiram and Roxannia (Cook) vanced age of ninety-eight years. The father of Buell, native of Connecticut, removed to Crawford our subject, who also bore the name of Hezekiall County, Pa., whdre Mrs. Marsh was reared to Marsh, was a native of Connecticut, born in Hart- womanhood. After his marriage Mr. Marsh located ford, and was a farmer by occupation. Upon at- in Pennsylvania, and later removed to Ohio, where taiing years of maturity he was united in marriage he engaged in the tinning and lhardware business in with Amanda Cook, who was born in Simsbury, the town of Madison. After a sojourn of a few Hartford County, Conn., and reared in the place of years in Ohio he sold out his business and moved her birth. Her father, Elisha Cook, was probably to Albion, Erie County, Pa., and there followed the a native af England. same avocation. In 1860, having resolved to settle The marriage of the parents of our subject was permanently in the growing West, he came to solemnized in Simsbury, Hartford County, Conn., Michigan and located on section 13, Clarendon after which they took up their residence on a farm Township, this county. That property was coinsituated on the banks of the Connecticut River. paratively unimproved, but by untiring perseverIn that place the father owned a fine farm, where ance it was transformed into an attractive homelie lived two years, then removed to Erie County, stead. Immediately after settling there Mr. Marsh Pa. There, in the town of North East, our sub- built a house and made it his home for four years. ject was born October 26, 1830, and there the In 1864 Mr. Marsh located on section 24, where mother died in 1837, leaving two children, our sub- he now resides and which then bore no improveject and his sister, now Mrs. Eliza Marble. The ments. That the years which have elapsed since latter resides on the old homestead, which she the purchase have been busy ones, may be judged owns. After the mother's death, the father re- by the fact that the homestead now ranks among turned to the old home in Hartford County, and the finest in the county, and the well-tilled acres there our subject was reared to manhood, enjoying pay a yearly tribute to the cultivation of the owner. excellent educational advantages for those times, Mr. Marsh politically, is a Democrat, and cast his and remaining under the paternal roof until lie first vote for Gen. William H. Harrison. He has was twenty-one years of age. In the meantime lie served as Drain Commissioner, and was one of the PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 509. I ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 1-~ —~-~ ~- -~ — - - - - - - - - leading men in clearing the St. Joseph River through tie township of Clarendon. His first wife died September 13, 1866, and was buried in Homer. Of this union one child was born, a daughter, now Mrs. Mary A. Bacon, a resident of Clarendon Township. On June 23, 1869, Mr. Marsh was united in marriage with Miss Carrie Redfield, a native of the State of New York. Mrs. Marsh accompanied her parents to Michigan at an early age, and was reared in Homer, receiving the advantages of a good education and becoming proficient in those household duties which fitted her to take charge of a home of her own. Her parents, Beriah and Cornelia (Parkinson) Redfield, were also natives of New York and are now deceased. Of the union of Mr. and Mrs. Marsh two daughters were born, Lulu V., born December 7, 1874, and Jennie L. V., December 30, 1879. Both daughters are attending school and are being prepared for responsible positions in life. They are good musicians and not only are proficient performers on the piano and organ, but are also sweet singers, devoting considerable attention to voice culture. Mrs. Marsh is a pianist of no ordinary ability, and prizes very highly a piano given her by her father forty years ago. Mr. Marsh findls rest from the cares of business in the enjoyment of good music, and owns a violin for which he refused $200. From that fine instrument his skilled fingers evoke sweet strains of melody, charming the guests who often gather under his hospitable roof. lHe also has in his possession a pair of boots worn by his father, made in 1840, by Chopin & King, of aIrtford, Conn., the boots being well preserved, and at times being worn now by our subject. HARLES H. ROGERS owns and occupies one of the finest farms in Sheridan Township, the estate being valuable, not alone for the fertility of the soil, but for the completeness of the improvements to be seen there. A passing stranger would be attracted by these features of the estate and would at once conclude that the owner was a man of good judgment and thrift and that his labors had been prospered. The family residence, which was built in 1883 at a cost of $2,000, is of modern design and cheerful homelike appearance. Not far distant from its doors is a fine orchard and at convenient points are two barns, one 46x130 feet and the other 27x54 feet, a carriage house, granary, hog pen, hennery and the usual sheds, etc. The chief crop raised by Mr. Rogers is wheat, although other grains are produced and consi(erable stock raised. Mr. Rogers is descended in his paternal line from old New lrngland stock and the characteristics he has manifested are derived from a long line of worthy ancestors. His father, Oren D. Rogers, was born in Vermont, east of the Green Mountains, and learned the trade of a sawmniller. In 1826 he was married in the Empire State to Millie Wright and after a few years' residence there came to Michigan with his family. lie settled in Marengo Township, this county, on a raw farm, building a log shanty in which to live. The eighty acres which he had secured was covered with timber, and hard work was necessary to clear the farm and at the same time supply the wants of the family, as they were in poor circumstances. The first sawmill in the township was built after his arrival and for a number of years he was employed there, at the same time improving his farm. Prior to his death he had attained to quite comfortable circumstances. He was himself well educated and did all in his power to give his children good opportunities, preferring to spend his means in this way rather than in a fine home. In politics he was a Democrat and in religion of the Universalist faith, as was also his wife. He held various township offices, among them that of Justice of the Peace. He died in 1866, six years after his wife had been called home. The gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs was the fifth of the six children born to his parents, four of whom are now living. His natal day was July 5, 1840, and he opened his eyes to the light on the homestead in Marengo Township. After completing the curriculum of the common schools he spent two years in advancing his knowledge at Albion College. In the intervals of study he assisted his father on the home farm until 510 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. he was twenty-one years of age and during the Their sisters also graduated from the Albion High ensuing two years received $100 per year for his School and Miss Norah has taught. Both the young labors there. Hoarding his means he bought eighty ladies understand music and all take great pleasacres on section 31, Sheridan Township, going in ure in this accomplishment. For years the memdebt $1,000. He paid off the indebtedness in three bers of the family circle attended school in Albion, years' time, during which lie had cleared the land going from home each day, a distance of four and a and placed it under the plow. When he made the half miles. purchase the stumps were so thick that a team Mr. Rogers has always been considerably intercoull scarcely be driven between them, and the ested in politics and votes the Democratic ticket. first fire on the place was built by Mr. Rogers to He has been a member of the School Board and has remove these unsightly objects. held the office of Road Overseer, in each position The father of Mr. Rogers gave him a yoke of oxen faithfully discharging the duties that devolved and he subsequently received $100 from the same upon him. IIe belongs to the Blue Lodge and source. After his marriage he settled on his own Chapter of the Masonic order, to the organization farm and began its systematic improvement, having of the United Workmen in Albion, and to the added two acres with a house to the property, at a Farmers' Alliance. Mrs. Rogers is a charter memcost of $300. His present estate consists of one ber of the Degree of Honor and has occupied the hundred and forty acres, one hundred and twenty Chairs. Parents and children take much interest of which are under the plow and eighty was re- in the Riverside Literary Club, actively particiclaimed from its rough state by his own arduous pating in its programs and four of the children toil. He has been a continuous resident here for have held office in the society. Herman has twenty-seven years, and is probably as well known also been Secretary and Treasurer of the Farmers, as any man in this locality and certainly as well Club, held office in the Patrons of Industry and deserves the goodwill of the people. been Superintendent of the Sunday School, the In 1863 Mr. Rogers led to the hymeneal altar last being a work in which he is particularly interMiss Emily R. Mack, third child of Theodore and csted. It is scarcely necessary to mention tile reSarah A. (Emery) Mack. She was born in Pennsyl- spect and esteem in which Mr. and Mrs. Rogers and vania, September 27, 1842, and acquired a good their children are held, or the pride with which common-school education, supplementing it with their beautiful home is pointed out to strangers. the knowledge of the higher branches obtained during a two years' attendance at Albion College. She is one of the five surviving children in a fam- ' — - -- ily of six. Hier mother is still living, but her father breathed his last in August, 1889. She is a J EP1 GEISEN is one of those who by capable, energetic woman, deeply interested in thehard work, strict economy and close atten-.welfare and advancement of her children, knowingg tion to his business has become the poswell how to make the home attractive to the family sessor of a fine farm and surrounded his circle and pleasant to to their many friends. The family with all the conveniences of modern farm family includes six children, five living and one life. His estate is notso large as some in Sheridan deceased, named respectively: Walter, Norah, Her- Township but has been made highly productive by man, Ada, Judson and Hiland; Judson being the wise methods and painstaking efforts, and is one of one who has crossed the river of death. The par- the very best in the township. As prior to his ents have given their children every possible edu- purchase of it it had been owned by twenty-one cational advantage and two of the sons, Walter persons, no one of whom could make a living upon and Herman, after completing the High School it, the fact that it is now productive and remunercourse at Albion, were graduated from commercial ative speaks well for its present proprietor. colleges, the one at Albion and the other at Jackson, Mr. Geisen is one of those foreign-born citizens PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 511 I to whom America owes so much for aid in the development of her varied resources and for the examples they give of thrift and economy. He was born in Prussia, August 5, 1843, and is one of nine children comprising the family of Joseph and Mary (Geiland) Geisen. The parents were lifelong residents of the Fatherland and the mother still lives there, being now eighty-four years old. The father died in 1870. Of the members of the parental family four survive, two of whom reside in this country. The son of whom we write received ~a good practical education: in his native land, which wisely makes provision for the mental culture of her sons and daughters, and after coming to America he continued his studies two winters in order to fit himself for contact with English-speaking people. Mr. Geisen was nineteen years old when lie bade adieu to the land of his birth and crossed the broad Atlantic, hoping to find home and fortune in the New World. He landed in New York-and after a few days came to this State, having two brothers living in this county. He was $40 in debt, and had but the strength of his body and mind and the force of industrious habits with which to battle against adversity. He began by working for $8 per month, and for ten years continued as a farm hand. Eight of these years were spent in the employ of William A. Warner, of Albion Township. After having relieved himself from the burden of debt Mr. Geisen hoarded his resources until able to buy land. He secured the title to eighty acres on section 4. Sheridan Township, half of which was still covered with the original forest growth, and the remainder broken, but covered with stones and grubs to such an extent that it would produce about five bushels of wheat to the acre. After buying the land Mr. Geisen worked one year on the Lake Shore Railroad, then an equal length of time on the farm of R. B. Shipman. After that interval he gave himself energetically to the improvement of his property, first removing the stones, which were sufficient in number to make a fence around the entire farm. He cleared thirty-five acres from the timber and grubs, and now has seventy acres under the plow. He used to plow during the day and gather corn at night, and he still does all the work on the place except during the busy time in summer, when he hires help. The little shanty that was on the place when he bought iu, long ago gave way to a substantial dwelling, and the house that was built in 1875 was added to in 1886 at a cost of $1,000. Among the buildings is a barn that cost $600, aside from the labor of Mr. Geisen, and a smaller one that cost $150. There is also a windmill, and a granary that cost $50. An orchard covering two acres and a variety of small fruits add to the attractive appearance of the farm as well as to the comfort of the family. Mr. Geisen has ten head of cattle, twelve sheep, four horses and nine hogs, at this writing (1891.) In April, 1876, Mr. Geisen was united in marriage with Miss Betty Ott, daughter of Albert and Minnie (Shanz) Ott. The parents of the bride are Prussians who came to America in 1870, and for a few years made their home in Albion. this county. They then settled on section 4, Sheridan Township, where they are still living. They have reared seven children and all now reside in this county. Mrs. Geisen was born March 29, 1858, was reared in accordance with the customs of her native land, and has been an efficient aid to her husband in securing the comforts with which they are now surrounded. She is an amiable, affectionate woman, careful in her management of household affairs, and devoted to her family whom she desires to see taking honorable and useful place in the world. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Geisen consists of two daughters and two sons: Minnie, now fifteen years old; Lena, thirteen; Frank, six; and Willie, four. They attend school summer and winter, and are also found Sunday after Sunday in their appropriate classes in the Sunday-school. The daughters are gifted with musical ability and play very nicely upon the organ, thus adding very much to the pleasure of the home life. Mr. and Mrs. Geisen are identified with the German Lutheran Church at Albion, and the husband has been Treasurer of that society for the past six years. He has been a member of the District School Board about eight years, and has also served in the capacity of Road Overseer. On general 512 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ____ ___ ____ _.__ elections he votes the Democratic ticket. He is March 20, 1849. Dur especially interested in those matters which pertain War of 1812 he was in to the good of the agricultural community and the The Rev. Zenas Case future of the rising generation. He is a peaceable who was born in Rome and law-abiding citizen, an affectionate husband Paw about five years a and father, and a man of extreme good nature in band. Her father, Jona his social relations. Since the above was written in the East and was a Mr. Geisen has bought seventeen acres on section 3, and preacher. For som this township. in Monroe County, N. 5 Creek. In 1839 he cam _c^^h- r S^c^ ^^c - i in Van Buren County, i in Breedville Township. mill there. He belonge ENAS N. CASE. The agricultural advan- Church and in the pione tages of this State have made it the home up tle church and pror of hundreds of men who find pleasure and The subject of this profit in tilling the soil. Among this number is younger of two childre the gentleman above named, the center of whose other being Mrs. Philen: agricultural operations is on section 14, Lee Town- Paw. He was born in ship. He has there a valuable property consisting County, N. Y., Februar of one hundred and eighty acres, all improved ex- farm. lie learned the d cept a timber lot, and forming one of the finest quired a common-schoo stock farms in the vicinity. It has two complete bill system which was the sets of farm buildings, and therefore affords ample hood. He remained wit shelter for the crops and stock raised. 'he princi- twenty years old, their l pal cereal produced here is wheat, which is equal in Ogden. lie then in pa quality and quantity to any produced in Southern bought one hundred an( Michigan. which he located, contir Mr. Case inherits from his father and grand- operate it fouryears. He father the name Zenas, as well as family traits. of land in the adjoining Both those 'gentlemen were born in Connecticut, until 1855. the grandfather September 21, 1771, and the father At that time Mr. Case December 7, 1795. The former was a substantial acres on section 14, Lee farmer, first in his native State and then in Mon- being timber land. Lo< roe County, N. Y. His wife was Sybil Newton. land, placed it under imF The father of our subject did not have a taste for a number of excellent bi farm life, but desired to follow some career that entire tract until 1869, would be of a more intellectual quality. By self- some away and went to efforts he prepared himself for teaching and also he bought a team and w for surveying, both of which occupations he fol- Louis, took a boat to Ka lowed in his younger days. He surveyed most of traveled with the team the land in Monroe County, N. Y., and throughout bought seventy-four aci the HoHand Purchase. He was finally ordained a proved it and lived upon minister in the Baptist Church and preached in here having fallen into Monroe County until three years before his death, traveling with the team when he came to Paw Paw, this State. He labored route, during which til there until his last illness, and entered into rest house. Locating on the ing the latter part of the the service of his country. married Catharine Hinkley, e, N. Y., and died in Paw,fter the death of her husithan N. Hinkley, was born farmer, miller, blacksmith ie time he operated a farm Y., and run a mill on Salmon e to Michigan and located )eing the first man to settle He put up the first sawd to the Free Will Baptist eer days did much to build note Christianity. biographical notice is the en born to his parents, the a Gray, who resides in Paw Sweden Township, Monroe y 7, 1820, and reared on a letails of farm work and acI education under the rate n in vogue in the neighborth his father until he was lome at that time being in rtnership with his father, d forty acres of land, upon nuing to reside upon and e then bougtiht eighty acr township where he farmed traded for four hundred Township, the entire tract cating here he cleared the )rovement and put upon it uildings. IHe operated the when he sold some, gave ) Kansas. At Girard, 111., ragon, thence drove to St. nsas City, and from there to Coffey County. He res near Burlington, imit until 1876. Property his hands he returned, and being five weeks en me he did not sleep in a old place he has continued :::g~~g0;\\:E' W$:0:~~ t f A /?r^22 7/9 $2 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 513 to cultivate it until quite recently, but it is now rented. He has added to the improvements he formerly made and the farm now ranks among the best regulated and developed of this section. At an early age Mr. Case gained a companion and helpmate in Miss Harriet Randall, to whom he was married in Monroe County, N. Y., September 24, 1839. This lady was born in Herkimer County, but spent her maidenhood in the county in which she began her wedded life. Her father, Joseph Randall, was a native of Connecticut. For almost half a century she shared the fortunes of her husband, to whose interest she was ever devoted and whose home she made attractive. To her children she was a loving and wise mother and those who survive her remember her deeds with reverent affection. She breathed her last March 15, 1889, at the age of seventy one years, eight months and four days. She was the mother of six children, of whom Hiram, Charles, Frank and Lilbie died in childhood. R. Z., the first born, is now Postmaster at Partello, and George, the third child, carries on thle home farm. A man of unusual intelligence, affable in manner and interesting in conversation, Mr. Case is well liked by every one and has an enviable reputation among men. lie is deeply interested in the cause of education and has been a school officer for years, here and in Kansas. He has frequently been a delegate to county conventions and is an ardent advocate of Republican principles. Mf ARY (SQUIRE) ANDERSON. Calhoun County is greatly indebted to its pioneer women for the noble work in the early development of this region, as it is safe to say without their capable co-operation, never-failing encouragement and cheerful self-sacrifice in the face of the great hardships, privations and even dangers, it would never have attained the high state of development and improvement it has reached to-day, as one of the leading counties in Southern Michigan. Mrs. Mary Anderson. whose name is at the head of this biography, is a fine type of this class. She is the widow of Henry Anderson, a former prominent farmer of Emmet Township, where she makes her home on her fine farm on section 2. Mrs. Anderson was born at Waterloo, Seneca County, N. Y., July 11, 1824. Her father, Israel W. Squire, was a native of New Jersey. He was a volunteer soldier in the War of 1812. He was but fourteen years old when he went from his native State to Waterloo, N. Y., where in time he became one of the leading citizens. IHe was prominent in public life and served as High Sheriff for a number of years. He was one of the men of wealth in that section and owned a great deal of valuable property in the State of New York, besides thousan(ls of acres of land in Michigan. Early in the '20s, he came to this county and entered some seven hundred acres of land in Emmet Township other localities, and on his return to New York told his two sons and our subject that if they would come here to live he would give each of them one hundred and fourteen acres of land. The father of our subject lived to be seventy years of age, and his death was looked upon as a severe loss to the interests of his community both materially and morally. IHe never joined any church but lie was strict in keeping Sunday, and his life was guided by high Christian principles. In early life lie married Abigail Burroughs who was a native of New Jersey, and was young when she went to live in Seneca County, N. Y., where they were married. By their marriage thirteen children were born, ten of whom grew to maturity. The mother died in 1888 at the venerable age of ninety-six years. She was a member of the Dutch Reformed Church and was very strict in her religious belief. The education of our ubject was obtained in the district schools. Under the careful instruction of her mother she early became a capable housewife, and though she was only nineteen years old when she was married. she was well fitted to take care of a home of her own. July 2,1843, she was wedded to Henry Anderson. Their marriage brought to them fourteen children, the following of whom grew to maturity: Amelia (Mrs. Sharpsteen), William H., Belle (Mrs. Newbre), Blanche (Mrs. 514b PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. McFarland, Cora (Mrs. Kelley), Steuben, Luella pleasant home, she contributed her share towards (Mrs.-Baker), Kate and Ivanilla. its prosperity. She is now managing the old homeMr. Anderson was born in Westchester County, stead on which so many years of her life have been N. Y., March 1820. IIe was a wheelwright and passed with good financial success. She is well carpenter by trade, and after coming here in the endowed by nature both mentally and physically, spring of 1844 he became a very prosperous and though she has almost reached the milestone farmer. He and his wife traveled by way of the that will mark the seventieth year of her life she Erie Canal to Buffalo, thence by steamer to Detroit, retains in a wonderful degree the energy and from there by train to Albion, and then in a mud activity that characterized her earlier days, and enwagon to the old Lowell tavern in Emmet Town- joys fine health. She possesses good business qualiship, which was located on the place now occupied fications, is a capable manager, and her husband by Jonathan Johnson. A small shanty was put up owed to her somewhat the success that marked his on the land given to Mrs. Anderson by her father, life. She is eminently kind and benevolent and is and in that humble abode, surrounded by the trees always ready to extend a helping hand to any who of the primeval forest, Mr. and Mrs. Anderson are in trouble or in needy circumstances. entered upon their new life as pioneers. They had few neighblors as there were not manj settlers in this vicinity, and so wild was the country that,..-. deer and bears frequently came up during the daytime to the lonely cabin inhabited by our subject ILLIAM L. PAGE. Page Bros. Buggy and her husband. The supplies of the household Coml)pny is a well-known institution of were obtained at Battle Creek, which at that time Y Marshall, and has a most excellent home was but a small village in which there were only trade, in addition to which its products are shipped three stores. Mr. Anderson was a very hard work- to various points in the State and to other coniing man and he not only cleared up land on which monwealths East and West. The company manuhe and his wife were located and placed upon it factures all kinds of carriages, buggies, spring wagmany valuable improvements, doing much of the ons and road carts, turns out first-class vehicles and work himself, as he was a skilled mechanic, but he keeps up its reputation for reliability. From bought other land until at one time he owned two twenty to forty men are employed, the force varyhundred and twenty-four acres. Hie farmed exten- ing somewhat with the season, but generally consively, raised a good deal of stock and acquired a siderably exceeding the minimum. good amount of property. lie built the present William L. Page, President of this company, is a large frame house in which the family resides,in 1861 native of Marshall, and was born June 1, 1847. at a cost of $3,000. In 1859 he had built a large IHe is the oldest child of William and Amelia frame barn and his homestead was amply supplied (Dean) Page, and has two brothers now surviving with good buildings. His death, which occurred -Lucius F. and Eglert E. In tile public schools in 1880 at the age of sixty years, was not only a of this city he conned his lessons, storing his mind severe affliction to his famiy, as he had ever been with useful knowledge which he put to practical use a good husband and a kind father, but it was felt on leaving the schoolroom. He first learned the that hie removal took away one of the best citizens trade of a carpenter, and on completing that decided of the township who had contributed liberally to to learn carriage-making. lie began business on its growth. He was a man of strong opinions and his own account in 1869 and in 1873 took a brother quite radical in his beliefs, especially in regard to in as partner. In July, 1890, lie determined to orpolitics, he being a thorough Democrat. ganize a stock company, and drawing about him Mrs. Anderson has witnessed with great interest other business men, the Page Bros. Buggy Company much of the growth of this county, and as an able was incorporated. The officers are William Page, coadjutor of her husband in the upbuilding of their President; Charles Cronnin Vice President; Will ?e:::c: i::::I 1, ti;r :I i;: I,:i 'II x:ar~ '3R:in-,~~.( 8:i:"; ~;'".~,.i I-.i I~;-'~~-;;-~~: 1: ~~;:'"ik 4ii: F i.:::::( ~:i`-i n, ~;-;~ : s JOHN HAFRRISON MRS. JOHN HARR ISON PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 519 iam Connor, Second Vice President; E. E. Page, Secretary; John A. Bentley, Treasurer. The father of our subject was born in Newark, Ohio, in 1813, was the son of Daniel Page, and the grandson of an Englishman. He became a carpenter and builder, and coming to this country when a young man carried on contracting until his death in 1876. His wife had come to this State with her parents she being a native of New York. She was removed by death in 1871. They were numbered among the respected citizens and useful members of society, and to their example and teaching their sons owe much of their own standing. A pleasant residence in the northwestern part of the city is the home to which Mr. Page repairs when the toils of the day are over. It is in charge of an intelligent and capable woman who became his wife in 1871, prior to which she was known as Miss Frances Sherman. She was born in this city and is a daughter of Francis Sherman, formerly of the Empire State. The lhappy union has been blest by the Iirth of three children-Nellie, Lawrence and Earl. Mr. IPage is a member of St. Albans Lodge No. 20, F. & A. M. and is identified with the Republican party. O OHN HARRISON. Perhaps no better representative of the agricultural community of Burlington Township can be found than the subject of this biographical notice, and it may be doubted if the entire county contains a more public-spirited, intelligent and efficient farmer. Tie portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison shown in connection with this biographical notice represents two worthy pioneers of this county, who possess the sturdy virtues which shone conspicuously in early days and which will make their memories revered long after they shall have passed hence. Always taking a great interest in everything calculated to advance the good of the community, Mr. Harrison is now serving as Justice of the Peace. and is in various other ways identified with the progress of the county. On November 18, 1826, Mr. Harrison was born on Big Darby Plains, in the southeastern part of Union County, Ohio, in the pioneer home of his parents, Moses and Mary (Lukinvill) Harrison. His father, a native of Ohio, was a farmer and the son of a pioneer of Delaware County, Ohio; he died while yet in the prime of life at the age of thirty-three years, leaving a widow and three children-John, Aaron and Margaret. Aaron was a railway engineer, and ran the first fast train on the Union Pacific Pailroad. He was subsequently appointed Inspector of Engines, in Texas, and while on his way home from one of his inspecting tours was scalded to death May 4, 1887. He was then fiftyfour years of age, having been born January 30, 1833. The mother of our subject was born in Pennsylvania and was a daughter of Peter Lukinvill, who was born and reared in that State. He was one of the pioneers of Union County, Ohio, where he spent his last days. As a farmer he was very successful and improved a valuable farm of two hundred acres. IHe was of Dutch descent. He and his good wife had five children, a son, Peter, and four daughters, all of whom grew to maturity and married. The mother of our subject married a second time, taking as her husband Nathan Soule. The following four children were born of that marriage: HIiran, Mary, Elizabeth and Martin. Mr. Soule died in Ohio, and the mother came to Michigan in 1856 and passed her last years in the home of our subject, who cared for her tenderly until her death in 1867. (ur subject was educated in the district schools. As his father died when he was quite young, he early had to begin the struggle with life and became self-supporting when a mere boy. At the age of fourteen years he went into a woolen manufactory in Union County, Ohio, where he remained until the Mexican War broke out. Then in the vigor of early manhood, lie promptly volunteered to serve in the army that was sent to the front, and became a member of Company E, in the regiment of Col. Broughs, who was afterward Governor. While drilling he received a severe sunstroke, from the effects of which he has never fully recovered. Thus disabled for military duty 520 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. he returned to his home and resumed work in the his township as Constable for nine years and prefactory. served law and order with great ability. He has In the month of November, 1854, our subject been Justice of the Peace for sometime and is now came to Michigan and obtained employment as holding that office for the third term, discharging engineer of a sawmill at Climax. He was desirous of its functions with fairness and due discrimination. giving his attention to agriculture, and in 1855 HIe and his wife are members of the Congregational bought fifty-seven acres of timber, which is in- Church and occupy an honored position in social cluded in his present homestead in Burlington circles. Township. By hard pioneer labor he succeeded in clearing and placing it under admirable cultiva- - tion and subsequently bought an additional tract of eighty-eight acres, which he also cleared and improved. His farm is amply supplied with a ILAS PHELPS. Among the old settlers good class of buildings and everything about it be- of Em met Township and the men who have tokens wise management on the part of the owner. been connected with the affairs of this Having started out in the world with no other county for many years, mention should be capital than muscle and brain, our subject has made of Silas Phelps who is now engaged in farmdone well in life and occupies an honorable posi- ing on section 22. He was born in St. Lawrence tion among the substantial citizens of his adopted County, N. Y., January 25, 1822, and came to township. Michigan when but twelve years old, walking the Mr. Harrison and Miss Rachael Pittman were entire distance. His parents traveled in a wagon married September 9, 1849, and in their wedded and the family party were four weeks en route, life, which has been one of quiet happiness, five via Canada. There were but few settlers in this children have been born to them, of whom one part of the State and not a single house had been died in infancy, and one was killed in the mill. put up between Bellevue and Battle Creek, an(] the The names of those surviving are: John H., latter had but three log houses on the land now Aaron 11. and Frank H. Mrs. Harrison was covered by residences, business houses and instituborn in Morrow County, Ohio, and is a daughter tions. Wild deer and more ferocious animals and John and Nancy (Clark) Pittman, natives of Mon- the red men of the forest were to be seen in conroe County, Pa., and pioneers of Ohio. Her father siderable numbers, and the Indians frequently was a miller and a prosperous farmer, being the visited the cabin of the settlers to trade venison proprietor of a large farm. During the War of for other articles. 1812 he enlisted and did service in the cause of Tradit'on states that the Phelps family was introhis country. He served as Justice of the Peace duccd in America several generations ago, when for his township. To him and his worthy wife three brothers of the name came from England and were born six sons and five daughters, all of whom settled in New Hampshire, Connecticut and Massawere reared to maturity, and all married with the chusetts respectively. Our subject is descended exception of one son. He and his wife were good from the Massachusetts line, and in the Bay State Christians and were niembers of the Baptist Church. his grandfather, Philip Phelps, and father, Asa Elias Pittman, the paternal grandfather of Mrs. Phelps, were born. Grandfather Phelps served five Harrison, removed from Pennsylvania to Ohio in years in the Revolution under Capt. Moss, acting the early days of its settlement and subsequently as a scout a part of the time. After peace was went to Missouri, where he died. declared he married Catherine Moss, laughter of Our subject is a stanch defender of the Demo- his former Captain. He adopted farm life and carcratic party and cast his first Presidential vote for ried it on until he had reached a good old age, livTaylor in 1848. He is a member of the Masonic ing to be more than four-score, while his wife died fraternity, as are his three sons also. He served at the age of seventy years. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I~~~~~~~~~~~ The father of our subject was reared on the parental farm and in his early life served an apprenticeship as a tanner, but never followed the trade. Inheriting the patriotic spirit of his progenitors and being bred to love his country he enlisted in the War of 1812 and had the fortune to be present at the battle of Ogdensburg. He made his living by tilling the soil and gave time and energy to the cause of Christianity, preaching the doctrines of the Methodist Church with which he united in early years. In 1834 he came to this State and spent a year at Bellevue, then settled in Emmet Township, this county, entering forty acres of land. He carried on his ministerial work throughout the county and did much toward the establishment of the church in this vicinity. He was the first Methodist minister to preach in Battle Creek where he labored three years, and he established the first Methodist Church there. It is impossible to estimate the good he was able to accomplish during his long life, throughout which his influence was cast on the side of high living and spiritual mindedness. I-e was called to his reward in 1875 at the age of eighty-three years and three days. So long as there was need of decided views on the subject of slavery he was an ardent advocate of Abolition, and for years prior to his demise he was enrolled in the Republican rank. The wife of Asa Phelps and mother of our subject, was known in her maidenhood as Miss Maria Stiles. She was born in Westfield, Mass., and was a daughter of Ephraim Stiles, who was originally from Massachusetts. In 1837 he removed to Ohio where lie died when about seventy-five years of age. Mris. Phelps lived to be but thirty-five. She was the mother of nine children, seven ofwhom grew to maturity, namely: Chester, Lora, Silas, Mary, Hiram M., Charles S. and Julia. The mother,whose memory is revered by her children was of a kind and gentle disposition, a retiring manner, and one whose heart was filled with pure and loving thoughts which were wrought out in her deeds. At the period of the childhood of Silas Phelps the schools in the district in which he lived were lheld in the log building of the most primitive construction andcfurnishing, and the services of the teacher were secured by a rate bill and his board obtained at the homes of the various families represented. The advent of the teacher was an important event in the household and no more welcome guest could be received under the humble roofs of the settlers. Young Phelps acquired the greater part of his education amid such scenes, but some time after the family came to Michigan he spent one term each in studying higher branches at Albion Seminary and Spring Arbor College. By making good use of every opportunity, both in and out of school, he has become well educated in a broad and deep sense and few men are met with who are better versed on general topics and news of the day. Mr. Phelps taught eighteen terms of school here in the early days and also did much farm work, being employed for three years by one man and receiving from $11 to $13 per month for his services. After he had reached his majority he began ~accumulating for himself and for a considerable period after his marriage he spent his summers in farming and the winters in teaching. The last school he taught was in 1880. In the year 1852 he crossed the plains with horses and mules, being seventy-four days in traveling from the Missouri River to California. He remained on the coast a year and a half then returned to his former home by the water route. In September, 1866, he removed onto the farm he now occupies, which consists of fifty-five acres of well-developed land supplied with the comforts and conveniences of modern farm life. Mr. Phelps is a good farmer who makes of his vocation a more intellectual work than is the case with many, as he brings to bear upon it the faculties of his mind and his acquired knowledge. For many years the joys and sorrows of Mr. Phelps have been shared by a good wife, that best of blessings. Mrs. Phelps was born in Saratoga County, N. Y., on the 6th of March, 1837, and prior to October 4, 1856, was known as Miss Harriet Lewis. She came to this State with her parents, Isaac and Dorcas (Benedict) Lewis, in 1845 and to this county a few years later. Her happy marriage has resulted in the birth of one daughter, Alice, now married to Dr. George Braden 522 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAI and living at Scotts, Kalamazoo County. For a marks were i number of years Mr. Phelps has been School she therefoi Inspector, a position for which he is particularly ing for mar well qualified by reason of his long experience but always in the schoolroom and his consequent under- garb of the standing of what constitutes a good school and The subje what qualifications are needed by the teacher. He has on his fath served as Township Supervisor three years and has brother Will 'been Clerk thirteen years consecutively. No better 1837 and cr proof is needed of the opinion held by the cor- the New W( munity of his scholarly abibility and worth of the sailing character. In politics he is a Republican and quite New York ii radical in his beliefs. He is not a member of any ior of the religious organization but has the qualities of heart Farmington and the upright habits of one who believes in the There the Golden Rule. He is one of the most humble and Jaques, who unpretentious of men, making no boast of his cul- upon him 1 ture or of his success in life, and is highly respected ceremony w by all who know him. Mrs. Phelps is a member of ter in Paln the Baptist Church and she too is highly regarded lowing yeai by all who enjoy her acquaintance, as her conduct setting up 1 is consistent witl her professions. land just n The land v William G( sold his in: miles north, J OHN GODSMARK. This highly respected present horn citizen of Bedford Township is a worthy Mr. Gods representative of a family of pure Anglo house on hi1 Saxon origin, whose home for many gener- same site, a] ations was in Sussex, England. The surname was by a more r derived, like many others, from characteristics be- $5,500. Th longing to the person to whom it was first applied. was burned, In this case a man noted for his kind offices among 1889, tile ti the poor was so endeared to the people by his phi- a gasoline lanthropy that they familiarly called him God's ously burn Mark, which subsequently became more closely was also se connected and formed the family name of his de- a portion of scendents. the year an The father of our subject was William Gods- on the rui mark, who owned and occupied a farm at Horsham, family resi( County Sussex, England. He died there about the subject con year 1822, at the early age of thirty-three. His whose impr, widow, formerly Deborah Chantler, carried on the any farm ii farm for several years, supplying the father's place necessary ai as best she could to her young family. Her people ply of fruit belonged to the Society of Friends, while tle Gods- Mr. God, I L ALBUM. identified with the Church of England; re was disowned by the Friend's Meetrrying outside the pale of the society, retained the plain language and plain Quakers. ect of this biographical notice was born er's farm May 12, 1818, and with his iam bade adieu to the mother country in ossed the Atlantic to seek his fortune in orld. They took passage at London on mail ship "President" and landing at n June, at once proceeded to the interState. William found employment at and John on a farm near Palmyra. latter made the acquaintance of Miss )se estimable traits of character so won that he wooed her for his wife. The ras performed by a Presbyterian minisnyra, February 15, 1839, and tlhe folr the young couple came to Michigan, their humble home on eighty acres of orth of the present village of Bedford. vas bought in partnership by John and odsmark, but the latter subsequently terests to John and bought a tract two,where he lived for many years. His le is near Potterville, Eaton County. smark soon had a comfortable frame s land and has continued to occupy the Ithough his first dwelling was replaced nodern structure which cost upwards of is commodious and attractive residence,together with nearly all its contents, in ire being caused by the explosion of stove. Mrs. Godsmark was dangered( at the.time and Mr. Godsmark verely injured in attempting to save the contents of the dwelling. Within other commodious structure had risen ins and this is still occupied as the lence. The estate now owned by our isists of one hundred and sixty acres, ovements are not excelled by those upon n the township. They include every id convenient farm building, a full supand shade trees, a well-kept garden, etc. smark is one of the substantial men of I :;:::: ~- ~: PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 525 - ----- -- I the township and during his entire residence here, from the pioneer days to the present, he has been regarded as a good citizen, a kindly neighbor and and honest man. About a year ago he lad a slight attack of paralysis from which he has nearly recovered, his general health being good, while his memory and mental faculties are as active as those of many men ten or fifteen years his junior. In politics he is a Republican and has always taken a deep interest in the welfare of the country, although not one to make himself conspicuous in party councils. The educational growth of the township has been an important consideration to him andl he has done what in him lay to promote it, acting in the capacity of School Director. I-e and his wife belong to the Congregational Church of Bedford, of which he has been Trustee for thirty years and is now a Deacon. Mrs. Godsmark was born April 1, 1822, at Stourton Hamlet, of Wickford, Warwickshire, England, and is a daughter of William and Dinal (French) Jaques. Her mother was a native of Oxford, Hooknorton, England, and was a member of the Society of Friends. The father belonged to the Established Church of England. In 1838 they sold their farm of one hundred acres and other property with the intention of emigrating to America, where three of their children had gone the previous year. Before their preparations were completed the husband had sickened and died. His widow made her sad journey alone, settling near Farmington, N. Y., where she bought a farm for $10,000. After residing here three years she returned to her native land but subsequently came again to America and died at the home of our subject. Mrs. Godsmark had come to America in the year.1837 with an older brother and sister, crossing the ocean from Liverpool to New York on the merchant vessel "Richard Anderson" and proceeded to Syracuse. She was still living in the western part of the Empire State when she made tile acquaintance of the man to whom she gave her heart and hand. The children born to Mr. and Mrs. Godsmark were eight in number and their record is as follows: Samuel died in infancy; Mary Ann, born January 15, 1841, married the Rev. Simon Jacobs and after nine years of missionary labor in India, they are now living in Sabetha, Kan.; Joseph Russell, born July 31, 1846, married Rosina Jennings, who died leaving five children, and now lives at Hot Sulphur Springs, Colo., his present wife being Alice Snyder; Jabez Robert died at the age of two 3ears; Angeline I)eborah, born August 8, 1848, married the Rev. John Maile, of the Congregational Church and lives in Boston, Mass.; Alfred J., born July 1, 1851, lives in Battle Creek and won for his wife Miss Zoah Stephens; William Wilberforce, born August 7, 1853, married Julia Johnson and lives on the Godsmark homestead; Ruth Chantler, born August 25, 1862, married Dr. Allen Chilcote, their home being at Bloomdale, Wood County, Ohio. YRUS HEATH. On section 2, Clarendon i ownship, lies a fair, well-tilled farm which came into the possession of Mr. Heath fiftyfive years ago. He is one of the oldest settlers of this county now living within its limits, and was among the first to locate here, coming in territorial lays as early as 1834. As a hard-working pioneer farmer he has assisted in developing the agricultural resources of this section of the State. We invite the attention of the reader to his portrait presented on the opposite page. Mr. Heath is a native of Madison County, N. Y., born near Chittenango, on the 23( of June, 1810. John Heath, his father was a native of Washington County, that State. He was married in Montgomery County, N. Y., to Polly Scribner, who was born in that county. They took up their residence on a farm in that place, but subsequently removed to Madison County, where the father was engaged in farming until his death, August 14, 1844. The mother departed this life August 27, 1842. Fourteen children were born to her, five daughters and nine sons, ten of whom grew to maturity and all married and reared families with the exception of one. Of these children Cyrus and William are the only survivors. Tlie following are deceased: Arden, Fannie, Susan, John, Van Rensselaer, Thaddeus, Horace, Roxey, Polly Ann, Alexander, and two who died in infancy. Y. 526 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRA-PB-11CAL ALBUM. Cyrus Heath of this sketch is the fourth child of wears an air of thrift and orderliness. Mr. Heath's his parents, and the second son. His early life was labors have been well rewarded, and now that old spent on a farm in his native place, obtaining his age has come upon him he can rest free from the education in the local schools and remaining an in- cares and toils that beset him in the heat of day. mate of the parental household until he was twen- Mr. and Mrs. Heath have enjoyed an unusually ty-one years old. His first work for himself was long wedded life of fifty-eight years duration. laying a wall. In the opening years of manhood he Among its chief blessings are the five children that took unto himself a wife in the person of Miss have been born to them, two daughters and three Nancy Mather, who was born in Fenner, Madison sons, of whom the following is recorded: Cyrus V. County, N. Y., July 17, 1813. She was reared in lives at Homer, where he is engaged as a farmer; the place of her nativity, and attended the district Adelia married Charles B. Smith, a farmer in schools. Her parents were Elijah and Sallie (Lord) Wright County, Iowa; George W., who is a maMather, who were born in Lyme, New London chinist by trade, resides at Grand Rapids; William County, Conn., and spent their last years in Madi- Wallace, who is a cooper by trade, is a resident of son County, N. Y., where the father was engaged Concord, Jackson County; Eliza A. married Franin farming. cis H. Hoag, a farmer in Parma Township, Jackson After his marriage our subject first located on a County. Mr. and Mrs. Heath also have eleven farm in Madison County, N. Y. In 1834 he came grandchildren and one great-grandchild. It is a to Michigan with the view of making a home on remarkable fact that during the many years of their the rich virgin soil of this county. le bought one wedded life there has never been a death in the hundred and sixty acres of Government land at family. This venerable couple are people whose $1.25 an acre, comprising the west half of the south- lives have always been guided by high Christian west quarter of section 2, and the east half of the principles, and in them the Baptist Church at southeast quarter of section 3. HIe returned to New Tekonsha finds two of its most worthy members. York the same year for his family and located on They are kind, sympathetic and charitable toward his farm in 1835. When he started for Michigan, others, and are held in warm regard by the people he sent his team ahead of him and came hither by among whom they have lived for more than half a the way of Erie Canal and Lake Eric to Detroit, century. Mr. Heath is very temperate in his haband from there by team to his destination. His its, and is a strong supporter of the Prohibition first work was to build a log house on his land, and party. he then turned his attention to developing a farm from the wilderness where there were but few signs:-' - of civilization, where wild animals of all kinds were in the forests and the settlements of the pioneers P ENRY REMALIE owns and occupies a were few and scattering. From this primeval con- choice farm in Lee Township, consisting of dition he has witnessed the growth of the county one hundred and sixty-two acres on sections to its present advanced state as a wealthy and pros- ) 7 and 18. It has been improved by its presperous community, and has contributed his quota ent owner, who has built a large and conveniently toward bringing about the great change. arranged house and ample outbuildings, and made Mr. Heath remained on the land on which he first good provision for stock and crops as well as for the settled until 1836, when he sold it and located comfort of the family. A barn that was destroyed where he now resides. This was a tract of heavily by fire was rebuilt in modern style and is now a bank timbered land, but by unremitting toil lie has barn, 30x80 feet. Water is furnished by a windcleared the eighty acres which comprise it, and has mill from whose tank the refreshing fluid is conit well improved. He has placed upon it a neat veyed to convenient points. The property is nine set of buildings, including a comfortable dwelling miles from Marshall and adjoins Dark Corners. and a good barn, and everything about the place Henry Remalie, the grandfather of our subject, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM., ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ --- - 527 was a native of Pennsylvania, and was a farmer and stock-raiser. Ile went to Trumbull County, Ohio, during the pioneer times and opened up a farm there, upon which he finally died. His son Isaac, the father of our subject, was born near Mauch Chunk in 1811, and reared in Ohio. He followed his father's occupation of farming and also learned the trade of a cooper. I-e cleared a fine tract of land and was a successful agriculturist. He (lied in the Buckeye State, in 1878. He was a Democrat in politics and a member of the Dutch Reformed Church. His wife, formerly Catherine Correll, was born in Greene County, Ohio, and was a daughter of John Correll, a native of Pennsylvania, who made an early settlement in -Miami Valley, but spent his last years in Trumbull County. There Mrs. Remalie also died. Slie was the mother of five children, the second of whom was Hlenry, the subject of this notice. In Newton Township, Trumbull County, Ohio, Henry Remalie was born, August 23, 1838. When ten years old his parents removed to Paris Township, where the youth remained until he was twenty-one years of age, helping to improve the farm and attending the rate bill schools. When he was of age Mr. Remalie went to the Mecca oil regions, where he worked until the war began, then entered the service of his country, enlisting August 13, 1861, in the First Ohio Light Artillery, Battery A. He was mustered in at Ca:mp Chase and was soon in the South, where he took part in the following battles: Dog Walk, Stone River, Tullahoma, Hoover's Gap, Siberly Gap, Chickamauga, Chattanooga, Dalton, Resaca, Kenesaw Mountain, Peach Tree Creek, siege of Atlanta, and Jonesboro. His clothing was pierced by bullets on more than one occasion, but fortunately he was not wounded. IIe was sick for a time, but as soon as possible rejoined his regiment and resumed his duties. Ile was mustered out at Chattanooga, September 12, 1864, after having won a meritorious record as a valiant and faithful soldier. Mr. Rernalie returned to his old home and remained until December, when he came to Marshall where he spent the winter. He was employed in the round house for a short time, then busied himself in wood chopping. Mr. Remalie had some money and with his brother John he bought eighty acres of raw land upon which they built a log house and began the operations necessary to fit it for habitation and cultivation. It was in a section covered with dense woods and energetic efforts were needed to develop it. After working in partnership three years, our subject bought his brother's interest and made his permanent location, afterward adding to the tract until it reached its present size. He carries on mixed farming, markets large crops of grain and some stock of good grades. In Lee Township, November 7, 1867, the interesting ceremony was performed that gave Miss Cordelia Parker a husband and Mr. Remalie a wife. The bride, the second of eleven children born to John H. and Christina (Feller) Parker, was a native of the township in which her marriage took place. Her natal day was October 31, 1850. She was well educated in the schools of the neighborhood and from her parents received the best of home training. The marriage has been blest by the birth of one daughter, Eva May, and Mr. and Mrs. Remalie have reared and educated an adopted daughter, Minnie E. Durling. Mrs. Remalie is a granddaughter of John Parker, who was of English descent and died in New York. In Wayne County, that State, her father was born and began his work as a farmer. In September, 1 846, he came with his wife to this county, locating on section 8, Lee Township, where he improved eighty acres of land. HIe was Justice of the Peace and held other public offices. He died December 6, 1876. 1His wife was born in Red Hook, N. Y., and is still living on the old homestead. She is an active and efficient member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her father, John Feller, was a native of Dutchess County, N. Y. In 1889 Mr. Remalie was Supervisor of Lee Township and during his term of office was Chairman of two committees. He has been Drainage Commissioner two terms, Justice of the Peace two terms and has held a school office five terms. He belongs to the Patrons of Industry, and to Lewis Clark Post, No. 275, G. A. R., in Olivet. He is a stanch supporter of Republican principles and has advanced the interests of his party as a delegate to county conventions. His attractive home gives evidence that his business affairs have been conducted with 528 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. prudence and zeal. His standing in the community quently packed up their belongings and drove is that of a reliable and honorable citizen and a man through the country to the northwestern part of Illiof intelligence, who lives not for himself alone, but nois. The season was peculiarly cold and inclement is interested in the welfare of the people at large. and they were frozen out there and returned to Marengo the same winter. The father rented land two years and in 1844 he located on section 12, where he bought a tract of forty acres of timber land. He worked hard to build up a home in the DELBERT JEFFERSON MURRAY, one woods and clear and prepare his land for cultivaof the leading farmers of Lee Township and tion. In 1854 he traded that land for eighty acres agent for the Citizens' Fire Insurance Corn- on section 14, and again began the pioneer work of pany of Calhoun County, is one of the evolving a farm from the wilderness. lie has added prominent civic officials of this section, he being a to his first purchase and now has one hundred and member of the County Board of Supervisors. He fifteen acres of choice, finely-cultivated land, which is a native of this section, born in this township is amply supplied with all needed improvements, August 15, 1846, in the pioneer home of his par- and here at the venerable age of seventy-seven ents, Arunah and Susan (Saunders) Murry. The years he is passing life serenely, surrounded by the father of our subject was born in the town of comforts that he procured through his early toil. Pawlet, Rutland County, Vt. His father was He has mingled in the public life of this section, has named David W. Murray, and was a farmer and been Treasurer of the township, and llas held other wool dresser and cloth dresser in that State. Later responsible offices. In him the Democratic party lie removed to New York and carried on farming finds one of its most faithful advocates. December in Sedina, Genesee County. In 1840 he came to 2, 1890, his happy wedded life was brought to a this State and lived in Marengo Township until close after many years by the death of his beloved 1844, when he settled on section 13, Lee Township, wife at the age of seventy-two. She had been to and improved a farm upon which he made his home him a true wife, companion and helpmtate, and her until he closed his eyes in death at the venerable memory is cherished reverently by all who knew age of seventy-seven years. her. The father of our subject was reared near the lie of whom we write was one of a family of five Erie Canal and when he began life on his own ac- sons and three daughters, of whom one son died count he secured a position as a tow boy. Later lie when young. Our subject was reared under piowas Captain of a boat. In the winter he turned neer influences and during his boyhood attended a his attention to lumbering in the woods. While liv- subscription school in the open woods, as during ing in New York he was married, his wife being a his school days there were no free schools. lie can native of Sedina. Her father, Benjamin Saunders, remember when Indians still lived here and deer, was a farmer in New York. Our subject's great- wolves and bears were still plentiful in the forests grandfather, Mathew Bond, was taken prisoner and swamps. He was early set to work and when during the War of 1812 by the Indians who kept only eleven years old was engaged in hauling lumhim from six to eight months and tortured hini by ber and staves to Marshall and other places. He reburning his feet. When the father of the mother mained an inmate of the parental home until he was of our subject was a young man he located in Eck- twenty years old and then worked out at the carford Township, where he became the owner of one penter's trade for some years. lie then entered upon hundred and sixty acres of land upon which he his career as a farmer, buying here forty acres of made his home until death. heavily timbered land. He built a house with his In 1840 the parents of our subject came to this own hands, cleared his land, and in time placed it county with a team of horses, being six weeks on excellent cultivation. He used to employ a part the way, and located at Marengo. They subse- of his time in chopping wood and stave bolts. I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 531 After marriage he located on this farm and has lought land at various times since, until lie has one hundred and ninety-seven acres of choice land lying on sections 11, 13 and 14 of which thirty acres is covered with timber. It is well fenced into twenty-acre fields and smaller lots, and is watered with springs and Leonard's Brook that flows through one corner of the lalnd. lie las a windmill and tank and a good well, one hundred and seventeen and one-half feet in depth, in which the water flows to within twelve feet of the surface. There are two sets of farm buildings on the place, including two neat dwellings, two substantial barns, etc. and all the latest machinery. The homestead lies within a mile of Partello, and is in convenient distance of good markets. Our subject carries on mixed husbandry, raising considerable wheat and barley, and his farm is well stocked with cattle, horses, sheep and hogs. lie has eleven horses, all of which are half Percheron, and his fine flock of sheep are Merinos, while his hogs are full-blooded Poland-Chinas. Two orchards not only add to the income of our subject but are attractive features of the farm. November 17, 1869, was the date of an important event in the life of our subject, as he was then united in marriage to Miss Mary Lewis, a daughter of Leonard Lewis. Mrs. Murray is the second youngest of twelve children, and was born in Loraine, Ohio, July 10, 1851. Her father was a native of New York and was there reared. Ile subse. quently removed to Loraine Cuyahoga County, Ohio, wlere he carried on business as a butcher until 1858. In that year lie came to this State, and purchased a farm on section 13, Lee Township, which remained his home until he closed his eyes in death in 1881. The maiden name of his wife was Mary A. Cunningham, and she was also a native of New York. She died on the homestead in Lee Township in 1867. She was a consistent Christian woman and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Murray possesses a clear, well-balanced mind and the able manner in which he has managed his own interests shows that h h hs sound business tact and is well adapted to public life. His fellow-citizens, recognizing this fact, have often called him to aid in the administration of the government of this locality. Thus he was Pathmaster of the township from the time he was twenty-one years old until he was thirty years old; he was Highway Commissioner seven years; Township Treasurer two years and school officer nineteen years. In 1886 he was elected Supervisor for one year, was re-elected to that important position in 1890, and still represents iis township as a member of the County Board. While in this position he has used his influence to forward every enterprise that would in any way advance the interest of the township and county, and he has done good service as a member of different committees, lie being one of the committee that was instrumental in procuring the erection of a new town house. The political affiliations of our subject are with the l)emocrats, and his advice is appreciate(d in the councils of his party which he has served as a delegate to various county and Congressional conventions. He is also a member of the Democratic Central Committee and is at present Chairman of that organization. Mr. Murray is likewise a man of social prominence in his community, and is connected wtth the Masonic lodge at Olivet and with the Patrons of Industry, of wlich lie is Treasurer. lie is also well-known in business circles as agent for the Citizens' Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Calhoun County, he having acted in that capacity for the last nine years. K- ON. RIENZI LOUI). This name will be recognized by the greater number of our readers as that of an honored resident of () Albion. He has for many years been a valued public servant and is one of the most eminent lawyers in the county. Beside his knowledge of his profession, he gained much literary culture during his youth and laid the foundation for the extended information he now possesses. [Ie has ever manifested an interest in those movements which would advance the material prosperity or elevate the intellectual and moral status of the community, and his influence has always been on the side of right and justice. 532 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. The Ilon. Mr. Loud was born in East Abington, guard prisoners and there Mr. Loud was promoted now Rockland, Plymouth County, Mass., Septem- to the rank of First Lieutenant. In March, 1865, ber 20, 1837. He comes of good old Bay State the command was sent to Bermuda Hundred and families, his father, Reuben Loud, having been born did picket duty in front of Richmond, and later in Randolph in 1808, and his motler, Betsey (Whit- was among the first to enter that city when suring) Loud, born in Plymouth, was a sister of N. rendered. They were then sent to Petersburg and H. Whiting, of Marshfield, and William Whiting, from there to South Side Station. After Lee's of Pembroke. The parental family is made up of surrender they marched to Light House Point, on seven sons and daughters, the subject of this notice the James River. In June they were transferred being the first-born. The second is M. [I., wlo to Brazos, Tex., and then camped at Clarksville at was born in 1840 and who represented his district the mouth of the Rio Grande until November. At in the legislature in 1878 and 1890. Eugene M. is that time they were sent to Ft. Warren in Boston a member of Congress from San Francisco and was Harbor and there Lieut. Loud was mustered out a Union soldier (luring the late war. Georgiana is December 1, 1865. the wife of E. P. Reed, of North Abington, Mass., After laying aside the army blue Lietit. Loud Iluldah edits tile Rockland (Mass.) Independent; returned to Michigan, and in the winter of 1866-67 Sarah and Clara reside in Rockland. taught school in Albion. He had been studying The gentleman whose biography claims our at- law, and in 1868 was admitted to the bar, passing tention was educated in the High School of his his examination at Jackson. He was elected a native place until prepared for college and in 1859 Justice of the Peace and in 1870 was made Circuit entered Tuft's College. In the fall of 1860 he Court Commissioner. He continued his profescame to Michigan, and taking up his abode in )e sional labor in Albion until 1876, in the fall of catur entered upon the work of school-teaching. In which year he settled in Detroit. IHe has continued a few months, however, he laid aside his books to to give his time and attention to his profession but enter the service, enl'sting in the First Michigan in 1880 returned to Albion to reside. In 1888 he Cavalry in July, 1861, as Quartermaster Sergeant. formed a partnership with Richard Price, of Jackt-e was sent to Frederick City, Md., where he re- son and the two gentlemen are still connected in mained until spring, when the regiment went up legal work. In 1884 Mr. Loud was announced as the Shenandoah Valley under command of Gen. the candidate for the Legislature on the Democratic Banks. Hte took part in the battles of Warrenton ticket, although prior to that time he had been and Culpeper and the heavy skirmishes at Leesburg, identified with the Republican party. tIe is a charter Middleburg, Snicker's Gap, the battle on Cedar member of Hollingsworth Post, No. 210, G. A. R., Mountain and the second battle at Bull Run. On at Albion, and was its first Commander. As an the retreat of Gen. Pope he was placed in the rear educator he is held in good repute where his labors of the column under the command of Gen. Sigel. are known, and as a member of the bar he is an In the winter of 1862-63 he was near Long Bridge able counselor, a good pleader and a competent and was then detailed on recruiting service and expounder of the principles and precedents laid aided in recruiting the Fourteenth (N. Y.) Heavy down in the Constitution and common law. Artillery. At the bride's home in Albion, in March, 1869, Gov. Andrew, of Massachusetts commissioned Mr. Loud was united in marriage with Miss Sarah Mr. Loud Second Lieutenant in the Fifth Massa- D. Tuttle, daughter of Dr. Samuel Tuttle, one of chusetts Colored Cavalry and in March, 1864, he the first settlers in this city. Mrs. Loud is a rewas sent to City Point and was present at the first fined, intelligent woman, who worthily fills the attack on Petersburg. Col. Russell, who was in com- position she occupies in society and capably dismand of the regiment, was severely wounded, and charges the duties which devolve upon her in Cpl. Charles Francis Adams took command. From domestic life. She has borne her husband five Fetersburg the regiment went to Point Lookout to children, four of whom are now living, named re PORTRAIT ABND BIIOG RAPHICAL ALBUM. 533 PORRA. AND.. -- ALBU --- M.-533 spectively: Edward Reed, Rienzi, Jr., Jennie and Charles S. The oldest is now a junior in Albion College. Elsewhere in this volume will be noticed a lithographic portrait of the Hon. Mr. Loud. 4 OHN BLUE. Among the native born citizens of Calloun County, whose labors in life have resulted in securing to them a good estate while they are yet comparatively young, is John Blue, whose home is on section 15, Clarendon Township. His property here consists of two hundred and twenty acres in a body, the greater part of which is under cultivation and which is so well improved as to be justly entitled to be called a fine place. In addition to this Mr. Blue has eighty acres in Mason County. Before p)roceeding with the facts in the life of Mr. Blue it will not he amiss to make some mention of his parents. IHis father, Gilbert Blue, was born in Yates County, N. Y., October 8, 1816. In 1836, in company with his father, Ezekiel Blue, he came to this county an(l made a location in Fredonia Township. lie remained there until his death, which occurred August 27, 1884. 1His first wife was Mary Born, a native of New YoSk, who died leaving one child. Some time after Mr. Blue married Nancy Born, who is still living at the age of sixty-two years, and who now resides in Marshall. She became the mother of six children, named respectively: Celina, John, Mary Jane (deceased) Linard, Arthur and Willis. On a farm in Fredonia Township, this county, John Blue was born January 11, 1850. When old enough to attend school he began the pursuit of learning in the district, but after a time went to Marshall where he attended a commercial school less than three months. He assisted his father on the farm, giving him his work until he was of age, when he was given wages by the month. After working this way for a time he took the farm on shares and operated it in this way until 1875. He then went to California by rail, remaining about a year and occupying himself during that time in the livery business. He then came back and settled down to farm life, first on one hundred and twenty acres of land in Clarendon Township given him by his father. There were but twenty acres improved and lie at once set about continuing the development of the tract. In 1883 he located on section 15 and in 1888 he bought the property that he now calls home. The character and mind of Miss Mary Warner, of this county, made her companionship desirable to Mr. Blue and he won her for his wife. Their marriage was solemnized at her home, March 15, 1883, and has brought mutual happiness in its train. Their home is brightened by the childish prattle and active presence of a little daughter, Florence, who was born April 18, 1889, and a son, William A., who was born January 10, 1891. Mrs. Blue was born in Albion Township, August 14, 1859, and is one of quite a large family. She has passed hIer life in this section and has at school and at home learned much that is useful to her as wife, mother and member of society. She keeps herself well informed, sympathizes with all her husband's ambitions, and joins with those about her iiJ various good works. Mr. Blue was elected Township Clerk in 1887 and he is still holding the office, his labors proving so satisfactory to his fellow citizens that they wish no change. lie is a Mason, belonging to St. Albans Lodge, No. 20, F. & A. M., in Marshall. He has given considerable thought to political issues and sees no reason to depart from the faith he has held for some years-that in the Republican principles and doctrine. Honest in his dealings, progressive in his ideas, and social and kindly in his associations with those about him, he has made many friends. A- *. G - W HARLES CHIAPMAN. This gentleman has lived in Clarence Township sufficiently long to be a landmark and to be able to give the history of its progress for several decades. He has a good farm on section 6, consisting of eighty acres of productive land, seventy of which 534 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I — --- I --- ------ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ — - - - - - 1- - - - — cll - - - - - - -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ---------— ^~~~~~~~~~~~ --- —1 --- —-— L —~~~~~~~~~~~~ were bereft of their forest growth and placed under tillage by himself. All the present improvements are the result of his judgment, and the character of tile man is shown in the efforts that he has made to make his home attractive as well as remunerative. The modern residence in which he now lives was built in 1885. Silas A. Chapman, father of our subject, was born in Canaan, N. Y., in 1782, and was a carpenter and miller and later a farmer. I-e married Nancy Eddy, who was born in Stockbridge, Conn., in 1789, but who at the time of her marriage was living in the Empire State. The couple remained tlhere until 1838, then came to this county and established their home in Eckford Township, in the midst of the oak openings. Mr. Chapman improved forty acres, then sold it and returned to his native State, where he spent a couple of years, mostly in visiting. At the expiration of that period he again came to Michigan and lie finally died at the home of his son Charles in 1858. His wife survived until 1865. Their family consisted of eight children, four of whom are now living. The gentleman wliose name introduces these paragraphs was born in Lester, Livingston County, N. Y., November 29, 1822. IIe received a district school education,and accompanying his plarents hither when sixteen years old, he remained with them until he was twenty-seven. lie then began a personal career, buying one hundred and twenty acres in Fredonia Township, about twenty of which had been improved. He doubled the acreage that was under tillage and also carried on the cooper business three years, then sold the farm and took a contract to break twenty acres and build a barn for the new owner. He then had $700 in gold in his house and having finished his contract was on the eve of starting West to make a home for himself when his money was stolen and he left penniless. lie then bought eighty acres on time and began anew on wholly unimproved land. He built a log house took possession of the property, and here he has remained and seen the estate grow under his hands into the source of a good income. The lady who became the wife of Mr. Chapman, January 19, 1848, was Miss Lovina Benham, daughter of Lewis and Mary (Benham) Benham. Shbe was born June 22, 1829, in Ontario County, N. Y., and was about seven years old when the family came to this county. They were among the pioneers of Clarendon Township, where Indians were more numerous than whites, and wild animals, including bears and wolves, were frequently to be seen. She attended the old log schoolhouse and gained as thorough a knowledge of the commonschool branches as was possible under the circumstances, and added to that knowledge an understanding of domestic arts that has been useful in later years. She combined with her knowledge a sympathizing spirit and affectionate nature, and these have led her to devote herself with untiring zeal to the good of her household and the assistance of friends who were in distress. Mr. and Mrs. Chapman are the parents of nine children, two of whom are deceased. Of the living we note the following facts: Mary Jane, wife of John Ford and mother of three children, lives in Clarence Township; Nancy Lovina, unmarried, is with her parents; Ida Maria is the wife of Herbert Nickerlon, has three children and lives in Olivet, Eaton County; Eva Adelphia, whose honle is in Olivet, is the wife of the Rev. John Cox and has three children; James lM. makes his home with his parents; Frances M., wife of William Butler, Jr., lives in Clarence Township and has one child; Letsom is with his parents at the old home. All were practically educated in the common schools and taught good habits by their parents. The father of Mrs. Chapman was born in (onnecticut in 1795 and the mother in Dutchess County, N. Y., the same year. They were married in the latter State and resided there until 1836, when they came to Michigan and stopped at Ann Arbor for the winter. In the spring they came hither and took possession of one hundred and twenty acres of raw land which Mr. Benham placed under good improvement as to tillage and buildings. He was a cooper by trade and carried on a shop upon his farm. Early in the 50's he moved into Albion, where he carried on his trade until about ten years prior to his demise. He was the first Postmaster in Clarendon Township and held the office a score of years. He was a strong Whig in his early life and later a Republican. During the I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 535 War of 1812 he was in the service of his country and in consequence became a pensioner of the Government. He and his wife belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church and he was ClassLeader and Chorister. The death of Mrs. Benham took place in 1882 and that of the husband four years later. In politics, according to tle real meaning of that term, Mr. Chapman has always been much interested, and for some years past he has been a stanch Republican. He was an early Abolitionist and years ago voted the Free Soil ticket. When the Civil War broke out lie enlisted in defense of the Union, but was rejected at the surgical examination and could only aid the cause at home. He has been a member of the School Board for many years, and likewise Overseer of Roads, and he has also served as Highway Commissioner. His habits have always been temperate, his dealings honest and his principles moral. Mrs. Chapman is liberal in her religious belief and MAr. Chapman is a pronounced infidel. Both husband and wife have done much lhard work and are still attending to their usual duties, being in good health and abounding in energy. They enjoy an extended acquaintance and are respected by all who know them. and John McPherson, were natives of Perthshire, Scotland, whence each came to America and established a home in the Empire State, the one in Montgomery, now Fulton County, and the other in Genesee County. In Montgomery County Duncan Taylor, father of our subject, was born, snd in Genesee County Catherine McPherson, who afterward became his wife, opened her eyes to the light April 11, 1812. They spent their entire wedded life on a farm in Monroe County that was inherited by the husband from his father. There they closed their eyes in death, the wife February 4, 1856, and the husband July 15, 1859. They reared two sons and three daughters, named respectively: Donald D., Margaret, John, Christina and Mary. Christina became the wife of William S. McKenzie and Mary married Arzah Robinson. The latter died in the spring of 1890. Margaret married William D. McArthur and (lied in Florida in 1885. The natal day of the subject of this biographical sketch was August 14, 1837, and his birthplace the llomestead in Monroe County, N. Y. He attended school until lie was seventeen years old, becoming well versed in the ordinary branches of an English education. After the death of his father he took charge of the household and farm and paid off the other heirs, retaining control of the homestead, on which he farmed until January 4, 1865. lIe then bade adieu to the old place, came to this county and located in Eckford Township on the Elder Moore farm. He bought the property and operated it twelve years, then trad(ed it for the Mumbrue homestead, on which lie lived three years. That property was then sold and lie bought the Tilford farm, of which he retains possession. IIe lived in Marshall a year and a l.alf, buying his present farm and home about 1881. Mr. Taylor was fortunate in securing for his wife Miss Lydia M. Apthorp, who was born in Riga, Monroe County, N. Y., September 4, 1840, and was joined to him in wedlock December 23, 1865. She is of Welsh descent, although her parents were born in the United States, her father,Ira Apthorp, in Peru, Mass., and her mother, Esther Apthorp, in, Berkhempstead, Conn. To Mr. and Mrs. Taylor five children have been born, of whom we note the following: Charles D. died in his J OLIN TAYLOR. The village of Eckford has no more reputable citizen than John Taylor, a farmer whose home estate consists of sixty-eight acres, part of which is in the corporate limits of the town. It is supplied with first-class improvements, which include two con spicuous buildings-a large basement barn, 34x48 feet, built in 1888, and a fine residence of the most approved design, erected in 1889. The owner gives his attention to general farming and stockraising, which he thoroughly understands and which in his hands are profitable enterprises. In addition to his home farm Mr. Taylor owns ninetyfive and a half acres in another part of the township, which is worked by his son, John I., and which is still -known as the Tilford farm. The grandfathers of Mr. Taylor, Donald Taylor PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 536 ----------- = fifteenth year; John I., as before stated, is operating one of the farms; Frederick died in infancy; Nellie M. is an interesting school girl some fifteen years old; James E. is also pursuing his studies and preparing for future usefulness. The first Presidential vote cast by Mr. Taylor was for Abraham Lincoln, and he is still an unfaltering Republican. He has had his share of the official honors of the locality, having served as Drainage Commissioner, Highway Commissioner, Supervisor and Township Treasurer and being now Justice of the Peace. He was Treasurer three years, and Supervisor at two different times, making up a period of three years. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church and has been a Trustee since the present house of worship was built. -t _ 1 1 I ------ man ofl and of he woul that he imagina with hi! Amoi quite st carpent, a visit t 1844 he worthy three a Creek; and Ad All of Michiga Warr -r J<-4C -\ ~ten had attendec ARREN FRINK is a well known and pros- engaged perous member of the farming community maindei of Battle Creek Township, who has been an liking f agent in raising the standard of stock grown in this he woul vicinity, as he has paid particular attention to that have at branch of industry and has his fine farm well stocked farming with thoroughbred Short-horn cattle and fine horses his fath of high grade. Mr. Frink was born at Rome Oneida worked County. N. Y., September 14, 1813. His parents earnings were Amos and Cynthia (Smith) Frink, who were State. natives respectively of Connecticut and Vermont, when he and came of sturdy New England stock. Our sub- purchase ject is a descendant of a sterling Revolutionary ship. I ancestry as both sides of the house were represented land of e in the great struggle for freedom between the Col- tivated onists and the mother country. His maternal amply s grandfather, Oliver Smith, an inmate of the paren- necessar3 tal houshold during the boyhood of Mr.Frink and ticular a died in his father's home, had been a Revolutionary reputatic soldier. After the war was over he was of the townshir number who volunteered to take Quebec. The vol- this bran unteers, including Oliver Smith, were taken pris- horses ar oners and endured great hardships before they were always h finally released. They had made a plan of escape horn catt and a traitor in their ranks divulged their secret though V and they were then placed in closer confinement, him som but eventually obtained their freedom. The old greed st( ten told reminiscences of his life as a soldier his imprisonment to his grandchildren, and Id become so excited in telling his stories would live his soldier life over again in ition and would think that the enemy was tn. s Frink was a farmer by occupation and was iccessful in his calling. He also worked at ering, thus adding to his income. While on;o a son at Eaton Rapids in this State, in r was taken sick and died. To him and his wife ten children were born, of whom these re living: William, a resident of Battle Warren, the second child in order of birth, leline, wife of Willard Parker, of Detroit. the other members of the family came to in and died here. en Frink, of whom this life-record is writlimited advantages for an education as he d school only in the winter season and was I in plowing and other farm work the rer of the year. Hle early displayed a great for labor and says that when he was a boy, d rather have plowed all winter than to tended school. lie has always engaged in and after his mother's death in 1837 lie left ier's home and for seven or eight years for a Mr. Dibble. He carefully saved his s and finally bought a farm in his native IIe carried on farming there until 1854, sold his property and coming to Michigan ed his present farm in Battle Creek Townt contains two hundred and forty acreS of exceeding fertility, which is carefully culand yields large harvests. The farm is upplied with good buildings and all the y farming machinery and is in every parfine piece of property. Mr.Frink has a high )n as one of the leading stock-raisers of his ). He has always taken a deep interest in lch of industry, is a fine judge of cattle and id has his farm stocked with the best. Ise ad a fine herd of sleek and well kept Short tle as he particularly favored this breed, when lie first came here he brought with e fine Devons. Hie has owned some pedi)ck which brought good figures. He paid PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 537 ------— ` --- —--— i ------------ -- -— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ $500 for the first cow and calf that he owned. His horses are some of them standard bred and are valuable. The marriage of our subject with his amiable wife, formerly Miss Betsey Wilder, was solemnized January 16, 1845, and in her he has found a devoted helpmate who has enhanced his comfort and has solaced him in the sorrows that have befallen 'them in their wedded life. Mrs. Frink comes of fine old Revolutionary stock, the Wilder family being also among thle early settlers of Massachusetts, the State of her birth. She is a daughter of William Wilder who removed from the old Bay State when slie was but four years of age to New York, where she grew to womanhood. She remembers some of the incidents of the journey, though she was so young, and recollects being tipped over on a sled drawn by an ox-team. To Mr. and Mrs. Frink have been born four children of whom, Martha, the wife of Adam Rimes, is the only survivor. Charles died at the age of eleven years, and Tillie and Hardon died in early youth. From a perusal of this necessarily brief and incomplete outline of the life of our subject, it will be seen that from earliest youth to the present time his days have not been uselessly or idly spent. A long and busy life has placed him in independent circumstlances and makes himr one of the substantial members of the community. I-He is a man of more than ordinary energy and force of character and one much respected in business circles. He is an indel)endent thinker, has a mind of his own and decided opinions on all subjects in which he is interested, especially with regard to politics, and lie is a sturdy advocate of Republican principles. lie is also a believer in prohibition.!k ENRY R. COOK is well known as one of the leading farmers of Clarendon Township, who has been closely identified with the agricultural interests of this county for many years, and has also taken an active part in public life. He was born in Clarkston, Monroe County, N. Y., November 12, 1821, and is a son of the Rev. Elijah Cook, Jr., who was one of the leading pioneers of this section of the State and was very influential in promoting its educational and religious standing and materially aided in the development of its agriculture. The father of our subject was born in Rensselaer County, N. Y., July 17, 1793, in the pioneer home of his parents. He was a son of Elijah Cool, who was a native of Connecticut and was a soldier in the Revolutionary War. He came to Michigan about one year after his son, and lived with him until death called him hence at the venerable age of eighty years in June, 1837, and his mortal remains were deposited in the cemetery at Clarendon. Drring his residence in Rensselaer County, he was variously engaged as a mason, shoemaker and farmer. The father of our subject was married February 5, 1815, to Miss Catherine Roatrick, and they soon after removed to Western New York. They settled in Monroe County in the town of Murray, which was afterwards divided, and the part in which they lived was called Clarkston. Mr. Cook carried on farming there until 1834, when he came to the wilds of Mich!igan, locating in Eckford Township at Cook's Prairie in this county. He purchased a half-section of land in Eckford Township and also bought one hundred and twenty acres on section 35, the same township. He then returned to New York for his family, which he brought back with him in May, 1835. In tile spring of that year he moved into a small frame house which stood on his land on section 36, and actively entered upon the work of improving his homestead, all of which was in a wild condition except five acres. IIe afterwards bought eiglity acres more land on the same section, all of which was uncultivated. IIe broke and fenced about thirty acres in 1835 with a breaking team of two yoke of cattle and two horses. The following year he broke seventy acres more of his land, and while improving his own farm worked a place called the "Palmer Farm" near Lyon Lake two hundred acres of which were improved. He broke twenty acres of land on that place. Mr. Cook kept adding to his farm until at one time he owned over four hundred acres of fine land, of which one hundred and twenty was in tim 538 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ber. He improved about two hundred acres and son leas gave one hundred and sixty to his five daugh- years. ters, giving to each of them forty acres of land was sick with the exception of tile youngest who took a pair by the r of horses instead. When his youngest boy,. L. and the Cook, was twenty-one years old he gave him ninety- one lhu six acres of land on sections 34 and 35, and soon Clarend after sold him the homestead. Afterward this son gether c built a large house at a cost of $4,000 for his par- half of ents and his own family, and in that dwelling the grubby. father and mother quietly passed their last years, land in he dying January 29, 1872, at the age of seventy- tie nort nine years, and she January 1, 1876, at the age of ter of se eighty-five years. sixty-nii The Rev. Elijah Cook was a minister in the Free ninety-fi Will Baptist Church, and was one of the leaders in nature v securing the establishment of that church in this been pu vicinity. He was one of the first organizers and stood o charter members of the church now located at Eck- building ford and gave the site on which the church is built. After He was very generous in his contributions toward Htitchin its support, and encouraged its growth in every house ai way possible. He was instrumental in founding Townshi the Free Will Baptist College at Spring Arbor, and bride be in later years he used his influence to secure its the imp removal to Hillsdale. IHe preached in the church timber c at Eckford and also filled appointments in the Bur- grubs or lington, Girard and Stony Point churches and at but he w several other places. Ile was always ready and off twelI willing to aid every good work, and was greatly worked e beloved by a large circle of friends and acquain- cents a d tances. and stac] Henry R. Cook, the subject of tlis biographical necessari review, was the fourth child in a family of eight erected a children, three boys and five girls, whose names are made ma Eliza A., Elisha H., Harriet W., Henry R., Minerva, Mr. C Charlotte S., Catherine and Israel Lockwood. true com Henry lived with his father until he was eighteen 1846 wit years of age, and then left the parental home to go Byron, C out into the world. The winter of 1839-40, he Iler pare spent in Illinois and he was in Dixon, that State, were nal when Gen. Harrison was elected to the l'residency wits eng: the following fall. He passed two years in Illinois, spring of Iowa and Wisconsin, and then went back to his and buy home in Michigan in the winter of 1841-42. Eckford In the fall after his return from his sojourn in that stoc Illinois and Wisconsin, he and his brother Hutchin- been imp ed the homestead from their father for three D)uring two years of that time our subject with fever and ague. In 1845 he worked nonth for his father during the summer, n he and Hutchinson bought of their father ndred and seventy-two acres of land in on Township. They worked the land tone year and then divided it, each taking a it. Our subject's part was very stony and He subsequently bought forty acres of Eckford Township, and still later bought hern fractional half of the northeast quarection 3, Clarendon Townslip, comprising ne acres, and he then had one hundred and ive acres of land, which was all in a state of vith the exception of forty acres that had it under cultivation. An old log house n the place and a frame barn, and these gs constituted the only improvements. marriage Mr. Cook lived with his brother son for a year and then bought a small nd moved it on his place in Clarendon ip, and in that humble abode he and his ogan housekeeping. He then entered upon )rovement of his land which consisted of )penings, and was stony and grubby. The 1 his land stood higher than his dwelling. 'ent to work with good courage and cleared ve acres and put in a crop of wheat. tie eighteen months by the day at seventy-five lay for haying and $1 a day for cradling king grain, to obtain money to buy the es of life. IIe built fences and in 1866 substantial house and good barn and has ny other improvements. -ook secured a most excellent wife and a panion and helpmate by his marriage in h Miss Juliet L. Walker. She was born at Jenesee County, N. Y., November 7, 1825. nts, Sidney and Harriet (Walton) Walker, tives of Massachusetts, where her father aged as a farmer in early life. In the 1844 he brought his family to Michigan, ing eighty acres of land on section 35, Township, moved into the log house )d on the place. Some of the land had )roved and hle added to it by purchasing HEMAN COWLES ~: PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 541 --- forty-four acres of land opposite and subsequently moved on to that. He died in that home in 1882, aged sixty-one years. His widow lived until 1886, when she too passed away at the age of sixty-one years. Mrs. Cook taught school some before her marriage, first in the State of New York, and then at different times in Calhoun County, teaching two years in Eckford. Mr. and Mrs. Cook have one child-Helen E.; she married Minor Sweet and by that marriage had three children. Our subject is a Republican in his political views and has stood stanchly by his party these many years. He cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Scott, who was a candidate for the Presidency on the Whig ticket. Mr. Cook helped to organize the Republican party in this county, and has always taken a great interest in it. He feld the office of Justice of the Peace and School Inspector sixteen years in succession,and also the offices of Treasurer, Highway Commissioner and Supervisor in the township of Clarendon, and then heldc the office of Register of Deeds four years. During all his public life his name has never been sullied by scandal for any malfeasance in office, and though he has handled a good deal of other people's money, he has never appropriated a cent that did not belong to himself, nor has he wronged any individual or betrayed a single trust. Mr. Cook has long been identified with the Free Will Baptist Church as one of its members since its organization. lte has been Clerk of the Board of Trustees of tile church ever since its formation. YAN B. COWLES. To this gentleman and his associates, this county is greatly indebted for the rapid progress it has made within ) the last two decades, in the developement and extension of its rich agricultural resources. lie is one of the foremost of the farmers and stockmen of Battle Creek Township, and has been influential in raising the standard of cattle, horses, sheep and swine, within its borders. Mr. Cowles is a fine representative of an honored pioneer family of this section wlhose name is indissolubly linked with its I growth and prosperity. He is a native 6f the township mentioned, and was born August 28, 1846, on the fine old homestead of which he is now the proprietor. Our subject is a son of Addison and Hannah (Spregue) Cowles. His father was born in Ontario County, N. Y., in 1815, and was a young man when he came to Michigan and cast in his lot with its pioneer farmers. For several years he was Postmaster at Battle Creek, and his death at the age of thirty-eight years, while in life's prime, was a blow to the interests of the community. The parental family included three children, one of whom, Heman, is now deceased. The grandfather of our subject was Deacon Heman Cowles, for many years very prominent in this part of the county, of which he was one of the first settlers. He was a son of Nathaniel Cowles, a Revolutionary soldier, and of New England birth and antecedents. Vermont was his native State, and the early years of his life were passed there until after his marriage to Amanda Barber. He then lived a few years in Monroe County N. Y., working at carpentering. In the very early days of the settlement of Orleans County N. Y., he located there in the wilderness, where he sojourned until the spring of 1836. We next find him in Battle Creek and later at Milton. He was appointed Postmaster at that place, under the administration of Andrew Jackson and held the office until it was discontinued. He was a farmer as well as a carpenter, and one of the substantial citizens of the township. Possessing more than ordinary intelligence and decision of character, lie was foremost in every reform. He was a I)emocrat in politics and also a strong anti-slavery man and felt complimented to be called an Abolitionist when others considered it a disgrace. The good Deacon was one of the pillars of the Free Will Baptist Church of whicli he was for a great many years a leading official. lie was keenly interested in education and contributed his quota towards its advancement, and besides doing all he could to increase the educational facilities in the neighborhood, lie was a liberal supporter of Hillsdale College. Deacon Cowles died in *1866 at the advanced age of eighty-three years and lies in South Battle Creek cemetery, adjoining the "' '"~"I ---.~' ----- -3"" 542 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. farm on which so many years of his long and use- buildings and well-stocked with thorough-bred ful life were spent. A portrait of this esteemed Short-horns, Merino sheep, Poland-Chinaswine, and pioneer is presented on another page of this vol- fine draft and road horses of the famous Champion, ume. His mind was a store-house of knowledge Hambletonian, Pilot and Norman breeds of high and anecdotes which, with his ready command of grade. Mr. Cowles has some remarkably good language and happy turns of wit, made him very colts, which go far to illustrate his theory that a popular and very much in demand in social circles. good horse costs no more to raise than a poor one, He was a radical Union man, always concerning for their sale is a source of a considerable revenue. himself in the welfare of the nation and at the To the lady who presides so graciously over the ripe old age of eighty-three years he read the Cen- home of our subject and cordially co-operates with tennial History with keen and critical enjoyment him in making it the center of a charming hospitalNot until many years after the last pioneer of this ity, attractive alike to friend or stranger who may county has gone will Deacon Cowles' merits cease cross its threshold, he was wedded November 30, to be spoken of with pride and reverence. 1871. Of the three children born to them, May Belle The subject of this biography passed his early died in infancy, and the others are named Floyd and life on the old homestead; at the age of nineteen Ernest A. Mrs. Cowles was formerly Nettie M. he took a year's course in the Agricultural College Steward, and is a daughter of the well known at Lansing, where he laid the solid foundation of George and Lydia (Gray) Steward, both natives of his extensive knowledge of agriculture, and gained New England and of English descent. The granda clear insight into the best scientific methods of father of Mrs. Cowles was a soldier in the War of conducting farming. After leaving that institu- 1812 and died while fighting for his country. Mr. tion he had the further advantage of a three years' Steward and his wife came to Michigan in the early course in the classic preparatory department at days of its settlement and located at Pavilion, KalOlivet College and then finished his education by amazoo County. He engaged in carpentering and two years study in the law department at Ann built a great many houses in that part of the State, Arbor. Thus well equipped for a professional and managed a farm at the same time. I-e has life, ie was admitted to the bar at Detroit in April, always worked hard, but has preserved his happy 1871. He opened an office at Kalamazoo for the disposition, and at the age of seventy-four is still practice of law and during the summer that he spent very robust and active and takes long walks that there made a good start in his profession. The would do credit to an Englishman of twenty-five confinement necessitated by his professional duties years. impaired his health and he was obliged to Our subject is valued in his community for his abandon legal pursuits and seek out of-door exer- good citizenship and for the fine traits of character cise. Accordingly Mr. Cowles turned his attention that mark him as an upright man,. a considerate to the calling to which lie had been reared and neighbor, and one who is true and faithful in his which Horace Greely called the "noblest of profes- domestic relations as a devoted husband ancd a sions." IHe assumed management of the old home- wise father. He is a leader in social and religious stead which came into his possession at the death circles, and has been identified with the public and of his father by his buying out the interest of the educational interests of the township. He was only other heir. He has since devoted himself to Township Superintendent for five years, serving its care, winning a high reputation as a farmer and with true public spirit and with satisfaction to all stock raiser and bringing a well-trained mind to concerned until the office was abolished. He has bear on his work. Mr. Cowles speaks highly of the taught in the common schools and has also been for agricultural school that he attended and considers fifteen years connected with the Sunday-school as the instruction gained therein very beneficial to him Superintendent. He and his amiable wife are in his career as an agriculturist. His farm is a among the most useful and prominent members of model estate, supplied with a substantial class of the Methodist Episcopal Church, anl no good cause ~t --- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 543 is without their earnest support. Mr. Cowles is one.of the leading members of the Grange, with which he has been identified for fifteen years and of which he is Past Master. Ile is also a member of the Patrons of Industry and of the Ancient Older of United Workmen. - Ant:.. f- c ev.. LIZUR CARVER came to this county a half century ago in the vigor of a stalwart young manhood, and associating himself with its pioneers has been prospered in his calling as a farmer. He is one of the oldest settlers now residing in Lee Township, where he makes his home, and he has farming interests here and in Marengo Town. ship, which are valuable. Joseph Carver, the father of our subject, was b1orn either in New York or Rhode Island, and was a son of Solomon Carver, who was a native of Rhode Island. During some period of his life after attaining manhood the grandfather of our subject moved to Washington County, N. Y., and located at Whitehall. He had a sawmill, a forge and iron works at that place and carried on these varied interests with great success till a freshet came and destroyed all his property, so that lie died there a poor man. The father of our subject in his youth engaged in burning coal heaps and was also engaged in rafting logs on Lake Champlain from the pine woods to Whitehall. Later he went to Genesee County, N. Y., where he bought a farm and became one of the well-to-do farmers of that region. During his residence in New York he took part in the War of 1812. In the fall of 1852 he came to Michigan and died the next year in his home in Marengo Township. Iie was a stanch Christian and a member of the Free Will Baptist Church. He was twice married and was the father of sixteen children. The maiden name of his first wife, the mother of our sub)ject, was Elizabeth McArthur, and she was born at Rutland, Vt. Our subject was the second youngest child of his father's first marriage, and he was born at Whitehall, N. Y., April 3, 1813. The first fifteen years of his life were spent in the place of his birth. He was early set to work and even when he was but twelve years old was an experienced raftsman, and often steered his own raft to its destination. He suffered many hairbreadth escapes while rafting and several times narrowly missed drowning by being a good swimmer. When his father removed to Genesee County, he went with him and helped him improve the farm. So fully employed were the days of his youth and so limited were the school advantages where he lived that he did not have many opportunities for perfecting his education. In 1834 Mr. Carver made a trip to this State,coming on a boat to Detroit, and journeying through the wilderness to Oakland County. He was not pleased with the country there and he went to Somerset County, Ohio, where he was engaged in working out till 1841. In the meantime he had saved some money and in the fall of that year he came to Michigan by team and wagon to invest it in land, being nine days on the way. He arrived at Marshall on the 9th of November, and traded his outfit for tile fifty acres of land in Lee Township on section 32. He had to commence at the very beginning to make a farm, and after building a log house he set to work in earnest to clear his land. A part of the time he worked at the trade of a carpenter to some extent and also hunted some, but he paid most attention to farming, and in the pursuit of this occupation has acquired a competency. He bought eighty-two acres of land on section 5, Marengo Township after living here a few years, and has all his land under admirable tillage and supllied with all the necessary improvements for farming and that he has one of the finest farms in this section, is due to his unceasing and well directed industry. Ilis residence is built on an Indian mound or knoll and is very pleasantly situated. Mr. Carver was married first in Iortage County, Ohio, January 1, 1838, to Miss Josephine Bishop, a native of Connecticut. She died after coming to this State, leaving these three children: Cyrus, a farmer of Lee Township; Mary M., now Mrs. II. Baugham of Marengo Township; and John B., manufacturer of the Carver Windmill at Marshall. The second marriage of our subject was solemnized at Marengo in April, 1864, on which date he was wed I 544 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ded to Sarah Jane Skeggs. Mrs. Carver was born attackld him and tossed him three times. Our at Collins, Erie County, N. Y., June 2, 1826, and is subject was bruised all over and could not stir or a daughter of William S. Skeggs, a native of Eng- speak after his encounter with the bull, and it was land, born near London. Her father was in the six weeks before he could move a muscle, and English army three years and came to this country months before he could get up. It was only by during the War of 1812 with the British troops. the unceasing devotion and careful nursing of his He deserted and volunteered to serve in the Ameri- wife that he ever recovered. Mrs. Carver is a decan army. He fought bravely at Plattsburg and vout Christian and in her the Methodist Episcopal many other points. Church finds one of its most consistent members. After the war he settled in Vermont, where he was engaged as a tailor till he located in Erie — County, N. Y. on a tract of land bought of the Holland Purchase Company. Hle cleared the first fifty acres of land with shears and needle, which hel ILLIAM KIDNEY. Among the large farms plied busily at his trade and earned means for hir- of Fredonia Township is numbered that of ing the timber felled on his homestead. He nladle\ / the gentleman above named, it being a his home there the remainder of his life. Mrs. Car- tract of two hundred and sixty-five acres on sections ver's mother's maiden name was Mary Irish, and 21 and 28. A visitor here will see well-kept she was born in Vermont and died in Erie County, fences, substantial and commodious buildings, and N. Y. Mrs. Carver had been previously married fields whose appearance indicates that they are deprior to her union with our subject, her first mar- voted to the crops that are best adapted to the soil riage which took place in 1845, being with David and which, in proper rotation, add to rather than Messenger, a native of Oxford, England. He was detract from its productiveness. The most of the a huckster and also a farmer in Erie County, N. Y. land is under cultivation and all betokens the hand He came with his family to Michigan in 1852 and of a thorough agriculturist in its control and operlocated at-the village of Marengo, where he en- ation. gaged as a miller in Evans' mill for nine years,till his Our subject is a son of James and Jane (Sutton) death in 1861. Five children have been born to Kidney, the former of whom was born in Cayuga our subject and his wife of their present marriage, County, N. Y., and there reared to man's estate. of whom two died in infancy and but one survives, He came to Michigan in 1835 while still a single Charles H., who is a farmer and has a good farm man, and remained here until 1839, when he reof one hundred twenty acres in this township; moved to Canada. In the meantime lie was marWilliam R. died at the age of seventeen years and ried in Marshall, his bride being a native of EngMary E. died when four years old. land, and having come with her parents to America Mr. Carver is a solid Democrat in his political when a miss of fourteen years of age. Mr. Kidney sentiments. lIe is a man whose genuine worth of was a window-blind maker by trade, but gave his character commands the respect of all who know attention to farming during the greater part of his him. He has led an honorable life, has always been life. Hle was for a time employed by the Michigan true as a husband and a father, and is obliging and Central Railroad Company. In 1844 he returned considerate as a neighbor. Soon after he came to from Canada to this State and county, and about a Michigan he had inflammation of the eyes which left decade later took up his residence on the farm now him nearly blind for years. He doctored in vain the home of our subject. Upon this there was a till he finally received some relief from a Detroit log house, but little else that savored of improvephysician, though he is unable yet to read, but he ment. By degrees the farm assumed an appearance is kept well informed of current events as his wife of cultivation and development that stamped it as reads to him. July 13, 1873, while he was water- a home of comfort and l)rosperity. The father died ing a fine thorough- bred Short-horn bull, the animal thereon September 9, 1884, and the mother Novem ~ — ~, "~rd 3 " 5 " a; " "' i~ i~tf " i c~ : ii PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 547 -- ber 20, 1890. Their family consisted of four daughters and two sons, named respectively: Hannah E., William, Chastain, Sarah, Elizabeth, and Dora. The subject of this biographical sketch was born in London, Canada, September 15, 1843, and was an infant of eight months when brought to this State. When old enough to attend school he began the pursuit of knowledge in Marshall, where he continued his studies until practically well informed. At the early age of eighteen years he cast aside the occupations and recreations usual to a youth of that age, and donning the army blue, went to the front to battle for the old flag. He was enrolled in Company M, Second Michigan Cavalry in 1861, and was not mustered out until 1865, when he received an honorable discharge at Jackson. During the many and ofttimes tedious months spent by Mr. Kidney in the Union ranks he bore a part in quite a number of the most notable conflicts of the war. He was present at New Madrid, during the siege of Corinth, At Guntown, Perryville, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Franklin, Nashville, and many other places of blood and carnage. Everywhere and always, whether in the heat of battle, on the lonely picket or weary march, Mr. Kidney was courageous, faithful and brave-hearted, ready at a moment's warning to obey any demand which was made upon him by those in authority, and cheerfully undergoing hardship and privation for the sake of principle. Two years after his discharge Mr. Kidney crossed the plains to Nevada where he was engaged in mining some two years, taking out quartz. Returning to this State the 1st of January, 1869, he resumed his former occupation of farming, buying land on section 22, Fredonia Township. Before he took a bride thither he had put up comfortable buildings and enclosed and subdivided his land, thus preparing for the pleasures of home and the support of his chosen companion. Although his attention has chiefly been given to his personal affairs, Mr. Kidney has held the office of Township Treasurer and honorably discharged the duties pertaining thereto. Politically, he is a Republican stanch and true. He belongs to Marshall Tent, No. 105, K. O. T. M., and is a member of Cold Grove Post, G. A. R. His personal character is good, his nature social and kindly, and his habits as a farmer and a citizen such as entitle him to the respect and goodwill of all with whom he comes in contact. The wife of Mr. Kidney bore the maiden name of Eliza M. Fox, and is a daughter of Daniel M. and Eliza (Lichtenwalmer) Fox. She was born in Danville, Montour County, Pa., September 21, 1849, and came to this State with her parents in 1854. Shle is the youngest of nine sons and daughters, six of whom are living-herself, Marietta, Elizabeth, John P., Asa, and Daniel. Her mother died July 5, 1874, and her father May 30, 1881. She is an estimable wonian, capable in household management, a friend to those in need and devoted to her husband and children. The home is brightened by the presence of two daughters-Alma and Anna E. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Kidney was solemnized December 15. 1870, and a score of years has brought them mutual happiness and deepened their regard. BRAHAM ROBERT McINTYRE, Assistant Superintendent of the Chicago & Grand /A Trunk Railroad, with his headquarters at Battle Creek, is one of the most able and popular officials of this line, and the company is greatly indebted to him for the careful and etficient manner in which he guards the interests intrusted to his care. Mr. McIntyre was born in Canada, near Montreal, where he passed his early years on a farm. His educational opportunities were limited to those offered by the public schools, but he was a bright and apt pupil and turned them to advantage. At the age of seventeen he learned the art of telegraphy, and his first position was at Montreal. After a brief experience there he came to Detroit to take a position as telegraph operator in that city. I-He acted in that capacity there for six months and at the expiration of that time he was appointed train dispatcher at Fort Gratiot, having obtained that responsible position before he was twenty years old. After a successful and satisfactory service of 548 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPH-ICAL ALBUM.l 548-~~~ ~ PORTRAI AND —I — BIGAHCLABM six years in that capacity, Mr. McIntyre came to Battle Creek while negotiations were pending for this line now known as the Chicago & Grand Trunk. In 1876 he was made chief train dispatcher at this point; four years later he was promoted to be Train Master, and in 1885 was transferred to Chicago as such. In the year 1888 he was promoted to his present responsible position as Assistant Superintendent of the Chicago & Grand Trunk Railroad, with his headquarters at Battle Creek. He has tlllee hundred and thirty-five miles of track under his supervision and all the business appertaining thereto. The part of the railroad over which he has control is kept in perfect order as he devotes his energies to his work, conducts it systematically and promptly and has greatly added to the efficiency of the railway. Thus under the guidance of its present corps of officers the Grand Trunk is rapidly taking the first rank. The system employs twenty-five hundred men in its various departments and has had much to do with making Battle Creek a great business center. Our subject was married in 1879 to Mary L. Latta, a daughter of a very prominent family of Battle Creek. They have established an attractive home in the city, and the pleasant household is completed by the daughter born to them, whom they have named Ida. Mr. McIntyre is a practical man, well endowed with a cool clear brain, selfreliance and determination, which eminently fit him to cope with the responsibilities of his office, and though he is yet young, but few have the reputation of being better railroad men than he. We invite the attention of the reader to a portrait of Mr. McIntyre, presented on another page of this volume. ERRY A. HARRINGTON was a resident of this county for many years, coming here in pioneer times, and he was no unimportant | agent in helping to develop its agricultural resources; as he improved one of the finest farms within the borders of Clarendon Township, which lost in his death one of its most valued citizens. Our subject was born in Shelby Township, Orleans I County, N. Y., March 14, 1817. His father, whose given nime was Daniel, was a native of New Hampshire. He came to New York when quite a young man and settled on a farm in Orleans County, where the remaining years of his life were passed, his death occurring in 1869, at the ripe age of eighty-one years. He was a valiant soldier in the War of 1812, and at one of the battles was taken a prisoner and sent to Canada. He was then paroled and remained in the Dominion until after the close of the war. While there he was married to Martha Hunnewell, who was of Irish descent. She died at the age of eighty-four years in 1882. Our subject lived with his father till he was twenty-two years of age. The following two years he worked out by the month for a neighbor by the name of Hess. In the fall of 1843 he started for Michigan by the way of Canada, traveling with a team, and was about two weeks on the way, as he made very slow progress on the bad roads. lHe made his way to Homer Township, where he was engaged in teaming during the ensuing winter. In the spring of 1844 he bought a farm of fifty acres one mile north of Homer, which was partly improved and a log house and barn stood on the place. Ile actively entered upon the work of further developing it, built fences and otherwise improved it. For nine years he was also engaged in a flouring mill as well as conducting his farming interests. In 1853 he sold that place and bouglit one hundred and thirty acres of land on sections 2 and 11, Clarendon Township. It was a tract of prairie and was partly improved, having a log house and a barn. The land was in a poor condition, but in time he placed it under fine tillage, built new fences, and erected a good frame house in 1860. He added further land to his first purchase, buying a tract of sixty-five acres and he then had one hundred and twenty-five acres under cultivation, thirty acres in timber and forty acres of marsh land. In 1883 lie built another large and well appointed residence and also erected a large horse barn. He was still in the midst of his busy career when death closed it, February 14, 1885. During his many years residence in the county he had not only won for himself a solid position among the best men in his township as I iI PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 549 regarded his financial standing, but he had gained many tried and true friends, who were attracted to him by his genial nature, the undoubted integrity of his character and his sagacious, practical common sense that made him an excellent adviser where counsel was needed. In him the Republican party found a stanch advocate. His township was well served when he held the offices of School Director and Pathmaster. Religiously he was a Presbyterian, strong in the faith. In the fall of 1840 our subject was married to Miss Jane Dunlap of Lockport, N. Y. Her parents were natives (,f Ireland. At the time of her marriage she was stopping with relatives at Lockport. She died in 1847, leaving these three children: William, who was born June 22, 1841, and died in Detroit January 12, 1890; Ellen, who was born March 22, 1843, married Jacob Nerber, a farmer in Homer Township, and is now the mother of four children; and Riley, a farmer in Olivet, who was born December 13, 1845, married and has one son and one daughter. William, who was a stationary engineer, was twice married and had two sons by his second marriage. tIis widow is living in Detroit. The second marriage of our subject was with Miss Louise Van Ness, their marriage taking place May 1G, 1848. Mrs. IIarrington, wlio survives her husband, was born in Mendon Township, Monroe county, N. Y.. May 13, 1817. Her parents Aaron and Sallie (Hiscock) Van Ness, were natives of New Jersey and New York respectively. Her father was a mason by trade. When he was fifteen years of age he went to the State of New York, and during the War of 1812 lie fought bravely in the ranks of the American army. -He was at the siege of Buffalo and helped to take prisoners across the river. He had Gen. Wadsworth in a boat by himself and he put his coat over him to protect him from the night air, he being wounded. After lie left the army he followed his trade as a mason as long as he could, and then came to spend his last days with his daughter in Michigan, dying.here in 1876 at the venerable age of eighty-four years. His wife had died many years before in 1837, in the State of New York. Mrs. Harrington still occupies the attractive home which she helped her husband to build up. She is a woman whose kindly disposition and many good qualities of head and heart have gained her the regard and respect of all about her. She possesses a truly religious nature and is a Baptist in her belief. Her marriage with our subject was productive to them of three children, two daughters and one son, of whom the following is recorded: Alice M., born August 19, 1849, married April 14, 1872, to Eugene Fellows, an engineer at Elmira, Mich.; Milo, born October 22, 1851, died at the age of twelve years of diphtheria; Mary E., born December 14, 1859, married George Hawkins, a farmer in Clarendon Township, and they have one daughter, named Fannie L. Mrs. Fellows has six children, two sons and four daughters, namely: Chester E., Ella M., Bertha L., Perry A., Winifred and Grace E. EORGE J. BELCHER is one of the oldest * settlers now living within the limits of Lee Township, in whose upbuilding he has borne an important part. He came here more than forty years ago in the prime of manhood, and after a long and arduous struggle with the forces of nature, he eliminated a fine farm from the primeval forests, being greatly assisted in his hard task by his worthy wife, whom he brought here as a bride. They have made for themselves a cozy,comfortable home in which to spend their declining years, and here they live reverenced and esteemed by all who know them. The father of our subject was Lewis Belcher, who was a native of Orange, N. Y. He was a son of Jonathan Belcher, wl4o was born in New England, and did good service as a soldier during the struggle of the Colonists with the English at the time of the Revolution. He was a man of much musical talent and taught singing school in various places and engaged as an instructor in music to private pupils. He died in the State of New York. He was of English descent. Lewis Belcher spent his early life as a farmer in Cayuga County, N. Y. In 1836 be came to this 550 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. State, which was then a territory, and located on bears and he often supplied the home larder with the line between Albion and Sheridan Townships, choice game. where he lived for a few years. About 1840 be When he was twenty-one years old Mr. Belcher bought land on section 1, Lee Township, improved began to work out by the month in Albion Townit and made it his home until his death in Septem- ship. In 1846 he came to Lee Township, and soon ber, 1855. IIe inherited the patriotic spirit of his after on the 19th of April was married at Tekonsha father and was a brave soldier in the War of 1812. to Miss Laura Murray. Mrs. Belcher was born at He was a Democrat in politics. While he lived in Whitehall, Washington County, N. Y., January 26, New York he was a member of the Baptist Church, 1829. She is a daughter of David W. Murray, a but after he came here he united with the Christian sketch of whose life will be found in the biography Church of which he subsequently became Deacon of her brother, D. W. Murray. Mrs. Belcher was and he remained true to the faith until the day of past fourteen years of age when the family came his death. to these parts. She remained at home with her The mother of our subject was named Thankful parents and became an excellent housewife. She (Jewell) Belcher and she was a native of New York. was a good spinner, and even when quite young She died here not many years after the removal of earned her own living at that. To her and our the family to this county. Her father, George subject have been born these four children: David Jewell, was of New England birth and he died in E., who was killed at the age of thirty-one years New York. These twelve children were born to May 14, 1886 by a log rolling on him; Eugene, a the parents of our subject: Thomas, George J.; F. prosperous farmer on section 1, this township, who C., a farmer in Albion Township; Samuel and Eli- is married and has one child, named Nettie; Angejah, residents of Marengo Township; Susan, the line A., who died at the age of ten months; and wife of Charles Cooper; Jane, Mrs. James Tadman, Ernest, who died when five years of age. David a resident of Eckford; Ann, widow of William was married and left one child, Earl. 'The death Strobe, a resident of Marengo; Sarah, who lives in of their children has been a sad blow to the happiLee Township; Thankful, Mrs. Warderbuck, living ness of the otherwise pleasant wedded life of our in Kalamazoo County; Clarissa, deceased; and Lydia subject and his amiable wife, but they have been Mrs. Samuel Sherley, who lives in Schoolcraft. sustained and comforted in their sorrow by their He of whom this sketch is written, was born religion. December 18, 1822, in Cayuga County, N. Y., near In April, 1847, our subject located on his land, Port Byron. He lived in his native county until he having purchased sixty acres of fine beech ti.. he was thirteen years old and gained his education her, and here he and his wife began to build a home in the local subscription schools. When he was in the woods. Their first residence was a log house. ten years old he went to work in a flouring mill, Their pionter life was fraught with many trials and where he was employed to nail hoops on barrels. sacrifices and was void of many of the comforts In tile spring of 1836 he accompanied the family that are now considered indispensable. The country to Michigan, coming all the way with an ox-team, round about was but sparsely settled and during and having to journey thfough the much dreaded the first years that they lived here the Indians Maumee Swamp. The little party was five weeks would sometimes come to their cabin and demand on its way before it arrived at Albion, where the something to eat. Mrs. Belcher was much afraid family located. Our subject remained at home to of the savages and would set the dog, her only help his father until lie was twenty-one years of protector when she was alone, upon them, and her age. A part of one winter he went to school and unwelcome guests would hastily take their departadded what he could to his early education. He ure. The cows roamed through the woods in search was very fond of hunting, for which this country of sustenance, and our subject and his wife would then afforded fine opportunities, as game was very have to go into the forest to milk them when they abundant. In his youth he killed a deer and three did not make their appearance at the proper time. ~o PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 553 There were maple trees on the place from which they manufactured sugar for home use and nearly all the things that they lived upon were of home production. Mr. Belcher cleared his land and put it under good cultivation, using oxen for breaking purposes, and in carrying on his other farming operations. He at one time had two hundred and twenty acres of land, which was all improved from the forest by his own handiwork. He subsequently sold forty acres of it, and has since given away one hundred and twenty acres to his children, which leaves him a neat little farm of sixty acres, which is well fenced, and is supplied with suitable buildings, including a good dwelling and substantial barns. IIe engages in general farming, raising wheat and other farm produce, and owning some good stock including a fine lot of Chester White hogs. During the war he sold wool at $1 a pound and one time disposed of his wheat at $3.20 a bushel. Mr. Belcher is a Democrat to the backbone. He has taken part in the councils of his party as a delegate to tile county conventions. ITe has been School Moderator and lhas been elected Justice of the Peace, but refused to qualify as he did not care for the office. Ile and his wife are people of true religious zeal and are prominent among the Seventh Day Adventists here. ject who still resides on the old homestead in Livingston County, N. Y. All of her six children are living, namely: B. R., a resident of New York; Daniel B., also of New York; William E.; George H., a pllysician, practicing his profession in New York City; Lucia M., wife of Charles Neff, of Livingston County, N. Y.; and Ella, wife of Herbert McClintock, also of Livingston County. Our subject was carefully trained by his parents under good home influences. tHe passed his school days in his native county, principally at Geneseo Academy where he pursued a fine course of study, and laid the foundation of his after success in life. After leaving school he entered his father's store as clerk and gained a good experience in mercantile life ere he established himself in business at tile age of twenty-two, when he opened a general store at Lakeville, N. Y. lie conducted that twelve years and then in the spring of 1871 came to Michigan. The first five years that he lived in this State he gave his attention to farming in the town of Marengo, this county, and was particularly engaged in growing and feeding stock. At the end of that time Mr. Bosley came to Marshall and resumed his mercantile life by starting an implement store, in which he sold all kinds of machinery and farming implements. In 1882 he aldded the hardware business, carrying a large stock of shelf hardware, tinware, cutlery, wire and general house furnishing goods. He is still carrying on this business, meeting with more than ordinary success in his enterprise, by which he has acquired a valuable property. He owns bis store which is a neat building, 24x90 feet in size, two stories in height and provided with a basement. His building is handsomely fitted and and is amply stocked with everything to be found in a firstclass hardware and implement store. Mr. Bosley is also connected with the Carver Windmill Company, at Marshall, in which he has considerable stock. He is also largely interested in the Combination Folding Bath Tub Company, at Marshall, which is one of the leading industries of this city. Mr. Bosley was married in 1863 to Miss Julia A. De LaVergne, a native of Genesee County, N. Y., born in the town of Batavia. She is a daughter of Samuel and Maria De LaVergne, both M - - I'll p~~ ON. WILLIAM E. BOSLEY, who is at the head of the. municipal government of Marshall as its popular Mayor, is one of its foremost business men and holds a high position in the financial circles of this county. A native of Livingston County, N. Y., he was born in the town of Geneseo March 30, 1837. He is the third of six children, four sons and two daughters, born to Daniel and Lucia (Richmond) Bosley, natives of the State of New York. His father was a prosperous merchant from early manhood until he attained his seventy-ninth year when death closed his mortal career. He was the son of Edmund Bosley who was a native of New England and of English descent, as was also the mother of our sub 554 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - - - deceased. Mr. and Mrs. Bosley have two children, a son and a daughter. Their daughter, Mary A., is now at Boston, Mass., completing her musical education. Their son, Daniel W., assists his father in the store. Mr. and Mrs. Bosley have a charming home on Marshall Avenue and its pleasant hospitalities are well known to their large circle of friends as everyone who crosses its threshold is sure of a warm welcome from its gracious hostess and genial host. Our subject is a prominent figure in the social and public life of this county. Ile is fitted in every way for the high office of Mayor of the flourishing city of Marshall, to which position he was elected in the spring of 1890. He is endowed with force and decision of character, a clear, wellbalanced intellect, and possesses in a high degree those attributes that mark an honest minded, just and public-spirited civic officer. He has had experience as a member of the municipal government before. as he once represented the First Ward as a member of the City Board of Aldermen. He is one of the leading Republicans of this section, though in his official life he is by no means a partisan. His popularity with all parties is shown by the fact that in a city that is strongly Democratic he w-s elected to its highest office by a majority of two hundred and fifty votes. Socially he is a member of St. Alban's Lodge, No. 45, A. F. & A. M., and also of the Knights of the Maccalees. A lithographic portrait of the IHon. Mr. Bosley appears on another page of this volume. AVID W. MURREY, JR., is one of the oldest settlers now living within the precincts of Lee Township. He has been one of its most enterprising farmers for many years, and has also been associated with the business men of the county as one of the leading merchants of Partello for several years, and has been otherwise actively identified with the interests of this section of the State. He is at present giving his attention to the management of his fine farm on s sections 11 and 12,of the township mentioned, and is also conducting a flourishing business as a manufacturer of sorghum and cider. Our subject is a son of David W. Murrey, Sr., a native of Granville, N. Y. He in turn was a son of Peter Murrey, who was born in Washington County, N. Y. The grandfather of our subject was one of the bravest and most loyal soldiers who fought for freedom in the Continental army during the Revolution. At one time prior to the war, he and his brother George were engaged in threshing grain with a flail in the barn, and while working fell into a heated discussion concerning the situation of the Colonists in regard to the mother country. Peter argued in favor of the American cause, while George took the side of the English. So excited did they become that they fell to fighting and blood ran freely. When the war finally broke out Peter joined the American army, while George entered the Britisl service, and became a Colonel in the English army. While nobly fighting for the cause of freedom Peter was taken prisoner and was sent to Prison Isle near Quebec, where he was confined three years and was nearly starved to death. The brothers met and were very much affected, and George told Peter if he would leave the American army and join the English, that he should be promoted. Peter disdained all thoughts of desertion notwithstanding all that he was suffering, and the second time that George urged him to abandon the cause of the Colonists, he replied that he was for liberty. George pressed him a third time to become a renegade, and again he refused, replying that before he would do that he would rather die and let his bones be bleached by the St. Lawrence River. At the time of the battle of Plattsburg ie volunteered his services as a guard to take the place of U. S. S. He was finally exchanged, and after the war quietly resumed farming in his native town, and there died full of years and honors, he having been quite a prominent man in his community. He was of Irish descent on his father's side, his father having been a native of the Emerald Isle, while his mother was of Dutch birth. The father of our subject was only six months old when his mother died, and he was then given away to a Mr. Blossom, of Rutland County, Vt., 9 4 7 x P ---w-y~-; '/"Y' I I z I: ::,;5.:;~F2: ~-l:-:~is, i i~ :4::::iS X 0 S: 0::::: 0::::f t: f X:::0: f:::::::::::::: \: Al 0:: S::0:: 0;X::0:fff: H a;: I: \; X:::::::?: X V;:;\ S t \::::::::000\\\0;XE t000u:0520::: D: Of: 0::::::::::;:: 4:\uS:D: and VSSX l: f: D S: u: D \ S\;000 f 0000-000f0 id0:fat00*u:000002000000;0:ffa If ff S X0:9::D;: 0:D; 0\ W fS f \t f: hrReSSl Rj(\ 2 \;Rt;\\Xt0fft022S00\0ff ft;SC00:0:0000Xt00000000000040000 000:00:f00 0f:00ff:00:00t00ff t0-000000:0;f:00::0000000:ff:0: 00 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 555 — I ---"I --- —` -I- --------------------------— --- —-- I --- —----— ' ^ --— 111 ---- - - — with whom he lived until he was twenty-one. When he attained manhood he gave his attention to farming in the summer time, and the remainder of the year was engaged as a cloth dresser. He finally removed to Erie County, in his native State, and in the years that followed he cleared a good farm in Sardinia Township, he having bought his land of the Holland Purchase Company. In 1843 Mr. Murrey came to Michigan and cast in his lot with the pioneers of Marengo Township. He lived in the village until the spring of the following year, and then located on section 13, where he developed a fine farm upon which he spent his remaining years. He was in every respect a man of sterling worth. In his political sentiments he was a sturdy Democrat. Religiously he was a faithful member of the Baptist Church. In early manhood he was married to Miss Lucy Hanks, who was born in Pawlet, Rutland County, Vt., where their marriage took place. Her death occurred in this county. She was a daughter of Arunah IHanks, who was a fatmer, a blacksmith and goldsmith. lie was gifted with great mechanical genius, and could make anything that he desired. He of wlom this biography is written, is the fourth child in a family of ten children, of whom eight grew to maturity. lie was born in Adams, Jefferson County, N. Y., July 31, 1818. When he was four years old his parents returned to Pawlet, Vt., where they remained one year prior to their removal to Washington County, N. Y. The remaining years of his youth were passed in that county in Whitehall, Granville, and other places, and he was reared on a farm. His education was conducted in the district schools that were not free in his day, but his father lhad to pay a small sum for his tuition. Ile did not often go to school, as he began to make himself useful when very young, and used to hoe corn summers and to chop wood in the winters, working out much of the time. When he was fourteen years old he became employed on the canal as tow boy and later as boatswain. Though he was engaged on the canal for several years he had the reputation of being one of the most peaceable individuals in the employ of the company, as he never had trouble with others, never had a fight and he never got drunk, chewed nor smoked, notwithstanding the-bad influence of the many rough characters with whom he daily came in contact. When Mr. Murrey was seventeen years old he was taken sick and was ill until the following spring. When he was eighteen years old he rejoined his parents in Erie County, N. Y., and worked out by the day until he was twenty years old. For some three years after that he worked for one man for $11 a month. At the end of that time he took up one hundred acres of land in Sardinia Township, and he and his brother cleared some ten acres of it. He then concluded that he could do better in Michigan, and selling that place, came here in the spring of 1843. From Detroit he made his way with a team of horses to Ypsilanti, where he remained until fall, and then came to Marengo and in February, 1844, bought forty acres of his present farm in Lee Township. lie had to go in (lebt for all, as his finances were at an exceedingly low ebb, three cents comnl)rising his entire capital. He took up his residence in the woods in a sugar shanty that had a mud and stick chimney. He soon built a log house and busily engaged himself in the various pioneer labors that were necessary in developing a farm from the wilderness. Ere many years had elapsed le had his first purchase under good cultivation and well improved, and from time to time added more land to his real estate. At different times he has owned six eighties, much of which he has disposed of at a greatly advanced price on the original cost. His farm now comprises one hundred and twenty acres of land, that is fenced into convenient fields, and is well watered by springs that are never dry. The land is finely cultivated, and the improvements are all of a high order. He built his present residence in 1860, and has besides another neat dwelling on the place, and two good barns and other substantial buildings. The farm is finely situated nine miles from Olivet station, and is of convenient access to good markets. He superintends his farm himself, and is doing a good general farming business. This is a great grain country, and he has raised one thousand bushels of wheat in one season. His sheep are of the famous Cotswold and Merino varieties. In 1873 our subject opened a store at Partello a56 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. for the purpose of engaging in the general mer- years), was Township Treasurer five years, Suchandise business. His business grew rapidly, and pervisor four yeais, acted as Highway Cornmisfrom time to time he had to increase his stock un- sioner for many years and has been School Intil he carried $7,000 worth of general merchandise spector and Drainage Commissioner. He was a year. Ie had so much other business to attend elected Justice of the Peace, but refused to to that he was finally obliged to abandon his store qualify. lie is at present Notary Public and has in 1881. He helped to establish a post-office at been for the past twenty-two years. He is a firm Partello several years ago, and from 1871 until lie believer in the doctrines of the Christian Church, gave up his mercantile interests in 1881 he acted but as there is no society of that denomination here as Postmaster. he is not identified with any church, though he conIn 1880 Mr. Murrey was one of the prime mov- tributes liberally to the support of religion, and is ers in establishing a cheese factory, which was in generous in all things that will in any wise promote operation for two years. In 1887 he purchased a the highest interests of his township or county. He half interest in the factory, and he and his sons is a Democrat in politics though not radical, anal have since devoted it to apple drying purposes. lie has been a delegate to county conventions. They are still operating it on an extensive scale. It is provided with suitable machinery and from ten to fifteen hands are employed in it. Mr. Murrey is likewise prosperously engaged in the manufacture of sorghum and cider, as before mentioned. His mill is supplied with an extensive apparatus | IIARLES BLANCLIARD. Among the men which is operated by steam power, and he manu-( who have been eyewitnesses of and have factures one thousand gallons of molasses of an ex- | helped to bring about the many wonderful cellent quality. lie also makes apple jelly at the clanges that-have made Michigan a rich and prosrate of four hundred barrels a year. perous commonwealth, is the subject of this review. Mr. Murrey was married in Sardinia, Erie le is now quietly passing the declining years of a County, N. Y., in 1842, to Miss Charity C. Young, life well spent amid the comforts of his pleasant a native of Schoharie County, N. Y. For more home at Albion. Ile came to this State with his than forty years she walked by her husband's side, uncle, Tenny Peabody, who will always hold a and by her faithful help and wise counsel assisted place in the history of this section as the first white him in the accumulation of his property. Her re- man to settle at the forks of the Kalamazoo, and to moval by the hand of death August 29, 1889, was him also belongs the honor of having built the a sad blow to him and their children, as she had first house on the present site of Albion. been in all things a true wife and a tender mother. Our subject comes of good old New England The following is recorded of the children born to stock and is himself a native of that part of the the wedded life of our subject and his wife: Volney country, born in Francistown, Itillsboro County, D. is a farmer in Benton Township, Eaton County; N. II., August 3, 1815. His parents were Levi Alvarado is deceased; Amanda A. is the wife of and Elizabeth (Peabody) Blanchard, who were also M. C. Thomas, a farmerof this township; Parthena of New England birth. They were married in is the wife of 1H. J. Gibson, a farmer of this town- New Hampshire, where two children were born to ship; Eldorado is a merchant here. them-Levi and our subject. The former, a resiOur subject is a genial, wide-awake man, who dent of Michigan, married Eliza Craine, a sister of has an extensive acquaintance and many friends his brother's wife. Mr. Blanchard died in 1815, throughout the county. He is very influential in and Mrs. Blanchard afterward became the wife of the councils of his fellow-citizens, and has often John Peake, a relative of the noted Peake family. been an incumbent of some important office. He By that marriage she became the mother of two has been Township Clerk (holding that office eight daughters and one son, namely: Elizabeth, a resi PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 557 dent, of East Boston, Mass.; Charlotte and David, who are deceased. In an early day Mr. Peake emigrated with his wife to Otsego County, N. Y., where the mother died. The subject of our sketch started out in life empty-handed, as the small amount of money left by his father, who died before he was born, was used by his stepfather. When he was nine years old he went to live with his grandfather Peabody, and lie was subsequently placed in a store, where he was to receive $40 a year. In 1833 his uncle came to Michigan and desired him to accompany him, but as he had a good offer of a position as clerk in a store at $12 a month, he preferred to stay where he was. His uncle, however, prevailed upon him to accompany him, with the understanding that he should have eighty acres of land when he was twenty-one years old. As before stated his uncle became the first settler of Albion and was connected with its early growth. After his arrival here our subject assisted him in his pioneer work of developing a farm. and when he attained his majority received the promised eighty acres of land. This tract proved almost worthless and Mr. Blanchard disposed of it for a very trifling return, and thus had no compensation for all his hard labor, so he had to begin life anew. By sheer force of energy, unwearying toil and careful management, in time he placed himself in good circumstances and became one of the moneyed men of Albion. In his work our subject was greatly aided by the cheerful assistance rendered to him by his capable wife, to whom he was wedded October 27, 1841. Prior to her marriage Mrs. Blanchard was Miss Maria Craine. Her parents were Simeon and Eunice Craine, early settlers of the county. She was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., in the month of April, 1823. By her marriage with our subject these children have been born: Flora, born October 1, 1842, and now the wife of Horatio Gale, of Albion, and the mother of two children; Nellie, wife of Harvey Lee Iddings, and tile mother of two children —Dorothy Winthrop and Constance H.; Genevieve P. married W. S. Phipay and resides in Loveland, Cal.; they have one daughter named Jesse, who married Lucius Skelly, of Loveland, Cal.; Sarah H., who was born August 19, 1845, died August 17, 1850; and Fred II., who was born May 2, 1853, died August 3, 1855. Mr. and Mrs. Blanchard began their wedded life on a farm near Marshall. Three years later he sold his property there, and returning to Albion followed carpentering for a time and also engaged in the grocery business. In 1850, when the gold fever affected the people of this section, ie in company with Prof. Stockwell started for California by the way of the Isthmus of Panama. They purchased tickets to that point with the expectation of finding steamers there to take them directly to their destination, but they were disappointed in that. After waiting several days they came across a German who had an old sailing vessel which he said he would fit up if the people would raise $150 for him, and le would take them to California for $50 apiece. More than the required sum was raised and the vessel was made ready by the latter part of June, and the little company set sail for the Golden Gate, our subject and the professor paying $15 extra for deck passage. When they were eight days out Prof. Stockwell was taken sick with erysipelas, and living but a few days was buried in the ocean. For sixty-three days the vessel was out of sight of land, and as the provisions began to give out the passengers would have suffered from hunger if it had not been for a friendly vessel which supplied them with food and coal. After a long and tedious voyage our subject was finally landed at San Francisco, and from there went to Calaveras County, where he embarked in mining. The following April he returned to Albion well satisfied with his experience of life on the frontier. Hle has since resided in this city with the exception of two years at Jonesville, where lie was engaged in the manufacture of plows. Ile and wife have been identified with the county for more than half a century and have witnessed the wonderful transformation that has brought it from a wild 'condition to its present advanced state as a rich manufacturing, agricultural and commercial center, with a thriving and prosperous population. When they first came here railways were unknown in the State, the telegraph and telephone were unheard of, and so with many other wonderful 558 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. inventions that have almost completely changed the modes of working, of travel, and have made a complete revolution in all things since first they opened their eyes to the light of the world. Mr. and Mrs. Blanchard are people of high standing in the county, and wherever known are respected for their many excellent qualities of head and heart. As a good citizen should, Mr. Blanchard has always taken an interest in politics and is a faithful adherent of the Republican party. He has held several local offices of trust and has done what he could to further the interests of his adopted city. e WE P.I county. He was a stanch close communion Baptist. After thle father's death the mother of our subject continued to live on the farm in Pennsylvania, and died while on a visit at Newstead, in Erie County, N. Y., in 1832. The following is recorded of her children: Davis died while in the service of the Union Army during the late Civil War; Jonathan died at Lawton, Mich.; Silas died at Newstead, Erie County, leaving a family, and one of his sons is Attorney-General of New York; Gardner died at Boonville, Mo.; Elijah in Dodge County, Wis.; Benjamin in the same county; Edwin H. is a physician in Colorado; Daniel is our subject; Olive. Mrs. Clark, died in Missouri; Charlotte, Mrs. Chamberlain, lives in Crawford County, 1) *. Il.nn. Tr r1%r. ('rnhm,dio,,l in;o,-... TQlr I.Plrb/ A1. O l.; ) 13tt C o U 11 i L..I 1 Cd1lal t11.[U LH IV ANIEL TABOR, who is a well-known and Mrs. Wiser, lives in Chicago. greatly respected citizen of this county, The gentleman of whom this sk4 and one of the progressive farmers of Lee cord passed the early years of his Township, was born September 12, 1820, farm where he was born, remainii in the town of Conneaut, Crawford County, Pa. was twelve years old, when he wei He is.a descendant of good New England stock. where he resided with his brothers His father, Benjamin Tabor, and his grandfather, he was eighteen years old. He was Gardner Tabor, were natives of Rhode Island. Iis common schools at Akron, attending grandfather, who was a farmer by occupation, was schoolhouse with rude furnishing a soldier during the Revolutionary War. IIe was started for Missouri, going by the an early settler of Onondaga County, N. Y., whence to Cleveland, thence to Portsmouth he finally removed to Wyoming County, the same boat to St. Louis, whence he made h State, where he died. He was of mingled Welsh ville, Mo., and from there on horse and English blood. The father of our subject was to Warsaw, the county seat of ] principally reared in Onondaga County N. Y., and which at that time had been organ was there married. He took part in the War of or four weeks. He there joined 1812, and subsequently, in the year 1816, settled doctor who was practicing in that among the pioneers of Crawford County, Pa., where subject studied medicine with him s he cleared a farm in the township of Conneaut. on the Doctor's farm some for f He was much prospered and built up a fine home, finally gave up his studies to devote in which he and his good wife, Olive, reared a to farming. He helped to haul hogs large family. There the head of the household Nation to Ft. Gibson, and was thus died in 1826. He came of the old Roger Williams fall of 1841. stock, and seems to have inherited the religion of In that season Mr. Tabor came e: that eminent Baptist divine, as lie was a Deacon in to St. Joseph County, this State the Baptist Churcli for many years. In politics he month on the way. There were r was known as a Whig. the open prairie as he traveled thro The mother of our subject was born in Onondaga the way of Quincy, Joliet and Lo County, N. Y., and was a daughter of Jesse Brown, his arrival in this State he worked an early settler of that county, who was a native of which trade he had carried on som Connecticut. He died full of years in his adopted Missouri, and which he had learne VT-LOO3VU I r JL2ItlDsu, etch is a life reboyhood on the ng there till lie nt to New York, at Newstead till edlucated in the g school in a log,s. In 1838 lie way of Buffalo i, from there by is way to Booneback and afoot Benton County, ized only three his brother, a place, and our ome and worked four years. IHe e his whole time to the Cherokee engaged till the ast on horseback,and was one no roads across )ugh Illinois by ckport. After at carpentering, iewhat while in -d in his youth PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.I1[ 559 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALUM. ___9 while living in Erie County, N. Y. He also did janitor work, as he was ambitious to obtain all the money that he could. In the spring of 1842 he went back to his old home at Newstead, and was engaged as a carpenter there and in Buffalo. While there our subject was married in 1844 to Miss Wealthy Ford, a native of Newbtead and a daughter of Almon Ford. He continued carpen tering till 1847, when he removed to West Pembroke, Genesee County, where he was engaged in the machine shops in making the woodwork for the threshing machines the ensuing four years. In the fall of 1851 he came to Michigan, traveling by boat to Detroit and by rail to Marshall. He located on a place near his present farm, whence he came to his present homestead on section 6, Lee Township, in 1853. A small clearing and a log lhonse constituted the only improvements on this eightty acre tract of land. He worked hard to develop it into a farm, and also engaged at his trade as a carpenter to some extent. lie has his land under fine cultivation, has it neatly fenced and has a thriving orchard. He erected a substantial and conveniently- arranged house after his own design, and has built commodious barns and other outbuildings. His residence is very pleasantly situated, one mile from Olivet, and commands a beautiful view of the Pine Lake. After locating on his homestead he worked but little at carpentering, devoting himself instead to the improvement of a farm. He has engaged in mixed husbandry, and used to raise Merino sheep and fine road horses. lie now rents his farm very profitably and has retired somewhat from active business. The following is recorded of the four children born to Mr. and Mrs. Tabor: Laura married J. Van Arman, of Marcngo Township; Elvira married Herbert Mills, of Olivet; Abby, who was graduated from Olivet College in 1878, resides at home with her parents; Ida B., married James H. Walker and lives in Lee Township. All of the children were well educated at Olivet College and have been teachers. Mr. Tabor is a stalwart among the Democrats, and has always given his party his support, excepting the one time when he voted for Gen. Grant, when he was a candidate for his second term in the Presidential chair. He has been influential in the councils of his party in county and State conventions, and he is doing good work as a member of the Township Central Committee. A man of his calibre, enterprise and good standing in his community is necessarily looked upon by his fellow-citizens as one most worthy to hold public office, and he has often been honored by their selecting him to fill responsible positions. Probably no other man in the county has served so many years on the County Board of Supervisors at different times. In 1854 he was first elected to that important office to represent Lee Township, and was in active duty for several years till he resigned. He was very zealous during the war in keeping the quota of men for the service from this county well filled, and in other ways he did valuable work for the Union cause. From 1852 to 1854 Mr. Tabor had charge of the Township Treasury as Treasurer. Ele was an incumbent of various school offices for twenty years. He has been a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and holds a demit from the Pinebrook Lodge. He is identified with tie Patrons of Industry, and was at one time a member of the Disciple Congregation. OSEPH L. FOSTER. One of the most beautiful tracts of land in Battle Creek Township consists of one hundred and twenty-six acres adjacent to Goguac Lake. It has been owned by the subject of this biographical notice for nearly a quarter of a century and has by thorough tillage and good management been the source of a good income. The soil is naturally fertile and has been developed to its full capacity, all needful buildings have been erected and the natural beauty of the scenery enhanced by tasteful structures and orderly arrangement. This farm was chosen by the committee as the place for the encampment of Michigan soldiers in 1889-90. Tihe Fosters are a New England family of former centuries, but the father of our subject, Joseph Foster, was born in New York. He married Jane 560 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Berry, a native of Massachusetts, and to them were who now lives a mile west of his parents. Ie is born two children-Mary A. and Joseph L. Mary now a widower, his wife having died February became the wife of Murray S. Preston who now 16, 1891; she was formerly Mary Ann Omstead lives in South Dakota, and she died in Iowa Janu- who was a native of New York. ary 10, 1875. Grandfather Foster, whose given When younger, Mr. Foster served in various pubname was William, was a man of considerable lie stations in which he advanced the interests of prominence in the Empire State, having been a the locality in which he lives. He has been a Recontractor for turnpikes before the days of the publican since the party was organized and has Erie Canal and the railroads. He died August 29, never scratched a ticket. He and his wife are in1825. telligent, social and kindly and enjoy the respect Joseph Foster was a blacksmith and also fol- of their acquaintances, many of whom have been lowed farming. He cleared a tract of land in associated with them to a greater or less extent Oswego County, at the same time working at his since their arrival in this State and have a thorough trade, but after living upon it for four years re- knowledge of their industrious and useful lives. moved to Skaneateles. rn 1825 he took possession of a tract of land on the Holland Purchase, where he devoted himself exclusively to farming. There he suffered the loss of his wife June 3, 1866, and the following year he disposed of his interest there ANDALL Z. CASE, Postmaster at Partello, and came to this State, locating in Battle Creek, and a worthy member of the farming comwhere he died January 9, 1871, at the advanced munity of Lee Township, is an honored age of eighty-two years. representative of the citizens that Michigan The gentleman whose name introduces these sent to the front during the late Civil War, in paragraphs was born in Oneida County, N. Y., which he fought well and suffered much for the August 5, 1815, and remained with his father un- Union cause. For a sketch of the ancestry of our til his marriage. He then engaged in sheep lus- subject see the biography of his father, Z. N. Case bandry, being the first in his neighborhood to which appears in this volume. He of whom we winter sheep for the market. He came West with write is the eldest of five children and was born his father and took possession of the farm which he near Brockport, N. Y., September.7, 1840. He had bought in March before his removal. Here he was set to work on the farm when he was a small has carried on a steady course of well-directed lad and to this day bears a scar over his eye where agricultural efforts, gaining a greater and greater he was wounded while engaged in clearing land. recompense as the years have flown and being able He had common district school advantages, attendto surround himself with all that is desirable of ing a school a part of the time that was situated modern conveniences and means of enjoyment. one mile from the Erie Canal and was a rude In charge of the home economy is a lady who pioneer structure. He was fifteen years old when became thewife of Mr. Foster, February 21, 1838. he came to Lee Township and he afforded his She bore the maiden name of Jane McCrory, and father much assistance in clearing his farm. is a daughter of William and Matilda (Watson) October 1, 1861, our subject threw aside his McCrory. She was born in Ireland and was seven work, animated with the patriotic desire to serve years old when her parents emigrated to America. his country in the great war that was then raging He mother (lied very soon after reaching the between the North and the South. He enlisted in Empire State, dying the night after saying to her Company H, Twelfth Michigan Infantry, and was husband, "You have truly got a good home for mustered in at Niles. His regiment was sent South yourself and the children but not for me." Mr. Mc- and took an active part in the battles of Pittsburg Crory was a lifelong farmer. To Mr. and Mrs. Landing, Hatchies River and Middleburg, Tenn. Foster one child has been born, a son, William J., Our subject and his comrades also fought valiantly.~~~~~~~~~~~~.w~Ju.rr rv~vrrru ru ub, 1~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1 t/fl1CtPS PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 563 in the siege of Vicksburg and in the siege at Little Rock, Ark. They then found the enemy at Clarendon, Ark., and at Gregory's Landing and were active in various other battles and skirmishes. While going from Duval's Bluff, Ark. on a steamer, the men were fired at by the rebels on shore and Mr. Case was severely wounded in the left wrist by buckshot. In the excitement that followed he did not pay any attention to his wound but landed with his comrades and chased some of the enemy who belonged to Thompson's band of guerrillas, and captured fourteen of them. He was also wounded by a bullet which grazed his right cheek. Thehardships and privations of his life as a soldier' told seriously on his health, and his constitution was much impaired by the effects of his life in camp and on the battlefield. He was sick at various times and at one time was six weeks in a hospital. IIe was granted a furlough in 1862 and was carried to his home very ill. Iis friends found him greatly reduced, as from a robust man he had been reduced in weight to ninety pounds. He rejoined his regiment in August, 1862, but as he was still sick he was sent to the hospital at Cairo where he lay ill three months of typhoid malarial fever. When he was convalescent he once more returned to his regiment and remained with it until the close of the war. After a long and honorable service he was mustered out at Camden, Ark., in February, 1866, and received his discharge papers and pay the 6th of the following March. After his many hard experiences of life as a soldier our subject returned to his old home and quietly engaged in farming on his father's farm until the following fall when he bought forty acres of land on section 13. He located upon it and busily worked to clear it off and put it under cultivation. IHe subsequently bought forty acres adjacent and now has eighty acres of choice, welltilled land on sections 12 and 13, Lee Township. From its fertile acres he gleans good harvests. IIe has his farm amply supplied with all the necessary buildings and good farming machinery and is managing it with profit. Mr. Case has the valuable assistance of a good wife, to whom he was wedded in 1866. Mrs. I Case was formerly Mary J. Forsyth and is a native of Ohio. Her father, James Forsyth, was an early settler of the township. The pleasant home circle of our subject and his wife is completed by their three children-Edward E., Emma E. (Assistant Postmistress) and Justus M. Our subject possesses a clear understanding, good common-sense and carries on his farming interests with intelligence and sound judgment. That his fellow-citizens have a just appreciation of his capa. bility and worth is testified to by the fact that they have frequently elected him to important offices. He has represented Lee Township as a member of the County Board of Supervisors in the year 1885, and in 1889 was Township Clerk. He has been a School Director and is at present School Assessor. He is closely identified with the Patrons of Industry as one of the valued members of the order. In his political views he is a true Republican and is often present at the councils of his party as a delegate to county conventions. IIe frequently serves as a juryman. lie is a prominent member of Grand Army Post, No. 256, at Partello, of which he was Past Commander, and is now Adjutant. Mr. Case was appointed to his present position of Postmaster at Partello August 1, 1889, and is managing the postal affairs under his care in a business-like manner so as to please all concerned. ILLIAM MERRITT. Those who bore a part in the labors by which Calhoun County has been shorn of its primeval forests, robbed of its primitive wildness and made into a fruitful expanse, are certainly deserving of the respect and gratitude of those who are enjoying the result of their toil. A record of the lives of the pioneer workers affords a pleasing task to the biographical writer and he therefore turns to the history of William Merritt with delight. His portrait, which appears on the opposite page, represents a very early settler of this county and one who has labored long and well in connection with the development of this section. I 564 PORTRAIT AND BTOGEAP~HICAL ALBUM. The Merritts, father and son, have been associ- descent, but belongs to no church or lodge. By ated with the rise and progress of Calhoun County a lifetime of upright dealing he is strong in the from an early day of its settlement, and our sub- confidence of his customers, many of whom have ject, as the proprietor of the Battle Creek City dealt with him ever since he went into business. Flouring Mills, is one of the leading business men He is a man of broad views and a generous nature of this section. EIe was born in Saratoga County, and is liberal in regard to money matters. N. Y., June 19, 1815, and is a son of Joseph Merritt. The father of our subject came to Battle Creek |- a | --— l in 1836, and with Mr. Hart bought an interest in the original plat of this city and also purchased a large farm adjacent. He located on his land which OSEPH G. HENSHAW, who is carrying on is still in possession of his family, including the an extensive and lucrative business in Eckcommodious residence that he built upon it. Hie ford and Albion Townships as a farmer and platted a part of the farm and laid out Maple stock-raiser, in partnership with his son John Street, planting maple trees on each side of it so under the firm name of Henshaw & Son, is one of that to-day it is the most attractive highway in the leading and most enterprising members of his the county. In 1870 Mr. Merritt departed this calling in this part of the county. He is one of a life full of years and honors, and at his death one family of pioneers and his success in his work has of the most useful pioneers and citizens of this materially aided in the development of the county county was removed from the scenes in which he and added to its prosperity. had been so long a familiar figure. His wife, whose Mr. Hienshaw is a native of Aurora, Erie County, maiden name was Phoebe Hart, and who was a na- N. Y., born February 6, 1829. His father, Joshua tive of New York, died recently. Henshaw, who was of English descent was born in William Merritt was twenty-one years old when Massachusetts, May 7, 1775. He was married July he came with his father to Battle Creek, and as 1, 1801 to Betsey King, a native of New England. the eldest son of the family he was entrusted with In early manhood he went to Erie County, N. Y., the chief care of the farm. He remained with his and bought a farm there of the Holland Purchase parents until about 1840, when lie entered a mill as Company. He entered upon the pioneer task of an employe. In 1842 he bought an interest in a clearing and improving it, and retained it in his flouring-mill and that interest continues to the possession until 1833, when he sold out and represent time, and at the close of almost half a cen- moved to Batavia in Genesee County, that State. tury lhe is still in active business. His plant is He purchased a farm there, on which he remained known as the Verona Mills and is one of the most until 1838, when he sold that place and removed complete of its kind in the county. I-e manufac- to Darien in the same county. He made his proptures a high grade of flour, for which he finds a erty over to his sons, Joshua Jr., and Ira K., and ready market, as his brand is well known through- took bond for maintenance of himself and wife. In out the State and even beyond. the fall of 1844 he came to Michigan with his Mr. Merritt has been twice married and by his family on board the boat "Julia Palmer," bound for first marriage had one daughter, Rosa, now the Detroit, and during their passage they encountered wife of Frank M. Knight, of Denver, Col. She is the biggest gale ever known on Lake Erie. the mother of two children-Lola and Earl. The Our subject and his brother Madison made the second marriage of our subject was with Mrs. journey hither by team, and arrived at Detroit in Susan Rockwell. They dispense a noted hospital- October, after a fourteen days' journey, and there ity from their elegant home on Maple Street and met their parents. They proceeded from that city are people who are held in high consideration by to Ypsilanti by team and remained there during the entire community. Mr. Merritt is of Quaker the winter. While they were in that city Ira died PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 565 -- January 5, 1845, at the age of twenty-eight years and five months when in the prime of a promising manhood. In the spring of 1845 the family came to Eckford Township, and here the parents died on our subject's farm, the father's death occurring August 12, 1847, at the ripe age of seventy-two years, and the mother's March 9, 1862, at the age of seventy-six years. The father's brother William was a soldier in the Revolutionary War and he himself served with credit in the War of 1812. IIc took part in the battle at Black Rock and the roar of the cannonading so deafened him that he was never able to heal well afterward. There were thirteen children in the family, seven sons and six daughters of whom seven sons and five daughters grew to maturity and all came to Michigan as a family. One little girl died when three years of age. When the family came to this county our subject's brothers Madison and Joshua, Jr., bought one hundred acres of land on section 24, in partnership, and in 1847 our subject bought Joshua's interest in the land. IIe farmed it in connection with his brother Madison until 1852, when they divided it and each took fifty acres of it. Just before he was married Mr. Henshaw bought fifty-one and threefourths acres of land, which was mostly improved. There was a log house on the place, to which he took his bride and lived in it until 1861, when he built a large and handsome frame residence. Some time after he bought forty-eight and three-fourths acres of land on section 19, Albion Township, all of which was in a wild condition, but he has since placed it under substantial improvement. When his elder son John was twenty-one years of age, he took him into equal partnership in the business and they are still conducting it together. Since the inauguration of their partnership they have purchased one hundred acres more of land on section 19, Albion Township, all of which is improved. Mr. Henshaw and his son have one of the best appointed farms in the locality and they are continually making valuable implrovements. The small barn that was on the last purchase in Eckford Township by the old log house was removed and enlarged, and they now have two commodious barns, large sheep sheds, hog pens, corncribs, wind mills, two tanks, and three hydrants, so that water is carried to the barns, sheep sheds and all other necessary places. The Messrs. Henshaw engaged extensively as general farmers and stock-raisers. They have some fine specimens of highly graded cattle, hogs and sheep. They have a thorough-bred Durham hull, a Chester White boar also thoroughbred, a full-blooded ram, all of which are registered, and they also have a few thoroughbred Shropshire ewes. During the War our subject sold wool for ninety cents a pound and wheat for $2.50 a bushel, and made much money by his operations. lIe and his son are especially interested in the business of dehorning cattle. They have a chute called the "common sense dehorning chute" with which they do the work. They take off the horns, tie up the arteries and turn the animal loose in from five to ten minutes. Among the attractions of the place is. a fine orchard which yields enough fruit for home use. December 20, 1854, was the date of the marriage of our subject with Miss Rebecca Falls, of Concord. She has actively co-operated with him in his work, and by her excellent management of household affairs has contributed in a great degree to his prosperity. She is a daughter of John Falls, a well-known pioneer of Concord, where he was prosperously engaged in farming until his death. HIe was a native of Ireland and came to this country when seventeen years of age. Some years later in 1835, he located in Concord among its early settlers and took up a tract of eighty acres of Government land. tIe developed it into a good farm and from time to time added to it until he at last owned three hundred and thirty acres when he died, two hundred of which was well improved. His long and useful life was brought to a close in the home that he had built up, March 7, 1884, at the age of seventy-six years. His wife whose maiden name was Mary Mead, was born in Mt. Washington, N. Y., May 15, 1814, and died on the home farm in Concord, November 28, 1876, at the age of sixty-one years. Those worthy people were the parents of ten children, two sons and eight daughters, Mrs. Henshaw being the oldest of the family. She is a native of this State, born in the 566 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. _ __ __ _11 pioneer home of her parents in Concord March 15, has as fine a herd of Jerseys as may b 1836. Her marriage with our subject has brought country around, and also some fine I them two sons-John T. and Joseph E., the latter horses. of whom is a schoolboy living at home with his Mr. Kingman was born January 21 parents. John T. who is an enterprising young beautiful town of Cummington, Mass. man, carrying on business in partnership with his of the poet William Cullen Bryant. E father, married Cora I. Howe, and they have three Levi Kingman, of the old Kingman fi children-two daughters and one son. State. Our subject was given excelle: Our subject's career in life marks him as a forci. advantages, and completed his studie ble, energetic man, shrewd and far-seeing, and one mington Academny. After leaving who understands well how to conduct his business came a commercial traveler and was o to the best advantage. These traits have placed of that fraternity that now plays so him among the solid men of his township, and le part in the commercial world. He ( is looked up to by his fellow-citizens as a wise for others, but solely on his own counselor. He is a true Republican iii politics, gradually built up a large wholesale t having been identified with the party since its most prominent cities throughout the inauguration. Before that time he was a Whig and was engaged on the road thirty year cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Taylor in came well-known to the leading bu 1852. He has held the office of Justice of the the various towns that he visited tl Peace for eleven years, discharging the duties thus country, who gave him their steady devolving upon him with discrimination and sagac- long as he sold goods. ity, and he has also been Pathmaster. He and all Until 1879 our subject made his hl his family belong to the Free Will Baptist Church, chusetts. But the advantages offered and for the past three years he has been the teacher and enterprising men of business by t of the old people's Bible class in the Sunday-school Battle Creek had not escaped his kee: connected with that church. and when he gave up his business as traveler in that year, he came here home. He was already associated wi — 3~.-f^^l ^ * --- —*^: ists and financiers by his connection Bank, of which he is still a Directo: was organized in January, 1871, with ON. RICHMOND KINGMAN is a promi- as its first President. He subseque nent citizen of Battle Creek, who has been that office, as he did not wish to be cc closely connected with its financial interests the bank was first instituted, it had for several years, and is still, though living $50,000 and still has the same amor somewhat retired from active business at present stock, and has a surplus of $55,000 in his attractive home at No. 405 East Main street. man is also interested in the Duplex ] His name is associated with various enterprises that Co., of which he is the Director, a have added to the wealth and importance of this the organizers of the company, whi city, and he has interested himself in helping to raise erect a factory 150x40 feet in dimen the standard of agriculture and stock in this county. Our subject is blessed in his domn He is the proprietor of a fine farm, very advantage- with a good wife, who is in truth ously situated within the city limits. Here he has who understands well how to look t one hundred and twenty-five acres of land, which fort of her household. Mrs. Kingi is under excellent cultivation, is amply supplied maiden name of Caroline B. Brown with well-appointed, conveniently-arranged build- her husband, a native of Massachus ings, and the place is well-stocked, as Mr. Kingman daughter of Corydon Brown. Three oe found in the Pilot Medium, 1821, in the, the old home His father was amily of that nt educational s in the Cumschool he bene of the first important a lid not travel account, and business in the e Union. I-e s, and he besiness men of rroughout the patronage as ome in MassaI to intelligent the growing of n observation, a commercial to make his ith its capitalwith the City r. This bank i our subject nntly resigned )nfined. When a capital of ant of capital.Mr. KingPrinting Press nd was one of ch is soon to isions. iestic relations a home-maker, ifter the cornman bore the. She is, like;etts, and is a children have J <=A on / -z~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 569 I been born to her and our subject, as follows: Howard R., a farmer of North Dakota; Richmond T., who resides in Dakota and owns a large farm and Emily, wife of Robert Taft, of this city. Mr. Kingman has not given much attention to politics of late years, but favors the Republican party, and was a Harrison elector during the last Presidential campaign. While a resident of his native State he was quite prominent in public life, and served in the Massachusetts House of Representatiues two years, being a member of the lower House in 1868 and of the Senate in 1869. Religiously, he is an attendant at and liberal supporter of the Free Presbyterian Church, and he never hesitates to lend his influence to any good work. LNEY G. PLACE, M. D. Calhoun County ) as its fair share of skillful and educated professional men, but none are more thoroughly versed than Dr. Place, who is Assistant Surgeon to Ir. Kellogg, of the Sanitarium at Battle Creek. Although a young man he has won a high reputation for marked skill in surgery and holds an honorable position among his fellow-physicians, not only in the famous institution with which he is connected but among the members of the medical profession throughout Southern Michigan. By untiring exertions he has acquired the practical skill and scientific knowledge which, with thorough schooling, have led to his high standing. Among the people of Battle Creek he is exceedingly popular, and they, as well as the many others to whom he is known, will read with pleasure the following brief outline of the main events of his life, and observe with interest his portrait, which appears on the opposite page. Dr. Place is a native of Oswego, N. Y., born March 21, 1860. His parents, John and Henrietta (Blossom) Place, were natives respectively of Rhode Island and New York. The Places were originally from Germany, and the history of the family in this country dates back to the third trip of the "Mayflower." The family first settled in Massachusetts and finally drifted to Rhode Island. John Place was a carpenter and joiner by trade. To him and his wife were born six children, of whom five are living, viz.: Hattie E., wife of O. F. Dart, a farmer living near Richmond, Va.; A. E., a minister of the Seventh Day Advent Church at Rome, N. Y.; Mary A., wife of William Hubbard, of Ann Arbor; Olney G.; and William B., a carpenter at Oswego, N. Y. Dr. Place passed the early years of his life in his native State and laid the foundation of a liberal education in the local public schools. In order to obtain a higher education lie followed the calling of his father, that of a carpenter, and secured money for further schooling. He pursued an excellent course of study at the Oswego Normal School, and subsequently became a student in the medical department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, and was graduated from that institution with a high reputation for scholarship in the Class of '85. Immediately afterward he was called to the Sanitarium at Battle Creek as assistant surgeon to Dr. iKellogg, an unusual honor to be accorded to a young physician fresh from his studies and just launching out in his career. But time has justified the wisdom of his selection for the important position that he occupies, and for which he is so rarely adapted by Nature, who has endowed him with the clear brain, steady nerve, gentle touch and other qualifications so necessary to success in surgery. The marriage of Dr. Place with Mrs. J. S. Lamson was solemnized January 28, 1887, and their wedded life is one of quiet happiness. The life of our subject is guided by principles of truth, honor and morality, and as a member of the Seventh Day Advent Church, with which he united in N.ew York, lie is a consistent Christian. LONZO SNYDER. Beyond question the farm of this gentleman contains the best set of buildings to be found in the agricultural districts of Clarence Township, and the land is in a high state of cultivation giving proof of the ability of the owner, the sound judgment he has displayed in his vocation, and the pros I 570 PORTRAIT AND BIOGTRAPHIC[AL ALBUM.I perity that has resulted from well-directed efforts. penses, Mr. Snyder little by little improved his He began his life work without any financial aid financial condition, added fifty-five acres to h s and has in mature years had heavy expense entailed farm and brought to it good stock and adequate upon him, but notwithstanding all drawbacks, has machinery. He keeps Devon cattle, Poland-China added to his original purchase of real estate and hogs and fine-wool sheep, and has some fine specimade his home one of the most comfortable and mens of horseflesh in the shape of good roadsters. attractive that can be conceived of. The residence The marriage of Mr. Snyder and Miss Martha A. now occupied is a two-story brick of handsome de- McDivitt was solemnized April 23, 1868. The parsign which was built in 1884 at a cost of $2,000. ents of Mrs. Snyder were born in Columbiana In its adornment woman's refining touch is very County, Ohio, and resided there until 1867. They evident, and the artistic talent of Mrs. Snyder is then came to Michigan and settled on a farm in conspicuously shown. Brookfield Township, Eaton County. There the Mr. Snyder is the third son of the late John B. father, Hugh McDivitt, still lives, at the age of and Betsey (Collins) Snyder, of whom further men- sixty-six years. Mrs. McDivitt, formerly Margaret tion is made in the biographical sketch of Myron Williams, died in 1833 at the age of fifty-eight. Snyder. They are numbered among the early set- Mr. McDivitt served two years and nine months tiers of Clarence Township, to which they came in the Civil War as a member of Company K, One when their son Alonzo was a babe of six months. Hundred and Fourth Ohio Infantry. He was atThe child was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., tached to the Twenty-third Army Corps and took November 10, 1837, and when old enough to attend part in the famous battles of Lookout Mountain school began the pursuit of knowledge in the dis- and Gettysburg, and in the Grand Review at Washtrict and continued his studies during his boyhood ington. He is now a pensioner of the United States and early youth. lie gained a good knowledge of Government on account of disability incurred while the practical branches and laid the foundation for in the line of duty. He is a Republican in politics his present intelligence. At the age of eighteen he and is a member of the Grand Army of the Repubbegan his career in life by obtaining work as a lie. IHe and his deceased wife belonged to the farm laborer, and continued to work by the month Lutheran Church until after they came to this four years. State, when they united with the Methodist EpisMr. Snyder then bought forty acres of timber copal. land, from which he occasionally removed some Mrs. Snyder is the second of the nine members of the trees, thus by degrees making considerable of the parental family that are now living. She clearing, but still gaining his subsistence by work- was born July 12, 1850, in Columbiana County, ing for others. In 1862 he built a small frame Ohio, grew to womanhood there, and during her house 18x24 feet, which was the nucleus of his early years received a good common-school edlipresent substantial farm buildings. He did not cation. She is one of those who believe that cultake possession of the little home until 1868, when, ture should be continued throughout one's mature having gained a companion, he established himself years, and she has taken lessons in music and in with little on which to begin but the house and a painting, plays well upon the organ and has some team. fine specimens of oil and water colors upon the walls For a number of years Mrs. Snyder was in very of her home. She excels in depicting the liquid poor health and was frequently obliged to visit element without which no landscape is artistically Ann Arbor for medical treatment. She finally re- complete. Her surviving brothers and sisters are covered and has since enjoyed good health and been Mary J., wife of William Myers of Eaton County; able not only to make her home attractive as do all Margaret E., wife of Benjamin Fordham of the same good housekeepers, but to add to its beauty and zounty; Henry who lives in Minnesota; Mertlin, her own culture in ways not always undertaken by whose home is in Parma, this State; Melancthon, farmer's wives. Notwithstanding the heavy ex. who lives in Minnesota; Sloan, a minister of the I i,: I ~~~~~~~~:~~~~~~0 - y^ ^^~~~L~yad~ <^^^^^^^^^F^ I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 571 --------------- -~~~~~~~~~~~~~-~~ —~~~~~ --- —--— ~ ~ ~~~~~ L --- —------— ~~~~~~~~~cl --- —-— ~~~~ Methodist Episcopal Church; Edward E., whose home is in California; and Mrs. Kate Shelton, who lives in Jackson County. In 1858 Mr. Snyder crossed the plains to Pike's Peak and went into the mines. A month's labor there was sufficient for him and he returned, bringing with him a carefully-preserved relic of his experience. It is the gold he secured, carefully tied up in a piece of blue cloth, and is a practical demonstration of the truth of the old proverb "All that glitters is not gold," as it is really iron pyrites or "fool's gold," by which so many have been made the sport of fortune. Mr. Snyder always votes the Democratic ticket and takes the interest that all good citizens should in political issues. His fine property is a standing monument to his energy, careful consideration of means and ends, and the result of well-directed efforts. - - > b-^^ir^o, en d ENRY HOWARD. A history of the mlen to whom we owe the development of Cal/ houn County, would be incomplete without a sketch of this pioneer who has been so long and so closely identified with its material and social interests. We are pleased to present his portrait to the readers of this volume and to give the main events in a life of more than ordinary interest. He is ranked among the leading farmers and stockmen of Albion Township, is one of its wealthiest citizens and most extensive landholders, and has taken a leading part in making this portion of the county one of the richest and best developed farming regions of Michigan. Our subject is a son of Samuel Howard, who was born in Norfolkshire, England, in the year 1775. He was a farmer by occupation and an overseer of large farming interests in his native land. He married Miss Mary Sizer, also a native of Norfolkshire, and they continued to live in the old country until 1830, when they came to America and settled upon a farm in Cayuga County, N. Y. The father's death which occurred in October, 1842, was caused by a fall from an apple tree. He was interested in the politics of his adopted country and voted for Andrew Jackson. He afterward became a Whig and remained a member of that party until his death. A man of considerable learning, clear intelligence and a firm friend of education, Mr. Howard's life was spent in well-doing. EHe was temperate in all his habits and the integrity of his character was unassailable. Ile was a member of the Episcopal Church and held prominent positions in that church while in England. After coming to this country both lie and his good wife identified themselves with the Methodist Episcopal Church and as long as life lasted were among its most zealous members. After the father's death the mother came to Michigan and for a time was an inmate of the home of our subject. Her declining years were pleasantly passed in a home purchased by her children in the village of Albion and she passed quietly from earth in the spring of 1865, after attaining a good old age. Ten children were born to the parents of our subject of whom six are now living. He was the ninth child of tle family and was born December 20, 1828, in England. As he was but fifteen months' old when the family came to America, he was reared under the institutions of this country and has known no other home. He was less than fourteen years of age when his father (lied and he was thrown on his own resources with but a limited common school education. IHe was a manly, selfreliant lad possessing good capabilities, much tenacity of purpose and a worthy ambition to succeed in life. In 1844 he came to Michigan with the families of his brothers, James and John, making the entire journey from Cayuga County, N. Y., to Jackson County, lMich., overland. Our subject was first employed on a farm by the Chapel Bros., (Oliver and Caleb) of Parma Township and worked for them two months at the rate of $7 a month. He then resided with a brother who lived in the dense primeval forests southwest of Eaton Rapids, where he was employed for three months in hauling timber to the mill. They were all very poor and it was only by the utmost industry and frugality that they succeeded in securing a good start. In 1845 Mr. Howard came to Albion and helped to score the timber for one of the first frame .5 7 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. houses in the township. Returning to Parma he worked upon a farm for Townsend E. Gidley for one season, then again came to Albion, this time to take up his permanent residence upon the homestead where he still lives. The land was then quite heavily timbered and covered with grubs and stones. As he was still under age he was a silent partner with his brothers in its possession. The tract of land comprised one hundred and fifty acres, and there were no buildings of any kind upon it, so that they had to commence at tile very beginning in hewing out a farm. Our subject helped to get the timber for the first house erected on this place, and this old building is now used as a granary. In 1856 he bought out the interests of his two brothers and he has since made all the improvements, which are first class. His present commodious residence was built in 1879, and other ample and conveniently arranged buildings adorn the place. Mr. Howard had a capital of $36 inherited from his father's estate when he began his career as a farmer, but he was endowed with qualities that haVe stood him in good stead. Thrift, ambition, tenacity of purpose and ability are his characteristics, and these, with the efficient help that he has received from his wife, have placed him among the wealthiest men of Calhoun County. His property includes five hundred and forty-five acres of land, mostly under a high state of cultivation,and divided into three farms, one being his homestead, another also in Albion Township, and the third in Sheridan Township. HIe owns a house and lot in the city of Albion, where he and his family resided four years, and has a brick business block on Superior Street, and a store situated opposite the stone mill. The pleasant wedded life of our subject began by his marriage to Miss Adeline Elizabeth Milliman, August 10, 1859. Mrs. Howard was born January 24, 1839, in Marengo Township, this county, and was one of the first children born in that township. She was educated in the public schools of Albion and early displayed rare scholarship.- Such rapid progress did she make in her studies that she was qualified to enter the profession of teacher before she was fourteen years of age and subsequently in her own neighborhood I - kept a select school which was highly thought of and well patronized. She has been an influence for great good, not only upon the lives of her husband and children, but also in abetting the educational, social, and religious interests of the community. Mrs. Howard is a daughter of Nicholas and Adeline R. (Reed) Milliman, natives of New York, the former born March 7, 1809, and the latter in Wayne County, May 8, 1813. They were married in New York and resided there until they came to Michigan in 1838, becoming early settlers of Marengo Township, where Mr. Milliman bought a farm. Later they removed to Sheridan Township and after a few years located upon the homestead on section 26, which still remains in the family. In 1850 Mr. Milliman went to California, where he died October 19, 1877, having been absent from his home over a quarter of a century. His wife and children carried on the farm after he left home. She still survives and is an inmate of the household of our subject, where she is surrounded by every attention that filial devotion can offer. Though she has attained the venerable age of seventy-eight years, she still enjoys good health, and is a consistent Christian, ever ready to extend a helping hand to those in trouble. Mrs. Howard is the fifth in a family of seven children of whom three are now living. She was reared in a pioneer home amid the primitive surroundings of the early years of the settlement of Southern Michigan, and in her younger days often saw the wild animals of the forests and prairies. Once she saw a big black bear walk deliberately across the farm into the woods, where it was shot the next day. During her life here she has seen in all five bears roaming wild. Mr. and Mrs. Howard are the parents of five children of whom the following is recorded: Mary, born July 31, 1860, is a graduate of Albion College; Meta, born June 13, 1863, is a graduate of Albion College and of the Womans' Medical College of Chicago; she is a physician of good repute, and is now delivering lectures throughout the State; Hibbard was born February 3, 1864; Stanton C., born December 22, 1866, married Ora E. Ladu and lives upon his father's farm; Clara Louise, who is a student of the Albion High School, was born / / /' / I' ;~~ inr" *~-:i ~-~ ~ t:j:-~: ~ —:i: PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 575 - ---- -I-` --- —-- -— I February 23, 1873, Miss Mary is a good musician and Miss Clara devotes some of her time to the study of music. Ir. Meta Howard was appointed a missionary to Corea, by the Womans' Foreign Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in September, 1887. She remained abroad two years and then was obliged to give up her work and return home on account of ill health. While abroad she visited China and spent some time in the city of Pekin. Mr. and Mrs. Howard are among our most publicspirited citizens and their names are associated with every good cause that will in any way elevate the status of township and county. They are deeply interested in politics and are stanch Republicans. Religiously they are among the leading members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he is now Trustee and has been Steward for about sixteen years, while Mrs. Howard has been President of the Ladies' Aid Society for four years, and has been a teacher in the Sunday-school. They have shown their interest in educational matters by helping to endow Albion College. Mr. Howard never fails to do all that lie can for the material welfare of his township, and is a man of sterling principles and a strong advocate of temperance. In business matters lie exercises clear judgment, shrewd foresight and excellent financial ability. loyalty, worthy of the emulation of the rising generation. Mr. Hopkins is a son of Darius Hopkins, a native of Connecticut, and he in turn was a son of Jeremiah Ilopkins, who was born in Rhode Island. The grandfather of our subject left his native State for Connecticut (luring some period of his life and carried on business as a cooper and a farmer in the town of Pomfret, Windham County. From there he removed to Otsego County, N. Y., where he farmed till death closed his mortal career. The father of our subject was married in Connecticut to Olive Luther, a native of that State, and a daughter of John Luther. Her father was a ship carpenter while he lived in Connecticut, but lie afterwards removed to Otsego County, N. Y., and gave his attention to farming. The parents of our subject began their wedded life in New York, where the father had previously been living since boyhood, lie having returned to his native State for his bride. lie engaged in farming near Cooperstown, where he had a large tract of land and there his life was ended. He was a devoted Christian and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. IIis wife also died in New York. They were the parents of nine children, of whom our subject was the second. lie of whom we write was born April 28, 1811, on his father's homestead in Otsego County, N. Y. The first eight years of his life were passed in the place of his birth. The family then removed to Richfield Springs, now celebrated as a watering place, and John L. was early set to work to assist in tile farm labors. He soon became conversant with all sorts of work and learned to harvest grain with the sickle, and in tilling the land used a wooden moldboard plow. The school that he attended was conducted on the subscription plan. He continued to be an inmate of the parental family till he was twenty-one years old and then engaged on the old farm until he came to Michigan in 1836. He traveled thither by the way of the Erie Canal and Lake Erie to Detroit and thence partly on foot and partly with a team to Marshall. Our subject found the surrounding country almost in its primitive condition, with the settlements scattering and in Marshall there was not a: OIOHN L. HOPKINS. For more than half a century the gentleman whose portrait appears on the opposite page, has been a resi(lent of Michigan. A type of the hardy, self-reliant and enterprising pioneers of this section, who laid the foundation of its growth and have been actively identified with its interests, it is with pleasure that we place on these pages a brief record of his life. He is closely associated with the development of this part of the State as the owner of a choice farm on section 30, Lee Township, and his life presents an example of unswerving integrity, persistent industry and intense 576 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. frame building in the little hamlet where is now a of Bridgewater and was in the old Bay State. He flourishing city. From that place he made his way was one of the earliest to take up arms during the to Athens where he bought from the Government Revolution and fought at the Battle of Bunker some land bordering on Notaway Creek. He Hill. IIe was made (leaf by the roar of the musfarmed there quite successfully for some years and ketry on that eventful occasion. became the possessor of four hundred acres of land. 'The father of Mrs. Hopkins was a wheelwright by Ile was crippled and was compelled to abandon occupation and removed from his native State to farming, so he sold that place and established him- Vermont, where he carried on his trade with his self in general mercantile business at Sherwood, brother in Orange County. He subsequently reBranch county. IHe carried that on some three moved to Warsaw, N. Y., and in 1848 came to years, but under the close confinement necessi- Barry County, Mich., and in the town of Assyria tated by his attention to his business he grew dys- farmed and carried on his trade until his death. peptic and had to sell out his store. IIe was of Scotcl ancestry and was a lineal deMr. Hopkins again began to farm at Sherwood, scendant of the famous Rev. James Keith, who where he had one hundred and twenty acres of was persecuted for the sake of his religion and land. In 1860 he came to Lee Township, where e came to this country in 1620. He settled at had previously bought one hundred and twenty Bridgewater, Mass., and preached the Gospel acres of land on section 30, which is the homestead for sixty years. Mrs. Hopkins' mother, whose that he now occupies. When it came into his pos- maiden name was Rebecca Chapman, was born in session it was in almost a state of nature and the im- Connecticut. Her father, Jabez Chapman, also a provements upon it are the work of his own hands. native of that New England State, was an hotel He lived on that place two years, and then removed keeper. le finally removed to Wyoming County, to a house that he had built at Olivet. He still N. Y. Mrs. Keith died in Barry County, this works his farm, however, and is profitably engaged State and she was for many years prior to her death in general farming. EIe has a fine flock of Merino a stanch member of the Baptist Church. sheep, one hundred and ten in number and some Mrs. Hopkins was the youngest but two of six full-blooded horses. He has raised some fine road- children, and was born December,13, 1819. She sters, which he has sold at $200 apiece. IHis cattle continued to live in her native State until 1848, are of the graded Durham stock. and was given snperior educational advantages in Mr. Hopkins has placed substantial improve- the High School, in the Wyoming Academy, ments on his farm which he cleared of stumps and and in the Female Seminary at Attica, N. Y. She stones and has provided it with an excellent set was only seventeen years old when she blegan of buildings. It is conveniently located within teaching, and taught in New York and also in this six and one-half miles of Marshall, is adorned with State, prior to her marriage. Her married life fine groves, a beautiful orchard, and is neatly fenced with our subject has brought to them one son, and provided with a windmill and tank. Our sub- George A., wlio married Miss Dora Hadden, and ject is a natural mechanic and has worked at car- now operates the home farm. pentering and manufacturing wagons and sledges. Mr. Hopkins has in every way proved himself He is also an inventor and has invented a useful to be a very desirable citizen since he took up his bean planter that is being quite generally used residence in Michigan, and has done good seramong the farmers. vice as a civic officer in the various important The marriage of our subject to Miss Susan positions that he has held. While in Branch Keith took place in Olivet, Eaton County, in 1858. County he was a member of the County Board of Mrs. Hopkins was born in the township of Warsaw, Supervisors one year, and in Calhoun County he Wyoming County, N. Y., and is a daughter of was Justice of the Peace. He has been School Alden Keith, a native of Bridegwater, Mass. His Inspector and Township Clerk and has been very father, whose name was Asa Keith, was also a native influential in securing the erection of school houses PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 577 and in educational matters in general. IIe is an ardent advocate of the principles of the Prohibition party. In early life he was a Whig and then a Republican. He has mingled in the political life of the State as a delegate to county and State conventions. Mr. Hopkins was one of the committee that located and appraised the damages wlien the Michigan Southern Railroad was built through Branch County. Religiously he is a sound Methodist and has letters from the Mcthodist Episco. pal Church, with which he was formerly connected. W,ILLIAM IASTINGS comes of the rare old Scotch-Irish stock, whose strength of body, mind and will have become proverbial. Of strong individuality and personal magnetism he exerts an influence that is widely felt. Like tile most of his race he is fearless and outspoken in his opinions, decided in his views, and at the same time hospitable, generous and open-hearted. IIe occupies a prominent place among the citizens of Sheridan Township, where he is engaged in farming and stock-raising. As one of tle old soldiers to whom the present peace and prosperity of the nation is so largely due he made a splendid record for bravery, daring, and devotion to the old flag. Robert Hastings, the paternal grandfather of our subject, was born in Scotland and became a resident of County Antrim, Ireland, where his son Patrick, father of our subject, was born and spent his entire life. The latter was first a linen dealer and later a farmer. He married Elizabeth Sloan, a native of the same county as himself, and daughter of William Sloan, her ancestors also having been Scotch. The minister who married Mr. Hastings and Miss Sloan also preached their funeral sermons and baptized their children. They were devout members of the Presbyterian Church, and the husband was influential in affairs of both Church and State. IIe was Platter of County Assessments for many years. His wife Elizabeth, who was born in 1810, died in 1845, and he contracted a second matrimonial alliance. Mr. Hastings was born in 1801, and died July 27, 1869. His widow survived until 1877. The children born of the first union were five in number, viz.: Hessy, widow of John McKinney; Mary, wife of D. Boyd; William, whose life history is given in these paragraphs; Elizabeth, wife of John Crawford; and Robert-the last two named being residents of the Emerald Isle. Both Grandfather IHastings and Grandfather Sloan served as yeomen in the English army. The subject of this biographical notice was born in County Antrim, Ireland, May 13, 1839, and received a good practical education in the schools of his native land. Attracted to America by what he had read and heard of the advantages this country offered to men who wished to rise in the world, he bade adieu to honle and friends and in January,!857, crossed the Atlantic and landed in New York. Ile had money enough to pay his way to Detroit, Mich., whence he walked to a point in Lenawee County, sixty miles distant from the metropolis, making the trip in one and a half (lays with the snow a foot deep. When lie arrived at his destination he began work as a farm hand at 9 Iper month. After continuing his labors there four years lie came to this county and spent one season in a similar way. Thile Civil War had begun an(d Mr. lIastings determined to enter the services of his adopted country and hazard his life in behalf of the Union. IIe therefore enlisted December 1, 1862, in tile Seventh Michigan Cavalry, being enrolled as a private in Company I, but promoted to the rank of Sergeant, ere long to that of Orderly Sergeant, and still later becoming Second Lieutenant. The regiment took part in more than eighty battles and skirmishes, and in all but one Mr. IIastings participated. At one time he captured a rebel with the aid of an empty revolver while his prisoner had a loaded one. His commission as Lieutenant was bestowed upon him for hir successful daring in capturing twenty-six rebel prisoners, on which occasion he seemed to be a host in himself. lie received a wound in the right thigh, but with characteristic pluck kept his place until a convenient season arrived in which to have his wound cared for. IIe had three horses shot from under him, but escaped any serious casualty. Until 1865 the i 578 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. regiment operated with the Army of the Potomac, 3, Sherida but it was then sent to Colorado to aid in pro- forts of ii tecting the border against the Indians. The march and the s( was made from Ft. Leavenworth to Denver, and Mr. H: the boys had several brushes with the Cheyennes and number o Arrapahoes. The regiment was disarmed and dis- tions, not mounted in Denver, in October, 1865, and thence Road Ove were obliged to find their way to the Missouri many yea River as best they could, and have never been F. & A. ] reimbursed for the money they spent in paying the the Repul teamsters who took them across the plains. Reach- mander. ing St. Joseplh, Mo., they were given Government Alliance i transportation to Jackson, Mich., where they were Subo.dina mustered out and discharged in December. officer of On the 28th of that month Mr. Iastings led to longs to t the hymeneal altar Miss Margaret Jane, youngest is indeper daughter of Samuel and Jane (Kyle) Boyd, and either par sister of William Boyd, whose sketch may be found takes a ve in this ALBUMt. The bride was born in County work, lab Antrim, Ireland, June 22, 1841, and came to believes America when nine years of age. She received a 1888 he common-school education, partly in the land of Clay Cou her birth. She possesses the quick perceptions and relduced t energetic nature of the ancestral race, and a most from sixt estimable character, and is highly regarded by lie is a 1 neighbors and acquaintances as an excellent home- )roportiol keeper, a good neighbor and a true Christian. She has been a member of the Presbyterian Church for twenty-seven years past. Having no children of their own Mr. and Mrs. Hastings adopted a threeyear oll child, who was born in Battle Creek, SAAC June 17, 1872, and who is called Charles A. Hast- starte( ings. He has been well educated and is a consist- throug ent member of the Presbyterian Church. his streng After his marriage Mr. Hastings established his habits and home in Sheridan Township, whence in March, which stoc 1879, he removed to Gove County, Kan., where he a prospero owned eight hundred acres of land. He was cultivated engaged in farming and stock-raising extensively on section during the ensuing eight years and then, having with the b lost $2,000 worth of cattle in a blizzard he traded The fal his Gove County land for a tract in Clay County, Lamont, a and changed his residence. He carried on agri- N. Y., whe cultural work there until March, 1890, when he His brothe sold out and returned to this State with the inten- 1812. The tion of spending the remainder of his days here. was a nati He has an improved farm of forty acres on section in Colonia:: i 'e S: -. *...: * ' n Township, and here enjoys the comife, the companionship of a devoted wife ociety of friends. astings has been School Director for a f years and has held other official posi-,ably those of Road Commissioner and erseer, in the latter of which he served irs. He is. a member of the Blue Lodge, I., and he belongs to the Grand Army of blic. While in Kansas he was Post CoinHe was County Lecturer of the Farmers' n Clay County, Kan.; President of the ate Alliance there, and is now presiding North Sheridan Alliance. He also belhe Patrons of Industry. Politically, he ident, bitterly opposed to wire-pulling by ty, and to all trusts, syndicates, etc. He ery active interest in all local political oring earnestly in behalf of the man he best qualified to serve the people. In was candidate for Representative from nty, Kan., on the Union Labor ticket and the Republican majority in the county teen hundred to one hundred and forty. arge, fine-looking man, with a physique nate to his intellect and mental power. LAMONT was a poor lad when he d out in the world to make his own way gh it as best he could, but he possessed in,th and good health, in his industrious sturdy capacity for hard labor, a capital )d him in good stead, and has made him )us farmer and stock-raiser whose highly,well-improved farm, favorably located 20, Sheridan Township, compares well iest in its vicinity. ther of our subject was named Asbel nd he was a native of Schoharie County, ere he was reared to the life of a farmer. ~r Benjamin was a soldier in the War of paternal great-grandfather of our subject ve of France, who came to this country 1 times and settled in the State of New PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 579 York. His son, the grandfather of our subject, was a patriotic soldier in the War of the Revolution. The mother of our subject was in her maiden days Chloe Clark, and she was a native of New York. The Clarks were of Irish and German blood. The parents of our subject were married in Schoharie County, N. Y., and shortly afterward moved to Livingston County, the same State, and there spent their remaining days on a farm. Mr. Lamont owned a farm of one hundred and fifty acres, which he thoroughly improved, and he came to be one of the prominent farmers of his section. lie was conservative in his political views, though lie gave his allegiance to the Whig party. lie and his wife are deceased. They were the parents of ten children, eight sons and two daughters, all of whom grew to maturity and five of whom are now living. For further parental history see sketch of Peter Westfall. Of the brothers and sisters of our subject now living, the following is recorded: David, aged seventy-nine years, is a resident of Sheridan Township; Lyman, who is sixty-three years old, lives in Barry County; Hiram, aged fiftysix years, lives in the State of New York; Charlotte, Mrs. Peter Westfall, lives in this township. Isaac Lamont, of whom these lines are principally written, was born September 6, 1825, in Livingston County, N. Y. He received a common-school education and gained a desirable knowledge of farming on his father's farm. He remained at home until he was nineteen years of age and then an active, wide-awake lad, started out in 1844 for the West, as Michigan was then considered. Accompanied by two companions, he set out on his journey from Springwater, N. Y., and walked to Rochester and then about forty miles beyond there before he and his friends were overtaken by the railway cars on which they rode into Buffalo. The lake was so thickly blocked with ice that a boat could not get withim three miles of the dock. So the little party proceeded on their way, making a pedestrian journey into Canada, where they took the cars on the Lake Shore Road that they might get to a place where they could embark on a steamboat as quickly as possible. At Chatham, Canada, they waited two days for a boat and then went to Detroit and from there by steamer to Monroe, whence they went on foot to Hillsdale, and then by the same mode of travel made their way to Homer. After coming to this State Mr. Lamont lived out on a farm two seasons, and worked at first for $11 a month. He was ambitious to better his education and his first winter in this State he worked lard night and mornings and Saturdays for his board, that he might be enabled to attend the Homer schools. The second summer lie worked for his former employer an: for two months in the fall was employed by Joseph Gibbs. He also worked for him during the following winter at $9.50 a month and the next summer at $11 a month. That fall his brother David came West and settled on the same section with our subject where lie now lives. Isaac then made his home with David and located eighty acres of land where his house now stands. The land consisted of oak openings, and there were plenty of grubs here. The surrounding country was sparsely settled, and neighbors were few and far between. Our subject worked constantly from daylight until dark,and wisely saved his dollars so that in time he was enabled to marry one who has been to him a worthy helpmate. HIe built a log house on his land for his bride, and they lived comfortably in that until 1879, when he replaced it by his present commodious residence at a time when building materials were cheap, at a cost of $1,050. He now has one hundred and ten acres of exceedingly fertile farming land, all of which is well improved and is in a high state of cultivation. He has here a fine orchard which he set out himself, and some small fruits. He carries on mixed farming and has interested himself to some extent in fine stock. Our subject, as we have seen, has contributed his quota toward the upbuildingof Sheridan Township, and has done here much pioneer work. At one time lie and Mr. Nathan Darling owned and operated a fine breaking outfit consisting of a twentyfour-inch plow and a team of six yoke of oxen, and with that they would break from two to three acres of prairie sod per day. During the two summers that they operated it Mr. Lament bought a yoke of oxen from Mr. Houck, who owned the Anthony farm at one time, and he broke forty acres of that place. He has ever since carried on farm 580 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I ing on his own account very actively. As was devote usual with the early settler, he passed through a about siege of ague, but with that exception his general ment. health has been good since he came to this State. and til He is a man of good habits, temperate in all things, the ext and bears a good reputation for honesty among his horses fellow-citizens. carry c The marriage of our subject with his estimable Befo wife, formerly Miss Susan Powers, was duly cele- in the brated July 3, 1847. Mrs. Lamont is a daughter of items David and Lydia Powers, natives of the State of Lockto New York, and early settlers of Homer. They were 1821, 1 the parents of four children, of whom Mrs. Lamont his fat] is the only survivor. She was born September 12, making 1825, in the State of New York, and was educhted this cot in the common schools. Her marriage with our chant, subject has been productive to them of three chil- some y dren: Caroline, Chloe and Mariette. The latter, ent coi who was born September 1, 1853, is the wife of Michig Clarence Parker. Caroline, who was born August In 1 10, 1848, is the wife of Leonard Elliott of whom ing his see sketch on another page of this volume. Chloe, forema: born February 14, 1850, married E. F. Emery, and He afte died July 16, 1880. Austin, Mr. Lamont is honorably fulfilling his duties as Port Hi a citizen. I-e has been a member of the local In 187 School Board, and is at present Road Overseer of eighty: the township. IHe has served creditably as Justice Kimble of the Peace. Socially, lie is a member of the himself Patrons of Industry, and he also belongs to the The fai: Farmers' Alliance. HIe is interested in political threw h issues anil is a stalwart supporter of the Republican his attei party. calling meantit] sixty ac crat, an( AVID LOCKTON. This popular young The man is pleasantly located on section 36, Con- name of vis Township, being in the possession of the parish o parental homestead of one hundred and sixty acres, uary 21 which is a well-developed tract of land. Upon it accom p stands a comfortable farm house, whose home-like ocean o appearance attracts the gaze of the passer-by, while from Lc adequate barns and sheds, a windmill, good collec- city she tion of fruit trees and neat fences contribute to the Her mai general effect of a well-ordered farm. The place is was bles distant from Marshall about five miles. It is whom g d to the raising of wheat, corn and stock, equal attention being paid to each departThe domestic animals are of good grade, e flocks and herds are proportioned in size to tent of the estate. There are seven head of on the place, two teams being needed to )n the farm work satisfactorily. re giving an outline of the principal events life of David Lockton we will note some regarding his parents. His father, John n, was born in Northampton, England, in )eing the son of a shoemaker. He worked at her's trade in England and learned boiler-: in this country in Detroit. After reaching untry he was variously occupied, as a mera shoemaker and a boiler manufacturer for ears. In the last named he worked for differnpanies and for the Michigan Central and an Southern Railroads. 856 John Lockton came to this county, makhome in Marshall and being employed as n of the Michigan Central Railroad sliops. *rward started the boiler shop of Kimble & in Kalamazoo, and about 1867 removed to uron, where he was foreman for three years. 0 he returned to this county, locating on acres of land, and started the boiler shop of & Austin, in Kalamazoo, working there while the farm'was carried on by the family. lure of the firm by which he was employed im out of work, and coming here he turned ntion to farming, continuing to pursue that until his death, July 14, 1886, and in the ne increasing his estate to one hundred and,res. Politically, he was an earnest Demod religiously of the Baptist faith. mother of our subject bore the maiden Annie Cunningham, and was born in the if Ardstraw, County Tyrone, Ireland, Jan5, 1828. When fourteen years old she anied her brother to America, crossing the )n a sailing vessel which was nine weeks )ndonderry to Montreal. In the Canadian remained until 1849, then came to Detroit. rriage was solemnized October 1, 1850, and ssed by the birth of eleven children, nine of,rew to maturity and still survive. They PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 581 I are: Mrs. Matilda. Langridge, living in Marshall Township; Mrs. Lucy King, whose home is in the city of Marshall; Thomas, manager of the Benjamin R. Western advertising bureau, of New York; John, railway postal clerk on the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad; Charles, who is at home; Richard, a law student in Marshall; Matthew, engaged with the Northern Pacific Railroad at Fargo, N. Dak.; the subject of this biographical sketch; and Andrew, who is assistant shipping clerk for Francis II. Leggett & Co., wholesale grocers. New York. Mrs. Lockton is a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal Church; she is still living on the homestead. Although the mother of our subject was born in Ireland she is of Scotch descent. Her parents, David and Catherine (Houston) Cunningham, were born in the Emerald Isle and occupied a farm there until 1853, when they came to America. They made their home with a son in Adrian, this State, and there Grandfather Cunningham died at the extreme age of ninety-eight years. He was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church over half a century, and was a Class-Leader many years. David Lockton was born in Port Huron, June 18, 1868, and was two years old when brought to the farm which he now owns and operates. Here he grew to manhood, pursuing the usual studies in the district school, and working on the farm at such labors as he was qualified to undertake until sixteen years old. I-e was then sent to Olivet College, but after having pursued his studies there a year he was called home on account of his father's sickness. He took upon his shoulders a large share of the farm work, in which he has been occupied almost constantly since that time. When eighteen years old he taught one term in Pennfield Township, and he is now in charge of the school in his home district. He has a natural aptitude for any work connected with the handling of tools, has a blacksmith's forge on the farm and is able to wield the implements of the trade whenever occasion demands. A sawmill on the farm was operated one winter, under the supervision of J. A. Osborne, who also owned it, and cut five hundred and eighty thousand feet. At the election when he cast his first vote Mr. Lockton was elected Township Clerk, being the youngest man who has ever served in that capacity in the county. Ile is a Democrat and was one of the County Board of Canvassers. He belongs to Subordinate Association No. 777, P. of I., whose meetings are held in District No. 3, Convis Township, and he has been Vice President of that body. Naturally keen witted, and mentally active Mr. Lockton has made good use of the educational privileges he enjoyed and keeps himself well informed regarding the progress of events. His general intelligence, the energy which he has shown in the management of the farm, and his genial, kindly nature, win to him many friends who rejoice greatly in the success that is attending his work. AVID AM. SHUART is a prominent and well ) known citizen of Albion. Hle was born in j Oswego County, N. Y., May 10, 1827. His parents, Joseph D. and Margaret (Groat) Shuart, were natives of New Jersey. They were the parents of four children, as follows: Louisa, who (ied; Martin, who enlisted on a man-of-war ship and died from the effects of exposure; David M.; and Eliza Ann, who married John Allen and settled in Cuylerville where she died. The mother of these children died in 1630 and the father subsequently married Adeline Clark. They have the following six children: Adeline, Helen, William, Kelsey, Jackson and Milton. Mr. Shuart died in Olean, N. Y., in 1878. He was a man of stanch integrity, who was universally respected by all who knew him. IHe was a sound Republican in politics and a Universalist in religion, being a stanch member of the church of that denomination. Our subject was educated in the district schools. He remained a a resident of his native State until 1852, when he came to Michigan. He was a wagon-maker by trade, and after coming here, he embarked in the business of manufacturing wagons. IHe has been successful in his career and has placed himself among the substantial men of this section of the county. The marriage of our subject with Miss Rosalthe 'O 11~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A Irr" A %"r ifrr lr",lr'hIr, 14 VAtom Ar A v "Irlrlu vT 582 'PORTRKAIT AN D BIOLR(ArAPHIUAL ALBUM. 111 --- — "11`_'"111 --- —^ --- —----------------- -.-. --- - P. Cobb, the daughter of Charles and Armenia Cobb, well-known pioneers of this county, was celebrated September 30, 1858. Mrs. Shuart was born in Essex County, N. Y., March 31, 1835, and therefore was a mere infant when her parents came to this State to build up a new home amid its pioneer scenes. She was given excellent educational advantages and at the age of seventeen years entered upon a successful professional career as a teacher. She taught three years in the schools at Albion prior to her marriage, and she by no means abandoned her profession when she entered upon her wedded life, as she taught three years afterward. She has been of great assistance to her husband and understands well the art of making home pleasant. The only grief of an otherwise happy married life has been in the death of their only child-S. Eloise. She married M. 0. Reed and died in East Saginaw, Mich., March 13, 1888. She was a member of the Methodist Church and was a true Christian. Mr. Shuart is prominently identified with the Masonic fraternity as a member of Murat Lodge No. 14, in which he has held the various offices of Secretary, Senior Warden and Junior Deacon. He is a man of high character and le and his wife are justly held in warm regard and great respect by all about them..^^g) 4 t:=-T'*=-j^- __ E-l -*S S --- -** *^-^ -p, — --- g) ~ I cepting the latter, the mother of our subject being the only one who came to the United States. The father of our subject was a blacksmith by trade. In 1850 he came by wagon to this State and settled on section 1, Athens Township, this county. Traveling in those days was slow, and the little family starting on the 12th of March were nineteen days on the road. The father located eighty acres of land upon which he thereafter made his home, improving it into a very desirable farm. March 29, 1874, death rounded out his busy and useful career.. His widow still survives at the venerable age of ninety years. Thomas Johnson gained a substantial knowledge of agriculture on his father's farm, and in the local schools obtainedl a common-school education by which he was fitted for a teacher. He taught thirteen winter terms, his experience in that line being confined to Michigan, with the exception of one term as teacher in Champaign County, Ill. He lived at home until his marriage. In 1865 he purchased forty acres of land in Athens Township, and later bought forty acres of land on section 7, Burlington Township. In 1876 he purchased forty acres on section 5, located on it and erected a good set of farm buildings. lie lost a substantial residence Jy fire which he has since replaced by a still better and more commodious dwelling. lie has added to his original purchase and now owns eighty acres where he lives and has one hundred and twenty acres of land in all, making a very desirable farm. Besides cultivating the soil our subject has for the past ten years done a good business as a feeder and shipper of stock and as a dealer in sheep. Mr. Johnson was first married October 26, 1865, to Sarah A. Palmer, a native of Burlington and a daughter of William and Anna M. (Merritt) Palmer. By that marriage three children were born, of whom two died in childhood; Lyndz D. is the name of the surviving child. After a wedded life of nearly six years duration Mrs. Johnson was called hence, dying April 16, 1871. The maiden name of the present estimable wife of our subject was Abbie S. Watkins, and she is a daughter of Alanson and Pamelia (Griswold) Watkins. Mr. and Mrs. Johnson have two children, named Coral I ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ I — HOMAS D. JOHNSON brings an intelligent and well-trained mind to bear upon his work as an agriculturist, and lie is found to be a progressive farmer of his district. He is a Canadian by birth, born in the town of Dumfries, Ontario, April 22, 1838. He is a son of William T. and Janet (Deans) Johnson. His father was born in November, 1795, in Orange County, N. Y., while his mother was born near Hyac, Scotland, August 10, 1801. Her parents were Thomas and Mary (Scott) Deans. The father died in his native Scotland, and the mother came to America with her six children and located in Canada. The names of her brothers and sisters were: Ellen, Walter, Mary, James and Margaret, all of whom are married ex ~';: C; ~1- ~..I:~.~,' .:~~:i?::~ Y;i; i cli;:*1 1 ?:~ -*~; 5~*,., Fr; i.;-s~c';c;T ~;1~:?*:_~u: ~~, ~: ~, "' " s-g i~ '': ''; 'I. i: - x ~t'::: I L-:-:,XCY:3S!9- 1 A,,,, ' -~r- -Ile"~1E~laPWsdit:-::~:: b~I,Csrr;~:: ir-. I 71~l'i.i,: * ~ IY IIIYBDBlrPsl-Cb'rrr- ---- —C~ ----F -i' iil;i i i;~a-:i An —~~~ llY f /-^7~~~~~~~~o // ' '7 0 <,. 4,, i/ / t/^/ul^- cX(^. um^A;; r-5~f ff::^ IL I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 587 — — - ------— --- J. and Dean S. Our subject and his wife are among the most intelligent and progressive people in the community and always cordially support all plans devised for its advancement. Mr. Johnson is prominent in local politics, he being an ardent supporter of the Democratic party. He has made a valuable civic officer, having served four terms as a member of the County Board of Supervisors, and he has been School Inspector, and wheneverin public life has manifested a keen desire to so manage the affairs of his office as to promote whatever will be for the highest good of his township or county. IUSTIN S. JOHNSON, M. D. Those who seek by study and patient research the means of alleviating the miseries to which all flesh is heir are ofttimes met by opposition and even calumny during their investigations, but when their theories have been proven and their work tested, the world places their names high on its roll of honor. There are great numbers of earnest, thoughtful physicians throughout this broad land, who have devoted much time to scientific research and who have won an honorable name among those to whom they have been benefactors. Battle Creek is the home of many reputable physicians, none perhaps better known than he whose name introduces this biographical notice. Dr. Johnson is a son of C. B. and Louisa (Higgins) Johnson, who came from Massachusetts, their native State, to Michigan in 1844. Their first home in the West was made in Bellevue, where the son of whom we write was born December 16, 1845. The father, who was a.carpenter and joiner, removed to Battle Creek in 1853 and died here in 1868. He left to his children the heritage of an honorable name-the best legacy one can have. The widowed mother survived until 1880, dying full of years and honor. The parental family consisted of three children-George [I., a traveling salesman whose home is in Chicago; Austin.S., the subject of this sketch; and Emily, who die: at the age of six years. After having completed a literary course of study, young Johnson took up that of medicine with Dr. S. Rogers of Battle Creek pursuing his office reading from 1865 to 1867 inclusive. He then attended lectures at the Cleveland (Ohio) Homoeopathic Medical College, from which he was graduated in the spring of 1868, immediately after which he opened an office at his former home. For nearly a quarter of a century he has been engaged in practice here and has proven much more successful than falls to the lot of many medical men. He has recently added a new curative agent-the Electro Therapeutic Cabinet-which combines all the advantages of the celebrated Hot Springs batls of Arkansas with the beneficial results obtained from electricity. The workings of the cabinet are always under perfect control and the current can be gauged to suit all cases, thus removing the most serious objection to electricity-that it presents a shock to the nervous system. Dr. Johnson was married in Sandusky, Ohio, October 14, 1869, to Miss Georgia Smith, daughter of George Stillman and Elizabeth Page (Bradley) Smith of Maine. Mrs. Johnson is a noble-hearted woman of high culture, and skillfully assists her husband in his treatments. He has an extensive practice, much greater than he can attend to without assistance, and in his elegant offices the most approved of modern apparatus is found in great variety. To say that the facilities for the care of patients are unrivalled in this part of the State is high praise, but no greater than is due. Dr. Johnson is a member of the Masonic order, the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and Scottish Clan. Elsewhere in this volume the reader will notice lithographic portraits of Dr. Johnson and his estimable wife. HARLES H. GILLETT. This gentleman has spent nearly his entire life in Clarence Township, and enjoys the distinction of having been the first white child born here. As boy and man he has been largely identified with the agricultural interests of the section, and (luring the late Civil War he was one who represented the 588 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. township in the ranks of the Union army. He devotes himself with zeal and intelligence to general farming, and while advancing his monetary interests does not neglect the duties he owes to society, but joins in the social and political movements in which his judgment concurs. Before giving the principal facts in the life of Mr. Gillett, it may be well to make some mention of the circumstances under which his early life was passed. His father, Benjamin R. Gillett, was born in Sullivan County, N. Y., in 1815, and was a lifelong farmer. His mother, formerly Lydia C. Bennett, was born in New Jersey in 1817. The couple were married in Western New York and shortly afterward started for Michigan, arriving in this county in 1837 and setting up their home in Clarence Township. Eighty acres of new land on sections 25 and 26, was secured by Mr. Gillett, whose first effort was to clear a space and build a log house. As fast as possible he removed the timber from the entire tract, often extending his labors into the night, as his circumstances made it necessary for him to work for others during the day. When he reached his new home he had but half a dollar, but he and his devoted wife had the true pioneer spirit and looked forward hopefully to better times. Mr. Gillett used to work all day for a bushel of potatoes and carry them home at night upon his back, this being at times the entire stock of provisions in the house. His nearest neighbor was five miles distant, and after a day's work for him he would return home to labor for himself. His good wife worked as hard as he, and little by little their circumstances improved until they were able to live comfortably, and finally to leave a good property to their heirs. When they made their settlement here Indians were numerous, and many a time would the red men visit the house and compel the wife to give up the last piece of bread she had. The first crop of wheat —three acres —was literally eaten up by deer and ravages were committed by other denizens of the forest. After his boys were large enough to help, Mr. Gillett used to run a breaking plow with a beam 7x10, and did breaking for settlers within a radius of twenty miles. The plow was drawn by seven or eight yoke of cattle. He drew his wheat with oxen to Ann Arbor and sold it for forty cents per bushel. He added to his original farm until at one time he had five hundred acres. He won the respect and good-will of his fellows by his consistent life, as did his companion. Both belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the husband was Class-Leader and Sundayschool Superintendent for many years. He voted the Republican ticket. For a long period he was Justice of the Peace. The parental family included six sons and daughters, four of whom are living at this writing: Sarah A., widow of Levi Knapp, has one child and lives in Eaton County; Mary E., wife of Charles Cuatt, occupies the old homestead and has five children; Lucelia J. married Billings Eldrege, has two children and is a resident of Parma. The subject of this biographical notice is the second of the living members of the family. The father breathed his last January 20, 1877, and the mother February 6, 1889. The natal day of Charles H. Gillett was April 7, 1842, and his earliest recollections are of the old log house that sheltered him (luring his entire boyhood. He attended school in the old Bell schoolhouse, the first built in the township, whose primitive construction corresponded with the surroundings. When nineteen years old he began life for himself, marrying and settling with his father. He worked on the homestead from that time until 1880, with the exception of the months spent in the army. He then removed to Branch County, but after a sojourn of two years came back to Calhoun and settled on section 14, Clarence Township. Here lie has forty acres of well-improved land which is kept above the average of productiveness by means of wise nmethods of cultivation, and the rotation of crops which experience has demonstrated to be the best. The pleasant residence was built nine years ago at a cost of $1,000. The name of Charles H. Gillett was enrolled in the Seventh Michigan Cavalry, August 29, 1864, and he who bore it was attached to Company E. Ite joined his regiment in the Shenandoah Valley and took part in the engagement at Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, together with many skirmishes, going through them all without a scratch. t. --. --- --- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 589 -- --- = In March, 1865, when the regiment broke up winter quarters, he was in the first engagement of the new campaign. When peace was declared he took part in the Grand Review at Washington, and was then sent to Ft. Leavenworth, Kan., where he received his discharge July 15, 1865. The lady who has been the cherished companion of Mr. Gillett since September 1, 1861, bore the maiden name of Lavina Colestock. She is the twelfth of the thirteen children born to David and Charlotte (Behl) Colestock, and opened her eyes to the light in Columbiana County, Ohio, June 4, 1844. She received a common-school education in her native State, whence she accompanied her parents to this county in 1858. Both parents were born in Pennsylvania, the one in 1800 and the other in 1810. After their marriage they went to Ohio and took their place among the pioneers of Columbiana County. They cheerfully endured the privations and hardslips that were inseparable from life on the frontier, and by clearing and improving a goodly tract of land aided in the progress of civilization. Selling out they came hither as before stated, and located in Clarence Township wliere Mr. Colestock died in October, 1884. Mrs. Colestock still survives at the age of eighty-one years, and is quite vigorous and hearty. She is one of those motherly women whose nature reaches out beyond the walls of her own home to all who are in distress, and her care of the sick lias been great. She is a consistent member of the United Brethren Church, to which her deceased husband belonged. The record of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Gillett is as follows: William H., born June 10, 1862; Luella C., December 15, 1864; Jennie L., May 29, 1867; Reuben A., May 9, 1870; Blanche L., January 19, 1877. The eldest married Sarah Steel, has two children and lives in Clarence Township; Luella is the wife of Riley Ely, has five children and their home is in Branch County; William was a student of Albion College, and Reuben is now attending a commercial college at Ypsilanti; Blanche is a student in the Springport Iigh School. All the daughters display musical ability and have been given opportunity to develop their talents. Jennie has learned dressmaking and I, is quite capable of supporting herself at that business. All are actively interested in Sunday-school work. The father belongs to the Grand Army Post at Springport, was formerly Quartermaster and is now Junior Vice Commander. He takes an intelligent interest in political issues and never fails to vote the Republican ticket. A man of good habits, industrious and law-abiding, he is held in good repute for his character and his works. ON. MARTIN HAVEN, a resident of Albion, has been for many years one of the most extensive stock dealers of Southern Michigan. He is a representative citizen of Calhoun County, a well-known business man, is prominent in its public life, and is conspicuous in its social and religious circles. Our subject was born at Hemlock Lake, Livingston County, N. Y., July 21, 1823. His father was Mairtin Haven, Sr., a native of Massachusetts, coming of good old New England stock, and the youngest of seven sons. When a young man he followed the sea. After abandoning the life of a sailor he settled at Geneva, N. Y., and was there united in marriage to Elizabeth Renrich, a native of Scotland, who came to this country when she was a mere child. Their first settlement was at HemlOck Lake, Livingston County, N. Y. Seven children were born to them, named as follows: John, Isaac, Elizaleth, Elanora, Moses, Martin, Jr., and Harriet J. John was a carpenter and builder. He went to Jackson, Miss., where he was killed. Isaac came to Michigan in an early day and settled upon the place upon which Mr. Iaven is now living within the city limits of Albion. In 1851 he crossed the plains to California, first locating at Hangtown, where he engaged in mining. In 1856 he returned home by the way of New York, but went back to California in 1859. He is at present living in Albion. He was married in 1843 to Amy Lyon Parsons, who died in 1850. He married for his second wife Miss Ann Coy, by whom le had one child, Don D., who died at the age of thirty 3 ears. I~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I I r 590 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. — ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Elizabeth married Adams Gragg and they settled in Livonia, N. Y., where she died. Elanora is the widow of R. B. Loomis, who served in the late Civil War and was killed at Atlanta. After their marriage they had settled at Avon, N. Y., and later came to Michigan. She is now a resident of Indianapolis. Mr. and Mrs. Loomis were the parents of six children, namely: John, their eldest son, who was killed on the firing of the first salute when the first soldiers left Indianapolis for the seat of war; William; Harriet; Amy J.; Ella; and Nellie. Moses Haven is a resident of Calhoun County, of which he was an early settler and is a prominent farmer. Martin, Jr., is our subject. Harriet was the wife of D. F. Kerny, both of whom are now deceased, the former having died from tile effects of his army life. They were the parents of the following sons: LeGrand, George, Bert N., Oral 0., who died when young, and Etna, a resident of Michigan. In 1851 Mr. and Mrs. Haven Sr., came to Michigan and spent their last years in this State, he dying in 1861 and she in 1863. They were highly respected people and were among the most consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In early life Mr. Haven was a Democrat, but later he joined the Republican ranks and became one of the stanchest supporters of the party. The Hon. Mr. Haven, of whom this biographical review is written, had but very few educational advantages in his youth, as his parents were poor but he embraced every'opportunity to learn. He used to build the fires at school for the ashes, which he sold to buy paper and ink. At night, after he was through with his day's work, he would study by the light of the fire in the old-fashioned fireplace, lying on the floor with his book in hand. On Saturdays, when school did not keep, he went into the woods to cut cord-wood for twenty-five cents a cord. At the age of sixteen years he was apprenticed to the trade of a wagonmaker and was to receive $30 for the first year, $35 the second year, $40 the third year, $45 for the fourth year, and from those small sums of money was to buy his own clothing. After working one year, he bought his time by paying $50 to the man to whom he was apprenticed for his indentures. July 3, 1843, Mr. Haven was married to Esther White, a daughter of Abner and Phoebe White. For more than forty years they passed an unusually happy wedded life and then death invaded their pleasant home and removed the wife and mother October 6, 1889. She was a woman of many fine attributes, whom to know was to love and respect. She filled in a perfect measure the relations of wife, mother, and friend, and her departure was greatly mourned far beyond her home circle. She was a Christian in every sense of the word and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her union with our subject was blessed to them by these five children: Harriet D., who married W. H. Ostram, and died in October, 1887; Jennie; Amy L., wife of Curtis R. Botsford, of Calhoun County; Francis E., of Albion; and May E., wife of W. A. Collins, of Albion. In 1851 our subject came to Michigan as he shrewdly foresaw that in this young and rapidly growing State he would find a broader field for his energies. He located at Albion, and has ever since been closely identified with its interests and has been an important agent in its upbuilding. lie has been largely engaged in buying and shipping live stock for many years, and probably no man in Central Michigan has done more business il that line than he. At the same time while carefully managing his affairs he has been active in the public and political life of this section of the State, being a stanch Republican. He was appointed Postmaster of Albion, by President U. -. Grant, his first commission being dated June 20, 1875, and served the people faithfully in that capacity for eleven years. In 1867 and 1868 he represented his district in the Legislature, and (lid some effective work in securing the passage of some special acts. Mr. Haven is a friend of education and has been one of the trustees of Albion College for a number of years, and is one of the committee on the local endowment fund. He has been Alderman, and for the past three years has been Supervisor of the Third Ward. He is Chairman of the Building Committee on Public Buildings, and superintended the erection of the county building for the indigent insane and imbecile, all the money for that purpose 0 4 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -593 -— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I passing through his hands. At the time of the war he assisted in raining recruits, and when the boys came home and wanted money his purse was always generously open to them, and in that way he has distributed hundreds of dollars. IIe is one of the leading members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, where his family worships. At the time the church was rebuilt he supervised the work. Our subject has gained much of Itis education by experience and travel, and is a gentleman of much culture. He is widely known and honored for his high character, rare ability and generous, genial nature. His public record is without stain and his private life is irreproachable. As a legislator, and in the various other important offices of which he has been an incumbent, he has shown the same sagacity and keen insight into the best business methods that characterize his management of his personal affairs, and his public spirit has been potent in promoting various enterprises for the benefit of his city and county. AMBLE CRAWFORD. For a quarter of a [ century Mr. Crawford has been numbered among the practical, thrifty farmers of Lee Township, and (uring that time has placed his farm, which is located on sections 3 and 5, under admirable cultivation and good improvement. From a sterling Scotch ancestry he has inherited those traits of character that have made him a useful citizen wherever he has dwelt. We invite the attention of the reader to his portrait on the opposite page and to the following brief outline of the main events in his life. The father of our subject, whose given name was Robert, was born in County Antrim, Ireland. lIe was a son of John Crawford, who was born of Scotch parentage either in Scotland or in Ireland, and during his active life was a farmer in the latter country. He in turn was a son of James Crawford, who was a native of Scotland, and emigrated from there to County Antrim in early manhood. He there entered upon a prosperous career as a farmer. The father of our subject was a well-to-do farmer = and very successful in agriculture. He died on his native isle at a ripe old age. He was a stanch defender of the Presbyterian faith. The maiden name of the wife of Robert Crawford was Rose McEllheron, and she was likewise a native of County Antrim, Ireland. Her father, Duncan McElheron, was also or Irish birth, while his father was a native of Scotland. The former was a farmer and also carried on the trade of a tanner. The parents of our subject lived to be very old, the father dying at the age of eighty-four years and the mother when ninety-one years old. Gamble Crawford is the third of ten children and was born near Ballymena, County Antrim, Ireland, August 5, 1809. He attended the local schools of his native place, and at one time was under the instruction of William Arthur, father of ex-President Arthur, going to school to him over seventy years ago. lie remained an inmate of the home of his parents till he was twenty-nine years old, when he became private secretary for an attorney in whose employ he remained one year. He then returned home and remained on his father's farm until he came to America in 1838, leaving old Ireland on the 26th day of May, and sailing from Belfast in the brig "' Statira," a Yankee vessel from Maine. After a tedious voyage of five and one-half weeks Mr. Crawford landed in New York, July 3, and from there made his way to Pittsburg, whence he went by stage to Hudson, Ohio, where a brother of his was living. After coming to this country, Mr. Crawford worked out by the month for some five years and at the end of that time, having prudently saved his earnings he bought a farm in Riehford, Summit County, Ohio, upon which he located an aactively engaged in improving it. He learned the trade of a cooper and while farming, to some extent carried on a good business at his trade. In 1865 he sold his property in Ohio, and crossing the State line, came to this county, and has since made his home here. The place upon which he resides and which comprises one hundred and twenty acres of fine farming land, Mr. Crawford purchased for $15 an acre. This was considered a good bargain as the land was worth much more than that, and since it came 594 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBSUM. 594 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ into his possession he has greatly increased its value by the numerous good improvements that he has placed upon it. He has fenced his land into fields, which are well watered by springs, and in addition he has built a comfortable dwelling, a good barn 30x40 feet in dimensions, and other suitable buildings. Everything about the place is in good order and indicates excellent management on the part of the owner. He has devoted his time to raising wheat and has also given attention to stock raising, especially to horses and to sheep of the Merino breed. He now rents his farm to his sonin-law and has retired somewhat from active business to enjoy the closing years of a long and busy life surrounded by the comforts procured by his early labors. April 8, 1815, nearly forty-six years ago, Mr. Crawford and Miss Amy Rose were wedded, and theirs has been a pleasant domestic life during all these years, and has been greatly blessed to them by the birth of seven children, of whom the following is recorded: Rose married Levi B. Sibley, of Mason, Ingham County, Mich.; Robert, who died in February, 1882, was educated in the college at Olivet and at Battle Creek, and was a teacher and Township Superintendent of Schools; James is an ice merchant and real estate and loan agent at Reno, Nev.; Maria and Marinda are professional nurses at the St. Helena Health Institute in Napa County, Cal:; Amy married Daniel Bair, who is managing our subject's farm; Ira is a farmer in Cass County, N. D. Mrs. Crawford was born in St. Lawrence County, N. Y., February 12, 1824. Her father, Daniel Rose, was a native of Massachusetts and was a son of the Rev. Solden Rose. Daniel Rose went to St. Lawrence County, N. Y., when a young man and was engaged there as a farmer and also as a cooper. He was a fine mechanic and could make anything in wood. He passed his last days in Ohio. Mrs. Crawford's mother was Polly (Grandy) Rose, and she was born at Rutland, Vt. Her father was also a native of Vermont, though he spent the last part of his life in St. Lawrence County, N. Y. He was a patriotic soldier in the Revolutionary War, as was also her grandfather Grandy. The mother of Mrs. Crawford died in Cuyahoga County, Ohio in 1833. Mrs. Crawford was the third in a family of four children and was born in New York. She was eight years old when the family moved to their pioneer home in Cuyahoga County, Ohio, making the journey with a team. She remained there till she went to Summit County, Ohio. Her education was gained in the subscription schools of the early days of Ohio, which were conducted in log houses with slab benches and other rude furnishings. In 1868 our subject revisited his early home in Ireland, landing there after a pleasant voyage and greatly enjoyed his sojourn of about three months duration amid the scenes of his childhood. He is one of the sturdy Democrats of this vicinity. At one time he was a Mason. Religiously, he is of the Presbyterian faith, but there being no church of that denomination here, he united with the Methodist Episcopal Church, and ever since been one of its most faithful and consistent members. LBERT N. SPAULDING is one of the old settlers of this county and is deserving of much credit for his hard work in developr/l ing one of its good farms and so helping forward the growth of Emmet Township, where said farm is pleasantly located on section 29. He was born in Broome County, N. Y., September 30, 1820. Jacob Spaulding was the name of his father and he was also born in that county, his birth taking place March 3, 1790, in the town of Leslie. His father is also supposed to have been a native of the Empire State where he was engaged for many years as a farmer. It is thought that he took part in the Revolutionary War, though it is not known for a certainty. He died in Broome County at a venerable age and our subject remembers attending his funeral and being carried to the grave by his father. Jacob Spaulding resided in the home of his birth until he attained his majority. Then with his elder brother, Linus, he went to that part of New York in which the land of the Holland Purchase Company was located, and they jointly purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land. After spending one PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 595 — ~~~~~~ --- —~~~~~~~~~ --- —-----------------— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ --- —'~~~~~~~~ year in its improvement our subject's father sold out his interest to his brother and returned to his native town. IIe was there married, February 2, 1815, to Miss Samantha Allen and they had the following children. three sons and two daughterJohn A., Rachael L., Albert N., Nirum L. and Fannie C. The father of our subject accumulated some property in his native State and at one time owned a farm of one hundred and fifty acres which he operated until he made up his mind to try life on the virgin soil of Michigan, when he sold it. In the month of May, 1835, he in company with Daniel Thurston and George Stickney came to Calhoun County and he located eighty acres of land on sections 28 and 29, Emmet Township. He then returned to New York and settled his business affairs and May 1, 1836, started on his journey back to his new home in the wilds of Michigan, bringing his family with him. The journey was made by team to Buffalo, thence by boat to Detroit and from that city to their destination by team where the little family arrived after traveling twenty-three days. Mr. Spaulding was doing good work as a pioneer in the development of the county when his life was brought to an untimely end by his death October 15, 1840. He was lamented not only by the members of his household but by his fellow pioneers, who honored him for his great personal worth. In politics he was an old line Whig and he took a great interest in the log cabin campaign in 1840, whereby the grandfather of our present President was elected the head of the United States Government. IHe took part in the big demonstration at Kalamazoo and drove a four-horse team in the procession that paraded the streets in honor of the hero Tippecanoe. He was a firm Universalist in his religious belief, as was also his good wife. She was a kindhearted woman and bore well her share of the pioneer hardships. Her last days were comfortably passed in the home of our subject, where she died at the age of seventy-three years. He of whom this life history is written was in his sixteenth year when he came to Michigan with his parents. He was educated both in the district schools of New York and this State. He was a pupil in the first school ever organized in his neighborhood, during the winter of 1836-37, which was held in an old log building that had been constructed and used for a stable and was subsequently made to do duty as an educational institution. It was furnished with slab benches and the school was conducted on the subscription plan. Mr. Spaulding continued to go to school three winters after coming here and made the most of his educational advantages. The country was then new and very sparsely settled aud there were only a few log cabins within a radius of several miles of the humble pioneer home of the family. Indians were abundant and frequently came to the cabin where our subject lived, and on one occasion he took his dog and helped an old Indian to catch a deer that he had crippled, the savage giving him a quarter of the venison for his services. Deer and wolves were abundant and the latter often made night hideous with their howls while prowling about the cabin. Mr. Spaulding was so busily employed in clearing up the farm and in sowing and reaping the harvests that he had but very little time to hunt and he never shot but one deer. In his youth he broke up a good deal of land and has plowed the sod with six yoke of oxen and a span of horses, all attached to one plow. Our subject assisted his father until he was twenty-four years of age and also worked out by the day considerably until that period. He then became more independent and in 1843 bought his present farm of eighty acres, moving onto it in 1846. It was a tract of land as wild as if first from the hands of nature and it has been the work of our subject to develop and make it what it is to-day with its well tilled fields from which rich harvests are reaped and with its fine class of buildings. He has increased the acreage of his farm by further purchases and now owns one hundred and thirty-five acres of choice land all in a body. In the year 1846 Mr. Spaulding and Miss Polly Ganoung were united in marriage, which has been one of mutual helpfulness and has furnished to the community where it has been passed an example of true wedded happiness. For forty-four years they have traveled life's road together and among the blessings vouchsafed to them are their nine chil 596 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -—;- -- dren, eight of whom are living, namely: Eliza, Mrs. Brininstool; Linus; Nettie, Mrs. Berry; Melissa, Mrs. Brown; Mary; Lavina, Mrs. Cole; Emma and Florence. Maggie is the name of the daughter that died; her death occurred October 13, 1889. Mr. Spaulding's life career has distinguished him as a man of industrious habits, combined with honorable and conscientious dealings, who occupies a worthy place among the pioneers of this county. He and his wife are kind hearted, hospitable people, who are looked upon by their neighbors and the many friends they have gathered around them during the long years that have passed since they established a home here, with affection and respect. Mr. Spaulding is a pronounced adherent of the Republican party and has always taken an interest il its proceedings. ILES RORABACHER, M. l)., is one of the foremost physicians of the Homceopathic / School of Medicine now practicing in Calhoun County. He is a resident of Battle Creek, where he enjoys an extensive general practice, and is held in great esteem as a citizen. He is a native of this State, born at Ann Arbor, January 28, 1837. He comes of good old Revolutionary stock. The family originated in Germany, and came to America in Colonial times prior to the Revolution, in which his grandfather, John Rorabacher, took part. He wintered with Washington at Valley Forge, and suffered all the terrible hardships that the Continental army had to undergo at that point during that terrible winter. He was a great admirer of Washington, who was his beau ideal of a man. The grandfather of our subject was wounded two or three different times in the various battles in which he took part and carried British bullets in his flesh until the time of his death, which occurred near Auburn, N. Y., at the venerable age of ninety-eight years. Our subject is a son of John C. and Sarah (Coon) Rorabacher, natives of New York. His father won a distinguished military record as a soldier in the War of 1812, in which he served as Orderly Ser- I geant. He following farming for his life calling, although he bad been brought up in the foundry works, owned and managed by his father at Auburn, N. Y. In early manhood he removed to Penn Yan, and thence to Washtenaw County, Mich., in 1837. He located near Ann Arbor among the early pioneers of that section of the county, and there his honorable and useful career as a farmer was brought to a close by his death in 1858. To him and his wife were born ten children, five of each sex, of whom the Doctor was the ninth in order of birth. Six of them are now living: Martin who occupies the home place; Henry, who lives near Whitmore Lake; and our subject. The daughters, Mrs. Jane McCormick, of Ann Arbor; Mrs. Sarah Drake, of Saline, Washtenaw County; and Mrs. Lizzie A. Preston, of Detroit. Miles Rorabacher obtained the preliminaries of his education in the district school, and in the Normal at Ypsilanti, from which he was graduated in 1857. Ile thus had a solid foundation upon which to base his subsequent education in medicine. He became a student in the medical department of the State University, from which he was graduated in 1862,and he subsequently entered the Homoe-pilthic College in the city of New York, where lie received his diploma in 1865. The Doctor entered upon the practice of his profession at Litchfield, Hillsdale County, shortly after leaving college in 1865, and during his eighteen years residence at that point acquired an extensive practice, the largest of any physician in that county during that time. From there he came to Battle Creek in 1883, and has been a resident of this city ever since, having rhere a good general practice. He is a member in high standing of the Medical Institute of Homeolpathy and of the State Medical Society. He is prominently connected with the Young Men's Christian Association, of which lie is Vice-President, and his influence is felt in its every good work. He is identified with the Masonic order, and is a member of the Knights of the Maccabees, and he belongs to the Royal Templars of Temperance. Politically he is Republican. Dr. Rorabacher and Miss Julia A., daughter of Philemon C. Murray, of Ann Arbor, were married March 30, 1857. Two children have been born to L.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~(2 WI-n t < Ad 76. 2 ^^fo 0I ~c~ ~Z~ t c PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 599' them: Genevieve, wife of Dr. Landon, of Augusta; and Fred, who is attending Wesleyan College at Delaware, Ohio. Dr. and Mrs. Rorabacher are well known in social circles where they have many warm friends. They are also among the leading memlers of the Presbyterian Church. 7 OHN B. PARKER, a well-known farmer and stock-raiser of Battle Creek Township, has been active in forwarding the agricultural interests of the community for many years, and has a high reputation for skill and a thorough knowledge of every branch of his calling, which Horace Greeley aptly termed the "noblest of professions." He is the son of a pioneer family of Southern Michigan, grew with the growth of this section of the country, where he has passed nearly all of his life, and since attaining manhood has placed himself among the best citizens of this connty. Our subject was born in Delaware County, N. Y., January 7, 1832. His larents, Aaron and Roxana (Backus) Parker, were farmers of that State until their removal to Michigan in territorial days, when they became pioneer farmers of this State. The family made Ann Arbor the first stopping place, but after a short stay there pushed on through the primeval forests and over the virgin prairies to Jackson. Fifteen years were passed in that locality when the parents again made a move, and accompanied by their children, came to Calhoun County, which they found still in the hands of its sturdy, hard-working pioneers, though much had been done to redeem it from the wilderness. Locating in Battle Creek Township, the father bought eighty acres of land and a mill privilege. This was a good investment and after operating a sawmill two years, he sold it at a good price, and also disposed of his land at a good advance on the original cost. He then bought eighty acres of land on section 32, Battle Creek Township, and on that he made his home until his wife's death in 1851 while yet in the midst of her usefulness. His last days were passed in the home of the son of whom we write. He was a man of industrious habits, gifted with enterprise, thrift, prudence and other excellent traits by which lie rendered good service in laying the solid foundation of the enduring prosperity of the southern section of Michigan. In politics he was a stanch Republican. Religiously both he and his faithful wife were members of the Baptist Church at South Battle Creek, and in the cemetery there they are now peacefully reposing after life's conflicts. WVe now turn our attention to the son of these worthy people who forms the principal subject of this sketch. I-e was but little more than three years old when his father and mother brought him from his native State to Michigan, and therefore he can scarcely have any recollections of any other home. He grew up surrounded by pioneer influences, and obtained such education as the times and the district schools then afforded. He has added to it, as he is a constant reader and keeps well-informed in current literature and the topics of the day. From early manhood he has devoted himself to agricultural pursuits, and his fine, wellstocked farm, with its substantial class of buildings and many valuable improvements, attests to the success that has resulted from his systematic method of conducting his business. He is particularly interested in raising horses, making Percherons a specialty, and has won such a high reputation in this county as a successful breeder of them, that his horses always find a ready sale at a good price at an early age. For more than thirty-five years our subject has been blessed with the companionship of a wife who has been to him all that the name implies. They were wedded July 25, 1854, and to them have been born the following six children: Emerette, who died at the age of sixteen; Albert who died in infancy; Adelbert, who lives with his parents; Ella C., who died in infancy; John IH., who died at the age of fourteen years; and Robert who is still under the parental roof. I-e is one of the most energetic and enterprising young men of the community and is one of the foremost apiarists of the town, having over seventy colonies of bees; last year he obtained from them over two tons of honey, which commanded a high price in the markets on account 600 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. of its superior quality. He is an expert in caring for his tiny charges, as he has made a careful and intelligent study of the little honey-maker, and devotes his entire attention to them in their season, giving the rest of the time to operating a fruit evaporator. He reads all the bee journals, and takes a deep interest in the proceedings of the State Bee-keeper's Association, attending all its sessions. Mrs. Parker's maiden name was Nancy Hyde, and she is a daughter of Samuel and Polly Ann (Bates) Hyde, natives respectively of Vermont and New York, and both of English descent. They came to Michigan when it was a veritable wilderness and were early pioneers of Macomb County. Mr. Parker possesses a keen intellect, a broad outlook on life, and is a close observer, carefully watching the signs of the times, and being thoroughly in sympathy with movements of a political, social or religious order. He has been a straight Republican since tie war, and is a firm advocate of the principles promulgated by his party. He has held various school offices; not for the sake of tile emoluments of office, but that he might help to increase the educational advantages of the local schools. He has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at West Le Roy, and his wife has belonged to that church since she was eighteen years old. They are fine people, whose pleasant social and moral qualities have made them an influence for good in this community during the many years that they have dwelt here. A lithographic portrait of Mr. Parker accompanies this biographical notice. NDREW W. CHIPMAN. An established reputation as a tiller of the soil has been t won by Mr. Chipman and a fine piece of property is in his possession. The estate comprises two hundred and twenty-two acres in Tekonsha Township, eighty acres being on section 21, and the balance on section 9. His residence is on the latter section, and in one of the most beautiful locations to be found in-the county, or indeed in this part of the State. The home is a new frame house, two stories in height, of modern design and i I good workmanship, and surrounded by the adornments and conveniences of a pleasant rural life. The barn is on the opposite side of the road and the various granaries and sheds that are needed by Mr. Chipman are conveniently disposed. At harvest time abundant crops are reaped, good machinery being used in all the work, and at all times fine stock may be seen in the pastures and yards. Mr. Chipman was born in Kalamazoo County, January 4, 1838, and comes of the old New England stock whose thrifty ways are not to be excelled. His father, Hiram Chipman, in his early (lays devoted his attention to farming and continued the vocation durjng his entire life, adding to it some land speculation. He married Sally Doyle and in the year 1837 established his home in this State. From Detroit to Kalamazoo County they traveled with an ox-team and buying two hundred acres of land in Pavilion Township, they built a log house and took up the work needed to bring the tract under cultivation. Mr. Chipman paid $2,000 for his new farm, obtaining it from a land speculator. lIe did not live to see it thoroughly developed, but died in May, 1838. His wife followed him to the silent land in 1845. Their family consisted of four sons and two daughters, all of whom are yet living except the firstborn, Jane. Our subject is the youngest child, the others being Mrs. Adeline Sutherland, whose home is on a farm in South Dakota; Azel, who occupies the homestead; Amos, who has been in tile employ of the Government since 1861 and lives in Washington, D. C.; Milan, whose home is in Battle Creek. In the old-fashioned log schoolhouse of his native county he. of whom we write conned his lessons. At the age of fourteen years he began working on a farm by the month in the summer, spending the winter in school. His first home after growing to manhood was on a farm in Brady Township, Kalamazoo County, where he bought one hundred and twenty acres of partly improved land. Three weeks later he sold out and bought in Pavilion Township of the same county, where he remained three years. At the end of that time he sold, and bought the tract upon which he is now living, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 601 Here he has carried on general farming and stockraising in so intelligent a manner as to produce good results both as regards the financial outcome and his standing among others of his class. In 1862 Mr. Chipman was united in marriage Bellmina Yetes. This lady was born in Columbiana County, Ohio, January 24, 1835, and accompanied her parents to Michigan in 1847. She has one sister and five brothers. She understands well how to conduct her household affairs and in what way to aid those about her in. times of trial or distress. She has borne her husband five children, named respectively: DeForest E., Harry, Clarence, Ray and Jenny. The oldest son is in the windmill business in Lynchburg, Va., and Ray lives in Hammond, Ind.; the others are at home. Mr. Chipman is in no sense a politician, bnt he is always ready to vote a Republican ticket. Inheriting the characteristics of the people of New England, he manages his business affairs judiciously, acts well his part as a citizen and enjoys to the utmost the comforts and pleasures of domestic and social life. \ ILLIAM ROSECRANTZ is one of the pioneers of this county who, during a residence here of more than half a century, has been an interested witness of almost its entire development and has also materially aided in bringing about the wonderful change that makes this one of the richest and best improved farming sections in the State of Michigan. IHe resides on section 29, Marengo Township, whlere he is still engaged in farming and stock-raising. Mr. Rosecrantz was born September 5, 1819, in Genessee County, N. Y., and there his youth was passed. In the '30s he came to Michigan with his father, Jacob Rosecrantz, who was a native of Pennsylvania, born December 29, 1782. They became early settlers of this section of the country, his father purchasing one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 29, Clarendon Township. Mr. Rosecrantz proved to be a useful pioneer and while his life was spared did much solid work in reclaiming his land from the wilderness, thus helping to develop the country. His life was closed in death August 7, 1858. IIe was a veteran of the War of 1812 in which he did gallant service. His wife whose maiden name was Clarisa Richards, and who was born in Putnam County, N. Y., where she was married, survived him until January 10, 1884, when she too passed to the Great Beyond. She was the mother of eight children. Our subject has been greatly blessed in his domestic life by a good wife. Mis. Rosecrantz was formerly Miss Minerva Cook, and was lorn in Monroe County, N. Y., the third in a family of eight children. HIer father was tie Rev. Elijah Cook who was one of the early pioneers of Eckford Township, whither he came with his family when she was very young. He was engaged in farming there for many years, was very successful in his operations, and was one of the principal men of iliscalling in his township. IIe was conspicuous in his public life and was foremost in all enterprises tending to advance its religious andl educational in. terests. He was well known as a minister of the Free Will Baptist Church. lie was instrumental in securing the organization of Hillsdale College, which has gained consi(lerable notoriety in the past few years as an institution of learning, and he was Trustee of the college during his life-time. Hle was a very active worker in the church and contributed liberally towards its upbuilding. Further mention of this worthy man will be found in the biography of his son, Henry R. Cook. Mr. and Mrs. Rosecrantz have had three children, the eldest of whom is deceased. Their son Charles is married and lives on the home place. Their daughter Lotta Ella, now Mrs. Homer C. Easterly, is a graduate of tile Marshall High School, and also pursued a course of studies at the Normal. Mr. Rosecrantz is not a politician, but he is a thorough believer in the principles of the Republican party and advocates them when occasion offers. His whole course through life has been alike honorable to himself and to his adopted township with whose interests- his own have been so long and closely associated, and its history would be incomplete without mention of him. His fellow-citizens have implicit confidence in the purity of his character andt in his unswerving honesty of purpose 602 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. and act, and have called him to responsible places, wherein he has shown himself eminently worthy to be entrusted with public interests. He was Township Treasurer for six years and was administrator for several years. He has also been a Justice of the Peace and always discharged the duties of that office with impartiality and sagacity. Ile belongs to Cook's Free Will Baptist Church and is one of its leading supporters. O RRIS W. ROBERTSON, of Albion. is an old and well-known resident of this county with whose interests he has long been identified. He comes of an early pioneer family of this section. lie was born in Scio, Alleghany County, N. Y., February 2, 1828, and comes of a sterling Scotch ancestry. His father, John Robertson, was born in Dryden, Tompkins County, May 17, 1802. The paternal grandfather of our subject was George Robertson, who came to this country from Scotland. He was married in 1795 to Mary Smith, and they became the parents of thirteen children, of whom the following is recorded: Nancy was born May 2, 1796; Thomas, January 2, 1798; Robert, April 7, 1800; John, May 17, 1802; Phoebe, April 26, 1804; Theodore, April. 23, 1806; Philip, May 16, 1808; Cyrus, M-arch 1, 1810; Corilla, March 17, 1812; Smith, May 10, 1814; Paulina, July 29, 1816; Hiram D., August 26, 1818; Mott, March 19, 1822. Of these children but two are now living: Smith, a resident of Eau Claire, Wis.; and Mott J., of Dryden, Tompkins County, N. Y. They were a sturdy, hardy, long-lived race who never needed the attentions of a physician and all lived to be heads of families. John Robertson married Miss Polly Wood December 3, 1825. She was born at DeRuyter, Madison County, N. Y., September 28, 1805. Their marriage brought to them three children: George, our subject, and Thomas. The latter died in October, 1836, at the age of five years. George married Susannah Kinney, and they settled at South Albion. EIe died in March, 1888, and she in 1883, leaving two daughters, Elma and Ima. The parents of our subject came to this county in 1837, and were among the early settlers of Albion Township, where the father bought one hundred and thirty acres of Government land. As there was no house on the place the family lived for two years near Condit Station until Mr. Robertson erected a frame house, which was one of the first built in the township. lHe was assisted by his sons in opening a farm and in making a fine home and a comfortable property. He was a man of industrious llabits, of strict integrity, and none knew him but to respect him. His death in 1865 removed one of Calhoun County's most esteemed pioneers. Ile was twice married. His first wife died January 18, 1859, and for his second wife he was wedded to Mrs. Eliza Robertson, his brother's widow, who survived him until 1884, when she too passed away. Our subject was reared in Tompkins County until he was nine years old. lIe first began his education in the district schools there, and after coming to Michigan with his parents attended the district school, subsequently pursuing a course of study at Albion College. He remained on his father's farm until he was twenty-three years old and was of great assistance in its development. In 1851, ambitious to see more of the world and to try life in California, he crossed the plains and mountains to that State, and for four years lie led the rough life of the frontiersman. Ie located at Stockton, and was one year in the mines and subsequently engaged in freighlting. In 1855 he turned his face homewarl, and came back to Michigan ly the way of the Isthmus of Panama and New York City. For ten years after his return to this part of the country Mr. Robertson was engaged in the erection of telegraph lines for the Northwest Telegraph Company, his work taking him from Milwaukee to Ft. Geary, now Winnipeg, in the British possessions, and he was at the latter point at the time of the Riel Rebellion. Our subject was married in 1861 to Miss Lura E. Pearl, a native of Albion Township, born April 29, 1842. She is a daughter of William M. and Ann M. (Warner) Pearl, pioneers of this county, of whom a sketch appears in this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Robertson have three children, namely: Wil PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 603 - -- bur P., a graduate of the High School, now railroad freight office; Charles W., and George at school. Mr. and Mrs. Robertson are pleas sociable people, who have many close friend this community, and tldeir comfortable home is center of a true hospitality. Though Mr. Robertson is by no means a po cian and an office seeker, yet he is a stanch porter of the Democratic party and has served city and county as one of its ablest civic offic He was on the first Board of Aldermen of Alb and held that position one year. When he c to this county in his boyhood the surround country was in a very wild condition, and sparsely settled. The axe of the pioneer resounded in the primeval forests, and the few tiers here were struggling hard to build up hoi Since that time he has witnessed a wondc change, and has seen the wilderness give wa beautiful farms and thriving towns, has live see a schoolhouse upon every hill top, wil church by its side, and a country well inhabite( a contented, prosperous people.; IRAM I. PECK. This gentleman is the prietor of a livery and feed stable in I / shall, that is well patronized by the pt and that contains a full line of horses, riages and everything necessary to carry on su line of trade. He also has a hack and transfer which affords accommodation to the traveling lie and adds considerably to his receipts. Mr. I las been engaged in this business for a numb4 years and iths a thoroughly established reputa For several years he has been the sole propr and manager of the establishment, which is loc at 102 Green Street, and is convenient of acce, The parents of our subject, Moses I. and Jan (Richfield) Peck, were horn in the Empire Sta 1810 and 1809 respectively. The father die Eckford, this county, in 1848, but the moth still living and has passed more than eighty i stones on life's journey. She is a daaghter of D and Huldah Richfield, and is herself the nmoth in a six children, two of whom have crossed the river of E., death. The occupation of our subject's father was;ant, that of a farmer and during the later years of his s in life he dealt largely in horses, first driving them to the market and later shipping them by rail. He made his home in Indiana for several years and from that liti- State came to this county in 1845. The parental sup- family comprised Maria, Sarah A., Hiram I., Wilhis liam ii., Daniel E., and James. The elder daughter ials. is the wife of T. J. Edmonds of this county, and the ion, second is deceased. The surviving sons-Hiram, ame William and James-are residents of Marshall. ling The birthplace of Hiram I. Peck was Loekport, was N. Y., and his natal day, July 30, 1838. He was still reared as farmers' sons usually are, and pursued his set- studies in the district schools, taking up various mes. labors upon the farm in the intervals of study. lie:rful accompanied his parents to the Hoosier State and y to later to Michigan and remained on the homestead,d to until he had attained his majority. He then took th a a wife and soon afterward set up his home in Mari by shall, starting in the business of draying and transferring. HIe entered into partnership with W. I. Burts, and under the firm name of Burts & Peck business was carried on thirteen years. The partnership was then dissolved and Mr. Peck was next associated with Edgar Pryor for two years. E. D. pro- Miller then bought Mr. Pryor's interest and tile Mar- firm of Peck & Miller carried on the business some iblic five years, at the expiration of which time Mr. Peck car- became the sole proprietor. He had drifted into ch a the livery trade during the earlier years of his busiline, ness life, and worked up a good patronage which is pub- constantly increasing. Peck Mr. Peck has a pleasant home, well located and er of nicely furnished, and presided over by a lady who tion. understands how to make it cozy an(d attractive. ietor She bore the maiden name of Cynthia F. Bartletson, rated is a daughter of Philip and Maria Bartletson and ss. was born and reared in Jackson County, Mich. ie M. There her marriage to Mr. Peck was solemnized te in in 1859. The only child is Robbie I., who has not id in yet completed his studies and who is receiving an er is excellent education. mile- For six years Mr. Peck represented the Fourth aniel Ward in the Common Council, and has aided in or of advancing the interests of the city by wise improve 604 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ments and the passage of good municipal regulations. He was elected as a Republican, his political allegiance having always been given to that party. Ile belongs to Peninsular Lodge, No 5, I. 0. O. F., and is also connected with the Ancient Order of United Workmen. ILLIAM P. WATROUS is one of the old settlers of Athens Township, having lived here for nearly half a century and it is a pleasure to place a record of his life upon these pages. He was born March 21, 1824, in the town of Chester, Middlesex County, Conn. His parents were Elijah and Clarissa (Holcomb) Waterhous. The letter h has been dropped from the family name and also the letter e since our subject's day. HIis grandfather, Elijah Waterhous, was born in Germany. He came to this country in Colonial days and served as a Lieutenant in the War of the Revolution. lie lived for many years in Connecticut where he carried on farming and finally died there in 1838 at the remarkable age of ninetyeight years. IHe was possessed of a wonderfully strong constitution and to the very day of his death was able to ride horseback, he having an old and trusty horse that would always take him home safely whenever he went riding. His wife was a Miss Griswold, who died in early womanhood. They had three children, named Ann, Betsey and Elijah. Both he and his wife were faithful members of the Baptist Church. The father of our subject was born in Connecticut and was reared there to the life of a farmer. He had a farm of several hundred acres which he cultivated with financial success. In the fall of 1841 he came to Michigan and purchased one huldred and sixty acres of land near the village of Athens, on section 23. In the spring of 1842 lie brought his son Albert, his daughter Angeline, and our subject to this State, and settled on his farm which was mostly prairie. In the course of time he developed it into a fine piece of property. In 1868 death rounded out his life at the venerable age of eighty-eight years. His wife died several years earlier at the age of seventy-three years. She was a daughter of Hiram Holcomb. William P. Watrous, who is the principal subject of this biographical review, became an experienced farmer under his ftther's instruction quite early in life. IIe was given the advantages of an academic education, the foundation of which was laid in the excellent common schools for which his native State has been noted from time immemorial. In the spring of 1842, he set out on the ever-to-beremembered journey to this State with his father and other members of the family. The little party embarked on a boat on the beautiful waters of the Connecticut River and thence by way of Long Island Sound, proceeded to New York, from there up the Hudson to Albany, whence they took a boat on the Erie Canal for Buffalo; from that city they came by water to Detroit, from there by rail to Jackson; the rest of the way through the still wild region intervening between that city and this part of the country, the father and our subject walked, while the other members of the family come in a wagon. Our subject spent the first five years after his arrival in this State with his brother near Athens. In the spring of 1847 he located on eighty-seven acres of land on section 1, Athens Township. Iie had a hard pioneer task before him to clear and develop this land into a productive farm, but he entered courageously upon his work, and as a result has one of the most desirable farms in this locality. It is supplied with neat and substantial buildings, its well cultivated fields yield fine harvests, and its pastures are well stocked. He has two hundred and thirty acres of very fine faiming land, as from time to time he has been so well prospered that he has been enabled to add to his original purchase. November 10, 1847, Mr. Watrous took unto himself a wife in the person of Miss Lucy Groda. vent. Their wedded life has been productive to them of many blessings, and among these are the four clildren born to them as follows: Eliza A., wife of Ienry Hunt, of Oregon; Emma, wife of Thomas Hoag; Edgar and William W.; Mr. and M rs. Watrous merit and receive the respect and regard of all about them, as they are exemplary in their PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 605 habits, and their lives are guided by true Christian principles. For thirty-five years they have been honored members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Watrous was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., to John and Rebecca (Sholtes) Grodavent. Her father was born at Rensselaerville, Albany County, N. Y., and he was a son of Jabez Grodavent, who was a native of Germany. Jabez Grodavent came to this country during the Revolution as Captain in a regiment in Burgoyne's army. After the war closed lie remained among the people whom he had been brought over to figllt, and founded a family in this country. Mrs. Watrous' father was a carpenter by trade. In 1840 he came to this county with his family and spent his remaining years here. He improved a good farm at LeRoy, but passed his last days at Battle Creek. lie and his wife had five children who were named Harriet, George, Gertrude, Ellen and Charles, all of whom married. The parents were Baptists in religion and were always true to the faith. SAAC H. BISBEE. The Rice Creek Mill, of Marshall, of which Mr. Bisbee is proprietor, is one of the oldest now standing in the city, and its owner is one of the oldest continuous millers in the county. He was in the employ of Horace J. Perrin, an extensive operator in the milling business and a man possessed of large means, and being a practical millwright as well as an experienced miller, he was the manager of all the departments pertaining to the machinery. Few men in any business can claim a longer period of service with one employer than Mr. Bisbee, who was an aid to Mr. Perrin for thirty-five years. In Livingston County, N. Y., the eyes of Mr. Bisbee opened to the light of day April 12, 1836. His father, N. H1. Bisbee, was born in Massachusetts in 1801, and his mother, Maria (Hollenbeck) Bisbee, in I-erkimer County, N. Y., in 1809. That worthy couple came to this State in 1839, settling on a farm in Eckford Township, this county, where they remained until called hence, the wife and mother in 1850 and the father in 1857. They left three sons-Alanson, now deceased; Hiram H. who lives in Binghampton, N. Y., and Isaac H., our subject. Mr. Bisbee pursued his studies il the common schools until he had reached the age of sixteen years, when lie entered the flouring-mill of Mr. Perrin, in whose employ he remained until that gentleman was called from time to eternity. He then became a traveling salesman for D. M. Osborne of Auburn, N. Y., and for seven years gave his time and energy to the disposal of farm machinery. The ensuing three years were spent by him as a car builder in Marshall, in the employ of the Cincinnati, Jackson & Mackinaw Railroad. In 1888 lie leased the Rice Creek Mill. which he continues to operate, grinding corn and feed for shipping. He is doing a satisfactory business and has an income which supplies him with all the comforts and many of the luxuries of life and enables him to make some provision for a rainy day. Mr. Bisbee in his early manhood won for his wife Miss Mary Osborne, daughter of Silas Osborne, with whom he lived happily until she was called from time to eternity. She left three childrenFrank M., now living in Jackson; Emma, who married George W. Pendleton; and Ed I. In 1862 Mr. Bisbee was again married, his chosen companion being Miss Lucy Spaulding of Marshall, daughter of Harmon Spaulding. Although his time has chiefly been given to his business and to domestic and social enjoyment, Mr. Bisbee has taken some part in the governmental affairs of the city, having been Alderman for the Second Ward three years, and Marshal one year. OHN B. MEAD holds an honorable place among the farmers and stockmen of Marenga Township, where he owns and operates a farm on section 1 and 2, that is substantially improved and is a valuable piece of property. He is well known in the religious and social circles of his community and by the force of an upright life and as the champion of worthy reforms, he is an 606 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - I-` --- —--- -- I --- —` — l influence for much good among his fellow-men. Mr. Mead was born in Paulsin, Dutchess County, N. Y., January 13, 1829, and is the youngest of eight children, of whom himself and one sister survive. He comes of good old stock and is the descendant of a patriotic Revolutionary soldier. His grandfather fought long and bravely in the ranks of the Colonial army and took part in the famous battle of White Plains. During his absence from his home, the soldiers killed one hundred geese in his parlor on the carpet and chopped their heads off on the bureau, cooked them in preparation for a feast, drove off twelve cows from tile farm and destroyed all his furniture. The soldiers also robbed him of all his silverware. After the Revolution the Government presented the Mead family with a large body of land in the Western Reserve of Ohio, to make up for the losses they had sustained from the depredations of the soldiers in their new Connecticut home, and the Meads. locating on the land, comprised quite a colony. Our subject received his education in the New York and Ohio schools. He was reared under pioneer influences to a manly, stalwart manhood, early chose farming as his life work, and in the pursuit of his calling has acquired a competency for his old age and at the same time has well served his adopted township and county by the aid that he has afforded in assisting his fellow-farmers in developing the agricultural resources of this section of the State. By his marriage with Miss Frances Clark, June 8, 1863, on the farm where he now lives, our subject secured one of life's richest blessings, a devoted wife. Mrs. Mead was born in Monroe County, N. Y., and is a daughter of Ashel Clarke. She has seven living brothers and sisters. HIer marriage with our subject has brought to them eight children, whom they have named Charles, Carry C., Pearl, Earl, Jay, Ray, Lillie and Myra. Our subject came to Michigan November 18, 1857, and has ever since been a resident of this State, and with tile active assistance of his good wife has built up one of the many comfortable homes for which this section of the country is famous. He is a man of fine character, who stands high in the estimation of his fellow-citizens. lHe I I -- - _ --- —----- possesses an earnest religious nature and is always to be found on the side of the right in any cause in which lie interests himself. He is one of the prominent members of the Protestant Methodist Church of which he was Trustee for over twenty years. I-e is a strong advocate of prohibition, is one of the leaders of the party in this section and was a representative of the First District of Calhoun County, to the Prohibition Convention held at Lansing, July 29, 1890. ACOB MAHRLE. A large and fertile tract of land in Fredonia Township is owned by this gentleman, and is the scene of his industrious and well directed labors as an agriculturist. Its possession is due to his continued efforts, thrifty management and wisdom in investment, and shows that poverty in youth is not necessarily followed by poverty in maturity. The career of Mr. Mahrle is but an added example of what may be accomplished by a young man of determined spirits and good habits, and is deserving of the consideration of all such. The Kingdom of Wurtemberg, Germany, is the place of nativity of Mr. Mahrle and his natal day was September 4, 1830. His father was Jacob M, Mahrle, and his mother, whose maiden name was Luthart, died when the son was but seven years old. Their children were six in number, and Jacob was tlhe second son. After the death of the mother, the father contracted a second matrimonial alliance, and having come to America in 1846, (lied here in 1867. Our subject came across the ocean when about fourteen years old and remained with his father until lie was of age, then starting out in life for himself. Mr. Mahrle began his career as a laborer by the month, and worked thus and by the year nine years, after which he was able to buy a farm in Washtenaw County. From it he finally came to his present location, where he has two hundred and three acres,. one hundred and seventy of which is under the plow. The rest is devoted to pasturage and timber culture, and the minor 9 I tu~~~~~~~z't ~~~~~~Bt-~~~~~~~.i. ~~-.. c~~ ~~~-:,.it~, ~~-.~ ~1:~~, '~~..-.. r:. i; — ~~-"'; -,-1';"~~: -9:r,,; j5:d~'ye~ ts`r~. 1:.~:.~ r~s, —~-Yril~~ 1 16r::'i;:......._,.i-~~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM, 609 purposes of rural life. In the meadows eightyeight sheep graze and other stock in proportionate numbers. Excellent crops of various kinds are raised and Mr. Mahrle has no reason to be dissatisfied with the results of his toil and care. At the head of tre home affairs in the dwelling of Mr. Mahrle is a lady who was formerly known as Miss Mary R. Gans. She was born in Germany and was about eighteen years old when she came to America. She has borne her husband nine sons and daughters, who are now scattered over the country, one being in California, another in Chicago and the rest in various localities. They are named respectively, Lucy, Victor, Josephine, Harriet, Libbie, Augusta, Frederick, Ida and Jacob. The last named died when but six weeks old. Mr. Mahrle is fortunate in being able to read both German and English, as this gives him business opportunities and social pleasures that are beyond the reach of those who speak but one tongue. He keeps well informed regarding events at home and abroad. He is Pathmaster for the township, and lis son, Victor, was once Treasurer. A Democratic bIllot is always cast by Mr. Mahrle. He and his worthy wife belong to the Lutheran Church and are well-respected members and useful in their circle of acquaintances. G EORGE E. HOWES. Were this ALBUMi to be read only by residents of Battle Creek, we should say little of the gentleman whose portrait appears on the opposite page and whose name introduces this sketch, as he is one who says little of himself but lets his works speak for him. Hle is so well known in the city that idle words are not needed to convince the peolple of his worth but even his friends will be pleased to see an account of the principal events of his life. To those who do not enjoy his personal acquaintance, we may say that he is a prominent citizen of wide-awake nature and the possessor of considerable wealth gained by honest industry and business skill. Mr. Howes is a son of Samuel A. and Cornelia (Raymond) Howes, and a half-brother of the far famed "Jim" Lane so prominently connected with the affairs of Kansas a few decades ago. His parents were natives of Putnam County, N. Y., and his father was a farmer in his early days. He died in Battle Creek in 1880, being then on a visit to his son and having been retired from business a few years. The mother had died years before, breathing her last in Minnesota in 1858. The children born to this good couple were seven in number, four now surviving. The birthplace and early home of Mr. Howes was Ontario County, N. Y., and his natal day April 3, 1835. No event of unusual nature transpired in his boyhood or youth, but his days passed in the peaceful pursuit of knowledge and the enjoyment of home pleasures and privileges. After he had become of age he turned his steps westward and locating in Minnesota, tilled the soil for five years. Returning to the East he was engaged in the sale of fruit and produce in New York and Philadelphia from 1860 to 1875, and then established his home in Battle Creek, where he has steadily carried on a similar line of trade. He is interested in coal, also, and in every transaction shows the thorough-going, tactful nature of a good business man. The true-hearted woman whom Mr. Howes was so fortunate as to win for his wife bore the maiden name of Eliza Jane Pendry. She is a (laughter of William H. Pendry an extensive farmer of Albion, N. Y., and his good wife Julia (Hanna) Pendry. The wedding of Mr. Howes and Miss Pendry took place on Christmas Day, 1861, and their happy union has been blessed by the birth of three children-Samuel A., who is assisting his father in business; George E. Jr., who is studying in the State University at Ann Arbor; and Harrietta whose presence lends added brightness to the family fireside. Not only as an honorable and successful business man, but as a useful, reliable and public-spirited citizen, is Mr. Howes respected by all who know him. lie is a valued member of the Republican party, and creditably filled the Mayor's Chair one term. At the time of his election to the mayoralty lie was serving as Alderman of the Fourth Ward. He has been a member of the Board of Public Works since its organization at the time the b ---r~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ulrrlvr- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~rr rrlv v~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~u~~~~~~u v~~~~~~~~~~~~r~~~~~~r~~ 610 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. water works of Battle Creek were established. He has also been a Director of the National Bank about ten years and is now President of the Battle Creek Electric Company. His religious faith is expressed in the creed of the Independent Congregational Church and the varied lines of work undertaken by the society to which he belongs find in him a liberal supporter. i^jENJAMIN F. MORGAN is a man of wide V experience, of large enterprise, and of more ) than ordinary energy who, since he identi' fied himself with the farmers and stockmen of this county, has made his influence felt in extending its agricultural and stock interests, and is to-day one of the foremost men of his class in Le Roy Creek Township, where he has a large and well-equipped farm, and is conducting an extensive business in various branches of agriculture. Mina, Chautauqua County, N. Y.,is the place of the birth of our subject, and May 5, 1829, the date of that event. His parents, whose names were William and Susan (Crook) Morgan were both born in England, near the city of Liverpool, where the father subsequently engaged in farming. They emigrated to the United States in 1827, landing at New York City, whence they proceeded to Rochester. They staid there a year and then removed to Chautauqua County with an ox-team, and Mr. Morgan bought a piece of woodland, upon which he and his good wife labored hard to make a start in their adopted country. They reared a family of six children to useful pursuits, all of whom live in this vicinity. The father and mother came to Michigan on a visit, in 1868. and liked the country so well that they decided to remain in this county. Their lives were not of long duration after they settled here, as the father died about a year later, and the mother survived him but two years. Our subject's life as a business man began early. At the age of twenty years and six months he bought his time of his father for $80. He wished to establish himself in the milk business, as he saw a fine opportunity to invest in a milk route in the city of Erie, Pa., and for $700 he bought a wagon with all the fixtures and seven cows. He went in debt for all on a year's time. This was paid in full before the year was up, so successful was he in managing his new business. Ie then took his brother William into partnership, and they remained-together a year and a half, when our subject sold his interest to his brother, and with the proceeds set out to travel through the West, as he had a great desire to see the country. He proceeded on his journey through Canada, and cane to this State by the way of Port Huron and Detroit, and while passing through this part of Michigan was so impressed not only with its scenery, but with the fertility of its soil and the other fine facilities offered to the farmer, that many years later when he wished to buy a farm, he returned to this county and invested his money here. At that time le went beyond Chicago, and out on the great plains beyond the Mississippi. His decision as to whether or not he should go on to California, was decided by the flipping of a penny, and as the decision was adverse he has never seen the Golden State. When his money was nearly exhausted, Mr. Morgan returned to Pennsylvania and went to work for a lumberman. He soon conceived the idea of again embarking in business, and reckless as it may seem, actually bought a farm of one hundred and twenty acres for $5,400 besides the interest, going into debt for the whole amount, which was to be paid in five equal payments, with the privilege of paying at any one time $100 or more. In this enterprise he succeeded as he deserved, and every note was cancelled before it fell due. He subsequently purchased thirty acres more land at $60 an acre, which was paid for as soon as the other. He then sold the whole farm for $11,000 in ten years' time on the same terms as he had bought it. A short time before the latter transaction, Mr. Morgan took unto himself a wife in the person of Miss Harriet Tracy, their marriage being solemnized May 25, 1852. For thirty-eight years and more, they enjoyed life together and then death darkened their home November 3, 1890, and the beloved wife and tender mother was taken from her husband and children, and now lies peacefully "f PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 611 - -I-~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I- — ~~~~~~~~~~~~ at rest in the cemetery at East Le Roy. Five of the eight children born to Mr. and Mrs. Morgan are living: Lucy, the wife of Gilbert Johnson, of Newton; John C., who married Harriet Dewey, and lives in Anderson, Ind., where he is superintendent of twenty-two paper mills; William T., who lives at home, and with his brother Frank B., operates the farm, and has a share of all the crops and stock raised; and Eddie M., who married Susan Wood, and lives in Battle Creek Township. When Mr. Morgan sold the farm before mentione(l, he entered into the oil business at Mecca, Ohio. His prospects were very bright, but were blighted by the war, and he was obliged to close cut his business with the loss of some money and a year's time. He then started with a team and goods to Minnesota. He proceeded as far as La Porte, Ind., where he wintered and then returned to Erie, Pa., and sold his mortgage notes and bought another farm in the vicinity of his former one. This comprised two hundred acres of land, upon which he lived three years, when he sold it for $26, 000, which was paid in twenty-six bills of $1,000 each. His next enterprise was to buy a small farm and to engage in shipping cattle from the West to Pennsylvania. Hie did very well at that the ensuing two years. At the expiration of that time he sold out, and coming to Battle Creek, soon after bought one hundred and ninety-seven acres of land in Le Roy Township. lIe has since bought land of seven different men, and now has in one body six hundred and seventy-nine acres of as fine and l)roductive land as may be found in this part of the county, and also has one hundred and five acres of good land in another place. Since living here lie has farmed extensively, besides (ealing largely in stock and feeding a good many cattle and slheep. lie has fed at one time fourteen hundred sleep and sixty cattle, and has made that branchl of agricull ture very profitable. He now has forty-five head of horses, mostly young horses of the Norman breed, and a few roadsters among them. For the last four years Mr. Morgan has been extensively engaged in raising celery, for wlhich the rich soil of his land is peculiarly adapted. He has been eminently successful in this line, and obtains an extra price for the fine quality that he raises, which has already become famous in the markets. lie devotes about twenty-five acres to the culture of the plant, and gives employment to about nine men of experience, who have steady work in the celery patch during the season of six months devoted to its culture, not being called upon to do anything else. Since taking up his residence in this county, Mr. Morgan has proved in every way a valuable addition to its citizenship, as he has been potent in advancing its material interests as a shrewd and farsighted business man, and a skillful and experienced farmer, and he has also used his influence to promote its well-being in other directions. He has always been unswerving in his allegiance to the Republican party, though he has never been a politician. -He is President of the Calhoun Detective Horse Thief Association, which position he has occupied ever since its organization, and to him is due much of its success. y AMES BATY. This brief sketch outlines the life and work of one of Fredonia Township's most worthy citizens and one of its practical, prosperous farmers. He was born in Sussex County, N. J., February 28, 1824. His father, whose given name was John. was of Irish birth and came to America when a small boy. He was married in this country to l)eborali Mind, a native of New Jersey. After their marriage they continued to live on a farm in New Jersey until death called them hence, when their son, our subject, was a lad of five years. Thus early bereft of the tender care of a father and mother, MI\r. Baty was reared by Frederick and Mary Courtwrighlt, whom lie accoinpanied to Yates County, N. Y., in 1839. He first went to school in tlhat State. Ile remained with his adopted parents until he was twenty-one years old and then went out to work by the month on a farm, and for some years he was also engaged in lumbering. Our subject was first wedded to Miss Nancy Griswold, their marriage taking place in New York which was her native State, she having been born 612 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. and reared in Jerusalem, Yates County. After marriage they located on a farm near Allegany County [and there our subbject engaged at his calling nine years. He finally disposed of his property in that State and going to Wisconsin took up his residence in the town of Newton, Marquette County. In the spring of 1866 he sold his farm in Wisconsin and coming to this county spent the next three years in Newton Township. There his first wife died June 17, 1868. She was the mother of the following six children: Andrew J., who resides on a farm in the town of Eckford; David H., a railroad engineer, who resides at Trenton, Mo.; Charles F., who is engaged in a furniture store at South IIaven; Henry U., who lives on a farm in Marshall Towhship; Lizzie, wife of William Grosebeck, a farmer in Marengo Township; and Hattie A., who is teaching school in the town of Burlington. The oldest child was sixteen years old when the family was thus sadly bereft by the death of the loving wife and mother who is now quietly sleeping her last sleep in the cemetery in the town of Newton. Our subject was a second time married, in 1878, taking as his wife Mrs. Elizabeth Ferguson. Mrs. Baty was born in the town of Greece, Monroe County, N. Y., of which her parents, William and Mary (White) Ferguson, were early pioneers. They were natives of Scotland and parents of seven children, three daughters and four sons, as follows: William and John, deceased; James; George, deceased; Elizabeth; Mary and Rachel, deceased. Mrs. Baty was reared and educated in her native town. She has been three times married. Hler first husband, with whom she was wedded January 29, 1849, was James Delzel Gifford who was a Knight Templar. He went to California in 1864, and died in that State on the 8th of August the same year. Mrs. Baty's second marriage, which took place March 22, 1866, was with Noble F. Blossom. He was a native of the State of New York and was a mason by occupation. He came to this State in 1836 and was one of the pioneers of this township. He settled where our subject now resides in 1867 and here his life was rounded out October 8, 1875. After marriage Mr. Baty took upl his residence in his pres ent abode and here he and his wife have a neat and cozy home and are living in happiness and comfort. The farm comprises eighty acres of arable land which is exceedingly well-tilled and is well suppled with every needed improvement. Mr. Baty is a true Republican, having stood by his party ever since he joined it in 1856. He cast his first Presidential vote for Fremont. He has been a School Director and School Moderator, and always does what he can to encourage not only the material prosperity of his township but also its educational, social and moral elevation. He and his wife are among the most trustworthy and active members of the Congregational Church, of which he is Deacon and also a Trustee of the same. He is a thoroughly good man who leads an exemplary life and is looked up by his fellow-citizens. AVID JAGER. The Jager farm is a landmark in Fredonia Township and its owner is one of those to whom the present advanced condition of this section is due. In the strength of his early manhood he began the toils necessary to bring a tract of undeveloped land under cultivation and he is happy to say that from the poverty of those days he has arisen to a condition of financial solidity that it makes it unnecessary for him to work hard now that he is old. His farm, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres on the northeast quarter of section 6, was secured from the Goverment in 1834 and cost him $203.70. The first trees cut down on it were felled by his ax and his first house was built of logs. East of his present residence may be seen the impression of the cellar he had under his little log hut. In the same yard stands a large tree which grew from a little switch he once carried in his pocket. The orchard that he set out many years ago is decaying and the trees falling with age. Mr. Jager was born in Sussex County, N.J., February 12, 1809, and is a son of David and Esther (Strohl) Jager who were reared and married in the same county. After living there some time they removed to Susquehanna County, Pa., making I D~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ r~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~L~ Ab PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 615 I__ their home among the Blue Mountains. Mr. Jager was a shoemaker by trade. He died in the Keystone State but his wife breathed her last in New Jersey. They had hut two children-Johl, who died in 1886; and David, tie subject of this notice. The latter grew to the age of eighteen years in his native State and there acquired the education that is obtained in the schoolroom. When he had attained to man's estate he began tle battle of life for himself, working industriously and hoarding his resources carefully, in order that he might become the owner of property and feel that he had a place in the world. In April, 1835, Mr. Jager was married to Julian Courtwright who was born in New Jersey February 25, 1811, and who was carefully reared in accordance with the customs of the day. The year following their marriage the yonng couple came hither and located on the land owned by the husband. They naturally experienced some of the trials that fall to the lot of all pioneer settlers, being obliged to deny themselves of many comforts that neither their financial circumstances nor their surroundings rendered it possible for them to obtain. They became the parents of eight sons and daughters, but three of whom are living at this writing. These are: John, the first born, an old bachelor, who remains with his parents and is now Supervisor of Fredonia Township; Ellen, whose home is in Marshall; Edward, who still fills his accustomed place at the parental hearth; Miriam died in July, 1850; Thomas, in 1850; Esten, in 1877; David, in 1850; and Johanna the same year. It would be hard to find a more agreeable old gentleman than Mr. Jager whose long and wellspent life has given him a fund of knowledge and experience from which to draw interesting incidents and useful lessons. The entire acreage that he owns has been improved by himself and his sons and testifies to their ability in that line. Mr. Jager has been a servant of the public in various capacities, among them Road Comissioner, Highway Commissioner, Township Supervisor, Assessor, Township Treasurer and School Inspector. His longest term of service in one position was twelve years, during which he was Supervisor. He was Tremsurer for two years and held the other places for varying periods of time. His efficiency is recognized by all who are acquainted with his efforts, and his regard for and interest in the upbuilding of this section in all true civilization is well known. In politics he is a Democrat.,ARREN F. ROBERTS, M. D. This tal/ ented young physician has in a few years acquired a fine reputation and built up a good business in Marshall, where lie established himself in 1887. The doctrine of heredity is well exemplified in his case, as his father was for many years engaged in the practice of medicine, and the son manifests many of his traits as well as tastes. The natal day of Dr. Robeits was June 27, 1863, and his birthplace Pinckney, this State. He attended the public schools in Detroit, Farmington and Marshall, and after completing the usual course of study took up medical reading with his father. He then attended lectures at IHahnemann College, Chicago, and received a diploma from that institution in 1882. He opened an office in Cassopolis, this State, and after three years of practice there, came to Marshall, where he may be said to be taking up the work laid down by his progenitor when death overtook him. Dr. Roberts is of English ancestry in the paternal line, but the family has resided in America for several generations. The grandfather, Esek C. Roberts, was a native of the Empire State, and the father, Dr. Eliphalet Roberts, was born in Michigan. The latter was engaged in professional work some twenty-five years, fifteen of which were spent in Marshall, where he died February 11, 1887. He was a graduate of the medical department of the Michigan State University, and carried on his work in accordance with the principles of homoeopathy. The wife of Dr. Eliphalet Roberts bore the maiden name of Betsey A. Shuart, and was a daughter of Elisha and Julia Ann Shuart. A native of Mendon, Monroe County, N. Y., she was quite young when brought to this State by her parents. She has two living children: Dr. Warren F., the subject of this biographical notice, and Ettie Josephine, whQ 6116 PORTRAIT AND BIG __ _ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ )GRAPHICAL ALBUM. still remains at home. Mrs. Dr. Roberts is still living and resides in Marshall, surrounded by the conforts which she assisted in accumulating in her younger days. A most estimable lady, she holds a high position socially, and has a wide circle of friends. Politically our subject is a Republican, and supports the candidates pledged to uphold the principles which he believes to be correct. His portrait, which is presented in connection with this brief biographical notice, will be recoglized by our readers as that of a young gentleman already widely and favorably known, and for whom the future undoubtedly holds bright and flattering prospects. -R- "RANK A. STARKS, Township Clerk of jl * Lee Township, who is conducting a flour/! v ishing business as a blacksmith at Partello, is a man of much enterprise and force of character, and is one of the most skillful mechanics in this section. He is a son of Peter Starks, who was a pioneer of this county, and was one of its most worthy citizens, being one of the prosperous farmers of Clarence Township, where he is still residing and looking after his farming interests. Ile was born in New York, and was there married to Samantha Peak, who is also a native of that State. Her father spent his last years in Cass County, this State, of which he was a pioneer. Mr. Starks came to this State in 1848, and after coming here learned the trade of a blacksmith, and worked at that for a time. He subsequently bought a farm of one hundred and thirty acres in Clarence Township and has since devoted himself to its management, becoming one of the prosperous farm. ers of that locality. His entire course through life has marked him as a loyal, public-spirited citizen. iHe responded to the draft during the late war, and was anxious to help his country in the hourof her greatest need, but was rejected by the enrolling officer after examination on account of bis physical condition, lie haq takeln a leading I part in the political and public affairs of his township, he being one of the most stalwart Democrats of the place, and he has held all of the township offices. IHe has been Treasurer, Clerk and Justice of the Peace, and a member of the County Board of Supervisors. Our subject is one of four children, namely: Henry (deceased), Frank A., Charles, a resident of Clarence, and Hattie, Mrs. Wise. He of whom we write was born near Duck Lake, Clarence Township, February 22, 1851. He was reared on a farm in his native place and he became a good practical farmer. His education was conducted in the local district school. At the age of nineteen lhe left home and was apprenticed to a carpenter. He subsequently learned the trade of a blacksmith, and went into business with the man who taught him. He continued with him two years, and then he and his brother Henry rented the shop at Duck Lake and carried on blacksmithing in partnership for three years. At the expiration of that time our subject resumed the occupation to which he had been bred. He bought a farm of fifty-five acres upon which lie erected suitable buildings and placed the land under cultivation. He at the same time engaged in his trade. November 22, 1879, Mr. Starks sold his farm and established himself as a blacksmith at Partello and has continued in business here since. Ile is very expert at his calling and has a thorough knowledge of its trade in all its details. He has built up quite an extensive and flourishing business, as he is well patronized by the people in the village and by the farmers in the surrounding country. He has acquired some valuable property and owns his residence and some lots in town. His success in life is due to the fact that lie is not only a skilled artisan but that he pays strict attention to his business, is prompt in executing orders, and is always strictly honorable in all his transactions. His fellow-citizens, appreciating his many excellent traits and worth of character, have selected him as a suitable man for public office, and he has been in various responsible positions. He is now Clerk of the Township, and he is also School Moderator. For six years he was Justice of the Peace, and in whatever capacity he has actedl he has shown himself to PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 6 617 ------— ~- ----- ^~~ — - - -- -- - - be a straight-forward, reliable man, who is imbued with true public spirit. Politically, he is one of the active Democrats of this section and has been delegate to county conventions. Socially, he is one of the leading Patrons of Industry and is President of the Partello Lodge. He is also identified with the Masonic order at Olivet. The marriage of Mr. Starks and Miss Jennie Baum was solemnized in Eaton County in 1869, and their l)leasant wedded life has brought them one child, whom they have named Fay A. Mrs. Starks is a native of Ohio, and is a daughter of Frederick Baum. Her father was formerly connected with the agricultural interests of Jackson County as a prosperous farmer and he is now living retired at Springport. d ATES L. AUSTIN is numbered among the active and enterprising farmers of Bedford ~.~~( Township, owning and occupying a part of the parental homestead, on which his parents lived and labored a number of years. He was born l)ecember 5, 1854, in Livingston County, N. Y., and was in his teens when he accompanied his parents to this State. After reaching years of maturity he married L. Isabella Colvin, daughter of Ashley and Margaret P. (Richardson) Colvin. The ceremony took place in Plainville, February 7, 1881. Ile made his home in Battle Creek five years, but in 1890, removed to the farm where he is actively engaged in agricultural pursuits. Mr. and Mrs. Austin have two children, Margaret and Sarah Tyler, bright little lassies whose presence make sunshine in the home. Mr. and Mrs. Austin rank among the educated and useful members of society, being of that class who take a due interest in the welfare and enjoyment of their neighbors and friends, but to whom home is the dearest spot on earth. Mr. Austin and his brother, who operates a share of the homestead, are identified with the Prohibition party. Our subject is a son of Nathaniel Green Austin and his wife Sarah Ann Tyler, who were married at Springwater, Livingston County, N. Y., January 22, 1850, and whose family consists of three children: The first-born, Jettie A., whose natal day was April 22, 1852, lives in Paterson, N. J. She was married June 16, 1875, to Charles II. Fowler, the largest produce dealer in Jersey City, and has two children; the second child of Mr. and Mrs. N. G. Austin, is the subject of this biographical notice; The youngest is Tyler S., who was born January 17, 1859, and who has taken his place among the agriculturists of the county, carrying on his share of the parental estate. lie was married June 30, 1878, to Fanny A., daughter of Edward and Clarissa Calvin, and has four children, named respectively-Louis Ward, Gates S., Salmon T. and Clarissa J. The father of our subject was born in Ontario County, N. Y., January 20, 1819, and was a son of Sylvester and Mary (Whitaker) Austin, who were married in Orange County, October 10, 1810, and were of English descent. Ile lived in Ontario and Livingston Counties until 1867, when he came West. locating at Battle Creek, and buying what was known as the George Angel farm. It consists of two hundred acres, to the value of which lie added by expeniding thousands of dollars in substantial buildings and other improvements. At his comfortable and happy home he ended his days, April 5, 1883, leaving a widow and three children to mourn the departure from their midst of one who had ever been affectionate, considerate and wise il the relations and associations of domestic life. In his native State Mr. Austin had owned three farms and had made a specialty of raising fine sheep, in which pursuit lie had gained much filthy lucre. In 1865 he sold that property-some five hundred acres together-and established himself in Dansville in the dry-goods business. He succeeded very well in his new employment, but longed for the open air and the freedom of farm life, so closed out his business within two years and cane West. Although not a member of any religious body, he was for many years a Trustee of the Congregational Church at Battle Creek, holding that office at the time of his decease. It may truly be said of him that no better or truer friend ever lived, aRd 618 6 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - --- ---— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ --- —----------., --- —— I --- —-I --- —— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ that no unkind word was ever spoken of him as he was respected alike by rich and poor. The wife of this respected citizen and mother of our subject, was born June 20, 1828, being a daughter of Harvey and Harriet (Chamberlain) Tyler. She now makes her home in Paterson, N. J., with her daughter, Jettie, and old as she is, is actively engaged in the temperance cause. In November, 1889, she was sent as a delegate from New Jersey to the National Woman's Christian Temperance Union at Chicago. She has a high station in the Union, working as a lecturer and organizer. She is a devout member of the First Presbyterian Church. RIN B. FR1SBIE. Where but little more than a half century since was a mere hamlet, now stands an enterprising and prosperous town, the home of a thrifty and contented people. Battle Creek contains fine public buildings, spacious business houses, busy mills and many elegant residences as well as the tasteful cottages of the less wealthy. One of the most beautiful of its homes ts that of Mr. Frisbie, and a view of this commodious structure is presented on the opposite page. The dwelling is of modern architecture and handsome design, and is surrounded by an attractive lawn, the whole forming a beautiful scene and overlooking the city. The owner has been identified during his entire life with the business, civil and religious prosperity of the town and is well known to its residents as well as to those throughout the adjoining country. A native of Battle Creek, Mr. Frisbie was born September 4, 1858, and is a son of Elder J. B. and Jane (Glover) Frisbie. He was reared and educated in the place of his birth and when still quite young commenced the battle of life on his own account. For twelve years he worked in the office of the Herald and Review. In 1883, a few years after attaining his majority, he entered the real estate business and has been eminently successful in that line, to which he has since devoted his attention. Battle Creek owes much to the energy and enterprise displayed by him; he hav already made eight additions to the city, and has two or three others in contemplation. During the past season (1890) he sold three hundred lots, selling fifty-four during November of that year, and all were disposed of very advantageously. He still has in his possession and on sale a great deal of land adjacent to Battle Creek, including his South Side Addition of sixty acres, and also owns considerable property in the surrounding country. The delightful home which Mr. Frisbie has established is presided over by a lady of refinement and culture, formerly known as Miss Stella Sickels. Their marriage was solemnized June 30, 1879, and the only sorrow which has come to their wedded life was the death of their only child-Claude, who was taken from them white an infant. Mrs. Frisbie is the (laughter of Edward and Jane (Triskett) Sickels; the former died in New York and the latter is making her home with her daughter, Mrs. Frisbie. Mr. Frisbie and his estimable wife are among the leading members of the Adventist Church, and exercise a good influence in elevating the moral and religious status of their community. In politics Mr. Frisbie is identified with the Republican party. He is a young man of marked force of character and reflects credit upon the citizenship of his native county. It will not be amiss to briefly relate a few facts concerning the ancestry of our subject. lis paternal great-grandfather served in the Revolutionary War under Gen. Washington, while his paternal great-grandmother was a descendant of John Rogers, the first martyr burned at the stake in Smithfield, England, February 14, 1554, under the reign of Queen Mary. In 1824 Grandfather Frisbie removed to Whitestown, Oneida County, and from there to Utica, N. Y., in 1825. Prior to this and during his residence in Schoharie County, Joseph Birchard Frisbie was born October 15, 1816. His only brother and sister died in infancy, and he accompanied his parents in their various removals. He attended school at Utica until 1831, at which time his parents settled in Richmondville, Schoharie County, N. Y., Until he was twenty years old Mr. Frisbie at. tended school in Richmondville. He heard very much of pioneer life in Michigan and of the splen r ''' ,r.,~~; i.;Y ~L I~-L: ---;8::i;;~~-..~.?L.,. ~~ r~ ~;'~ ~:;"'.1.~:::.-1~ ~~~":-* `-"-1;~:6~' n~._ ~hiLIT ~"-: ~sT; z ':::::-~'r-:: 1 —~;;: -:;::I:...'.'. '.I - ~~:::: -.t -~-: ~;~ ~-~:!,:I RESIDENCE OF ORIN B. FRISBIE,HEAD OF FOUNTAIN ST. BATTLE CREEK,MICH. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 621 did opportunities offered the early settlers who could successfully brave the dangers and endure the hardships of an undeveloped wilderness. Finally, having resolved to come hither, in November 1837, he made the eventful journey, and here utilized his good education as a teacher. In the winter of 1838 he taught school in East Portage, Jackson County, and in 1840 was employed as teacher in Grass Lake. Prior to filling the latter position, however, he attended the Grass Lake Academy in 1839, and there took a most thorough course in the English branches. We next find him in the vicinity of his birthplace in the State of New York, engaged in his profession. After teaching for a short time in Rensselaerville, Albany County, he returned to Michigan and in the winter of 1842 taught in Sylvan District No. 2; in 1845, at Sylvan Center; in 1846 at Francisco, and once more in Sylvan, District No. 2, in the winter of 1850-51. On May 8, 1842, Mr. Frisbie received a Captain's commission from Gov. Barry, and in 1846 was elected Township Clerk. IHowever, he was not a lover of military or political life, but his chief delight was in the study of theology and medicine. The New Testament was his constant companion and by daily reading he became so familiar with its pages that he could repeat passages for hours together, giving without hesitation the book, chapter and verse where each passage was to be found. He was renewed in mind in 1832 and united with the Methodist Church October 17, 1833. In 1843 he was licensed to preach and was soon sent out on a circuit. I-e was ordained Elder October 3, 1846, and went on the LaPorte, (Ind.) circuit in the fall of 1848. Making up his mind that the Bible was a revelation from God, all sufficient without creed, the Rev. Mr. Frisbie withdrew from the Conference August 24, 1849. In 1853 he embraced the Seventh-day Adventist doctrine. Shortly afterward he settled in Battle Creek, being one of the pioneers of that denomination in the city. He held meetings in thirty-five counties in the State of Michigan, and in many towns, averaging from fifty to one hundred and fifty discourses a year for about twenty years, immersing many in the rivers, lakes and streams in the State, Ie united in matrimony about fifty couples and attended many funerals. He died November 8, 1882, his remains being interred at Oak Hill Cemetery. Iie enjoyed the universal esteem of the commnnity, his life having been a busy and useful one, devoted to the welfare of his fellow-men. Elder Frisbie was united in marriage June 13, 1847, with Miss Jane Glover, and of the seven children born to them the following is recorded: Alice is the wife of Samuel Cooper, a resident of Battle Creek; Ella married John Shunk, who lives near Traverse City; Della is employed in the Herald and Review office; Orin, our subject, is the fourth child in order of birth; Eugene is a resident of Oakland, Cal., where William is also living; Leora is the wife of Fred Dolson, of Battle Creek. The members of this honored family are scattered throughout various localities and exert the influence of their worthy and upright lives wherever they go. e HARLES HARRINGTON is engaged in general farming on section 3, Fredonia T'ownslip, where lie owns one hundred and five acres of well improved and carefully cultivated land. He was born in Wayne County, N. Y., Oc. tober 15, 1834, and at quite an early period in his existence began the battle of life for himself. During his boyhood he attended school at South Butler, gaining a practical, though not a liberal education. When but sixteen years old he started out in life for himself and under the instruction of his uncle became a veterinary surgeon. Soon after the Civil War began Mr. Harrington enlisted in the Third Michigan Cavalry, and being placed in charge of a veterinary department he was sometimes with one regiment and sometimes with another. His principal attention was of course given to the horses used by the command, but he bore some part in duties not strictly connected with veterinary surgery. In the summer of 1864 he was thrown from a horse, and was discharged in July, so seriously was he injured. In 1856 Mr. Harrington led to the hymeneal altar Miss Chfrlotte Sweeney, wh9 w#A born July 622 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 18, 1842, in New London, Huron County, Ohio. Sle has looked well to the ways of her household, devotedly cared for hertchildrep, and done all in her power to make her home pleasantiand discharge the duties she owes to tliose around her. She has borne her husband four children, of whom we note the following: Charles E., who is married and living at Suspension Bridge, Niagara Falls; Ada, who married George Stringham, a molder whose home is in Grand Rapids; Major Burton, who lives with his parents; Nellie, who married E. Maco:mbertlhey are also living with Mr. and Mrs. Harrington. In 1868 Mr. -Iarrington took up his residence where he now lives. The first dwelling he occupied was destroyed by fire in 1879, but a more modern structure soon rose above its ashes. Notwithstanding this misfortune and some other drawbacks such es are incidental to man, Mr. Harrington has prospered by reason of industry and thrift, aided lby the good management of his wife. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Republic, in which he holds the rank of Chaplain of the county, and h1 also belongs totthree secret societies in eacli of which he has filled Chairs. His religious belief is that of universal salvation. ]LLIAM NEWBRE. As a fine type of the pioneers wllo laid the foundations of Calhoun County's substantial growth and have materially contributed to its prosperity and are still numberedlamong its honored and influential citizens, we take pleasure in placing a biographical record of William Newbre upon the pages of this volume. His large and finely equipped farm on section 34, Emmet Township, is one of the best in the county. While extensively engaged in agricultural pursuits our subject has acquired wealtl and is now living somewhat retired( from active business in his beautiful home. The subject of this life history was born at Byron, Genesee County, N. Y., August 13, 1817. His;father, Ila Newbre, was a native of Massachupetts, born October 4 1787. je was a sop of Elias Newbre, who was also a native of the old Bay State, lis birth occurring there April 20, 1751. Hie in turn was a son of John Newbre, who is supposed to have been a native of Massachusetts, coming of one of the old Colonial families of New England. lIe was bred to the life of a farmer and when the Revolution broke out he took a patriotic interest in the cause of his country and became a soldier in the Continental army. I-e married, May 10, 1750, Prudence Stone, who bore him seven children. Both ihe and his wife are peacefully sleeping side by side in the cemetery at Williamstown, Berkshire County, Mass., the (late of the former's death being May 12, 1784, and that of tile latter May 26, 1800, at the age of seventy-two years. The grandfather of our subject was a farmer, and in early life he emigrated to the State of New York where lie spent his last years in the town of Elba, Genesee County, his death occurring August 3, 1836, in his eighty-sixth year. When he was a young man lhe married Submit Burk and by that marriage six children were born. The father of our subject was a man of more than ordinary intelligence and possessed considerable mechanical genius, so that besides carr3 ing on the business of a farmer all his life he was a skillful carpenter, blacksmith and harness-maker. IIe usually left the management of the farm to other members of his household and spent the greater part of his life as a contractor and builder. Hie was very successful in that line for many years and often had heavy contracts and built many large buildings, frequently having as many as forty men at work at one time. Ile was once well-to-do but he was too venturesome in his enterprises, took too many contracts at too low prices and finally failed, but his failure did honor to his character for unswerving fidelity, for le finished all his contracts though it took all his money to do so, and though a ruined man financially yet he retired from business with an unblemished reputation in the mnoneyed world. IIe was a true Republican in politics and held the office of Justice of the Peace for many years. Mr. Newbre married Irene Gibson, the mother of our subject who was born in Noris,.Chenango 623 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ___.. — ` —-- I ---` ---- —^ --- —— '- —_ ___ __.._____ __ —I- ---------------- I County, N. Y., September 7, 1796. They came to Michigan in 1854 and spent their last days in the home of our subject where they lived surrounded by every comfort until death closed their earthly pilgrimage and they are now resting in South Emmet Cemetery near the home of their son of whom we write, the father dying January 22, 1871, and the mother February 15, 1870. The boyhood days of our subject were passed much as those of other boys in helping to (10 the farm work and in attending the district school. When fourteen years old he began work for Hiram Wright at Stafford, Genesee County, N. Y., with whom he stayed two summers, receiving $6 a month as compensation for his services. HIe then removed to Elba, Genesee County, N. Y., and there resided until 1837, when impelled by the ambitious desire to find a broader field for his energies by trying life in a more newly settled country he came to Michigan, making the journey with a four-horse team through Canada with but $6 in money as his only other worldly possession. Lie Ie rented land at Sandstone, Jackson County, for a time and then purchased his first forty acres of Daniel Rhimes, the land being partly improved. In 1842 Mr. Newbre exchanged his Jockson County property with David Johnson, a land speculator of Jackson, for three hundred and twenty acres of wild unimproved land in Emmet Township, this county, which is the very farm upon which lie now resides. He immediately entered upon the hard work of clearing and breaking his new land, and each year raised from seventy-five to one hundred acres of wheat which he marketed, using the proceeds to pay off his indebtedness. It was only by continual downright hard work and the sacrifice of many comforts that he finally brought his land into its present fine condition. H-e erected a log house upon his homestead and brought his family to their new pioneer home from Jackson County in 1844. As the years rolled on prosperity followed his efforts and he was enabled to add to his landed possessions from time to time until he owned nearly nine hundred acres of land of exceptional fertility. He has since sold out much of it but he yet possesses four hundred and two acres, which is a highly improved farm, -— ----I- --- —-- '- —" --- —- Ix —- L` --- — ---^- --- — --- -- In 1851 our subject built a sawmill two miles west of his place which, although now out of use is still known as the Newbre sawmill and is a landmark on the banks of the creek, a picturesque relic of the past. Iis farm is amply supplied with fine buildings, including his residence on rection 34, which was built in 1866 at a cost or $6,000 in money aside from his own labor. This is one of the handsomest dwellings in the township and is surrounded by a beautiful lawn dotted with large maple and evergreen trees. His fine, large, red barns and other outbuildings are all of a good style of architecture and are supplied with all modern conveniences. December 25, 1840, is the most memorable Christmas Day in the life of our subject, as on that (late lie was wedded to Miss Amelia Cranson, and as his wife possesses all the good qualities essential to a wife and mother their married life of more than fifty years duration has been greatly blessed to thenm, and their home in all these years has been the scene of much quiet happiness. Three children have been born to them of whom these two survive-Marinda (Mrs. Godfrey) who was born October 2, 1842, and Mary I. (Mrs. Douglas), who was born November 22, 1850. Mrs. Newbre was born in the State of New York March 7, 1816. Her father and mother, Otis and Susan (Steadman) Cranson, were both natives of Massachusetts. Her father, who was a farmer by occupation and also a carpenter, was born June 12, 1789, at Ashfield, Franklin County, Mass., and died at Royalton, Niagara County, N. Y., in 1865, in his seventy-sixth year. His wife was born August 25, 1791, at Hartford, Conn., and died in 1864 at the advanced age of seventy-three years. Tley were the parents of seven children. Mrs. Newbre's paternal grandfather was Jonathan Cranson, a native of Massachusetts. He carried on his occupation as a farmer in that State until he became a pioneer of Jackson County, this State, in 1834. He died at an old age. His father, Elisha Cranson, great-grandfather of Mrs. Newbre, was born in the old Bay State in 1720 and died in 1804 at the age of eighty-four years. His wife, Abigail Cranson, died in 1792 at a ripe old age. Mrs, Newbre now rents the most of his land and 0 I 624 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I.. 11.. - - lives somewhat retired from active labor, although he still continues to some work about the p)lace, as for a man of his energetic temperament it would be scarcely possible to cease from labor altogether. He is a fine type of our self-made men, as he entered upon his career as a farmer with but little means and only by the exercise of ambition and unbounded industry, coupled with sound, practical economy and excellent business judgment has he worked his way up to a position of importance among the most substantial men of Emmet Townshit). His pleasant and obliging disposition has won him tile esteem of a large circle of friends among his many acquaintances in this county an(d the honorable life that he has always led has won their perfect confidence. In religion, while not a member of any church, he is a believer in Christianity and always responds liberally when called upon to support any scheme for its advancement. In politics he is an unswerving Republican and is well posted in the issues of the day. I AVID YOUNG. Pre-eminent among tile farms in the vicinity of Battle Creek arc those which occulpy a position on Goguac Prairie, and one of the best of these is owned and operated by the gentleman above named, It consists of three hunt(re(l and twenty acres which lhave been brought to a condition that stamps tie owner as a master of his vocation and will indicate to the most unobserving prosperity and good judgment. It is supplied with a complete line of farm build. ings of substantial construction, convenient arrangement, and ample dimensions. The residence, a solid stone house, was built in 1841, and seems to promise home comfort to all who dwell therein. Besides the home place he has twenty acres one and one-half miles distant. Our subject is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Van Wort) Young, natives of New York, the one born in the Mohawk and the other in the Hudson Valley. In 1835 the father bought laud that is now owned by the son and the following year bro ght his wife and nine hilPdren hither, Ue I operated the farm until 1861, when he removed to Battle Creek to spend the remainder of his life in the quiet enjoyment of that which he had gained by honest industry. lie breathed his last November 22, 1879, in the eighty-sixth year of his age. The wife and mother had passed away in 1860. The surviving members of the parental family are now scattered almost from the Atlantic to the Pacific. David is the first-born. The next is Mariab, widow of George Breed of Pennsylvania; Jacob died in March, 1890; Magdalene, who died many years ago, was the wife of Gideon Colton; Sarah died at the age of ten years, not long after the removal of the family from the East to this country; Andrew is tilling the soil in Kalamazoo County; Catherine is the wife of Hlugh Gould and lives near Battle Creek; Nancy is the wife of James Vandevere and their home is in Benton Harbor; John resides in California. David Young was born in Otsego County, N. Y., December 22, 1816, and received his education in the common schools. He attained to his majority not many months after the family came West and his first business venture was the purchase of eighty acres of land in 1845, prior to which time he had been working for wages. IHe has added to his l.nded estate from time to time, and the elegant farm he now owns is a standing monument to the earnestnessness and intelligence with which he has pursued his chosen vocation. Not only has he advanced his personal interests, but by his development of so large a tract of land he has been of great benefit to the entire section whose growth and improvement he has witnessed and aided almost from the beginning. The neighboring city of Battle Creek has grown under his eyes from a "flourishing village of one house" and that a log cabin. The marriage of Mr. Young and Miss Delilah Helmer was solemnized October 23, 1845. Mrs. Young is a daughter of Philip and Sally (Woodburn) Helmer who came hither from the Empire State and bore their part in the pioneer work in this neighborhood. She was the recipient of careful home training and has proven herself a capable housekeeper, a devoted mother, kind neighbor and sympathizing companion, She has borne her hu. PORTRAIT AND BIOGFRAPHICAL ALBUM. 625 PORTRAI. T. -AND1 — BIOGRAPHICAL A.........LBUM. 625 band five children, of whom the first-born, Philip, died August 18, 1848, and Andrew E., tile youngest, January 16, 1874. Edward T. is engaged in farming. Charles A. is a druggist in Battle Creek; and Myron is with his parents. Mr. Young is a respected member of the Masonic order and of the Grange. He has given considerable thought to political questions and is firmly convinced that the Republican party is the one most deserving of the suffrages of the people and he therefore always deposits a Republican ballot. He has served as Justice of the Peace for nearly a quarter of a century, but not continuously. He keeps himself well informed regarding all topics of general interest and is a good conversationalist, adding to his book lore the keen observations made during three trips to California and minor journeys, and in association with men of intelligence about his home. He and his wife have an assured place in the society of this section and their friends will be pleased to see this brief outline of their history incorporated in this volume. ONOHN MITCHELL. Perhaps no resident in Le Roy Township is better known than the gentleman above named, who lias always been a useful member of the society in which he moved and has made friends wherever lie has lived. He has resided at his present location since 1881, but had owned the property for some time previously. It is a favorably located tract of land, upon which a commodious modern residence was built by Mr. Mitcllell in 1880. Its surroundings and furnishings are indicative of the intelligence and good taste of those who occupy it, and the hospitality dispensed under its roof is widely known and greatly enjoyed by the many friends of the family. Patrick Mitchell, paternal grandfather of our subject, was of Scotch descent. He was a soldier in the Revolution and as such received a pension in his later years. His son Aden, father of our subject, fought during the War of 1812, and was present at the battle of Plattsburg. Of the five sons of Aden Mitchell, three were soldiers during the late war. It will thus be seen that the family is one in which patriotic fervor and devotion, and love of liberty are distinguishing traits. The wife of Aden Mitchell was Polly Cebring, and their home was in Wayne County, N. Y., when he of whom we write was born, April 10, 1823. When old enough to take up the work of life the lad was employed in a mill, although he gained a considerable knowledge of farm work as his father was an agriculturist. He possessed a natural talent for mechanical work, and although he never learned the trade as an apprentice, he became an expert millwright and did much work both in the States and Canada. In 1852 Mr. Mitchell removed to Kalamazoo County, this State, where he remained several years, having bought a mill and operating it five years. He then sold it and moved on a farm at Pavilion, tilling the soil there two years and then removing to this county, where he sojourned but a short time. Returning to Kalamazoo County lie rented the mill he had formerly owned, run it for two years, and then for a considerable period changed from one county to the other giving his attention to repairing mills. lie finally removed to his present home. Mr. Mitchell won for his wife Miss Laura Coe, daughter of William and Catharine (Vosberg) Coe, with wllom lie was united in marriage, August 18, 1848. Seven children came to brighten the home and four are still living. The family record is as follows: Eugene is nowV living in Branch County, this State; Frank resides in Marshalltown, Iowa; Mary, widow of Frank Etz, who for several years has been teaching with the best of results, married Dr. W. I). Campbell and( lives in Marshalltown, Iowa; Olive, wife of IW. Packard, died in 1886; Kittie, widow of the late Edward Everett, lives in Marshalltown, Iowa; John died, aged about two years and Adelaide died when between three and four years old. Mrs. Campbell has considerable artistic talent and the lictures that adorn the home show wliat might be accomplished by her were she to devote her time to art. For several years Mr. Mitchell served the people as Highway Commissionor. In exercising the elective franchise he always uses a straight Demo c 626 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I cratic ticket. Not only is he a popular citizen, but the members of his family are also highly regarded for their kindness, their intelligence and their usefulness. Mr. Mitchell was called upon February 10, 1891, to mourn the loss of his wife, she dying very suddenly. She was a member of the Baptist Church. ai W ILLIAM ANDRUS. The fact that Battle Creek now ranks among the most important manufacturing cities in the State, is largely due to the gentleman above named. Iie had been engaged in business here for some years, and in 1870 organized the Battle Creek Table Company, for the purpose of starting manufacturing, that being a branch of industry that was lifeless. Tact and perseverance made this a successful enterprise, and other manufacturing establishments opened their doors, each bringing into the city a greater degree of business prosperity in various lines, and adding to the population by attracting hither workers in divers handicrafts. Mr. Andrus is now President of the Battle Creek Machinery Company, which manufactures wood andl ironworking machinery and the Marsh Steam Pump, of which they have recently purchased one-half interest in the patent. The goods have a world-wide market, being sent even to the southern coast of Africa. The natal day of William Andrus was August 1 1, 1826, and his birthplace Binghampton, N. Y. He was but nine years old when his parents, Giles and Betsey (Shaw) Andrus, came to this State and county, settling in what is now Battle Creek Township. The father was one of the early tillers of the soil in this fertile region. He died on his farm not long after his removal hither. Our subject left home and began the battle of life for himself when about sixteen years old. In 1845 le was employed by Allen T. Havens as clerk in a drug store, and upon the death of his employer in 1852, he bought the business and site and continued in the same store until 1867. At the time of Mr. Havens' death Mr. Andrus possessed but $72, this being due him for his ser I vices. The stock in the drug-store was valued at $4,300, and it was necessary for the would-be purchaser to have good security before the executors of the Havens estate would close the bargain. Col. John Stewart and Samuel W. McCamby kindly lent the influence of their names, and George and Henry Andrus, brothers of our subject, engaged to share the responsibility, so that the young man was able to engage in business on his own account. By careful attention to business, honorable dealing and prudence in all expenditures lhe prospered, and ere long had an assured position among the men of substance. In 1867 he moved off the old store, and built the Andrus Block-a building 46x100 feet and three stories in height, which contains the Masonic Temple as well as store-rooms and offices. At that time Andrus' drug-store was the finest in the State outside of Detroit. In January, 1872, Mr. Andrus released his drug business to an eml)loye and C. B. Grandine and Charles T. Eiinman, and engaged in the manufacturing business. This enterprise which had been run as a partnership under the style of Burnham & Hyde, was re-organized, becoming a stock company with a capital of $30,000, of which $25,000 was paid up, the balance remaining in the treasury. The following officers were elected: William Andrus, President; J. M. Ward, Vice-President; Frank Beach, Secretary and Treasurer; and D. B. Burnham, General Manager. The board of officers continues the same with the exception that Mr. Beach sold his stock to Charles T. Allen, who is now Secretary and Treasurer. The company has control of the Marsh Steam Pump during the continuation of the patent, and its manufacture and that of their other commodities gives employment to sixty men. The plant is established near the heart of the city, at the intersection of Jefferson Avenue and the Michigan Central Railroad, the buildings having been mostly erected and fitted by the present corporation. In 1884 Mr. Andrus assisted in re-organizing the Advance Threshing Machine Company, was elected President a short time afterward, and has been one of the chief instruments in placing the company on a sound financial basis. He held the Presidency but a year, but still holds a Directorship. Upon PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 627, I — - - - -~ --- - - - - - - ~ - - - - the re-organization of the Advance Company, the stock was put at $300,000, $200,000 of which was paid up, but within a few years it was raised to $500,000. In 1889 a still further increase was made the estimate now being $1,000,000, of which $800,000 is paid up. This company gives employment to a force of two hundred men. In 1852 Mr. Andrus led to the hymeneal altar Miss Frances McCamrby,who shared his fortunes but two short years, dying in 1854. Three years later Mr. Andrus married, his bride being Miss Nellie Grandine, of Waterford, N. Y., who breathed her last )ecember 26, 1876. Mr. Andrus has been Interested in real estate botl in the city and in the rural districts. lie was Chairman of the committee that located the central division of tie Chicago & Grand Trunk Railway, and added to tie conveniences afforded shippers in this city. He is a Mason, at present holding tile office of Eminent Commander in Battle Creek Commanlery, No. 33. He is a member of tle Episcopal Church and takes an active part in tile workings of the society; he was Chairman of the committee which built the present chllurch structure on Jefferson anld Van Buren Streets. - OLON W.!HALE. For more than a quarter of a century this gentleman has occupied a certain farm in Bedford Township, the location being six miles north of Battle Creek. It is a well-improved, carefully-cultivated tract of one hundred acres, from w lose productive fields large crops are garnered in and which likewise produces good grades of domestic animals in the usual numbers. Althougll Mr. Hale came here for tile purpose of improving his health, which was not robust, he never hla( a physician in the house for himself until recently, when lie suffered from a paralytic stroke. Mr. Hale is the eldest of the four children born to Solon and Eunice (Furbush) Hale, and was born in Leominster, Mass., March 18, 1818. His parents were also natives of the old Bay State, the one being of Welsh and the other of French ancestry. They removed to the Empire State when the son was two years old, the father continuing to work at his trade that of a shoemaker. The son attended school until lie was seventeen years old, when he went to Buffalo and secured a position as clerk in a wholesale and retail grocery store. After three years thus occupied he came to this State, and with a cousin began hotel-keeping in Oakland County, twenty miles from Detroit. They soon rented an hotel in Plymouth, of which our subject took charge, his cousin remaining at Farmington, and the business connection continuing three and a half years. Mr. I-ale then sold out and returned to New York with the intention of remaining there. lie soon became dissatisfied, however, and as homesick for the Wolverine State as lie had been a short time before for that in which his boyhood was passed. Within the year Mr. Hale was again in Michigan, his first employment being in a grocery store in Detroit, where he remained some two years. Failing health induced him to make a change and lie entered the employ of the IHon. Mr. Lee, M. C., to work in a country store and on a farm. No price was set on his services and the engagement was made for a short period, but lie remained with Mr. Lee nine years. During that time no terms were made between employer and employed, but $250 was given for the first year's work, and a greater sum year by year until the last, when $600 was received by Mr. Hale. During this time his father had removed to Bedford, this county, and here the son came on a visit. While here he secured the job of overseer of the hands who were changing the Michigan Central Railroad track from strap to "T" rail. While working on this job and boarding in Battle Creek he made the acquaintance of Miss Sarah A. Miles, wlo won his heart. She was the daughter of Ransom Miles, who owned a share in the foundry, and with her stepmother kept the boarding house. After quitting the railroad Mr. Hale, in partnership with an uncle of his future wife, began importing Merino sleep from Vermont into Western New York and west into Michigan, doing well financially and improving his physical condition. In July, 1853, he purchased the complete outfit of a board I I . 628 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ing-house in Michigan City, Ind., for $250, less than a third of its original cost. On the 12th of the month he and Miss Miles were married and the next day had a family of twelve boarders. The wife carried on the boarding house and the husband went into partnership with a Mr. Durand in a grocery store, and later took an interest in a meat shop with James White. His business investments proved profitable, but on the removal of the car shops from Michigan City business was not so good and Mr. Hale closed out and came to Battle Creek. For a time Mrs. Hale kept boarders here, but soon disposed of the establishment and went on to the farm with her husband, he having turned his attention to farming as better adapted to his condition, which made life in the open air most desirable. Mrs. Hale died on the farm four years after her marriage, her only child, an infant, being buried in the coffin with her. Mr. Hale continued to carry on his farm, and after seven years contracted a second matrimonial alliance, the ceremony taking place August 12, 1863. The bride was Mrs. Cynthia O. Webster, daughter of Alfred and Cynthia (Morse) Nevins and widow of E. P. Webster. By her first husband she had two children-Cynthia Minerva and Alfred M. The first, who was a successful teacher for a number of years, married E. B. Rogers and has two interesting daughters. HIer home is in Bedford. The son was born in Richland and was seven years old when his father died. He was graduated from the Normal School at Ypsilanti and was for a number of years a teacher. lie then took up the study of medicine, was graduated from the Halnemann Medical College, in Chicago, and is now practicing successfully at Oscoda, losco County. Believing that "whatever is worth doing is worth doing well." and with the constant aim of doing good, his life has been one of continual toil and study. He has given freely of time, energy and money to the cause of-temperance. The bride of his early manhood was Carrie Donaldson, who died leaving a son, Donald Eugene, wA now lives in Saline. Mr. Webster subsequently married iattie Hale, of Alaska, this State, who bore him two children-Ida and Ruey. The former now lives with our subject and the latter with her mater - f nal grandfather, Warren S. Hale, their mother being dead. The father of the present Mrs. Hale was a native of New Hampshire and was a man of unbounded energy and perseverance. Ile taught every winter from his eighteenth to his fiftieth year and spent the summers in farming. He was Township Supervisor a number of years and was a Trustee of the Congregational Church atRichland, Kalamazoo County, for several years prior to his decease. IIe was a member of that Church. He came to this State about 1842 and died in 1858. Mrs. Nevins survived until 1883. She also was born in the Granite State. She was one of those noble women who conscientiously discharge every duty which they owe to 1heir beloved companions and children, and are a friend in need in the neighborhood. Such was her care and control over her children that a profane word was never heard in her house and neither of her three sons used tobacco or liquor. Those who knew her best loved her most, and her children had the sincere sympathy of all who knew her when she was removed by death. The eldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Nevins beganteaching when but fifteen years of age and, like his father before him, combined with professional labor the business of farming, until he heeded his country's call and enlisted. He was shot while on picket not long after he entered the army and died from the wound. He held the rank of Lieutenant. IHe left one daughter, Mrs. Rosa Brown, who is living in Richland. John M. Nevins, the second son, died in 1890, at IHastings, where lie was highly esteemed. lie was a member of the State Senate two terms, having been elected by the Republicans, and was a man of enterprise in the affairs of Church and State and those of a personal nature. The youngest son, N. J. Nevins, reared a family of eleven interesting children, three of whom already hold important positions at Otsego. The daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Nevins are all well settled in life and may truly be said to follow in the footsteps of their revered mother. They each received a good education and two of them, Mrs. Marian E. Jones and Mrs. Cynthia Hale, were teachers. Mr. Hale has been somewhat active in political :::::: S:::\: X 0 D of::::? SS::.:: f:0::\u:0 Q 0:: 0:: 0VS rEV00 l$0:00:00:g::::: O401vi.^^f 7; ~tzzrb- _1_ _ [ii;::" caret-:;.-.w-l —,: -; >;1-,~,;=<..........- -e~.. _- f E f f: 7 I E1 II r I I I s E iNDIAN PIPC.S I I jI RESIDENCE OF N. L. SPAULDING, 5EC.29. EMMET TP. CALHOUN COLMICH. i * C r. I I I i I I 1 1 I i i I I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 633 circles and has been a stanch Republican from the his useful career, October 18, 1840. He was in all first. He is a member of the Congregational respects a good man and bore a high character Church which his father aided in organizing, and among his fellow pioneers. His wife, who shared in which he held the office of Deacon until his the esteem in which he was held, passed her last days death in 1880. Careful in his consideration of the in the home of her son Albert, dying at the age of rights of others, honorable in all his dealings and seventy-three years. For further parental history, upright in private character, he is highly respected see the sketch of Albert N. Spaulding, brother of by friends far and near. our subject, on another page of this BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Our subject came to this county with his parents in May, 1836, when he was a lad of eleven. years. The country was then sparsely settled, and there ^IRUM L. SPAULDING. The surname of were only a few log cabins within a radius of sevi this gentleman is well known in this county eral miles of the new home of the Spaulding famL and belongs to a prominent pioneer family ily. Indians still lived here and frequently Called tlat has had much to do with making it a flourish- at the cabin to beg for food. Mr. Spaulding ing and wealthy agricultural district. Our subject attended the first school organized in the neighboris an old settler of Emmet Township, where he has hood in the year 1836, and conducted in a log house large farming interests, and his experience and that had been used for a stable. After the death practical ability as a farmer and stockman have of his father, our subject farmed the homestead for placed him among its richest and most influential four years on shares, and in the meantime he purcitizens. A portrait of this early settler and chased eighty acres of land, comprising the west esteemed gentleman appears on tile opposite page. half of the southwest quarter of section 29. Our subject was born August 3, 1824, in the After his marriage our subject and his wife began town of Lisle, Broome County, N.. I-He is a son their wedded life on that tract of wild land, which of Jacob Spaulding who was born in the same was heavily timbered. His wife actively co-opercounty, March 3, 1790. His father, the grandfather ated with him in his work, and prosperity attended of our subject, is thought to have been a Revolu- their labors. Ile not only improved his land but tionary soldier, who was a native of the Empire from time to time added to it, until he now owns State; there he passed his life asa farmer, dying in four hundred and fifty acres of fine land, all of Broome County at a ripe old age. After lie at- which is under substantial improvement, except tained his majority Jacob Spaulding accompanied one hundred and twenty-five acres of timber. In by his brother Linus, left his native place and went 1864-65 Mr. Spaulding built a large frame resito that part of New York in which the Holland dence at a cost of $3,000, and he has eight outPurchase was located and they bought a quarter- buildings consisting of barns, granaries, etc. A section of land. view of this fine residence and the surroundings is A year later, the father of our subject sold his shown on another page. Mr. Spaulding carries on interest to llis brother and returning to his native an extensive business as a general farmer and stocktown was married, February 2, 1815, to Samantha raiser and his farm, which is one of the bestAllen. In time he acquired a good farm of one improved in the township, is weli equipped for such hundred and fifty acres which he worked until he purposes. came to Michigan in the month of May, 1835, and When Mr. Spaulding entered upon his career as located on a quarter of section 28, Emmet Town- a farmer, he had $45 in money, a yoke of cattle and ship. He subsequently went back to New York, thirty-two acres of land which he received from and in May of the following year returned here his father's estate. But he also had a better capital with his family. He was engaged in hard pioneer in his indomitable will, rare energy and stability labor in developing his land when death cut short of character, combined with systematic business I, 634 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. habits, so that from that small beginning he las become wealthy, and his course furnishes an illustrious example to the young who are just starting out to seek fortune's favors. Ile enjoys a high personal standing throughout the county and is a man of whom every one speaks well. He keeps well informed as to the political issues of the day and is a firm advocate of the Republican party. October 10, 1844, was tie date of the marriage of Mr. Spaulding with Miss Lucy E., daughter of Daniel Thurston, who was born August 21, 1826. She is a Christian in every sense of the word, warmhearted and charitable, and is a member of the Baptist Churcht. Her marriage with our subject has brought them six children, namely: Martha M., Emma and Ellen, twins, deceased; Ida A., Nellie A. and Eva L. Mr. and Mrs. Spaulding have made their dwelling one of the coziest and most comfortable homes in this locality. It is neatly and handsomely furnished, n an among its many adornments are the many curiosities which our subject, who is very fond of such things, has gathered from time to time. In a large frame and glass case he has a collection of over seventeen hundred Indian relics of almost every description and some of them are the rarest kinds of specimens, including many battle axes wielded by the savages in ancient times, and nearly one hundred different kinds of stone pipes of peace, flints, etc. Mr. Spaulding also has many relics of the Revolution and of ancient times and he has his house decorated with leer heads, elk horns, etc. Among these he has a deer head with moose horns, the two species having crossed and formed this curiosity. EWIS RANSOM FISKE, D. D., LL. 1)., l JKePresident of Albion College. The ripe scholarship, unimpeachable character and useful labors of Dr. Fiske are matters of national repute in the cultured and religious circles of society. Among educators he is known as an advanced thinker and a wise ruler over a flourishing educational institution; among churchmen he is known as an intelligent divine, whose abandonment I - ----- -- of the public was a loss in one sense, although they admit that in his present sphere he can do as grand work for the Master as ever before for who can measure the power of his example and precepts over the youth under his guidance. The Fiske family came from England to America in 1637, settling in Windham, Essex County, Mass., and thence spreading over the New England States. James Fiske, father of our subject, was born in New Hampshire, August 4, 1788. He was a cousin of the Hon. Levi Woodbury of the Granite State, their mothers being sisters. He married Miss Eleanor Ransom, who was born and reared on the Hudson, opposite Poughkeepsie. Among the members of their family was one born at Pennfield, Monroe County, N Y., December 24, 1825, whose life forms the subject of these brief paragraphs. In his boyhood he attended the public school and spent the school year of 1845-46 in what was then the Wesleyan Seminary, completing his preparation for college. He then entered the Michigan University at Ann Arbor and was graduated therefrom in 1850, immediately after which event he began the study of law. During the autumn, however, he abandoned his legal studies to accept a professorship in the Wesleyan Seminary and Female Collegiate Institute. The same year Mr. Fiske became Professor of Natural Science in Albion College, retaining the position until 1853, when he took a similar chair in the Michigan State Normal School at Ypsilanti. In 1856 another change of location was made and he became Professor of Chemistry in the Michigan State Agricultural College, discharging the duties of that position until 1863. That year Prof. Fiske turned his attention to the ministry and until 1877 his talents were given to the cause of Christianity as pastor and Presiding Elder, his work covering the following ground: From 1863 to 1866, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Jackson; the ensuing three years in charge of the Central Methodist Episcopal Church of Detroit; from 1869 to 1872 in charge of a church at Ann Arbor; the next year Presiding Elder of the Ann Arbor District; then returning to his former pastorate in Detroit to remain during the three years which were at that time the limit allowed at any place. The year " 'r' Y'SA PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHI( UAL ALJBUM. 635 1876 to 1877 found him in charge of the Tabernacle Methodist Episcopal Church in Detroit, and he then accepted the Presidency of Albion College, which position he has retained. Under the Presidency of Dr. Fiske the institution has taken on new life, rapidly advanced in rank, and come to be known as one of the most progressive of American colleges. A few years ago it boldly struck out on a new line, placing in order of study the modern languages before the ancient, modern history before that of olden times, the empirical studies before the rational, and making scientific instruction largely inductive. In these movements Dr. Fiske receives the undivided support of tile Faculty and Board of Trustees, and the example set at Albion is being followed by other institutions of learning both in the East and West. The attendance at the institution has increased threefold and the Doctor's administration of affairs is regarded as eminently wise, both as respects the changes in the curriculum and the disciplinary system. Four times has Dr. Fiske been a member of tile Gelleral Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Chlurch and taken a prominent part in the deliberations of those bodies, the sessions that he attended being in Brooklyn, in 1872; Baltimore in 1876; Philadelphia in 1884 and New York in 1888. He has been appointed a member of the Ecumenical Council of the Methodist Episcopal Church which meets in Washington, D. C., in October, 1891. Tlhe degree of Doctor of Divinity was conferred by Albion College in 1873 and that of Doctor of Laws by the Michigan University in 1879. During the years 1875 to 1877 inclusive Dr. Fiske was editor of the Michigan Christian Advocate, a paper that, as its name indicates, is devoted to the interests of religion. In political faith he is an anti-saloon Republican. The first wife of Dr. Fiske bore the inaiden name of Elizabeth Spence and their marriage rites were solemnized in 1852. After more than a quarter of a century of domestic happiness they were separated by death, Mrs. Fiske being called hence in February, 1879. To his present wife, formerly Mrs. Helen M. Davis, Dr. Fiske was married in 1880. We can do no better in closing this brief outline of a useful life than to quote from one who knows Dr. Fiske well. "Dr. Fiske is one of our strongest and most popular men. His character is spotless, his social and business standing first-class in every particular. He is a ripe scholar, a polished writer and speaker, a safe counselor, a popular College President, and a gentleman of wide influence and extended usefulness in every department of life. In physical appearance well proportioned, striking in countenance, with full wlite beard and hair, and dignified in bearing, every word and movement bespeak the perfect Christian gentleman that he is." ORENZO D. GROFF was for many years a resident of Albion and his death, April 28, 1881, removed one of its most respected citizens, who was known and honored by the entire community, as a man of unswerving integrity and unblemished character, who had been an influence for good among his neighbors and friends. Mr. Groff was horn March 7, 1820, at Hackettstown, N. J., where he grew to manhood. His parents were William and Effiie (Renter) Groff, who were honored citizens of that locality. Our subject was married September 3, 1840, to Miss Perninah White, a daughter of William and Mercy (Tindal) White, natives of New Jersey, where she was born Jauary 18, 1819. In 1846 Mr. Groff migrated with his wife to this State, which was then considered to be in the "Far West." They came to Buffalo on the Canal, from there by steamer to Detroit, and then by rail to Ypsilanti. They settled first in Livingston County, where tley purchased a farm that was partly improvel. In 1851 they came to Albion, and in this city he was employed as a clerk for several years. He and his wife established a pleasant home here, and to them were born children, of whomn these are living: Ann Olivia, Effie, John W., William, Oziel, Ella and Fred L. D. Ann married W. H. Ashley, who was a soldier in the First Michliganl Calvary during the late war; they are now resi(ents of Muskegon, Mich., and are the p:mrents of two children, Mettie and Roy. Effie is the widow f f 636 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. of Wallace W. Fuller, who died in Jackson May 28, 1878, leaving these four children: Florence, wife of Nelson Finley, of Deveraux; L. D., a son; Minnie A., and Rena B. John W. is one of the prominent business men of Albion. He married Miss Mary Dyer and they have one daughter, Nellie F. William, a resident of Albion, married Helen Cooley and they have five children, Cora L., Charles, Oziel, Mary and Wesley. Oziel is a resident of Albion; Ella is the widow of Alfred A. Lewis, who died July, 1885, leaving one child, Alfred G. Fred, a resident of Albion, married Amanda Casey. Mr. Groff was a man of strict integrity, who was always honorable and just in all his dealings, so that his standing in his community was of the highest. Ile was a man of temperate habits and showed himself strongly in favor of temperance legislation by leaving the Democratic party to join with the Prohibitionists. He was one of the most worthy members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and held the honorable position of Class Leader and also of Superintendent of the Sunday-school. Mrs. Groff is still living. She is a woman of exemplary character, is a sincere Christian, and no one knows her but to regard her with feelings of respect and esteem. $ ELIlI D. WHITAKER. It is with pleasure that we incorporate in this BIOGRAPIICAL ALBUM a brief account of the life of this respected resident of Le Roy. On account of failing health, which has resulted from wounds received in his country's service, he has been compelled to retire from active life and to give up all manual labor. He has suffered more or less since he was discharged from the army, but was for some years able to farm on a small scale and to manage a threshing machine. He has borne apart in the public work of the township and in that of the social and benevolent circles, as well as in the political arena, and to every position has brought the energy and earnestness derived from a long line of patriotic ancestors. Thd first of the name to settle in America was I Abram Whitaker, who emigrated from England in 1624 and made a settlement in Massachusetts. IHe was of the old Puritan stock who came to the New World in order that they might enjoy religious liberty. Members of the family have figured extensivelj in the various Indian wars and in the two struggles for release from British tyranny and thirtyfour are known to have been engaged in the Union service during the Civil War. Although several were living in the South, not one aided the Confederates. The parents of our subject were Seliln and Waty (Semans) Whitaker, the former of whom died when the son was but two years old. The mother lived in Michigan from 1857 to 1881, when she went to Los Angeles County, Cal. She spent the remainder of her life with a daughter there, and died March 21, 1890, when nearly four-score years old. In Bath, Steuben County, N. Y., the gentleman of whom we write was born January 20, 1844. In the spring following his thirteenth birthday he came to this county, stopping with his uncle, David Fish, in LeRoy. There he remained during the ensuing three years, when Ft. Sumter having been fired upon he, with many others, offered his services in the defence of the country. He enlisted as a private in Merrill's Horse, August 26, 1861, at Battle Creek, and was mustered into Company I. at St. Louis, Mo., September 9, 1861. At the battle of Memphis, Mo., July 18, 1862, where the Union forces were engaged with Porter's guerrillas, Mr. Whitaker received three wounds within a very few minutes-one caused by five buckshot entering the body just above the left hip, another by a rifle ball entering an inch to the right of the heart and passing through the left lung, and the third by a ball which entered the right side just above the hip, passed backward and resting below the base of the spine. The buckshot were easily removed, but he still carries and always will the ball which found a lodging place near the base of the spine. Mr. Whitaker was left at Memphis with five comrades who were severely wounded and six weeks later was sent to St. Louis. Four months after receiving his wounds he reported for duty and remained with his regiment until May following, but being unable to ride and therefore not qualified . 4::::: -i::: 1Cc^1/ ^ v12 - c PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 639 I for action he was discharged at Palmyra, May 11, 1863. The wound in the lung has always caused him more or less suffering, but not until within the last five years has the ball lie carries given him serious pain. After receiving his discharge Mr. Whitaker returned to Le Roy, where he has continued to reside, working as before mentioned, as long as his health would allow. April 8, 1875, Mr. Whitaker was wedded to Miss Hattie B. Monroe, who was removed from him by death, March 12, 1890. His present wife, formerly Miss Susie Trethrick, was born in Canada and is the daughter of English parents. Their marriage was solemnized September 4, 1890. Mr. Whitaker has served two terms each as Township Treasurer and Drainage Commissioner. Iie is a member of Climax Lodge, No. 288, I. 0. 0. F., and is now Past Noble Grand. He has always been an active political worker, making it an object to attend all the primaries, and never fails to vote the Republican ticket which he says he expects to deposit as long as lie is able to carry his rebel lead. ILLIAM I-. KERR. A pleasant location on section 19, Tekonsha Township, is occupied by the residence of Mr. Kerr, who has long been numbered among the agriculturists of this region and was at one time one of the largest landowners in the county. The farm he now owns and operates consists of eighty acres, which has been brought to its present beautiful condition by his efforts. Under good management it is the source of an income amply sufficient to supply the wants of Mr. and Mrs. Kerr and enable them to aid in all worthy projects. The acreage held by Mr. Kerr at one time was five hundred and sixty, but all has been disposed of except that above mentioned. Mr. Kerr, as his patronymic indicates, is of Scotch ancestry. His grandfather emigrated to the United States and made his home in New Jersey, where his son John, father of our subject, was born and reared. This gentleman married Margaret Cole, a natiye of the same State, their wedding being solemnized in Elizabethtown and their home established in Monmouth County. Thence they came by boat to Southern Michigan in 1835, and during the remainder of their lives lived on the section that is now the home of their son William. Their family consisted of nine children, named respectively: Eliza, Euphemia, William H., Goyen W., John, Mary, Nathan, Charles, and one unnamed. In Monmouth County, N. J., September 13, 1811, William it. Kerr opened his eyes to the light. He was reared in his native place, securing only a limited education, and with his parents he came to this State in 1835. He remained with them five years longer, then married and established his own home on the tract that lie still occupies. In the prosecution of his vocation he 'has displayed both zeal and energy, as is proven by the large amount of -land that he formerly owned. In social orders lie has been quite prominent, particularly in Masonry, and lie has borne a part in the official work of the township. He and his good wife have never been blest with childien, but they have taken into their homes and equipped for the battle of life two, upon whom they bestowed affection as well as care. Mrs. Kerr is a native of Windsor County, Vt., and is the second of nine children born to John and Elizabeth Barker. H1er parents were. natives of Massachusetts and her forefathers came from England. Her grandfather, Hananiah Barker, was in the Revolutionary army, and as also was her maternal grandfather, Jonathan Newman. Her father and two uncles fought in the second struggle for release from British tyranny, and hel eldest brother and two of his sons were in the Union army during the late war, as were two other brothers. Five of her nephews also fought on the side of the Union, all of whom, with one exception, are now deceased. It will thus be seen that Mrs. Mary Kerr has been blest with patriotic ancestors and intensely loyal relatives in the last generations. Her own personality is such as to win respect, and a deeper regard from those who become well acquainted with her virtues of character and mental endowments. The first Presidential ballot cast by Mr..Kerr..r;e 640 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - — ~~~ ~ ---~~-I ---~~` —~~" --- —----- I -- -~~~~~~~-~`~~~ ~ --- — --- — ~~~~~ was for Andrew Jackson, and he has supported every Democratic candidate since that time. He was the first Treasurer of Tekonsha Township and was Highway Commissioner seven years, during which time he accomplished much that is appreciated by those who have occasion to travel froni point to point throughout the country. HIe was formerly Scribe in the Blue Lodge at Union City and has held many offices there; he is a Master Mason in Washington Lodge, No. 20, Tekonsha village, and a Knight Templar, identified with a Commandery at Coldwater. He was at one time a member of tie Odd Fellows fraternity, but has been much more prominently connected with the workings of Masonry. He was a leader in the Grange movement. For forty-six years he has been a subscriber to the Detroit Free Press and on the occasion of his golden wedding the editor of that journal presented him with a beautiful gold headed cane. Another memento that he highly prizes is a watch that was given him by his grandfather Kerr. Elsewhere in this volume will be noticed a lithographic portrait of this highly respected and venerable pioneer of Calhoun County. J ACOB A. BAUM and his good wife are old residents of this county and it gives us pleasure to represent them in this BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. They have a cozy, cheerful home on their farm on section 1, Albion Township, where they live respected and honored by all around them. Mr. Baum's father, was named George Baum and he was a native of New Jersey, where he was reared to the life of a farmer. His father, Jacob Baum, was born in the city of Berlin, Germany. Ile came to this country when eighteen years old, and upon his arrival in port was placed upon a block and sold for two years to pay his passage across the ocean. He finally settled in Pennsylvania, where he began life as a farmer. The father of our subject was drafted into the army during the War of 1812, and started for the front, but peace was declared before his company arrived at their destination, In early manhood he made his way to the wilds of Ohio, and settled in the primeval forests on the present site of Salem in Columbiana County. He became famous in the history of that locality, as the first white man to cut a tree where the town now stands. The country round about was in a very wild condition, and was sparsely populated as far as white settlers are concerned, though there were many Indians all around. Mr. Baum found a wife after hle settled there in the wilderness in the person of Miss Elizabeth Packard, the daughter of his nearest neighbor eleven miles away. The Packard family came to America in the "Mayflower" in 1620 and were stanch Puritans. After marriage Mr. Baum settled on a tract of wild land ten miles west of Salem and there spent the remainder of his life. He was a very industrious, hard-working man, and in time developed a good farm from his tract of one hundred and sixty acres of land heavily timbered with beech and maple and comprising a clayey soil. Lie resorted to various employments in order to obtain money to pay his taxes. HIe helped to make the Ohio canal to get money for that purpose and he used to make maple sugar and team it a distance of eighty miles, sell it for six cents'a pound, and devote the money thus obtained to settle his taxes. Just as he was ready to enjoy the fruits of his hard labor, his constitution gave way from the long continued strain of so much work and he died in 1860. He was a man whose daily life was such as to command the respect of his neighbors and of all with whom he la(1 dealings, and his (leath was considered a loss to the community. His widow survived him but a few years when she too entered into eternal rest. She was a Christian nearly all her life, having been converted at the age of eleven years, and she was in every way an exemplary woman. HIe of whom we write was the second child of his parents and he was born March 6, 1818, in Ohio, in the humble pioneer. home of his father and mother. There was no schoolhouse near his home until after he grew up, but he attended school for eighteen months having to walk a distance of two miles through deep woods where wolves, wild turkeys and other game were very plentiful and he has seen a group of deer part to let him pass through PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 66 1 I~ many a time. At the youthful age of thirteen years he became self-supporting. He was apprenticed to learn the trade of a tailor for a period of four years to an Englishman, working for his board and clothes. He seems to have been ill-treated by his employer, as he left him and had not a single cent nor even enough clothes to cover him. lie went to a storekeeper in the town of Salem by the name of David Gaskell, and told him his story. The man cut off cloth enough to make a roundabout, pants, and a vest and handing it to the boy, he said: 'Now if you ever earn money to pay for this, I want my pay, as I shall charge it to you." Our subject took the cloth to an aunt and with her hell) he made himself a suit of clothes. We next hear of our subject at Canfield, the county seat of Trumbull County, Ohio, where lie worked out at his trade for one year receiving in payment for his services for that length of time, $17, out of which small sum he had to buy his own clothes. At the end of the year he asked for an increase of wages, but was refused. His next move was to Ravenna, Ohio, where he obtained a situation and was to receive as compensation $36 a year and his board. Hle staid there six months, then changed to another shop for tie same terms and staid his full time. After that lie remained at home a few months, and then was away for about three years working at his trade. When he could not procure emlloymnent as a tailor lie went to work on the canal. He was finally taken sick and returned home where he lived from 1835 to 1837. He bought a lot in Berlin, Ohio, built a shop, and carried on a good business as a tailor until his removal to Bedford in the same State, wher e he had an establishment until 1840. In that year Mr. Baum came to Michigan and was employed as a journeyman at his trade at Ann Arbor two years. Returning to Bedford, Ohio, he opened up a shop there and conducted his business as a tailor in that town until 1846, when he again came to Michigan, accompanied by his family, and since has been a permanent resident of this State the most of the time for a period of forty-four years. He took up his abode in Albion and worked at his trade in that city for some years; in 1860 he removed to his present farm and has since devoted himself to its cultivation and improvement. It comprises eighty acres of good land, which is welltilled and supplied with all the necessary buildings. His cozy house was built by himself and his sons and here he and his good wife are cheerfully passing their declining years amid its comforts, and surrounded by the respect and affection of all about them. Mr. Baum has worked his farm ever since settling upon it with the exception of three years from 1880 to 1883, which he spent in farming in Kansas. During a runaway he was thrown out of the vehicle in which he was riding, was stunned by the fall and for four weeks did not know even his own children. In 1842 Mr. Baum took unto himself a wife in the person of Miss Mary A. Burke, and their wedded life of nearly half a century has been productive of mutual happiness. Mrs. Baum is a daughter of Berzella B. and Prudensa (Taylor) Burke, who were natives of New York, the mother of French Canadian descent. When her father was fifteen years old lie went to Ohio, which was then in the hands of tie pioneers, it being in the very early days of its settlement, and the now populous and wealthy city of Cleveland was a very small hamlet with only three houses on its present site. Mr. Burke took part in the War of 1812 as a drummer under Gen. Scott. His father, Sylvanus Burke, was a soldier in the War of the Revolution and was a pensioner of the Government in his last years. Mrs. Baum's parents were married in Ohio. Hecr mother's father was Captain Philo Taylor, who owned a boat on Lake Erie and carried freight and passengers from Buffalo to Cleveland. Her parents settled on a farm six miles from Cleveland where they died, the mother's death occurring ten years after that of the father. They were parents of seven children, of whom four are living. Mrs. Baum is the eldest of the family and was born December 17, 1817, amid the pioneer scenes of Ohio. Mr. and Mrs. Baum have had five children of whom these three are left: Morris H., a resident of Florida, who married Libbie Thurston and has two children; Prudence, wife of S. J. Johnson, of Chicago, and the mother of one child; and Berzella B., a resident of Kansas who married Mary Finley and has two children. Mr. and Mrs. Baum gave 642 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. their children good common-school educations, and carefully trained them to be useful citizens. Mr. Baum is a sturdy advocate of the Republican party and always votes the Republican ticket. He has been Road Commissioner and a member of the School Board, doing good service for his township in both capacities. He and his wife are believers in Christianity, and their daily lives show them to be guided by principles of unswerving honesty and integrity. They are kind and charitable and do all that they can to relieve suffering and want, and their place is among our best people. ALVIN P. WHITE. It is well to preserve in memory the privations and difficulties under which the pioneers labored in laying the foundation of our civil, religious and material prosperity. For this purpose the facts regarding the life of the honored gentleman above-named will be (if more than ordinary interest, as he has done much to bring about the present condition of affairs in this and a neighboring county. Iis labors have resulted in financial good to himself as well as to others, and his fine farm on section 20, Penfield Township, is one of the best in the entire county. Upon it will be seen a complete line of well-built edifices affording ample accommodations for stock and shelter for crops and machinery, and a residence which is conspicuous among the many fine farmhouses in the township. It m-ay be well before proceeding to speak of the life of Mr. White, to say something of his immediate progenitors. His father, Calvin White, a native of Massachusetts, was a farmer by occupation. He went from his native State to Onondaga County, N. Y., where he died when about forty-five years old. He had been actively interested in political affairs and was a member of the old Whig party. His wife, formerly Martha Smith, was born in the same State as himself, but survived him many years, living to be seventy-two years of age. She was a woman of deep and fervid piety, who took an active part in the benevolent and Christian work of the co0munity of which she made one, and hleld - _ _ membership in the Presbyterian Church. She was the mother of four children, three of whom grew to maturity, viz: Henry G., Calvin P. and Warren S. Mr. White, the subject of this biographical notice, was born in Onondaga Co,unty, N. Y., May 17, 1819, and reared on a farm. When twelve years of age he went to live with a Mr. Cleveland Ellis, with whom he came to this State in 1837, making the journey entirely with a wagon. He had been educated in the district schools under the subscription method, and had a good knowledge of the fundamental principles included in an English course. After reaching this State young White selected Assyria Township, Barry County, as the scene of his pioneer and agricultural work, and was the first to establish a home in that township. The surrounding country was thinly settled and there was not a family living within nine miles of his loca tion. IHe and Mr. Ellis were deprived of a span of horses by wolves, who devoured the equines, leaving but the leg of one to prove their fate. Deer were numerous and many were killed by young White. There were some bears and panthers, and snakes without number, among them blue racers nine feet long. With an ox-team Mr. White used to go to Detroit, one hundred and forty miles, to assist in moving parties out and bring back the necessities of life. In making the journey it was his custom at nightfall to unhook the oxen, put a bell on them and turn them loose, and lie down to sleep in the wagon. The Tawas and Pottawatomie tribes of Indians still lingered in this region, and Mr. White became quite familiar with them, learning to speak their language and frequently loaning his gun to them. He and his wife were much annoyed by their begging, and it finally became necessary for him to drive them away from the house with a gun. Mr. White improved a farm of eighty acres, which was given him by Mr. Ellis when he became of age, in consideration for his services. In 1850 he traded this tract for three hundred and twenty acres in this county and in January, 1851, moved over the line. On his new farm Mr. White found that one hundreq acres had bleei broken, bqt that not field C I:::i: I::: -::: I, ~::::~ ~I:: C- - P PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 645 T --- —~~~~~ was ready for good cultivation. He had much of the initial work of development to do, and has broken the sod on hundreds of acres. At one time he owned seven hundred acres of land here, but at present he has reduced his real estate to one hundred and forty-six acres. As a large landowner, he carried on extensive operations in grain raising and gave considerable attention to stock. In 1867 he built a large and substantial barn at a cost of $1,500 and the next year put up his fine house, which is made of cobble stone and cost $5,200, without counting his own labor. While his career has on the whole been a prosperous one, he has had trials and misfortunes to contend against, among his losses being that of over $1,000, caused by the destruction of a barn and the unthreshed wheat which had been reaped from seventy acres which was stored therein, and which was greedily devoured by the flames. Mr. White has been twice married, the first ceremony having taken place September 30, 1844, on which occasion the bride was Miss Parnelia Chapin. This good woman was born in Massachusetts February 28, 1823, and crossed the river of (leath September 19, 1852. The union was blest by the birth of four children, Calvin and Emily growing to maturity, but the latter being now deceased. The second marriage of Mr. White was solemnized March 15, 1853, he being wedded to Miss Hannah Briggs, who was born in Orange County, N. Y., December 17, 1820. She came to this State in 1837 and for some time lived near Detroit, but later became a resident of St. Joseph County. The neatness and order in and about her home testify to her housewifely skill, and the opinion which is held of her by her neighbors indicates the kind heart and useful deeds of the true woman. The first Presidential ballot of Mr. White was deposited in 1840 and bore the name of William Henry Harrison. When party policies and issues of the day made a new decision necessary, he became a Republican and has been stanch and true for many years. When but twenty-two years old he was Township Collector in Barry County and has held various offices here, among them that of Justice of the Peace. He is identified with the Grange, and with 3lue Lodge, No, 12, F. & A, M,, in Battle Creek. In all affairs of neighborhood importance he is prominent, using his influence for that which will promote the general good, and his efforts, as well as his character, are duly appreciated by those with whom ie comes in contact. ~~~~C- +O C IIII I OMER HALL. A fine farm of one hun))) dred and twenty-six acres in Le Roy Town-,/~ sship, is that upon which the subject of this J biographical notice is carrying on an enterprising and successful career. He was born here June 13,- 1853, and attended the district schools during the winter season and worked on the farm (during summers until he was nearly twenty years old. Ile made goodl use of the opportunities that were given him to gain a knowledge of the principles of science, and from his parents learned many a useful lesson, whose result is seen in his life and habits. -le took a business course of study in the UInion School in Battle Creek and upon its conclusion spent two years in thle American Express Office there. Iie then married and settled on the homestead, where he is successfully raising a variety of crops. The father of our subject was Lyman R. Hall, whose portrait appeals in connection with this sketch. ile was born in Rutland County, Vt., December 28, 1813, and was the son of Thomas and Rosanna Hall. IIis father, who was a farmer, died when the son was but eight years old. About the year 1836 Mr. Hall came to Battle Creek, but soon afterward took up two hundred and forty acres of land in Eaton County. On this farm he never lived, but traded it for that before mentioned in this county and now occupied by his son. For some time before he purchased this land, he had given his attention to blacksmithing. lie possessed much mechanical genius, a fact which proved very useful in the early days as he could contrive many conveniences the family would otherwise have lacked. The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Lucy C. Champion aqn] bcvme the wife , A 4 646 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. --— `-^ --- —-^-11 — -` — c - -- — I of Mr. Hall January 20, 1841. She is a daughter of John and Rebecca (Hubbard) Champion, who were of English descent but born in Pennsylvania. She came with her parents to this State in 1834. Her congenial union was blest by the birth of four sons, two of whom-Elmer C. and John HIenrydied in childhood. The youngest son, Lyman C., received a good education at Battle Creek and for some four years worked in a commission house in Chicago and for a short time in New York City. He was obliged to resign on account of failing health and went to California to recuperate, spending six montls at Los Angeles and then a year and a half at Denver, Col. His efforts to build up his wasting energies did not prove successful and he returned here to die under the parental roof and surrounded by the friends of his childhood. He was cut down at the early age of thirty-three years, when his fine qualifications gave promise of usefulness and honor among men. The year after their marriage the parents of our subject settled on the farm in Le Roy Township, thirty acres of which was improved. They endured some of the privations which are incilental to the development of any new land, but were soon surrounded by the comforts of more modern times. The present commodious residence was built in 1861, and cost, at a time when prices were low, some $2,500. The enterprise that was displayed by Mr. Hall in cultivating and improving his land has been copied since his demise by the son and wi(ow, who have added to the original farm one hundred and forty acres of goodd land adjoining and have also bought sixty acres near Climax, Kalamazoo County. Mr. Hall was a useful member of the community and was frequently called upon to serve in capacities of public trust and responsibility. Ele held every office from Pathmaster to Supervisor and many of them several times over. In promoting the efficiency of the district schools and aiding in the work of the Churches he was equally active. For some twenty-five years he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and served as Trustee until he was compelled by failing health to resign the office. He was a liberal contributor toward the erection pf the house of worship at East Le Roy. His death occurred at his home, after a lingering illness of two years, April 14, 1886, and he now lies buried in East Le Roy cemetery. His memory will long bo1 revered by those to whom he was known. The gentleman whose name introduces this sketch won for his companion in life a young lady of intelligent mind, amiable disposition and fine character, who became his wife February 7, 1877. She bore the maiden name of Ella M. Stanton and is a daughter of A. C. and Jane E. (Ashley) Stanton. of Le Roy. To Mr. and Mrs. Hall three interesting children have come, who respond to the names of Fred S., Louie R. and Eva M. That our subject and his wife are the objects of the good will of those about them, and that they are the worthy descendants of worthy progenitors, it is scarcely necessary to state. ANIEL WAGONER is one of the old settlers of Lee Township where he has made his home for many years. He is the son of a pioneer family of this county, and the work that he has done himself in making a productive farm from a tract of wild land, entitles him to an honorable place among the farmers of this section who have made it a rich agricultural center. James Wagoner, the father of our subject, was born in Maryland, but was reared in Pennsylvania on a farm where he was taken while young. From that State he went to Canada, thence to New York, to the town of Geneva in Cuyahoga County, where he engaged in farming. He was in Canada during the War of 1812 and served in the English army. He was married while living in Pennsylvania to Sarah Peck, a native of that State, and a daughter of Philip Peck, a farmer who spent his last years in the State of New York, where he died at a very old age. In 1836 the father of our subject brought his family to this State, and lie became one of the pioneers of Marengo Township, where he entered some land. He improved a good farm of two hundred acres on which he made his home till Death closed his life at the ripe old age of PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 647 eighty-six years. He was a sound Demc politics and was in every way a good citizen memory is held in honor for the part that formed in developing the agricultural resot this county as one of its most industrious p The mother of our subject (lied at Marengo venerable age of seventy-six years. She mother of fifteen children of wlom nine ing. Daniel Wagoner was born il Geneva, County, N. Y., September 11, 1827. T nine years of his life were passed on a farm place of his birth, and he then accompan parents to their new home in the wilderness county. The family journeyed by canal Detroit, where the father bought an 6x-ter they then pushed on to this county, arrivil in June 1836. Our subject had to walk pal way, and he even now can recall many inci( the journey and of the aspects of the countr had scarcely begun to emerge from its p wildness. The aborigines of the forest wer here then and our subject use(d to play w little Indian boys and shoot arrows with Even in that early day he, was fond of the h when only thirteen years old brought (lown with his rifle. IIe has retained all his old f( for the chase, and goes north every fall t County, where deer still abound, to indulg pleasures. He has had many of the thrillin riences of old hunters and has been attac deer when he had to fight hard for his life. Our subject remained at home till he was 1 five years of age, and while affording his assistance in the management of his farm, g practical knowledge of agriculture that h, very useful to him in his after career as a In 1854, having managed his father's fa four years, he bought forty acres of his farm on section 33. lie actively entered u development, put it under good cultivati erected suitable buildings. In 1860 he trac place for seventy acres of land in Argentine ship, Genesee County, where he farmed ti] when he sold that property, and coming 1 this county bought ninety-one acres of his farm lying on section 33. He has made )crat in improvements upon it including neat and well i, whose arranged buildings, has fenced his land and has lie per- here a farm that is replete in all its appointments. irces of He has bouoght other land and has twenty-three )ioneers. acres on section 22. and forty acres on section 28, at the his whole farm comprising one hundred and fiftywas the four acres of choice well-tilled land. He devotes are liv- his farm to mixed husbandry, raising grain, cattle, sheep and hogs, and employs two teams of horsCayuga es in carrying on his operations. 'he first The first marriage of our subject, which was in the solemnized at Marengo, January 1, 1850, was with lied his Miss Sarah A. Broat a native of the State of New 3 in this York and a daughter of Paul Broat. IHer father boat to was one of the early pioneer farmers of the county im and coming here in 1833. Mrs. Wagoner died during ngr here the residence of tlhe family in Genesee County, t of the leaving one child, Eugene, who is a farmer in Lee (lents of Township. y which Our subject was married to his present wife, rimeval formerly Miss Clarissa Sturgis, in Genesee County e living May 15, 1864. Mrs. Wagoner is the third ith the in a family of ten children, and was born in Oakthlem. land County, Mich., near Troy. She was reared, unt andl however, in Genesee County. Iler father -Iiram a deer Sturgis was born in New York, as was also his ondness father, Thomas Sturgis, wlio was a pioneer farmer o Lake of Genesee County, where lie lived until his death. e in its I-e was a soldier in the War of 1812. The father g expe- of our subject's wife was a prosperous farmer in;ked by Genesee County, where lie carried on his operations till le enlisted in the service during the late war as twenty a member of the Eighth Michigan Infantry. He father was shot while fighting in the battle of Gettysburg,ained a and died in the hospital twenty days later, thus as been giving up his life for his country. Mrs. Wagoner's farmer. mother whose maiden name was Matilda Jackson Lrm for was born in New York, and was a daughter of Dr. present Joseph Jackson, wlo was a farmer in Genesee Ipon its County, and a practicing physician. He took part on and in the War of 1812. The mother of Mrs. Wagoled that ner resides in this county. Town- Mr. and Mrs. Wagoner have four children, as 11 1866, follows: Gladys, who married Almon Cooley, a resback to ident of Marengo Township; Elgin, who is married present and lives on the home farm; Malinda, at home with all tlhe her parents; and Lucinda, Mr, Wagoner stands 648 PORTRAIT ArND BIOGRAPHI[CAL ALBUM. 6 P R AN B P AL well with his fellow-citizens, as he is a man of frank, genial nature, and is just and obliging in his relations witli his neighbors. He gives his allegiance to the Democratic party though he does not concern himself much with politics. He has been a School Director one term, and has done good work for his township as Pathmaster. (OHN T. WOOD is widely and favorably known throughout this county where the most of his life has been passed as boy and; man. Lie is one of the most influential and public spirited citizens in Burlington Township, in whose civic life he occupies an important position and with whose material interests lie has long bleen associated both as an enterprising business man and as a skillful farmer. Our subject was born June 2, 1834, in the town of Ira, Cayuga County, N. Y. His parents were Allen and Ma-ry J. (Crowell) Wood, who were born respectively in Ulster County, N. Y., May 8, 1807, and in Cayuga County tie same State, April 6, 1812. The paternal grandfather of our subject, Timothy Wood, was also born in the Empire State, March 2, 1774, and was an only son. lie was a wagon maker and a farmer, and he spent his last days in Virgil, Cortland County, N. Y., where his death occurred May 23, 1851. lie was twice married. His first wife, whose maiden name was Nancy Wood and who was born March 13, 1773, bore him the following children: Timothy, Lydia (Mrs. Van Vorris) John H., Jonas, Nancy and Abigail (both of whom died unmarried), Allen, and Eliza (Mrs. Dent). Timothy Wood's first wife died in Orange County N. Y., and he subsequently married Lucy Smith, who bore him the following children: Sallie A., Lydia, Timothy, Milton, Andrew J. and Horace B., all of whom married except Sallie. The grandfather of our subject and his second wife were active and devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The father of our subject was left motherless when a child of two years, and from that time lived with distant relatives till he was tWe>lv years of! age. Then a penniless lad he began the struggle of life alone, and in the ensuing years had a hard time cf it till prosperity smiled upon him. At the age of twenty years he went to Cayuga County, N. Y., where he met and married a daughter of John and Elsie (Dickenson) Crowell who were natives of New burg, N. Y. Her father served with great credit in the War of 1812. He was a farmer by occupation and he and his wife died in Cayuga County, N. Y. They were people of religious zeal and were connected with the Methodist Episcopal Church. They had two sons and eight daughters, all of whom grew to maturity and married. Prior to his marriage, which took place March 14, 1833, Allen Wood had carried on carpentering and worked at farming, being for seven years cmnployed on the farm of Humphrey IHowland, after which he managed Howland's farm. In the meantime he had traded for eighty acres of land on section 14, near Marshall, Michiga.n, and in September 1835, he started for the wilderness in the sparsely settled district of Southern Michigan to build up a new home for himself and family. When he landed in Marshall he did not have money enough to get his goods from the station and had to borrow a sum for that purpose. IIe thus began life in a new country under very discouraging circumstances, and had to struggle hard to keep from starving the first winter. The family were so pressed for food that he had to take frozen stumps of cabbage which had been raised on a small clearing on his place with which to make soup, which was all they had to sustain life. By economy and perseverance in time Mr. Wood accumulated a fine property, immediately south of Burlington village and was able to give his children a much better start in life than he had himself, and to assist them to procure good homes for which they hold him in grateful remembrance. He departed this life in the month of January, 1888, full of years and honors. He was active and progressive and was of great service not only in promoting the growth of this section but in the part he took in its public life. He was Assessor of this township at one time and served as Justice of the Peace seyeral terms. Both he l nj his good wife, who PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 649 --------- died in the month of February 1888, were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church in New York, and throughout life they were exemplary Christian people. John Wood who is the principal subject of this biographical review, received an excellent education in the public schools and was well drilled in farm work during his youth. When he attained his majority he continued to work on his father's farm, his father paying him wages. He purchased his first farm in Tekonsha Township. In 1872 he turned his attention to the mercantile trade, buying an interest in a general store at Burlington, and he also followed the drug business five years very profitably. lie is now residing on a farm of one hundred and fifty acres immediately north of Burlington, and is very successfully engaged in agricultural pursuits. Mr. Woods' marriage with Miss Susan Hutchings took place June 5, 1859. Their married life furnishes an example of true wedded happiness, and has been blessed to them by the following children: May, wife of Charles E. McLain; Allen E., Lulu (deceased, w who as the wife of Edward Pangburn), and Will D., who is attending school at Hillsdale. Mrs. Wood was born in Tompkins County, N. Y., and is a daughter of Elias and Mary (Scutt) Hutchings, who were natives of Cortland County, N. Y. They removed to DeKalb County, Ind., about 1855, and two years later came to Branch County, this State. They resided in various counties in this State till his death, which occurred in Burlington Township in 1887. Ile was a son of Jacob and Rhoda (Wood) Hutchings, who reared two sons and six daughters, all of whom married except one. Jacob Hutchings came from England to this country and settled in Massachusetts. Mrs. Woods' father was twice married. By his first marriage he had two sons and three daughters. The maiden name of his second wife was Charlotte Tyler. Mr. Hutchings was a blacksmith and also a carpenter, and was considered a skillful mechanic. He was one of the brave volun. teers of the late war, in which he served faithfully for three years as a member of the First Michigan Calvary. Mr. Wood is one of the most influential and prominent men of his township, who have been conspicuous in its public life. He is one of its leading civic officials and his name is associated with various enterprises to promote the development of the interests of this section of the country. Three times he has been elected to represent this township as a member of the County Board of Supervisors, first holding that important office in the year 1880, andbeing at present an incumbent. Mr. Wood is a man of large, generous nature and is one of the most liberal men in his community. He is exceedingly claritable and never fails to leid a helping hand to the poor, who have no better friend than he. He is ever ready to do all in his power to aid those who are struggling hard to succeed, and many liave cause to remember him gratefully for the assistance he has afforded them, and many and staunch are the friends he has. He is popular in social circles, and is a leading member of the Masonic order at Burlington. Mr. Wood and his brother are the only children of their parents. William D. Wood is one of the representative farmers and stock-raisers of Burlington Township. lie was born December 26, 1839, in Conquest, Cayuga County, N. Y. n ORMAN ACK E R. A worthy place among the farmers of Le Roy Township is due to this gentleman, who operates a fine tract of one hundred and eighty-six acres. He uses excellent judgment in the preparation of the soil for crops, in the character of the produce raised, and reaps a corresponding harvest. Buildings suited to the various needs of the family in the household and farm economy have been erected, and everywhere the indications are of peace and plenty. Mr. Acker is a son of Elijah and Nancy (Bell) Acker and was born in Ienrietta, Monroe County, N. Y., June 18, 1841. His grandfather was a lake captain and was always known as Capt. Acker; he quit the lakes and came to this State to spend his last days with his children, and died at Fredonia, this county. The father was in early life a car 0~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~_ r 650 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I 1 --- —— "1 ---` -11- — —1 --- —-— I — 1 — -- penter, but later devoted his time wholly to farm work. Hie came to this county in 1854 and bought one hundred and forty-six acres of the land now owned by the son, and here he continued to reside. Iis loved wife died in 1873 and after her loss his chief delight was in the companionship of his grandchildren. He has been heard to say that the happiest days of his life were when he was entertaining them. He was always devoted to domestic life, never caring to be prominent and only taking such a part in politics as was necessary to cast his Republican ballot. The early years of Mr. Acker were unmarked by any event that was different from those that befell many lads of that time, attendance at school filling the customary hours and home duties and boyish sports the remainder of the time. IIe was thirteen years old when the removal to this county was made and on the homestead he has since lived, giving both time and strength to its development and continued cultivation. That success has crowned his efforts is due partly to the sturdiness of nature inherited from ills Dutch ancestors and partly to the training he received from his honored parents. Without the latter his good qualities night, have run to waste, as is often the case when proper care is wanting. The wife of Mr. Acker is a lady of much intelligence and a kindly nature. She was known in her maidenhood as Miss Prudie Carpenter and is a daughter of Caleb and Ursula (Harris) Carpenter who were born in Lucas County, Ohio. Prior to her marriage she was engaged in the profession of teaching, but has since given her attention to the faithful discharge of the duties pertaining to a wife and mother. Mr. and Mrs. Acker have four children, named respectively: Lula, Wordley, Ned and Zellah, all now attending the district school. Mrs. Acker's grandmother is still living, a wellpreserved and inteinteresting old lady of ninety-five years, who has been totally blind for twenty years. Her home is at Bronson, Branch County, with her daughter Mrs. Wakefield. She is the daughter of a soldier of the War of 1812, andt her details of the hardships and trials of those days are very interesting, so that no greater treat can be given her grandchildren than a visit to grandmother. I A peaceable and law-abiding citizen, an energetic ani prudent farmer, and a man of honor in business and social relations, Mr. Acker is regarded with respect by the people about him, and lie and his wife have many sincere friends. N- -\T/. A Sy. I I ANFORD LAMB. The vast amount of labor that was expended in bringing this county up to its present high state of development can scarcely be imagined, much less described. Those who have aided in this work are entitled to the esteem of men, and the biographical writer is always pleased to record their histories even though only a simple statement of facts can be given. To Sanford Lamb, now living on section 17, Clarence Tuwnship, credit belongs, as to one who has always been ready to bear a hand when hard work was to be done. Andrew and Susan (Lincoln) Lamb, the parents of our subject, were born, reared an( married in the Empire State. About fifty-five years ago they came to this State, spent a short time in Jackson County, and then located in this county, on the old John Ainslie farm in Marengo Township. Thence they removed to the Charles Church place, upon which Mr. Lamb built the first house. He made several subsequent changes in the township, and about 1844 made a permanent location on seetion 16, Clarance Township. He built the first house put up by a white man upon the west side of Duck Lake and cut down the first trees. There were no roads and neighbors were remote, but Indians and wild animals were still numerous in the neighborhood. Mr. Lamb had sixty-four acres of raw land which he fully improved and to which he added until his farm comprised one hundred and seventeen acres. He was in rather poor circumstances when he made his first purchase but had the same zeal than has been manifested by his son. lie cut more wood between his home and Marshall than any other five men in this part of the county. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Lamb consisted of ten children, nine of whom are now living and eight in this county. They are Isaac, Mrs. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 651 ------ 111 --- —-------------- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1 --- —---— '~~~~~~~~~~~-~~~-~~~~ --- — ---- ------— ` -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Martha D. Olds, Sanford, Emory, Charles, Marvin A., Mrs. Mary E. Hotchkiss, Mrs. Angeletta Squires, and Mrs. Pruella Anderson. Their honored father died in 1862 at a goodly age, having been born in 1800. Their mother is still living, in good health and quite vigorous although eightyfive years old. She makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. Charles Squires, of Clarence Township. The gentleman whose name introduces this notice was born February 12, 1833, in New York, and was very young when the family came here. His first reccollections are of the undeveloped wilderness by whichL his boyhood's home was surrounded. In the log schoolhouse that was most accessible he took up the common school branches, but owing to circumstances was obliged to discontinue his studies when ten years old and find work. He began by driving oxen in the winter and doing farm work in the summer, all his earnings being turned over to his father for the benefit of the family. Ile (id teaming from Duck Lake to Albion, when the latter was scarcely more than a hamlet, and he also helped to clear the parental farm. In 1855 Mr. Lamb gained a companion and helpmate in Miss Mary P. Scouten, who was born in New York in 1835. She was a daughter of John and Anna (Burdick) Scouten, natives or New York, and later residents of Pennsylvania. In that State her father departed this life. Her mother married again and came to Michigan in 1852, settling on section 21, Clarence Township. She and her second husband have since (lied. Mrs. Mary Lamb was called from time to eternity April 22, 1878, leaving two children, Lee Grant, born May 27, 1860, and Ru Ray, November 8, 1876, the latter now living in California. A second marriage was contracted by Mr. Lamb in 1880, his bride being Mrs. Amelia Smith, nee Dewey. This lady was born in Jackson County in 1850, and was a daughter of H. L. Dewey, now of Eaton County. Slie (lied on Christmas Day, 1889, leaving to her bereaved conal)anion a little daughter, Mina, who was born December 4, 1882. After his first marriage Mr. Lamb settled upon forty acres of land which was in its raw state, but which is now under the plow and thoroughly well improved. To it he subsequently added a tract of equal size and here he carries on mixed farming and derives a comfortable income from tilling the soil. -le began his work here empty handed, being obliged to work by the month to get the $40 with which to secure his first tract. lie has worked by the day at logging for fifty cents per day, when the time was counted from daylight until dark. In more recent years he has not been obliged to work so hard, although he is still an active and busy' man. The children of Mr. Lamb have acquired good common school educations and have always been encouraged by their father to make the best of their opportunities. He always votes the Democratic ticket and has never failed to mainfest an interest in the political situation. During the Civil War he was working in the oil regions of Pennsylvania when he was drafted, and he paid $300 for a substitute. He is a man of genial nature and possesses. a goodly amount of the "milk of human kindness", which leads him to contribute generously to various objects of benevolence, and enterprises that promise to promote the good of the people. ANDS IRWIN HOLMES, M. D., is proud of the fact that he has pursued a more than ordinarily successful career in his chosen profession, not by reason of any lodge or church relations that would lead associates to patronize him, but by dint of his personal application, thoughtfulness and integrity. Certainly no one can blame him for the delighlt he takes in his good record, as ll know that a "good name is better titan great riches," and financial prosperity, won by honest efforts, not to be made light of. The town of Homer has been the home of Dr. Itolmes about a score of years and from it his reputation extends in all directions. Dr. Ilolmes was born in County Kent, Canada, November 16, 1820, and is the eldest of the eight children comprising the family of Abraham and (Jane) Gibson Holmes. The mother died long since but the father lived until 1890. On the parental agres young Holmes passed his boyhood and youth, acquiring a knowledge of the English -5 - 652 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. branches and learning much of the work in which his father was engaged-that of cultivating the soil. When eighteen years old he began the study of medicine under the guidance of Dr. James S. Wallen, a reputable practitioner in Morpeth, Canada. After two years of office reading, he entered the medical department of the State University in Ann Arbor and studied there a twelvemonth, then went to New York to take a course in the Hospital College. When tie degree of Doctor of Medicine had been conferred upon Mr. H-olmes by that institution, he devoted himself with zeal to his professional work for two years. lie then took up the study of Eclecticispn, receiving a diploma from the Toronto (Canada) Medical College. Ile is still, as ever, a close student, keeping thoroughly abreast of the times in his knowledge of the sciences that pertain to his profession, and giving earnest heed to new theories and practical tests, incorporating all that is best in his own practice. Ile has shown sound judgment in his labors, both in diagnosing and treating diseases, and is regarded with due respect-by those who know him. Dr. Holmes was married in Canada in 1852 to Miss Elsbeth Grant, who bore him two children named respectively, Eugene and Mary J. Iis present wife bore the maiden name of Annie Seeley and was joined to him in wedlock in 1861. This union also has been blessed by the birth of two children who are called Maggie and Lawrence. A AVID CUNNINGHAM, J. P., has been ideni| )) tified with the interests of Marshall some thirty years and has become well known as a public spirited and upright citizen, a man of honor in business and social relations and one whose private character is modeled after the 1)ivine example. He is a native of the Emerald Isle, born near Londonderry October 1, 1838. He is the seventh of twelve children comprising the family of Samuel and Catherine (Huston) Cunningham, and was fortunate in his home training, his parents having been devout Christians and more than ordinarily well educated. The father was a minister of the Presbyterian Church and was a personal friend of the renowned John Wesley. In 1849 the Rev.. Mr. Cunningham emigrated to the United States, landing at New York, whence he came direct to this State, making his first sojourn at Adrian, Lenawee County. He subsequently removed to Marshall, where he died in 1870 at the venerable age of ninety-nine years and eight months. His widow passed away in 1875 in Ireland, whither she had gone to spend her last days. During eighty-seven years of his life the Rev. David Cunningham was a professor of religion. Tihe subject of this biographical notice was a mere lad when he came to America, and is a fullfledged American in principles and sympathy. He attended school in Adrian, and under the able instruction of his father became a close student and acquired the habits of reading and thought that have clung to him through life. Having mechanical ingenuity and taste, lie took up the trade of machinist, serving his apprenticeship in Adrian, and followed the calling some fourteen years. He was then employed in the Michigan Central Railroad shops several years, after which, feeling that lie was justly entitled to a more easy life, lie engaged in the insurance business. In 1873 he was elected City Recorder of Marshall and held the office until 1877. In 1876 he was elected Justice of the Peace and with the exception of one year has held the office continuously to the present time, a period of fifteen years. The lady to whom the comfort and happiness of his home life are due became Mrs. Cunningham in 1863, she being at that time a resident of Detroit, this State, and rejoicing in the name of Mary Baker. She was born in the city of New York, her parents, Joseph and Sarah A. Baker, being also natives of the Empire State. Her grandfather was for many years Warden of the prison at Sing Sing. Mr. and Mrs. Cunningham have three children living, viz: Harry D., express messenger between Grand Rapids and Chicago; Mary A., wife of Dr. L. C. Smith of Marshall; and Lulu C., who is still attending school, Judge Cunningham belongs to Peninsular Lodge, A S X:: X i 2 fr j>B:: \ f C:Q d:; ~022 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 655 No. 5, I 0. O..F. In politics he is a stanch Democrat, fully believing in the principles that he advocates and supports, and able to make a good plea for them among his friends. He and his wife are consistent members of the Presbyterian Church, in which he is both Elder and Trustee. JI --- —-- I - I NS~ -^ ---OTIS F. KIMBALL. Among the brave soldiers whom Calhoun County sent to the front during the Civil War, many were native-born citizens and one of these was Mr. Kimball, who, though a mere youth won a fine military record that is creditable alike to himself and to his country. He is now one of the intelligent and progressive farmers of Newton Township, where he has a well improved estate. His portrait, which appears on the opposite page, represents a highly esteemed citizen and one identified with the progress of the community. Our subject is a son of a well-known pioneer family of this county, and was born in Burlington Township, February 8, 1845. His father, Jesse R. Kimball, was a native of New Iampshire and was born in 1798. IHe was a son of Wills Kimball, who is also supposed to have been born in the Granite State. The Kimballs are of Scotch descent and the early ancestors of our subject were somewhat noted in Scotland as being connected with the standing army, some of them being commissioned officers. Their military spirit was handed down to their descendants in America and the grandfather of our subject was a patriotic soldier in the Revolution, serving throughout the greater part of that war. He was but fourteen years of age when lie enlisted, but he endured with undaunted fortitude the many hardships that the brave Colonists had to suffer in their struggle for freedom. He took part in many of the principal campaigns of the Continental army and was finally honorably discharged in Rhode Island. He passed the.rest of his days as a farmer and died in New Hampshire when past sixty years of age. He and his wife reared a family of three sons and one daughter. In the next generation we hear of the same mili i tary spirit that had been predominant in the family for centuries, appearing in the breast of the father of our subject who, though but a boy, desired to enlist as a drummer in the War of 1812. Much to his disappointment lie was rejected on account of his extreme youth. He left the farm to clerk in a grocery store for a few years when young, but never after engaged in mercantile pursuits, as he subsequently adopted the calling to which he had been reared, and became a prosperous farmer. He was one of the first pioneers to settle in this county, coming here in 1834. He boughltfive hundred acres of land in Burlington Township, and spent the ensuing summer making some small improvements. He then returned to the East for his family, and came back with his wife in 1836. The journey was made by boat to Detroit and thence to this county with a wagon drawn by oxen, the family having to walk much of the way on account'of the bad roads. Indians still made their home here and frequently came about the dwelling. Deer and wolves were very plentiful; the latter could be heard howling around the cabin, and the calves had to be shut up in high rail pens that the wolves might not destroy them. Mr. Kimball cleared much of his land, and placed it under substantial improvement. At his death, March 1, 1881, Calhoun County lost a pioneer whose name will ever be identified with its history and growth from the very beginning. He was a Democrat in politics and bore an honorable part in the public life of his adopted township. tie was Commissioner of Highways at an early day and helped lay out many of the roads through Burlington. The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Sallie Rood. She was a native of the State of New York where her birth occurred November 14, 1815, and she died September 17, 1885. She was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church for a time and then joined the Protestant Methodist Church. A good, whole-souled Christian, she de. serves much credit for the part she took in the early history of this county. Of the nine children born of her marriage, six grew to maturity: Chester, Marcia, Caroline, Otis F., Wills, and Elmer. The boyhood of our subject was passed on his father's farm in Burlington Township much as that = 656 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. of other farmer boys. He was reared under pio- and then engaged in selling books, principally neer influences and has a distinct remembrance of Bibles for three years. After that he dealt in stock the county when it was in its transition state and and was variously engaged until the spring of still bore many evidences of its primitive wildness. 1880, when he purchased his present farm of one He recollects seeing many deer and wild turkeys, hundred and sixty acres on section 19, Newton and even some bears. His education was conducted Township. He has greatly added to its value since in the old log schoolhouses of those days that were it came into his possession by the many substantial heated by means of a large open fireplace with stick improvements that he has made, including a fine and stone chimney, and furnished with pin legged large frame barn built in 1888 at a cost of $736.33. benches placed around the walls of the room. He He has since laid out $2,000 in improving his place, only attended school in the winter seasons, as he putting in tile for drainage and in other ways emhad to work on the farm the remainder of the year. bellishing it until his farm is one of the most desirAlthough only sixteen years old when the war able in this vicinity. broke out, the snme martial spirit that had animated Mr. Kimball was married April 19, 1881, to Miss his sires, glowed within Mr. Kimball, and he ar- Florence Stolp who was born in Onondaga County, dently desired to become a soldier. Though so N. Y., September 26, 1847. They have had one young he was a stalwart youth fully grown, could child, Cortland V., who was born June 16, 1886. do a man's work, and was to all intents' and pur- Mr. Kimball is independent in politics; and has poses a man. His ambition was finally gratified, and served his township as Tax Collector and Justice of December 8, 1862, his name was enrolled as a mem- the Peace. A member of the Grange, he is greatly ber of Company A, First Michigan Sharpshooters. interested in whatever will promote agriculture. He served in the campaign against the daring Mor- He possesses a well trained mind, is fond of readgan and his raiders through Southern Ohio, and ing and has a well selected little library of the best took part in numerous skirmishes. He was then literature. placed in Wilcox's Brigade, Second Division of the Ninth Army Corps. After passing through Washington, he and his comrades had some sharp skirmishes with Mosby's guerrillas in Virginia, and EREMIAH B. W. LEWIS, M. D. The callthen had an engagement with Longstreet in that ing of a physician is not only one of the State. Then came the Battle of the Wilderness in most arduous, but also one of the most which they did brave service. responsible pursuits in which man can enOur subject was wounded May 12, 1864, in the gage, and lie who attains a high reputation charge at Spottsylvania, grape slot passing through in this profession must necessarily be endowed his right arm above the elbow and shattering it so with physical endurance, keen intelligence and that amputation was necessary. The brave young excellent judgment. The subject of this sketch is soldier was taken to Columbian College Hospital one whose extensive practice and high standing and in June was sent home on a furlough. He sub- proves conclusively his mental and physical ensequently returned to Washington and was honor- dowments and his painstaking efforts to add conably discharged December 31, 1864. I-e fought tinually to his theoretical knowledge and practical well while in the army, endured his sufferings un- skill. He is one of the oldest medical men in this complainingly and sacrificed much without a mur- county, located in the beautiful little village on the mur in his patriotic devotion to his country. He north bank of the Kalamazoo River that on acis partly rewarded for all that he underwent by a count of being surrounded with the most valuable grateful Government, which grants him a pension of farming land, was appropriately named Ceresco of $36 a month. in honor of the goddess of grain. After he left the army Mr. Kimball, desirous to Dr. Lewis was born January 22, 1821, in Semimprove his education attended school one winter, Ipronius (now Moravia), Cayuga County, N. Y. 1 (1 PORTR~AIT AND BIOGRAPMCAL ALBUM. 657 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRA~hICAL ALBUM. 657 His father, Benjamin S. Lewis, was a native of Rhode Island, and in that State the grandfather Joseph Lewis, was also born. The latter was engaged in farming and with four sons and three daughters located in Onondaga County, N. Y., where lie continued his agricultural work until he retired. In the same county the son Benjamin S. made his home for some time, selling out his property there in 1833 and removing to Chautauqua County, thence going to Trumbull County, Ohio, a year later. After residing in the Buckeye State five years he made a change of residence, establishing himself in Huron County, Ohio, where he remained until his death in 1874. The mother of our subject was born in Bradford, Vt., and bore the maiden name of Betsey Whiting, and died in Huron County, Ohio; she was a devout member of the Christian Church. Her father, Dr. Jeremiah B. Whiting, a native of Litchfield, Conn., was a school teacher in the early days and later practiced medicine and surgery for many years. After havin( lived in Vermont for some time he removed to Onondaga County, N. Y., and thence to Cayuga County. In the latter he owned consi(lerable farm land. lHe was pre-eminently successful, making good investments and realizing a fair percentage from each. In 1839 he came to this State, settling in Marengo where he practiced somewhat, although he was becoming advanced in years. IIe possessed a remarkable memory and its power was retained muchl longer than is usually the case; he died in 1850, six years after his good wife had been borne to the tomb. Grandmother Whitingr bore the maiden name of Ruth Sweet and was a native of New Bedford, Mass. D)r. Lewis, who was the eldest of eight children born to his parents, was christened Leroy L., but when seven years old changed names with a brother, taking that borne by his maternal grandfather. The days of his childhood were spent in Onordlaga County, N. Y.,wllere he attended the district school, the first temple of learning in which lie studied lbeing built of logs. He had just entered his teens whle his parents removed to Moravia whence after a short sojourn they went to Trumbull County, Ohio. There the lad remained until seventeen years old when he went to.live with his grandfather I in Cayuga County remaining with him until some years after his removal to this State. They Journeyed on the Erie Canal to Buffalo, thence crossed the lake to Toledo, which waS then a small town without a brick house, and from that point traveled by rail to Clinton, this State. A week was spent there and the journey to Marengo completed in a wagon. Young Lewis attended school and assisted his grandfather, also working in a general store for a year. Hie can not tell when he began the study of medicine, but during the latter years of his teens he took up a. systematic course of professional preparation under his grandfather and aided him in his practice. In 1845-48 Dr. Lewis studied in Willoughby College, Lake County, Ohio, and the institution being closed at the end of the year he went to Cleveland and entered the Western Reserve College. On the termination of his studies there he returned to this State and embarked in life as a full-fledged doctor. IIe soon worked up a large practice in Ceresco where he has remained with the exception of eight years spent in Tuscola County, where he did some work in his chosen vocation. He has had all he could attend to, the demands for his services covering a wide range of territory and enforcing upon him much hard work, particularly during the days when he used to ride horseback. Not only has he been successful in alleviating suffering and restoring to health but he has been rewarded with a goodly share of worldly poesessions, enabling him to fit up his home in good shape. In 1866 he built the largest residence in the village, where the means of culture that are so highly appreciated by an educated man are to be found. Dr. Lewis has been twice married, the first ceremony having been performed in July, 1852, and the bride having been Maria E. Hughes. They were married by the Rev. John D. Pierce. This lady was born in Pennsylvania and came to this State when six years of age; she was a daughter of John Hughes, an Englishman, of whom further mention is made in the sketch of James M. tughes, which will be found in this volume, Mrs. Lewis was removed from the cares and pleasures of life December 15, 1875, leaving a hus 658 PORTRAIT AND BJI band and two daughters to mourn her departure from tlheir midst. The daughter completed their course of study in Olivet College and both engaged in school teaching. They are now happily married and living in homes of their own, Mary M. being the wife of Edgar A. Cary, of Joliet, Ill., and Flora R., of Dr. L. E. Gallup, of Marshall, this county. The second matrimonial alliance of Dr. Lewis was solemnized in 1876, his wife being Clarisa A. King. The cause of education has no more earnest advocate than Dr. Lewis and all efforts to increase the efficiency of the schools find an abettor in hirr. When entitled to the right of suffrage he allice 0:~ X himself with the Democratic party, but at the time of the candidacy ofJFranklin Pierce lie became a Republican, and in this party remained until 1885. At that time he became convinced that the liqnor traffic caused the great issue before the nation and joining the Prohibitionists he has since worked with and for them. He has been identified with the Odd Fellows order for a number of years, and has been a member of.the Calhoun County Medical Society. OGRAPHICAL ALBUM. town of Naples, Ontario County, N. Y., to Alfred and Ann S. (Stone) Holcomb, natives respectively of Windsor, Conn., and Italy, Ontario County, N. Y. His paternal grandfather was Roderick J. Holcomb, a native of Connecticut who married a Miss Winthrop. About 1820 he removed with his family to Bristol, N. Y., and both he and his wife subsequently died in that State in the town of Naples. He was a farmer by occupation, and was a man who was greatly respected. He was the father of fourteen children, named Clarissa, Electa, Winthrop, Amanda, Perry, Alfred, Ann, Maduca, Joseph, Highland, Roderick J., Julia, Lyon, Lucius B. and Emily, all of whom married except Lucius and lived to a ripe old age, and five still survive. The father of our subject was born in 1800. Ile nmade his first trip to Michigan in 1827 by way of Mackinaw, where he learned of tile beauties and fertility of the soil of the St. Joseph Valley. IHe concluded to visit this valley in 1829, and see for himself if the reports concerning it were true. He came here again and not finding the St. Joseph River pushed on to Kalamazoo and then returned home. In the month of October, 1831, accompanied by six other brave pioneer spirits, as the history of Athens Township tells us, he came hither with his family and settled on Prairie Round, where he put in a crop. SAPH H O L C O M B. The family name In the same spring he removed to Dry ] of this gentleman has been connected with of which lie had heard much, and with his b A the rise and progress of Athens Township in-law, Benjamin Ferris, took up two hundr from the very first day of its settlement, as forty acres of land on section 34, in what his father, Alfred Holcomb, was one of a party of Athens Township. This he made his hoi seven stalwart, adventurous pioneers who came more than forty years, until he closed his c hither in an early day when Michigan was a wild, death in the month of June, 1887. H sparsely settled territory, seeking a suitable loca- regarded by his fellow-pioneers as one of th tion. They were pleased with this beautiful spot, capable and worthy of their number, and where the dense primeval forests were varied by great aid in laying the solid foundation upon fine prairie land and oak openings, and from that thas been reared the prosperity of this section day until the time of his death Alfred Holcomb county. He owned a fine farm of two hundr played no unimportant part in developing the ten acres, which comprised his homestead, resources of this region, and lhe is honorably men- also had two other good farms of eighty tioned in the history of the county. Our subject each, and was altogether in very comfortal has been a resident of Athens Township as man cumstances. He was a factor in the establis and boy for nearly sixty years, and has risen to be of religion in his township, and the first re] one of its representative business men. services were held in his house during the c Asaph Holcomb was born April 19, 1827, in the epidemic in 1832. It was he who planted tl Prairie, rother'ed and is now me for eyes in [e was e most was a I which of the red and and he r acres )le cirihment ligious cholera he first PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 659 I I orchard in this locality in the spring of 835, and he it was who had the honor of introducing the first seed drill that was ever used here. The mother of our subject is still living at a venerable age. She is a daughter of Asel and Rebecca (Guernsey) Stone, who were natives of Connecticut. Her father was an early settler of Western New York, and became quite prominent in the public life of that section of the country, representing his district in the Legislature. In 1836 he came to this county, and was one of the early pioneers of Athens Township where his life was finally brought to a close. Ie was influential in the political and public life of the county, and served as Supervisor. lie was an attorney and a good business man, and was successful in life. The children born of his marriage were Ann S.. Sabra and Laura. Our subject was a child of three years, or thereabouts, when his parents brought him to their new pioneer home in the wilds of this State, and ever since he has lived within the limits of Athens Township. His early education was conducted in the primitive schools of Michigan, and( under his father's instruction on the home farm he gained a clear insight into farming in all its brancles. lie remained an inmate of the parental househlold until he attained his majority, when he began life for himself, working a farm on shares for six years. His next move was to purchase a farm of two hunAdred and five acres east of his father's residence. Ile has bought and sold at different times three good farms. In 1863 Mr. 1olcol(mb established himself in business as a merchant at Athens, and has carried it on very successfully since that time. His first business was in connection with P. II. Kingsbury, which partnership continued but a short time however. For the past eiglt years he has had his son as a partner, and they are doing a thriving business. They have a neat and well-stocked establishment, and are among the leading mercantile men in this part of the county. Besides his extensive business interests Mr. HIolcomb has other valuable property, including thirty acres of fine land near the village. He started out in life with no capital, as he received no money from his father until he came into his share of the estate after his I I father's death. But he was well endowed with mental and physical vigor and needed no one to start him on the road to success. November 25, 1829, our subject was married to Antoinette L. Hobart, a native of Yates County, N. Y., and a daughter of Baxter and Hester (Clark) Hobart. Mr. Hobart was a soldier in the War of 1812. His occupation in life was that of a farmer. Religiously he was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His useful life was closed in death in Yates County, N. Y. Mr. and Mrs. Holcomb have a home that is replete with comfort and is cozy and attractive to all who cross its threshold to share its abundant hospitalities. Four children have been born to these amiable people, as follows: William H.; Nettie L., wife of George Miller; Nora, her twin sister, who died at the age of six months; and Leo F. Mr. HIolcomb is a member of the Masonic society. As a thorough-going business man of sound financial ability, and excellent judgment in regard to all matters that come under his notice, ie has been a prime mover in extending the mercantile interests of this section and in advancing the welfare of Athens. He and his wife are well known and are influential in social circles. /a - M C. tS I t( - a. - cy iENJAMIIN POORMON. This venerable man has been identified with the interests of this county since 1854, and has done good work in opening up the land comprising Pennfield Township. More than one tract of land there has felt the effects of his vigorous labors, ~andt among the citizens he has exerted, a good influence, ever favoring those movements which would tend to elevate the status of society or increase the financial prosperity of this section. Although nearly four-score years of age he is remarkably vigorous in body and mind, having inherited mental and physical strength from a long line of sturdy ancestors. His home is on the banks of St. Mary's Lake, in Pennfield Township. Mr. Poormon is of German lineage, but his father, John Poormon, was born in Dauphin p 660 PORTRA AIT AND BIOGCRAP"HICAL ALBUM. County, Pa. He went from there to Seneca County, but $9 per month. He never wore a boot until he N. Y., shortly after his marriage and engaged in. was eighteen years of age. The shoemaker in farming. During the War of 1812 he volunteered, those days went from house to house and ma(le the and started withan old flintlock gun and a haver- footwear for the different members of the family. sack of food, on foot for Buffalo, when that city After his marriage Mr. Poormon worked out by was tlreatened by the British. He went as far as the day or month and also farmed on shares conBatavia, when he learned of the burning of Buffalo siderably. In the spring of 1854 he came to this and was ordered to retreat and he returned to his county, making the journey by rail to Buffalo, home. In politics he was an old-line Whig. He steamer to Detroit and rail to Battle Creek. The lived to the age of sixty-six years. His mother previous fall he had bought eighty acres of land had borne the maiden name of Pancake and lived on section 6, Pennfield Township, for which he paid to be one hundred and three years old. She was $4 per acre. It was covered with forest growth possessed of a large frame and at one time weighed and utterly bare of improvement. The owner three hundred and ten pounds. therefore rented forty acres south of his farm until The mother of our subject was known in her he could open up the tract, and after clearing and maidenhood as Mary Green. Like her husband breaking twenty acres he built a small frame house. she was born in Pennsylvania and was of German In 1857 he moved on to his own farm, which he descent. Like most women of her day she had continued to develop until every foot was made strong powers of endurance, and her son remembers useful to him. He placed upon it every modern that she walked five miles to church on many occa- convenience as years rolled by and finally sold it sions. She was proficient in the housewifely arts for $50 per acre. The bargain was closed March of a former time and made all the clothing for the 4, 1890, and April 15 following Mr. Poormon took family from flax and wool which she changed from possession of his present home. its crude state into cloth. She was a member of In September, 1835, the interesting ceremony the Lutheran Church, cheered by the faith of which which made Mr. Poormon and Roxie Hutchins man she died when sixty-six years old. Sle reared a and wife was solemnized. The bride was born family of twelve children, named respectively: near Sackett's Harbor, N. Y., on the St. Lawrence Daniel, Catherine, George, Jacob, Mary, Benjamin, River, and lived to be forty-eight years old. Her John, Joseph, Elizabeth, David, Anna and Reuben. children are Ansel D., Elizabeth (Mrs. Davis), Benjamin Poormon was born in Seneca County, Charles C., Mrs. Emily Darling, Mrs. Priscilla N. Y., January 5, 1812. He attended the sub- Packer, Chauncy, Mrs. Charlotte Young, Mrs. Ida scription schools that were held in a log building Phillips (deceased), Mrs. Mary E. Quafe, and three which was furnished with slab benches, a writing who died in infancy. A second marriage was desk around the wall and an open fireplace with a made by Mr. Poormon September 5, 1864, his stick chimney. Quill pens were used, and the only bride on this interesting occasion being Mrs. Sophtext books were Daboll's Arithmetic, the English ronia Decker, nee Wicks. She was born in Reader and Webster's Spelling Book. Mr. Poor- Massachusetts and was descended from a noted mon still has the Reader that he used in boyhood. family. Her maternal grandfather, James Otis, Ile was in the habit of taking his ax with him to was one of the signers of the Declaration of Indeschool and cutting broomsticks from which at night pendence. The Wicks family came originally to he would make splint brooms. These on Satur- America in the sixteenth century. Mrs. Sophrodays he would carry to the nearest town for sale, nia Poormon died November 6, 1887, and her making the six miles each day on foot. In this mortal remains lie with those of other members of way he paid for his own school books and made her husband's family in Hicks Cemetery in Pennsome money which he gave to his mother. He field Township. worked out by the month quite a good deal and Mr. Poormon has held some school offices and commanded the best wages then given, which was ha always been interested in the cause of educa PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 661 - --— '-~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ --- —-I-~~~~~~~~~~~- -— ~~~~ tion. In politics he is a believer in and supporter of Republican principles. His long residence here has given him an extended acquaintance and he is universally liked, the old finding in his companionship an opportunity to live over again the days of long ago, and the young being ever interested in the fund of knowledge from whicl he draws entertainment and instruction. — ONA A C —. SW Y i a p Albion Township, whither he came in 1837. Mr. Sweney has one of the finest farms in this vicinity, consisting of three hundred acres on section 7, all in a high state of cultivation, and supplied with a complete line of farm buildings, some of them of much more than usual commodiousness and substantiality. The most conspicuous of the outbuildings is a barn, 40x80 feet, so constructed that the roof is supported by columns from either side, leaving the entire floorspace clear. This is modeled after something seen by Mr. Sweney in tie Navy Yard at Washington, D. C. Another barn on the place is 30x60 feet and there are still two others. The old part of the dwelling was put up in 1852, but it was remodeled and added to in 1880, so that it is virtually a new house. Every improvement upon the estate, with the exception of seventy acres of breaking, is due to the energy of the present owner, who has brought the land from a crude condition to one of high fertility. The Sweneys are an old Maryland family and in Baltimore David, father of our subject, opened his eyes to the light of day. HIe became a resident in Pennsylvania, where lie owned and operated mills. In that State he married Fanny Bartleson, a Pennsylvanian by birth, and to them were born nine children, seven of whom are still living. The mother died about 1870 and the father about 1872. Jonathan C., who was the second child, was born March 17, 1817, in Sugar Loaf Township, Columbia County. His early opportunities for acquiring an education were very limited and from the age of twelve years he worked about the farm and sawmill very industriously. During his boyhood he worked in a blacksmith shop with his grandfather, although he did not thoroughly learn the trade. He has always been very handy with tools and has found his skill very useful on more than one occasion. In 1837 Mr. Sweney came West and reaching this county stopped at Abbott's Tavern on the Kalamazoo River. Thence he went to the home of Mr. Viets, a relative, who at that time made hay where a growth of timber that would furnish one hundred cords of wood to the acre now stands. Of the people then living in this part of the county but two are now to be found here. Mr. Sweney's hands were empty, but he was well supplied with health and energy, and little by little lie gained a foothold in the world. lie began by working by the month as a farm hand, continuing to act in that capacity a few years and receiving $13 peri month for his efficient labors. After a time he was able to buy thirty acres of wild land on section 12, Eckford Township, whereon he built a frame house 19x24 feet, and began the developing process. Indians and wild game were numerous here and lie many a time drove a herd of deer from his first crop of wheat. I-e resided on the little farm three years, then sold it and bought eighty acres within half a mile of Albion. This was a wholly unimproved tract and he built a frame house among the grubs, established himself therein, and began clearing the farm. lie brought forty-five acres under cultivation and operated the place until 1851, when lie sold and bought his present estate. Mr. Sweney won for his companion in life Miss Helen R. Watkins, daughter of Lyman and Chloe (Kendall) Watkins, to whom he was married September 8, 1842. Mrs. Sweney was born in Genesee County, N. Y., December 10, 1822, received a good education in the common schools and has added to the culture of her mind by every means in her power. Having a much better understanding of books and the usual branches of education than her husband, she aided him to gain knowledge and through her guidance and assistance he became a practically educated man. Sound sense and natural shrewdness were thus given weapons with which to win victory in the battle of life and the result has been creditable alike to teacher 662 PORTRAIT ANDNC BIOGRAP~HIC AL ALBUM.l[ and taught. Mr. and Mrs. Sweney have four chil- Sunday-school and has done good service as a dren now living and have been bereft of one child. teacher. She assisted in the organization of the Their daughter Sarah H. is the wife of 0. D. Fitch Literary Society of the neighborhood and in its and the mother of two children, and lives in the progress takes much interest. same township as the parents; William A. married Florence Carrington, has one child and lives in Albion; Mary E., wife of E. Tibbetts, lives in Albion; so also does George W., who is unmarried. The parents of Mrs. Sweney were natives re- AMES A. WAY, book-keeper in the First spectively of Massachusetts and New York. They National Bank at Marshall, where he occuwere married in Genesee County, N. Y., where the pies one of the attractive homes of the city, wife and mother died in 1825. The father remarried pleasantly situated at No. 404 Mansion Street and came to this State in 1831, lived for fouryears two doors west of Kalamazoo Avenue. is widelyin Washtenaw County and then came to Calhoun known and honored as an old settler of this county, County. Mr. Watkins was a carpenter by trade and of which he has been a resident for more than half a later in life a farmer. Here he settled upon the century. He comes of fine old New England and l:ind now owned by our subject, built a shanty and Revolutionary stock, and was born in tile town of began improving the wild tract. He was priv- Hebron, Tolland County, Conn., December 14, ileged to continue his labors but a few years, being 1816. He is the youngest of the nine children of called hence in 1839. He was noted for his strict Daniel S. and Clarissa (Latimer) Way. His greatintegrity in all the affairs of life and was a con- grandfather was a Colonel in the Revolutionary sistent nmember of the Presbyterian Church when War and took part in the battles of Bunker Hill, his demise occurred. His widow survived until,Plattsburg and Saratoga, and his grandfather was July, 1890, attaining to the advanced age of also an officer in the Continental Army. Both eighty-nine years. The first marriage of Mr. Wat- the father and the mother of our subject were nakins resulted in the birth of three children- tives of Connecticut, the former born at Lyme, Amelia, wife of Thomas Prindle, living in Eaton that State, in 1772. He was a contractor and County; Mrs. Sweney; and Albert L., whose home builder and for some time before his death carried on is in Kansas. There were seven children born to his business in the South where his promising career the second marriage, four of them still surviving. was closed by his death of yellow fever January 21, Mr. Sweney has always manifested a deep interest 1823. He was a son of Thomas and Amy (Lyrick) in educational progress and for fifteen years in Way, who were of Welsh and English extraction. succession has been a member of the School Board. The mother of our subject died in her sixty-first Ite was one of the principal instruments in secur- year in 1836. ing the pretty schoolhouse in District No. 2. He James A. Way spent his youth in his native has been Road Overseer for many years, his work county. He was given fine educational advantages, in behalf of the traveling public being most satis- attending school at Plainville and later at Manchesfactory. As all good citizens should be, lie is inter- ter and Colchester, where he laid the solid foundaested in politics, and has always voted a Demo- tion of a liberal education. He subsequently entered cratic ticket. He belongs to.the Farmers' Alliance Trinity College at Hartford, Conn., and was a stuin which he holds the office of Treasurer. It will be dent in that institution four years. I-e left colseen that he is a useful member of society and a lege with a mind well-trained for any profession man who is called upon to subserve the interests of that he might care to adopt. his associates, for whom he works zealously, as he Wisely thinking that in the then young State of has for his personal prosperity. Mrs. Sweney is a Michigan there would be a broader field for the member in good standing of the Presbyterian exercise of his talents than in his native place, our Church, has taken an active part in building up the subject came hither in 1837 and subsequently stud II i 0 I I I I f: | S Mu:: \: \:: AdC z d:::; 0 f:::: 0: f:::::: Of a PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 665 - - - - - - - - I - - -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ - ied law with James Wright Gordon. lIe was admitted to the bar in 1841 and commenced practice with his instructor. He remained- with him until about 1852 and won an honorable record in the legal profession. He then decided to abandon law, and entered the employ of the Michigan Central Railroad Company as station agent. Hie acted in that capacity until 1862 when he was engaged by Horace J. Perrin to assist him in the milling tusiness. He remained with him the ensuing four years. In January, 1869, Mr. Way entered the banking office of Joseph C. Frink and was employed there three years. During that time Mr. Frink died and our subject assisted in settling up the business and continued in the office, engaging in the abstract business. July 7, 1873, was the day upon which our subject entered upon the duties of his present responsible position as book-keeper of the First National Bank at Marshall. His long connection with the bank serves to show the regard in which he is held by the bank officials who consider him one of their most intelligent, able and faithful employes, and they place the utmost confidence in his honor and fidelity, which he returns by giving them the best service of which he is capable, making their interests his own. Mr. Way and Miss Anna M. Post were united in marriage August 20, 1843, and a pleasant wedded life has been Youchsafed to them of many years, as for nearly half a century they have shared the joys and sorrows that usually fall to the lot of mortals. Mrs. Way was born in the pretty Connecticut town that is the birthplace of her husband, and she there grew to womanhood. Her parents were Elihu and Lucinda (Phelps) Post. The Post family traces its ancestry back to 1632, its progenitors in this country being among the first settlers of the town of Hebron, and the name is associated with the early Colonial history of Connecticut. Mr. and Mrs. Way have one son, Edwin C., who is Western agent for the firm of Daniel, Scotten & Co., Detroit, Mich., residing in Chicago. Mr. Way has mingled in the political life of this county as an intelligent and stanch advocate of the Democratic party. He has been a member of the City Government as Alderman from the second ward one term. He at one time held the office of Justice of the Peace three years, and he was Director of the Schools five years, and during that time he was potent in advancing the cause of education in this city. He has also contributed in promoting the religious status of the community, as he is generous in all things that will in any way enhance its well-being, and the influence of his life of unswerving integrity has been felt by his fellow-citizens. ITe and his amiable wife are members of the Episcopal Church, which knows the full measure of their benevolence and charitableness. M ARTIN DEDRICK. In every human life / there is much of interest and in this volume / 1 vwe seek to give biographical sketches of men prominently connected with the history of the community where they reside. Among the prominent business men, whose enterprise assists in promoting the growth of the county, is Mr. Dedrick whose portrait is shown on the opposite page. He is a resident of Lee Township, and is engaged at Lee Center in the manufacture of staves and fruit barrels, operating a sawmill and at the same time managing an extensive mercantile business. Besides having a cooper shop here, he has one at Charlotte and a third at Springport, and is the most extensive manufacturer of fruit barrels in the State. Mr. Dedrick is the son of George Dedrick, who was born in Bayrne, Bavaria, Germany, August 17, 1811. He in turn was a son of John Dedrick, who was a Bavarian farmer and died in his native land. Thie name was formerly spelled Dietrich but was changed to Dedrick after the family came to America. The father of our subject carried on farming in the land of his birth until the fall of 1839 when he emigrated to this country. He settled near Albany, N. Y., wliere he was engaged in farming for five or six years. He then removed to Huron County, Ohio, where he became the owner of a farm of sixty acres. In the fall of 1856 he came to Michigan by team and wagon, and the ensuing two years carried on his occupation in Marengo Township. * 0::~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 666 POT 666 PORTI RAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. He then located on his present farm on section 17, with a salary of $100 a mnonth and expenses. In Lee Township, where he has eighty acres of finely- 1871 he bought the mill property at Lee Center and cultivated, well-improved land. I-e has shown took entire charge of it. He remodeled and put it himself to be a useful citizen since he settled in this in good shape and has since manufactured staves township more than thirty years ago and is emi- quite extensively, doing a large business il headnently worthy of the respect in which he is held. ing and hard wood lumber. He has a coopershop He is a man of sincere religious faith and a true here, besides those at Charlotte and Springport. As member of the Catholic Church. before mentioned, he is the largest manufacturer of The mother of our subject, Mary Dedrick nee fruit barrels in the State, putting on the market Campbell, was born in France in the Province of from twenty-five thousand to thirty thousand barLuthering in 1821. She lived in the land of her rels a year, which are sent all over the country. birth until she was nine years old, and then came Notwithstanding that he was already in possesto this country with her parents, who settled near sion of a large and lucrative business, our subject Albany, where she married Mr. Dedrick in 1842. established himself as a general merchant at Lee Her father, whose given name was Nicholas, was Center some years ago and tias ever since been suealso a native of France, and a weaver by trade, al- cessfully engaged in that line. lie carries over though he devoted the most of his life to farming. $5,000 worth of stock and is doing a thriving buslie was one of the pioneers of Huron County, Ohio. iness. His store is a commodious establishment, Our subject is the eldest of nine children and was 24x70 feet in dimensions, and is well patronized. born near Albany, Rensselaer County, N. Y., Jan- Mr. Dedrick is also identified with the farming inuary 4, 1843. He was three years old when the terests of the county, owning a forty-acre tract of family removed to Ohio and there the days of his improved land on section 29, Lee Township, and boyhood passed busily by, as he was early set to one hundred and sixty acres of fine land on section work on his father's farm and was never idle. 17. He has managed his farm until the present, The educational advantages enjoyed by Mr. (1891) but now rents a portion of it. Ile has raised Dedrick were limited to nine months attendance at some fine roadsters of the Clay and Blackcloud school, but he has since made up the early deficien- stock. His mills are admirably equipped with all cies of his education and in the school of experience the modern machinery and appliances used in the and observation has become an intelligent and well- manufacture of staves and other articles, and the informed man, who is well read on all subjects of work is all first-class. general conversation. When he was about twenty Mr. and Mrs. Dedrick have one of the most atyears old he broke his leg and wisely employed the tractive homes in the village of Lee, where their tedious interval before he was able to walk again, friends often gather to enjoy the charming hospiin learning to write and otherwise improving his talitics extended by so gracious a hostess and so education. genial a host. They began their married life April Mr. Dedrick worked out a great deal in his 9, 1884, which was the date of their wedding at youth, learning to make staves, and acquiring a Lee Center. Mrs. Dedrick was in her maiden days knowledge of many other useful occupations. In Effic R. Wood, and is a daughter of Daniel P. 1860 he began working in a sawmill and became Wood. For her parental history refer to the sketch a practical sawyer and engineer. In 1867 he bought of William O. Wood,, her brother, of this township. a half-interest in the mill that he now owns and for Mrs. Dedriek is a native of this county, was born about three years it was operated under the firm in Lee Township, April 30, 1860, and was educated name of Gardanier & Dedrick until our subject in Lee Center. She is a member in high standing sold out. As he was a proficient stave cutter, he of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and her name readily secured the position of overseer and fore- is associated with every good work. man of the staves and heading mill at Grand Rapids The politics of our subject are shown: in his iand New Baltimore, having charge of the two mills preference for the Democratic party. He enjoys PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM... - ---- 667 considerable social prominence, is a member of the Olivet Lodge, A. F., & A. M., the Bellevue Lodge, R. A. M., and has been identified with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Ile is a man of more than ordinary energy and force of character, possessing a keen insiglt into business matters and managing his affairs with rare judgment. It is to men of such calibre that this section is indebted for its present prosperity, and too much cannot be said in their praise. -_g — -b ARVEY RANDALL. For half a century this well known resident of Tekonsha has been connected witl the financial affairs of ) the township. For many years he was engaged in farming and he still ownis a fine tract of land on section 29, which was the scene of his agricultural labors some thirty-five years. He then built a residence in the village, took up his abode there, and has since been engaged in various lines of work, principally insurance. lle was at one time numbered among the merchants of the county and he is now doing considerable business as a pension agent. The parents of our subject were John and Lucinda (Granger) Randall, the one born in Bridgewater, Oneida County, and the other in Oswego, N. Y. Their wedded life began in their native State and they established their home on a farm near Sweden. They removed thence in 1842 and made their home in Tekonsha Township, this county. The husband improved land upon section 19, building upon it a good residence and various other structures, and both spent their last (lays there. They were the parents of five children, viz: John G., who died in 1848; Charles G., who lives in Burlington, this State; our subject; Sarah Ann, who died in 1888; and Frances W. whose death occurred in 1887. At the old home of the family in the Empire State the gentleman of whom we write was born, June 10, 1819. His first attempts at acquiring an education were in his native place and there he con tinned to store his mind with the knowledge of the practical branches, remaining with his parents during his minority. In 1842, six months before his parents' removal, lie came hither, but after their settlement was made he worked with his fa'ther for a few months. IIe then married and settled on his own land, which he made into a good farm by the means he took to cultivate its soil and the improvements he put upon it. Contrary to the practice of the majority of Americans, he spent several decades upon the place and has made but one removal, that to his present lhome. The lady who became the wife of Mr. Randall in his early manhood bore the maiden uame of Rhoda M. Howard. Like her husband she was born at Sweden, N. Y., her natal day having been August 2, 1824. Their marriage was solemnized December 28, 1842, and they lived happily together until April 1, 1887, when tlhe wife breathed her last. The children born to them were six in numbe their record being as follows: John W., born December 8, 1843; Alinda M., April 7, 1846; Alice A., April 9, 1848; Arthur G., August 9, 1850; Harvey M., September 3, 1859. The eldest son is engaged in the mercantile business in the village of Tekonslia. A second marriage was made by Mr. Randall July 26, 1888, his bride being Miss Charlotte E. Willson, who was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., August 15, 1832, but reared in Ohio. The first Presidential ballot of Mr. Randall was cast for Gen. William Henry Harrison, and as a stanch Republican the last one he cast was for the present President, Benjamin F. Harrison. He has served in several public capacities, among them the local offices of Highway Commissioner, School Director, and Justice of the Peace fifteen years. He was a member of the State Legislature from 1867 to 1869, and did good work for his constituents. Mr. Randall is now a Notary Public. He is a Baptist and has been a Deacon in the Church about thirty years and Clerk for a still longer period. He has likewise been Trustee for many years and Superintendent of the Sunday-school. lie was instrumental in organizing the Sunday-school Association of Calhoun County and has done much to advance the cause of Christianity-his best influence in this direction having been that of his personal example, 668 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. He has at all times manifested an interest in the mann Medical College having, however, prior to true welfare of the people among whom his lot is this taken one course of lectures in Bowdoin (Me.) cast and an intelligent consideration for national College. He opened an office in Battle Creek and good and the progress of the world. Ile was began to work up his practice, returning to ChiEnrolling Officer here from 1861 to 1865 at the cago to complete his medical course and receive close of the war. his diploma in 1867. Realizing the value of a happy home and the,.= ~=Lj-~ ---o~= =-_ —,-. comfort to be derived from the sympathy of a bright woman, Dr. Bathrick won for his wife Miss Georgiana Rowley, of Rochester, N. Y., to whom - REEBORN W. BATHRICK, M. D., has he was married in March, 1860. The union been located here for some years and is has been blessed by the birth of four children, well known, personally and by reputation. whose record is as follows: George is located at lie is engaged in general practice. For a number Des Moines, Iowa, being State Agent for Nichols, of years he made a specialty of throat and lung Shepard & Co.; Charles is in the employ of the troubles. Dr. Bathrick is descended from families same firm, but in Battle Creek; Eveline M. marin England. Iis parents, Stephen and Cynthia ried William Marvin, foreman of the book bindery (Bartholomew) Bathrick, were born in the Empire in the Adventist Publishing Company, of Battle State and reared three children, losing two in their- Creek; and John still resides under the parental childhood. Besides our subject the survivors are: roof and is pursuing his studies in the commercial Ada, wife of David S. Stephens, an engineer in college. Dr. Bathrick is a Republican in politics, Frankfort, Ill.; and Franklin Servetus, whose home ready to deposit his vote when the ballot box is is in Chelsea, Mass., and who is engaged in the oil open and to give an intelligent reason for his politibusiness. The father was a minister in his early cal faith, but not otherwise meddling with party life in the Baptist Church, but later took up medi- matters. lie is a man of good character, having cine. Following the common lot of preachers, he the respect of the people among whom his lot is moved from place to place, going from New York cast. to Ohio when our subject was seven years old, returning to New York within a few years and continuing his ministerial work there, in Maine, Michigan and Illinois until incapacitated by reason of ORATIO PERRY. The life of Ioratio advancing years and ill-health. IIe died at Frank- ) Perry affords an example of industry and fort, Ill., in 1880, at the age of seventy-two years, " thrift that is worthy the attention of all after a long period of invalidism. ) who desire to succeed in life. He began When fourteen years of age he of whom we working for himself when seventeen years old, and write left his home and began teaching music in from that day to the present he has been characand around Rochester. He taught both piano and terized by an energy and perseverance that has remelodeon, and was certainly one of the youngest suited in the accumulation of agood property. He music teachers of his day. He carried on that has a farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres work about ten years, going to Maine after a time, on section 21, Clarendon Township which, with and again pursuing his work in his native State. the exception of four acres, he cleared of the origiIle also taught in Toronto, Canada, and sold nal forest growth and placed under thorough eultiGeorge A. Prince & Co's. melodeons. There he vation. It is well fenced, has ample accommodabegan the study of medicine with Dr. Hackett. A tions in the way of barns, granaries and sheds, and year!nd a half later he returned to New York and is adorned with a pleasant two story dwelling, and pursued his medical studies under his father. He a large and thrifty orchard. A flock of forty then came to Chicago, Ill., Ind entered Hahne- heep, and other stock in proportionate numbers, ill PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 669 graze over its pasture lands and abundant crops cover the fields at the proper season. The father of our subject was Michael Perry, who was born and reared in Vermont, and who took up the occupation of farming. In New Hampshire he was married to Miss Hannah Cass, a native of that State, and ere long the good couple were located in Steuben County, N. Y., where the wife finally died. The father breathed his last some years later in Otsego County. They were the parents of thirteen children, named respectively: Orin, Jonas, Otis, William, Jonathan, Horatio, Emeline, Hannah, Abigail, Harriet, Lois, Matilda and Lydia. Horatio was the youngest son and twelfth child, and was born in Otsego County August 11, 1830. The subject of this life history grew to maturity in Steuben County, N. Y., whither lie went when six years old. Ile pursued his studies in an oldfashioned schoolhouse, built of logs, with a writing desk beside the wall and slab seats. While in his teens he bought his time of his father, and worked by the day or month at any occupation he could obtain, sometimes in the lumber camps and sometimes on a farm. In 1865 he came to this State, and soon after his arrival located on the property whicl is now bringing in an excellent income. IHe was accompanied here by a wife who shared his joys and sorrows during a period of some thirty years, their union having been solemnized in Steuben County, N. Y., in 1851. Her maiden name was Desdemona Tuttle and she was a native of Erie County, Pa. She entered into rest in 1883, leaving two daughters and a son. Her first-born, Sophronia, married Clarence Cummings and lives in Quincy, this State; Martha is the wife of James Shephard and their home is in Clarendon Township, this county; Roy E. is with his father. A second matrimonial alliance was contracted by Mr. Perry in January, 1885. His bride was Mrs. Helen Ellis, widow of Harley Ellis. Her maiden name was Lawrence and the home of her childhood, Livingston County, N. Y., where she was born July 15, 1828. She is the second in a family of ten children, and was brought to this State by her parents when nine years old. She is therefore well -- ~_ I --- —-- — acquainted with the changes that have taken place here, and has in fact had some share in the work by which they have been brought about. She and Mr. Perry are honored members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of Clarendon, in which the husband holds the offices of Treasurer and Trustee. Mr. Perry is a member of the Republican party. HESTER R. UNDERWOOD, an old resident of this county, living on section 34, Newton Township, is justly honored not only for the part he has borne in its agricultural development, but for his share in advancing its public interests and in elevating its religious and moral status. IIe was born May 21, 1820, amid the pleasant scenery of Windham County, Vt. IIis father, whose given name was Thaddeus, was also a native of the Green Mountain State, where his birth occurred in 1 792. His father, who bore the same name as himself, was likewise a native of Vermont, and was of English descent. He passed his life as a farmer and died arong the green hills of Windbam County in his native State, when nearly seventy years old. The father of our subject learned thie trade of a shoemaker and followed that and farming through life. He served as a volunteer soldier in the War of 1812. During some period of his life he removed from his native State to Tioga County, N.., where he purchased one hundred acres of land. Fifteen years later he sold out there and in May, 1836i, came to this county, making the journey by wagon to Erie Canal and then by boat to Buffalo, where he embarked on a steamer for Toledo and from that place came to his destination in this county with oxen and wagon. He stayed in Clarendon Township and raised a crop of wheat, and after the harvest in the fall he bought sixty five acres of land in Burlington Township and soon after bought another sixty-five acres adjoining it. He built a log cabin 20x28 feet and earnestly set to work to develop his land. In 1848 he died at the age of fiftysix years, and his adopted township was then deprived of one of its most industrious and upright I 670 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. citizens. His life was guided by high Christian of exceeding fertility. principles and he was a member of the regular sold some of his land Baptist Church. In politics he was a Whig. He ing eighty acres to his da served as Justice of the Peace a number of years, ship, but he still owns tw and in all ways did what he could for the advance- of choice land. He has r ment of his adopted township and county. Phoebe quite extensively, and I (Joy) Underwood, the mother of our subject, was money out of sheep. Il born in Vermont. She died at the ripe age of with a good class of far seventy-seven years, leaving behind her the record present large frame resi of a faithful Christian life. She was a member of 1856 at a cost of $1,400 a the Baptist Church for many years and later of the labor. IIe has several larg Methodist Protestant Church. built in 1857, 1858 and i H-e of whom this biography tells is one of ten The marriage of Mr. U children, of whom nine grew to maturity. His early A. Niblack was duly cele educational advantages were such as were enjoyed Mrs. Underwood was bor by the youth of his period, and as he was brought esee County in that part up on a farm he early became conversant with all as Wyoming County, N. kinds of farm labor. He was sixteen years old when uel and Sarah (Havens) he came to this county with his parents, and he at- ively of Pennsylvania a tended school here winters until he was twenty-one was a carpenter and also years old, he being a pupil in the first school organ- early manhood lie was a s ized in his district, which was kept in an old log I-e settled in the town of house with an open fireplace and a mud and stick this State in 1832, and w chimney. The seats were made of slabs and held neers. Ite subsequently up by wooden pegs and the writing desks were also lived in Le Roy Townsl slabs that were fastened to the wall. There were Returning to Ienawee Co many Indians here then and they used to come to seh, where he (lied July the log cabin in which our subject lived. Deer eighty years. His wife d also used to come around the cabin at night to seventieth year. They w browse on the newly fallen trees, and many a one children, of whom eleven has Mr. Underwood killed with his old flintlock Inderwood's paternal grn rifle through the windows and loop holes of the who was of Irish descen log cabin. There were even some bears here then, killed by a tree falling up and our subject once saw one cross the lot near the tending to his duties, his dE house. Wolves were very plentiful and used to of New York. Mrs. l1n disturb the slumbers of the pioneers by their howl- father, Darling HIavens, \ ings at night. a Quaker in religion, he Our subject bought eighty acres of land when in the War of the Rev he attained his majority and began farming on married, his last narriage his own account. lIe improved fifty acres of it nearly eighty years of age and then sold it. In 1842 he bought eighty acres wood have four children. of his present homestead and took up his residence (Mrs. Love), Albert li., J thereon. There were no improvements and much (Mrs. Stephens). hard work was required before the land could be Mr. and Mrs. Underwo placed in its present state of high cultivation. Mr. religious life of their conir Underwood bought other land from time to time Methodist Protestant Chui until he possessed four hundred and thirty acres been identified for over f( He has given away and to his boys, besides givLughter in Athens Towno hundred and forty acres aised grain and also stock las made a great deal of is farm is amply supplied m buildings, including his dence, which lie built in idl told, aside from his own Ye frame barns which were 1859. underwood and Miss Sarah brated January 21, 1845. rn April 8, 1825, in Genof it which is now known Y. Her parents were SamNiblack, natives respectnd Canada. Her father engaged in farming. In soldier in theWar of 1812. Macon, Lenawee County, as one of its earliest piocame to this county and lip for a number of years. unty lie settled at Tecum30, 1853, at the age of icdt April 5, 1852, in her ere the parents of twelve grew to maturity. Mis. andfather, John Niblack, t, was a farmer. lie was )on him when he was ateath occurring in the State erwood's maternal grandwas a farmer and, though e was a patriotic soldier olution. He was twice occurring when he was e. Mr. and Mrs. Under-, namely: Elizabeth C., Jessie A., and M. Annette, od are prominent in the nunity as members of the rch, with which they have >rty years. In 1861 our PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 671 subject served as a delegate to the General Convention of the Methodist Protestant Church, held at Cincinnati, Ohio, and he was also a delegate to the General Conference of his church held at Princeton, Ill., in 1875, and has been a delegate to the Annual Conference in this State many times. He has devoted himself assiduously to the upbuilding of the Sunday-school of which he has beeii Superintendent for twenty-five years. The pupils of the school hold him in great regard and as tokens of their affection have often given him valu able presents, among which may be mentioned the People's Encyclopedia and a handsome Bible. On his last birthday the school gave him a surprise party at which the Burlington Band was present. It was a very enjoyable occasion, long to be remembered by those who participated in it. Politically Mr. Underwood has always been a Democrat until recently, when he joined the Prohibition party. He was twice appointed a delegate to the State Democratic Convention, once at Detroit and once at Grand Rapids. HIe has held the office of Supervisor of the Township three terms and has been an incumbent of various local offices, and whether in public or private life he has always borne tie same high reputation for lonor and probity. <(TNDREW J. LAPIIAM occupies a high position among the enlightened and enter-; prising farmers and stockmen of this county, and is one of the principal men of his calling in Emmit Townslip, where his farming interests are located. Ile is a descendant of one of the old pioneer families of Wayne County, where he was born October 9, 1832. David B. Lapham, his father, was born in the State of New York in 1806, and was a son of Ethan Lapham, who was also a native of the Empire 'State. The Lapham family in America sprang from two brothers of that name who came here in Colonial days from Wales-and were among the early settlers of New England. The grandfather of our subject, who was a farmer by occupation, was a Quaker preacher and was well known in Wayne County and the surrounding country where he located as early as 1826. becoming one of the first settlers of that part of Michigan. He entered eight hundred acres of land, which lie improved to a fine farm and engaged in agricultural pursuits quite extensively for those days. He did much to establish the Quaker Church throughout Michigan and gathered about him quite a settlement of Friends. He was noted as a preacher and an expounder of his faith, and he preached in various parts of this State. This venerable and honored man passed away at the advanced age of eighty-three years, and thus was closed a truly Christian life. He and his good wife reared a family of nine children to lives of usefulness. David Lapham came to Michigan in his twentyfirst year. IIe became possessed of a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Wayne County, and was quite prosperously engaged in farming and also in operating a sawmill there for a number of years. In 1852 lie came to Calhoun County and, settled on a part of the farm now owned by our subject. lie bought four hundred acres of land at that time, one hundred of which was improved. His life was not of long duration after lie came here, as he died in 1854, ere he had attained middle age, he being then forty-eight years old, iHe was reared a Quaker and ever remained true to the faith. In politics lie was an old-line Whig. While a resident of Wayne County he held the offices of Constable and Justice of the Peace. In early manhood he had married Roxie Payne, a native of tile State of New York, and seven children were born to them, all of whom lived to maturity, namely: William, Alfred, Andrew J., Hannah (Mfrs. Morse), Ethan, John R. and Squire L. The mother was a fine type of Quaker womanhood, and she died at middle age leaving behind her the record of a life well spent. The subject of this biographical review was reared in Wayne County when it was still in its primitive condition and Indians were plentiful, and deer, bears and other wild game abounded in the forests, the deer often being found browsing with the cattle in the woods. Mr. Lapham gained his knowledge of books in the district schools, and by 672 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. much reading and observation has since extended representing Emmet Township as a his education. When nine years old he left home County Board of Supervisors in 18 to live with his aunt, Cynthia A. Walton, with was a Justice of the Peace for twe whom he resided until he was nineteen years old. was Constable of the township for tU When he was seventeen and eighteen years of age he worked out for $6 a month the first year, and for $10 a month the second year. x g^ In the fall of 1853 Mr. Lapham came to Calhoun County, and for two years thereafter attended a AMES M. MOSES, editor anc select school at Ilarmonia, in Bedford Township. the Expounder, a six column p He then bought sixty acres of his present farm Friday of each week, has a from an elder brother, and has since added to it among the newspaper men of ] until he now owns one hundred and twenty acres was born in Monroe County, N. Y., O of finely improved land, upon which he is actively and is the only son of David B. anc engaged in raising grain of all kinds and various pleton) Moses, of whom further ment kinds of stock. His farm is complete in its another page in this volume. He < appointments, and is amply supplied with modern parents to Illinois and thence to this machinery and everything necessary to conduct home being established in Marshall agriculture after the best methods. Mr. Lapham the son attended the public school, di, is well equipped for managing a farm, as he is pursuit of knowledge the quickness endowed with considerable mechanical genius, and and rapidity of selection that are so n besides cultivating the soil intelligently can turn work to which he now gives his atte his hand to anything, and in making improvements In 1873 Mr. Moses entered the Ea has done much carpenter work himself. He erected to learn the printer's trade, and re his present handsome and well-arranged residence eighteen months, after which lie worl in 1877, at a cost of $2,000, and here he and his on the Statesman. I-e then returnm family have a very attractive home. His large pounder office, but when 0. C. Tompki frame barn, which is 32x735 feet in size, has been of the Statesman he went back to that ( built at different times by additions made to it he worked and where for a short ti when necessary. partner. In October, 1881, he took Mr. Lapham was first married in 1852 to Mary Expounder and became its local edit< L. Drake, a native of the State of New York. She which he held until the fall of 1885 died, and the child of that marriage whose name pounder and Chronicle were conso was Eddie, also died when fifteen years old. The Moses then retired and became As second marriage of our subject, which took place master under S. S. Lacey, and remaine September 15, 1890, was with Mrs. Clara E. Doty. office until 1888, when he purchased t She is a native of Emmit Township, her birth plant and assumed the full charge of occurring there June 25, 1839, in the pioneer ment of which he is sole proprietor. home of her parents, C. B. and Caroline (Merchant) The Expounder was established in 0 Lurbey, who were early settlers of this county. and has seen many changes. It is n Our subject is independent in politics and is contains a good synopsis of general l bound by no party ties, reserving his right to vote editorials, and articles which are of i 'for the man whom he thinks is best qualified for various homes to which it goes. The office. He is a man of much character, possesses a icle, a newsy and well printed sheet, v vigorous, well-trained intellect, and in him his by Mr. Moses in March, 1888, and ul township finds one of its most useful and public- agement is constantly increasing its spirited citizens. He held the office of Supervisor, This paper was instituted in the sum member of the 87-88-89. IHe lve years, and wo years. I proprietor of japer issued on high standing Marshall. IIe ctober4, 1854, I Sarah (Temtion is made on came with his county, their in 1859. Here splaying in the of perception ecessary in the ntion. rpounder office einained there ked for a time ed to the Ex. ns took charge )ffice, in which ime he was a charge of the or, a position when the Exlidated. Mr. ssistant Posted in the postthe newspaper the establish)ctober, 1836, eatly printed, news, forcible interest in the Daily Chronvas purchased nder his mans circulation. mer of 1879, I li ~;. r. I I ':.. 'r: ~:: 6. / - er L/, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 675 by Messrs. Boughton & Denison, who continued its publication until October, 1885, when the Marshall Publishing Company assumed its control. From that company it was bought by Mr. Moses, who has it and his other publications on a paying basis, and shows the true journalistic qualifications in their control. Mr. Moses is a stanch Democrat, and the Expounder does credit to his name in its utterances regarding the party principles. It voices the belief of its editor in no uncertain way, and his words are aided by those of an able corps of contributors. The office of City Treasurer was filled by Mr. Moses in 1885. He is a member of St. Albans Lodge, No. 20, A. F. & A. M. When the cares of the day are over a happy home life awaits him, his family consisting of a wife and a little son, Frank. Mrs. Moses bore the maiden name of Kate Otis, is is a native of this State, and was married to our subject May 6, 1880. She has the nlent:l ability and sympathetic nature which leads her to take an interest in her husband's work and enjoy with him intellectual and social honors. E ZEKIEL LI. BROWN. Few men in Convis Township have been more successful, financially speaking, than the gentleman above named, whose portrait is presented on the opposite page. He owns and operates a large farm, consisting of three hundred and twenty acres on sections 21 and 22. The land has been well developed, eve.y necessary farm building has been erected, and many arrangements made for the comfort and convenience of those who occupy and carry on the estate. It is divided into fields of convenient size, where grain of high grade and fine domestic animals are raised, together with much fruit. The domestic animals include draft horses, Short-horn cattle, the finest Poland-China hogs in the county, and thoroughbred Merino sheep, of which there is a flock of from one hundred and fifty to three hundred head. So large and thrifty is the apple orchard that Mr. Brown has sold from six to seven hundred bushels per year. The farm is thoroughly watered, having a living spring and lake upon it, and being further supplied with the refreshing element by wells and a windmill. Grandfather Brown, whose given name was Isaac, was a native of Vermont and a farmer there. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. His son William, father of our subject, was a native of the same State, and went thence to New York, establishing himself in Cayuga County. IIe was a miller and also carried on a farm. He married Susan Cheeseman, a native of the Empire State, whose parents were from Connecticut. Early in the '30s Mr. and Mrs. Brown and their family removed to Allegany County and settled on a tract of raw land which was brought under cultivation during the next few years. After remaining upon it about a decade, another removal was made, Cuyahoga County, Ohio, being chosen as the place of residence, and there Mr. Brown engaged in milling. In 1847 he came to this county and established himself in Battle Creek Township as a farmer, operating one hundred and twenty acres of land until he retired to Convis, where he died. He was a Whig in politics and a member of tile Methodist Episcopal Church. His widow survived him several years, dying in Augusta, Kalamazoo County. Their family included five children, the subject of this biographical notice being the first-born. Ezekiel HI. Brown was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., February 24, 1821, and lived there until about eleven years old. He accompanied his parents in their removal to Allegany County and remained with them until lie was twenty years old, when he began to work out by the month. His education was obtained in the old-fashioned log schoolhouse under the rate bill system, and mostly (luring the winter months. Before he had entered his teens he had begun to drive oxen and in other ways helped to carry on the home. farm. A few months after attaining his majority he established a home on a rented farm whence, about four years later, he removed to Wyoming County, where he carried on his work until the fall of 1852, still operating land belonging to another. At the time mentioned Mr. Brown, accompanied by his wife and three children, started for the State 676 PORTR^AIT AN D B IOGRABPHICAL ALBU~M. of Michigan, making the journey by team to Buf- of his days. He had been a teamster during the falo, thence on a steamer to Detroit and with a War of 1812. His wife, formerly Sarah Marvin, team to Convis, this county. He located on sec- was born in New Haven, Conn., and died in Martion 21, buying one hundred and sixty acres of shall, this county. Her father, Benjamin Marvin, a unimproved land for which he gave $910. He at native of Connecticut and a miller by trade, was once built a log house, began clearing and breaking for years a resident of Charleston, Saratoga County, the land, and by industry and perseverance brought N. Y. He fought through the Revolutionary War it to an excellent condition. He subsequently side by side with his father. The family of Mr. bought the one hundred and sixty acres adjoining, and Mrs. Templeton consisted of ten children, she built upon and otherwise improved this tract, and who became Mrs. Brown being the fourth in order took up his residence here, seven miles from the of birth. city of Marshall. There is a tenant house in which Mrs. Mary Brown opened her eyes to the light his chief assistant in working the place abides. in Mendon, Monroe County, N. Y., April 13, 1830. In Allegany County, N. Y., September 30, 1842, She grew to womanhood in her birthplace, having the marriage rites were celebrated between Mr. good educational advantages, her privileges extendBrown and Miss Hannah W. Alton. The bride ing to attendance in the High School and fitting her was born in Livingston County. For twenty for the work of teaching, in which she was engaged years she shared the joys and sorrows of our subject, for several years. She is a lady whose culture of then entered into rest, breathing her last October mind did not end with her graduation from the 25, 1862. She was the mother of seven children, school-room, but which has been extended by her of whom we note the following: William E. is mar- interest in intellectual attainments and her wise use ried and living in Barry County, owning and oper- of the means at hand to still further develop her ating one hundred and sixty acres of land; Eliza mind and store her memory. She was reared by a A. died in the Empire State; Lorenzo H., formerly pious mother and looks carefully after the morals a school teacher, is now farming in Franklin of her family. She has two children-Harry T. County, Kan.; Mary J. died in infancy; Lucretia and May H., who are attending the High School. M., wife of Prof. G. N. Ellis of Olivet (Mich.) Mr. Brown takes considerable interest in politiCollege, spent three years in attendance at that cal affairs, has been Chairman of the Town Central institution and taught for several years; Isadore Committee for years, and delegate to the convenM. was also a school teacher, but is now giving her tions of the Republican party. His zeal for the attention to domestic duties, being the wife of cause of education is manifest, not only in the Chester Ingersoll, a miller in Marshall; Adelbert E. duties of School Director which he so faithfully is in the employ of a railroad company in Neosha performs, but in his private influence and individCounty, Kan. ual support of the schools. He is hospitable and A second marriage was contracted by Mr. Brown, entertaining, as well as energetic, and has most the ceremony being performed in Marshall August excellent standing as neighbor and citizen. 27, 1863, and his bride being Miss Mary T. Templeton. This lady is of Scotch descent, her grandfather, John Templeton, having been born in Scotland, whence he emigrated to Saratoga County, N. Y., when a young man. There he spent the ILLIAM DAVIS. Few of those who can remainder of his life, working at the trade of a \\ recall the primeval appearance of the land blacksmith. His son James, father of Mrs. Brown, in this county and who have participated was born in that county, but became an early set- in the labors necessary to bring it up to its present tier in Monroe County. In 1853 he came West high condition, are now living within its bounds. located on a quarter-section of land in Marshall Some are left to tell the story of the early days Township, this county, and here spent the remnant and from them much interesting information may PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 677 be gleaned. It is not possible in the limits of a biographical sketch like this to do more than touch upon the scenes and incidents in a life which has been full of toil and usefulness, but it is our purpose to note the most salient features in that of William Davis, an honored resident of Sheridan Township. Mr. Davis comes of excellent families of New York and Vermont, his father having been born in the former State and his mother in the latter. The father, Reuben Davis, opened his eyes to the light August 28, 1794. Although but a youth, he volunteered in the War of 1812 and was present at the battle of Plattsburg, N. Y. While yet a single man lie went to Vermont, but subsequently returned to his native State and in Franklin County, August 10, 1820, was married to Martha Green lIolbrook. This lady was born near the Green Mountains, July 20, 1794, and belonged to an old New England family. The young couple made their home in the Empire State until 1836, then came to Michigan, selecting this county as the scene of their future labors. Mr. Davis secured sixty acres of Government land on section 21, Sheridan Township, his nearest neighbor being three miles distant. Indians still roved at will through the forests and wild animals made the life of the pioneers unpleasant and even dangerous. From the home of Mr. Davis the howling of wolves could be heard night after night and the inmates were annoyed by the depredations of various animals. Being but a poor man, Reuben Davis found it necessary to work out by the day in order to supply the wants of his little family, and to add to his income by hunting and trapping. I-e gradually improved his farm and reached easy circumstances. The entire family suffered much from fever and aguc, that disease that caused so much hardship in pioneer settlements, and frequently laid low every inmate of a home. Mr. Davis secured a half interest in a brickyard, and his sons, each and all, became brick-makers. [Ie endeavored to fit his children for the battle of life, paying particular attention to their morals, believing the principles with which they were endowed and the characters which they developed to be of chief importance. He and his wife were active workers in the Christian Church, and lie was a stanch Whig in politics. He served as Highway Commissioner two terms in an efficient manner. His death took place April 16, 1854, for some years prior to which he had been in somewhat feeble health. The wife and mother passed away September 18, 1850. Their family consisted of seven sons and daughters, all now deceased except our subject. Simeon died in 1849; John H. in 1864; Jesse S. in 1849;Adelinain 1888; and Loyal and Jane in 1850. John laid down his life for his country, dying while in service with the Twelfth Michigan Infantry. The subject of this biographical notice, who was the fourth child in the parental family, was born March 20, 1830, in Franklin County, N. Y. A lad of but seven years when a home was established in this county, he often accompanied his father upon hunting and trapping expeditions and vividly recalls the surroundings of his boyhood's home. The trading place of the family was Marengo, and Albion was then "a flourishing village of two houses." When large enough to carry four bricks in a mold, the lad began working in the brick yard, and has been more or less interested in brick-making from that time. Hle attended the first school taught in the township, the teacher being Ursula Bidwell, now deceased, and his only living classmate being Sylvester Abbott. His opportunities for obtaining an education were meager, but he did the best lie could both in and out of school, and has gained a large fund of information. Young Davis remained under his father's roof until he was of age, when he found work on the Michiigan Central Railroad. His aid to his parents did not cease when he left their roof, but continued during their lives. After two years of railroad work, he resumed farm labor, and upon his father's death took charge of the homestead. In 1862 the farm was sold and he bought the land now owned and occupied by Leonard Elliott, residing thereon some six years. He next went to Mason, where lie was engaged in brick-making two and a half years, among his contracts being that for the brick used in the school building. The next change, made by Mr. Davis was to trade his property at Mason for thirty-eight acres on section 27, Sheridan Township, 678 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL, ALBUM. 678 P A GL where he is now living. He has a brickyard here and divides his attention between its management and that of the acres he devotes to agricultural purposes. In Albion, January 1, 1856, Mr. Davis was united in marriage with Miss Savira Elliott, daughter of Norman and Cynthia (Barnett) Elliott. The bride's parents were born in the Empire State, resided in Ohio some years, and came thence to this county in 1850, establishing their home in Sheridan Township. Mr. Elliott died in 1884; Mrs. Elliott still survives at the age of seventy-four years and makes her home with her son Frank. The family consists of six children, all living. Mrs. Davis, who is the eldest, was born September 13, 1836, in the Buckeye State and in its schools received the greater part of her education. Her Christian character commends her to her acquaintances and her devotion to her husband and family is rewarded with their deepest regard and reverent affection. She has borne her husband eight children of whom we note the following: Edith May, born November 27, 1857, is the wife of Orrin Lamont and lives in Albion; Curtland D., born November 14, 1860, married Jessie Ecklinsimer, has one child and lives in Vandalia; Elsie M., born September 26, 1862, married Sidney J. Owens and has two children, their home being at Coronado Beach, Cal.; Clarence D., born December 16, 1864, remains with his parents; Carrie Leoni, born May 4, 1867, is the wife of Lewis Reed of Sheridan Township; Estie E., born July 19, 1869, married Herbert Pierce, whose home is in Sheridan Township; Reuben N., born May 11, 1875, and William, June 20, 1877, are unmarried and at home. All have been given good practical educations and Curtland was graduated from the Albion High School. Mr. Davis has borne his part in the affairs of the neighborhood, as a public officer, member of society and political worker. He has been a member of the School Board more frequently than other man in the district, and was Township Treasurer four terms. He belongs to the Farmers' Alliance and is now serving as Chaplain of Tamarack Alliance. He has been identified with the Odd Fellows lodge at Mason. He has always voted the Republican ticket and is one of the most ardent supporters of the party policy. If there is one moral trait more prominent than another in his life, it is his temperance principles and the entire family follow in his footsteps. His son Clarence, although twentysix years old, has never even entered a saloon, differing from many young men whom curiosity at least would lead into such a place. Both Mr. and Mrs. Davis belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, take an active part in the Sunday-school work, and he has not only been a teacher, but Superintendent for several years. > a -# —a j-1-4CILES FISH. The present home of this gentleman is a valuable farm of one hundred and seventy-six acres on section 19, Lee Township. It was purchased by him in the spring of 1890, at which time he left Marshall, which had been his home for some years and where he still owns a residence. The farm is all improved except forty acres, which is left to forest growths, is well fenced and has among its adornments a large apple orchard and other fruit. The location is a good one and the land is fertilized by living ~prings and Indian Creek. A full line of farm buildings may be seen here, and the latest machinery is in operation at the proper time, while all the stock is of good grade. So much has heredity and early association to do with a man's success in life that it will not be amiss to refer to the progenitors of Mr. Fish ere proceeding to outline his own history. His grandfather and father bore the same given name, William, and both were natives of the Empire State and engaged in farming. Each lived for some years in Wyoming County, the home of the father of our subject being near Portage. Thence he removed to this county in 1856, taking up his residence in Convis Township, where for a few years he operated rented land. He then bought ninety acres in Marshall Township, and there spent the remainder of his life, dying in September, 1873, at the age of sixty-two years. He belonged to the Republican party and to the Methodist Episcopal Church. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 679 The mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Sylvia Alton and is a native of Black River County, near Sacketts Harbor, N. Y. Her father, Elliot Alton, was born in Connecticut and was an early settler in Genesee County, N. Y., where the daughter grew to maturity and married. He removed to Illinois to live with one of his children in Hancock County, and was killed by lightning while hoeing corn. He was a patriot soldier in the War of 1812. Since the death of her husband Mrs. Fish as spent most of her time in Marshall and is now living with her son Miles. Eight of the eleven children born to her grew beyond the years of childhood and six still survive. These are Mrs. Hannah Templeton, liviinin Junction City. Kan.; George, whose home is in Marshall; Miles, of whom we write; Mrs. Aseneth Taylor, nov of Kansas; Page, a farmer in Kansas; and Frank, who resides in Owosso, this State. The natal day of Miles Fish was March 29, 1846, and his birthplace Allegany County, N. Y., not far from Rushford. A part of his boyhood was spent in Hume, on the Genesee River. lIe attended the district school, making quite a start on the road of learning before the family came to this State, and after the new home was established he continued to prosecute his studies as thoroughly as possible. He was a lad of ten years when he came hither and vividly remembers the fourteen days' journey with a wagon. He remained an inmate of his father's home until he was of age, then began to work by the month and after a time took up the operation of the farm he now owns. After working it five years he removed to Marshall, where he lived about a decade, during the most of that time running a city delivery. He then bought and came to the farm and resumed his former occupation. In Marshall, June 14, 1874, Mr. Fish and Miss Mary Walz were united in the bonds of matrimony. The bride was born in Ann Arbor May 25, 1854, and is a daughter of George and Mary Walz, natives of Wurtemburg, Germany. Mr. Walz was orphaned when quite small and worked at farming until he came to America. After his marriage he located at Ann Arbor and near that city continued his former work. About 1850 he came to this county, and locating in the woods, built a log I = house and set about the improvement of land that was covered with forest. Beginning at the bottom of the ladder, he, by hard work and wise economy, succeeded in making a most comfortable home. He died January 30, 1890, at the age of sixty-four years. He was bereft of his faithful companion in 1865. They were the parents of seven children, four of whom survive, namely: Mary, wife of our subject; Mrs. Elvina Brown, who lives near Freeport; Caroline, residing in Marshall; and Mrs. Elizabeth Woods, who lives in Lee Township. Mr. Walz was a member of the Lutheran Church. The pleasant home of Mr. and Mrs. Fish has been brightened by the presence of a son and three daughters, named respectively: George F., Mildred M., Maud E. and Mary S. George is now attending the High Sclool in Marshall. All are encouraged in the pursuit of knowledge, both in and out of school, and are being taught to make a practical use of it. Mr. Fish is School Director in his district. Politically speaking he is a true Republican. lie belongs to the Baptist Church in Marshall, and he and his wife command the respect of their acquaintances by the worth of their moral characters, their intelligence and their kindness toward their fellow-beings. G ALEN SAMSON has long taken a leading part in conducting the extensive agricultural interests of Marengo Township, and has been potent in raising it to the front ranks as one of the richest and best developed farming regions of this country. He is carrying on a profitable business in mixed farming having one of the finest improved and best managed farms, located on section 15, in this locality, and his pastures support quite a large amount of fine highly bred stock. Joseph Samson the father of our subject was born in Taunton, Mass., November 23,1796, and here his boyhood days were spent near the seashore. His parents died in his infancy, and after a series of hardships he became an apprentice to a tanner and shoemaker. Having thoroughly mastered the trade in all its branches, be removed in early manhood to Utica, Oneida County, N. Y., where he remained 680 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. until the death of his wife necessitated his removal and takes a genuine interest in all that concerns * to Pennsylvania where his youngest son resided; the township, and manifests a true public spirit in and where at the advanced age of eighty he was supporting all causes that will materially enhance killed by the cars. its prosperity or advancement. lie is a stanch Galen Samson of this sketch was born August 8, supporter of the Republican party but was never an 1822, in Deerfield Township, Oneida County, N.Y. aspirant for office. Of a retiring disposition socially, lie came to Michigan in 1850, having been pre- his time has been mainly spent in his fields and garviously employed as a farm hand in various places den where Nature affords a full and constant enin his native State. Having determined upon farm- joyment. ing as a vocation, and being favorably impressed ___ with the country, although it was then in a primitive condition, he purchased an eighty acre tract of land, a part of the present homestead. I HARLES II. PECK. From infancy to midWith characteristic energy he entered upon its dle age this gentleman has lived in this improvement, erecting a handsome residence, corn- county, in which he has seen great progress modious barns and other buildings, set out a large in the arts and sciences and increase in the worldly orchard and small fruits; and in many ways has prosperity of its citizens. When of sufficient age added to the value of his farm until to-day it com- he wisely chose a vocation in which he has gained pares favorably with the best in its vicinity. He a good mainteliance and been able to give his famis ardently devoted to agriculture and steadily ily educational and social privileges that will add keeps pace with its improvements. New methods to their efficiency as members of society and help in farming and fertilizing, as well as the latest var- to elevate the status of the community. Hle owns ieties in grain, grasses and vegetables are each year and occupies one hundred and ninety-one acres of tested; and the works of the late Peter Henderson, good land on section 5, Albion Township, whlich Burpee and other eminent seedsmen are thought- has been well improved, mainly by himself, and fully perused. which is devoted to general farming and market Mr. Samson is one of the enterprising and sue- gardening. The owner makes a specialty of vegecessful stockraisers in the township, and has his tables and finds a ready market for his produce. farm well stocked with fine cattle, sheep and horses. The gentleman of whom we write is a son of His horses are the celebrated Clydesdale and IHam- Minot and Maria (Hall) Peck, the father born in oletonian breeds. Besides the farm where he resides 1812, in Fairfield County, Conn., and the mother in Mr. Samson has an eighty-acre farm one mile north the same State in 1814. There they began their on section 3, which when it came into his possession wedded life and resided until 1841, when they was in a wild condition but is now well improved. came to this county, settling upon a farm in SheriHe has made money by his farming operations dan Township, no owned l)y a Mrs. Hammond. and is classed among the well-to-do citizens of his After making that their home a few years they township. He had not lived very long in Michigan determined to live where their children could have before lie returned to his native State for his prom- better school privileges, and moving into Albion, ised wife, her name being Nancy Hartness. He Mr. Peck opened the first meat-market in that city. then returned with his young wife to his home in He was a mason by trade and did much work of his township where they resided until her death that kind, among other buildings of which he had which occurred July 1, 1868. charge being the Wesleyan Seminary, now Albion Our subject is the father of six children, three College. The structure which he erected was subsons and three daughters. Two sons and one sequently burned and rebuilt. He laid the foundadaughter remain at home, and the others are mar- tions for saw and other mills, and various edifices ried and reside on farms in this township. Mr. for Jesse Crowell who was one of the three Samson is numbered among our respected citizens founders of Albion. Mr, Peck was deeply inter PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.L 681 POTRI AN.IGAHCLABM 8 ------.... — -- --- - - - ested in the cause of education and owned three scholarships in Albion College. To that institution and the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which he and his wife were members, he gave $750. During lhis later life he was identified with the Republican party. He breathed his last in 1853, leaving a widow and a large family to mourn his departure from the scenes of time. Mrs. Peck still survives and resides on the old homestead near the city limits of Albion. Seven of the nine children born to the couple above mentioned now live, the subject of this biographical notice being the third in order of b1irth. He opened his eyes to the light in Fairfield County, Conn., June 23, 1840, and was but eleven months old when the family came hither. IHe grew up on a section that was comparatively undeveloped, his first schooling being received in a log schoolhouse in Sheridan Township. He then attended a select school in Albion and later the public school there, still further advancing his education by taking an English course in Albion College. Six months of his attendance in that institution was after he became of age. In the intervals of his school life he worked for his father until he had attained his majority, after which he was in the employ of his uncle, Charles Hall, for some time. Upon the death of his father he took charge of the homestead for a twelvemonth, and then worked as a farm hand for $26 per month for two years. During the ensuing season he received $30 per month, his high wages indicating that he was an efficient and rapid workman. Mr. Peck then hired out to a carpenter and joiner at $1.50 per day, but ere many months had resumed his former occupation and was industriously tilling the soil. For four years following his marriage his home was upon a farm in Sheridan Township, and that he now occupies became his residence thirteen years ago. He is energetic and persevering in the work to which he gives his attention, carefully noting whatever in the work of others or in the theories they advance seems likely to increase the results of his labors, and he therefore reaps a good reward in both lines of his business. The comfort of Mr. Peck's home and the happiuess of his domestic life is secured through the agency of the lady who became his wife September 5, 1860. This was Miss Lucy Statira Broga, daughter of William C. and Mary Ann (Brown) Broga. Her parents were natives of Massachusetts and Connecticut respectively, were married in New New York but resided in New England until the death of Mrs. Broga which took place February 8, 1852. Mr. Broga subsequently married a second wife and is now living at Syracuse, N. Y., retired from farm life. He is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, with which Mrs. Peck's mother was identified. The first marriage resulted in the birth of two children, but Mrs. Peck is the only survivor. The second marriage was blessed by the birth of three children —Susan L., Eunice and Jay, all living. Mrs. Peck was born October 16, 1847, in the old Bay State, where she attended the public schools. Her knowledge was still further increased in a select school. She has always taken a great interest in intellectual pleasures and has done much toward promoting literary work in the neighborhood in which she lives. She has taken a prominent part in the local literary society, of which she is now Vice President. This organization is one of a dozen or more that are the outgrowth of a meeting held at tile residence of Mrs. Henry Bradley in June, 1885, when the Ladies' Literary Society was organized by twelve educated and progressive women. After a couple of years the name of the society was changed to the E. U. L. S., whose branches or offshoots are doing such good work in various parts of the county. Mrs. Peck came to this State in 1864. In the care and training of her children she has shown a deep motherly feeling and they owe her even more than the usual respect and affection. To Mr. and Mrs. Peck four children have come, whose record is as follows: Elsie Irene, born Feb-. ruary 20, 1868; Daniel W. Burt, October 23, 1873; Glenn Minot, April 26, 1881; and Clara Louisa, May 26, 1884. The older daughter is now the wife of Robert S. Yager and lives in Albion. She was graduated from the Albion High School and taught for three years prior to her marriage. She is an 682 D IORTREAIT,AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUIM. 6 PO excellent pianist and her musical talent has given much pleasure to her family and friends. Like her mother she is interested in intellectual pursuits and for three terms she was treasurer of the literary society. Daniel W. Burt finished the tenth grade of the Albion High School in 1889, and in September, 1890, accepted a position with A. Ury, in Albion. The other children of Mr. and Mrs. Peck are still pursuing their studies in the district school. Both Mr. and Mrs. Peck belong to the Baptist Church at Albion, and with their children are regular attendants at the Sunday-school, believing this to be second only to the church service in importance. Mr. Peck has been a member of the School Board and Road Overseer, and has done good work in each position. He is alive to political issues and has always been a Republican. He and his wife are strong believers in temperance and let no opportunity pass to exert their influence on the side of right. A man of intelligence, earnest in his advocacy of education, temperance and morality, Mr. Peck has the respect of his fellow-men. scattered throughout the United States. Joseph Markham, grandfather of our subject, is believed to have been born in Connecticut, as there he reared his family. He died in that State at an advanced age. He was an Elder and prominent man in the Shaker Church, and to him was intrusted the art of healing by the laying on of hands. The Shaker Bible he used was at his request given to his grandson, who hears his name. Zalumna Markham, father of Joseph P., was born in Connecticut, and owned a farm of fifty acres, but devoted most of his early life to shoemaking. In later years he practiced medicine, using his knowledge of the healing art both upon men and beasts. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. His death occurred in his native State when he was but forty-four years old, being caused by quick consumption. His wife, whose maiden name was Philura Phelps, was born in the same State as himself and lived to be ninety-three years old. After she had passed the ninetieth milestone of life's journey she pieced a bed quilt which she gave to our subject. She was a member of the Methodist Churcl. Her father, Elded Phelps, followed farming in Connecticut during his active life and died in that State when seventy odd years old. OSEPH P. MARKHAM. Whatever the The family of which our subject makes one i natural advantages of a country, its history cluded ten children, five boys and five girls. Fi must depend upon the men who have re- of the number grew to maturity, but he of who sided there and by their energy and ability we write is now the only survivor. added to the original facilities and attractions. In Enfield Township, Hartford County, Con The gentleman above- named has figured promin- September 29, 1813, the eyes of Joseph Markha ently in the development of Calhoun County, he. opened to the light. His parents possessed but being the only original male settler of Pennfield small amount of wordly goods, and he was thei Township now living. He is of the old Scotch fore able to obtain but a limited book knowledo blood, and has inherited to an unusual degree the and that in the common school. As years pass( vigorous constitution and physical power charac- by, however, he gained a large amount of practic teristic of the nationality in former days. Some experience and the wisdom that comes from obse of the feats he performed during his early life were vation and contact with mankind, and which is remarkable exhibitions of physical energy. He good substitute for educational privileges. Your once made a square lift of a stone weighing eight Markham remained in his native State until he w hundred and twelve pounds; cut and ranked a thirteen years old, and then went to Western N( cord of four-foot wood in fifty-eight minutes, and York, lived with an uncle and went to school. I had split four hundred rails in a single day. learned the trade of making grain cradles at The first of the Markham family known in worked at it until he was twenty-three, accum America were three brothers who emigrated from lating a small amount of money which he afterwa Scotland and whose descendants are now widely invested in land in this county. nve )m n., Im a rete, ed Sal era ng as ew iHe nd urd RESIDENCE OF GEORGE RICHARD3ON SEC.28. CONVIS TP. CALHOUN CO.MICH. ^ ^ ^.. av' '''^ *:- *. ' " '''' '''.'**' ***'. " ' "..~~ ~rl~ —... ~ ~~'"'"1~~~~"4 ~ ~:1::1 _': ~ _::::::::;'::_:~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1 GA RDE~N FARMn OF JOHN R. BROWN)-~ SEC.2-4~. BEDFORD TP. CALHOUN CQ. MIC;H.. -;''~ ~"~~~~~~~j~~I:"0 RESIDENCE OF J. P. MARKHAM.5EC 36.PENFIELD TP. CALHOUN CO.MICH. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 685 When, in the fall of 1836, Mr. Markham determined to come to the Territory of Michigan, he started from his former home with an ox-team, and reaching Buffalo took passage on a boat, bringing his cattle with him. IIe landed at Detroit and continued his journey with the team, arriving at his destination September 29. He entered a tract of land upon which he is still living, and which is somewhat remarkable from the fact that it has never had an encumbrance upon it. When taken by Mr. Markham it was covered with heavy timber and his first labor upon it was to clear a small piece and build a log house. His humble home was 18x 24 feet in dimension and seemed quite a commodious dwelling. In it he lived about a quarter of a century, then built his present fine two-story residence. This house cost over $3,000, being all hand work, even to the planing of the lumber used in its construction. This commodious residence, with its pleasant surroundings, is represented by a view on another page. When Mr. Markham reached this county he found in Battle Creek one store and a shoeshop. There was not a settler within many miles of his place, but Indians were numerous thereabouts and various wild animals abounded. The red men used frequently to come to his home to get their knives ground and their guns fixed, paying for their work with meat. Mr. Markham went to Marshall to mill and paid $16 for the first barrel of flour he bought here. He was one of the first Commissioners and helped to lay out all the roads in this vicinity. During the first years of his residence here he cleared the entire one hundred and forty acres of his now finely-improved farm and built log houses all over the country, commanding good wages for his work. IHe has been very successful financially, has fitted up his own farm at great cost, and has given upwards of five hundred acres of land to his children. The granaries, barns, etc., which stand upon his farm are conspicuous even in a locality where good buildings are the rule. The four large barns are painted red, and show well against the background of fields and roads. May 10, 1836, Mr. Markham was married to Miss Harriet Slate, an estimable woman, who was born in Livingston County, N. Y., August 26, I 1819. They lived happily together until she was called from time to eternity August 9, 1847. The union had resulted in the birth of one son and four daughters, who are named respectively, George, Jane, Elizabeth, Adelade and Harriet E. Mr. Markham contracted a second matrimonial alliance, being wedded to Miss Delilah Wilbur, June 30, 1849, and the union has been blest by the birth of four sons and one daughter-Richard, Mary, Zalumna, Hurlbut and Frank Siegel. Mrs. Markham is a native of Oswego County, N. Y., where her birth occurred September 17, 1826. She has filled her station in life with wisdom, and her kindness of heart is thoroughly appreciated by those who know her. Mr. Markham has filled various offices honestly and well, among them being Town Clerk, Librarian, Assessor and Highway Commissioner. He is a good neighbor, a reliable business man, and deservedly enjoys the respect of the community in which he resides, and merits the gratitude of all who are pleased with the advance of civilization in this part of the country. E ORGE RICHARDSON. This name will be recognized by many of our readers as that of an enterprising man who has been engaged in contracting and building in and around Convis for many years, and has also developed a good farm. His homestead consists of eighty acres on section 28, Convis Township, and he also holds the title to seventy acres of timber land on section 20, in the same township. He is a master workman at his trade, and the years he has spent in its practice have given him a knowledge of the varying forms of buildings and lines of ornamentation which mark the progress of architecture. Mr. Richardson comes from the "land of thistles and oatmeal," as is readily perceived, by those who understand the characteristics of the Scotch. His grandfather, George Richardson, was born on the border and possessed a high degree of musical talent, his favorite instrument being the violin, which he made and from which he drew sweet 686 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. strains. Thomas Richardson, father of our subject, ada an was born in Fifeshire, learned the trade of a car- bought penter and joiner, and did contracting and building to e t in his native land until 1848. He then crossed the up the Atlantic, located on a farm near Guelph, Canada, employ and improved one hundred acres of land, making driven it his home until called hence. His wife, formerly remove Agnes Lambert, was born in Fifeshire and died in the vari Canada. She was the daughter of Andrew Lam- in deve bert, who was an overseer of linen factories. The r The subject of this biographical sketch is the in Conv eldest of the seven children comprising the par- in the i: ental family. H-e was born in Kirkaldy, Fifeshire, shaw, d: Scotland, September 1, 1828, and was nineteen raphy is years old when he came to America. He received Midloth a practical education in the national schools and devoted learned his trade with his father, beginning to work of her thereat when but eleven years old, and became a marriag practical carpenter, cabinet-maker and wheelwright. dren:. Being convinced that he could more rapidly better Snyder, his condition in America than in his own land, he wife of desired to come hither, and in the spring of 1848 inatried he left Leith, a seaport on the Firth of Forth, in here, Ml the sail vessel "Elizabeth of I)undee," bound for Pennfiel Quebec, Canada. The voyage consumed four in Battle weeks, (luring which some heavy storms were en- Mr. R countered, but the haven was reached in safety, and On his f after a short sojourn in Hamilton young Richard- horses ai son reached Guelph. IIe remained with his father stands w about a year and a half working at his trade, and honorabl in the fall of 1849 came to this State. life whs Mr. Richardson made his first stop in Macomb His pres, County, but after a few days he went to Detroit tions, an and thence to Marshall, where he began to work at enviable his trade. The next spring he entered the employ appears i of the Michigan Central Railroad Company, for which he worked about a twelvemonth, after which he entered that of Nelson Church, a contractor in Marshall. Having by this time become known as a good workman he worked for himself around the OE1 city until 1854, when lie was engaged on the round la house. In the meantime he had bought one hun- fe dred and twenty acres of land on section 15, Con- al vis Township, where he made his home and which gardenin he improved at odd times. He pursued his two and horl occupations here until 1859 or 1860, when he sold obtained his property, returned to his former bome in Can each yeai d worked at his trade there a year. He the place upon which he now lives, returned States, improved his property and again took work of contracting here, finding all the ment that he desired. As a farmer he has a breaking team of oxen many a day, has d grubs, cut timber and turned his hand to ious duties which are particularly needful loping property. narriage of Mr. Richardson was solemnized vis Township in May, 1850, his companion nteresting event being Miss Ellen Walkinaughter of John Walkinshaw, whose biogs included in this ALBUM. She was born in iian, Scotland, and is an estimable woman, to her husband and family, and considerate neighbors an acquaintances. The happy e has been blessed by the birth of six chilAgnes, the first-born, is the wife of Ed of Battle Creek; Georgiana, formerly the William Zeigler, died in Canada; Thomas is and operating the homestead; Della died laggie, wife of Siegel Markham, lives in d Township; John is a carpenter and joiner e Creek. 'ichardson is a sturdy Republican in politics. arm may be seen some good I-Iambletonian nd other first-class animals. He is one who vell in the community as a reliable citizen, le in his business relations, and in social at may be called "a jolly good fellow." ent prosperity is due to his arduous exerd his position as farmer and citizen is an one. A view of his beautiful home in connection with this biographical notice. IN R. BROWN. Amid the fertile farm nds of Bedford Township is a tract of )rty acres belonging to the gentleman bove named and devoted by him to market g. The owner takes several agricultural ticultural journals and, guided by hints therein, gains a greater degree of success r. Making a scientific study of his cho PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 687 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 687 sen work and carefully weighing the results of experiment, he gains knowledge by experience, which he thinks his best schoolmaster. lie finds a ready sale in Battle Creek for all the produce he raises, and studying tie wants of his customers and striving to please, both he and they are well satisfied. The parents of our subject, Elijah W. and Ielen A. (Richardson) Brown, were born in the Emtpire State and thence came to Battle Creek in October, 1853. They bought and settled upon eighty acres of land now occupied by the Grand Trunk Railroad shops and Roberts' Addition to Battle Creek. There they lived three years, when the property was exchanged for land at Harmonia, Bedford Township, and this after two years for Battle Creek property. A twelvemonth later Mr. and Mrs. Brown again moved on to a farm, exchanging their city property for a tract three miles north, in the town of Pennfield. There the widowed mother of our subject is now living with her daughter Lucy, wife of George Newell. Besides Mrs. Newell the parental family included Amanda, formerly wife of Wolsey Richardson, but now deceased; John R., of whom we write; Martin E., editor of the Moon, published in Battle Creek; Mary, twin of Martin, and formerly the wife of Josiah Byers, but now deceased; Morey A., a merchant now living in Port Townsend, Wash. The subject of this biographical notice was born in Livingston County, N. Y., November 20, 1849, and was scarcely four years old when brought to this county. Hle pursued his studies in the schools near his home and at an early age began to work at the occupation which has engaged his attention during mature years. When twenty years old he entered into partnership with his father, but four years later bargained for the land upon which he now lives. By a steady course of well directed labor and frugal management, he has raised the mortgage, improved the condition of the land so that his returns are correspondingly increased, and erected comfortable buildings for the use of his family and convenience in carrying on their work. The wife of Mr. Brown bore the maiden name of Jennie A. Wheelock and is a daughter of William and Amanda (Spaulsbury) Wheelock. Her parents were born in the Empire State and her father died of starvation in Andersonville prison. Mrs. Brown, then a child of nine years, was cared for by relatives, and it was while living with an aunt, Mrs. A. D. Lawrence, of Emmet, this county, that Mr. Brown formed her acquaintance. The wooing was followed by marriage March 18, 1874, and mutual happiness has ensued. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Brown consists of four children: Nellie, Charles, Ida aInd Bertha, who add to the pleasure of the home by their ripening intelligence and pleasant ways. More than ordinary interest has been taken by Mr. Brown in the district schools and for the past eight years lie has been Director. I-e has served four terms as Road Overseer, during which he did much to advance the interest of the traveling public, particularly of those residing in the rural districts. Politically he now regards himself as an Independent, although lie was for many years a Republican. HIc has been a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Battle Creek since lie was eighteen years of age and his wife is identified with the same society. The fine characters, good habits and useful deeds of Mr. and Mrs. Brown redound to their credit and draw around them a large circle of friends. Elsewhere in this volume the reader will notice a view of the pleasant homestead of Mr. Brown. S- ---— ^ --- — EORGE W. ACKLEY, the son of a proniinent pioneer family of Convis Township, was born in the old homestead here February 23, 1841, and is now one of the respected and influential citizens of his native place. His farm, consisting of two hundred and thirty acres of arable land on sections 2 and 3, is beautifully located on the borders of Ackley Lake, which was named in honor of his father and is quite a resort. Anson Ackley, the father of our subject was born in Connecticut July 6, 1797. He in turn was a son of Samuel Ackley, who was also a native of that State and of Puritan descent. The grandfather of our subject, who was a carpenter by trade, was an early settler of Medina, Genesee 688 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. County, N. Y., where he improved a farm and John Hollid likewise engaged in business as a contractor. He native of Ho served in the War of 1812 as a Sergeant and dur- and Olive He ing that contest one of his sons was killed at Ft. whom are sti Erie. The father of our subject was a farmer and Caroline M., was engaged as a jobber on the Erie Canal when it The mother was in process of construction. He likewise kept her the bles a tavern and built and operated a sawmill. He was name is che at one time in good circumstances but was finally The father v swindled out of his money. Mrs. Sallie In 1837 the father of our subject came to born in 1808 Michigan and made his way from Detroit into the and when tw interior of the State with a wagon drawn by oxen. where she wa In 1838 he located in Convis Township where he ter Andrus. had purchased three hundred and twenty acres of and were an land on section 2. He put up a log house with the in that towns help of his eldest daughter, and the family lived is still living in that abode some years. In 1856 he located on years and me the homestead now occupied by the son of whom we cares for her write and erected here suitable buildings. lie was Our subje4 successful as a farmer and he branched out into native town the milling business, putting up a mill in Convis himself usef Township. He erected a mill on Beaver Dam Creek foundation c and managed it successfully for years. He fur- schoolhouses nished three hundred thousand feet of plank for were conduc the plank road of which he was a shareholder. - he was sixtee At one time Anson Ackley owned some three Olivet Instil hundred and fifty acres of improved land and was lege. He re in comfortable circumstances at the time of his death he was twent in December, 1865, at the age of sixty-nine years. ance of Miss He was first a Democrat in politics but voted for ried Novemi Fremont the first candidate of the Republican of his own. party, and he was a stanch Republican until he Mrs. Ackle died. He was one of the pillars of the Methodist native of Nev Episcopal Church, of which he was a Class-Leader in farming tl and active in the Sunday-school. He was highly first settled a thought of by all who knew him and had a large entered land circle of friends and acquaintances. He was very his way for a social and extremely liberal and open-hearted. He est of beech i gave generously to all schemes for advancing the an Indian wi welfare of his township materially and otherwise, she did not and the poor and unfortunate found in him a kind eight months and sympathetic friend who relieved their necessi- developed a f ties whenever he could. and in 1882 Mr. Ackley was first united in marriage, in 1822, age, leaving X with Olive Holliday, the mother of our subject and a most membe native of Chenango County, N. Y. Her father His wife who ay, was a farmer in that county and a 1land.. Of the union of Anson Ackley )lliday seven children were born, six of ill living, viz: Lydia D., Frederick D., Harriet G., Sarah M., and our subject. passed away in 1861, leaving behind sed memory of a good wife, and her rished in the hearts of her children. vas afterward united in marriage with (Brown) Andrus. Mrs. Ackley was in Dryden, Tompkins County, N. Y., o years old was taken to Erie County is reared. She was married to SylvesIn 1837 they came to Bellevue, Mich., long its pioneers. Mrs. Ackley lived ship until her second marriage. She - at the venerable age of eighty-two ikes her home with our subject, who tenderly in her declining years. et has passed the most of his life in his ship and was early trained to make ul in the farm work. He laid the )f his education in the primitive log of pioneer (lays, wherein the schools ted on the subscription plan. When en years old he became a student at the tute, and in 1860 entered Olivet Colmained at home with his parents until;y-one years old and then by the assistFrances Mudge to whom lie was mar)er 6, 1862, he established a household ey is a daughter of Lorenzo Mudge, a v York State. Her father was engaged here until he came to Michigan and it Castleton, Barry County, where he and opened a farm. HIe had to cut l distance of eight miles through a forand maple. He and his wife lived in gwam while erecting a log house, and see a white man except himself for after they located there. Mr. Mudge ine farm of one hundred and sixty acres rounded out a busy life at a ripe old a competency. He was one of the forers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. >se maiden name was Emeline Seeley, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 689 -- died in 1843. She was a native of New York. Mrs. Ackley was the youngest child in the family and was born in their pioneer home October 2, 1843. Her mother died when she was six weeks old. When she was three months old she was taken to Bellevue, a distance of twenty miles on horseback by her father and was there reared and educated by Sylvester Andrus. Our subject commenced his career as a farmer by renting part of the whole farm and was successfully engaged in the management of fifty acres of land until the month of February, 1865, when he threw aside personal aims to go to the front to help fight his country's battles, enlisting on the 14th of that month in Company C, First Michigan Cavalry. His regiment was mustered in at Jackson as a part of Custer's Brigade and was sent to the Shenandoah Valley. After the Grand Review, in which the First Michigan Cavalry participated with their brave general, our subject and his comrades were sent westward to Ft. IIalleck, Wyoming Ter., and arrived at their destination after a march of fifty-five days. The regiment remained on duty in Wyoming scouting, etc., until it was ordered back to Leavenworth, whence the men made their way through Denver with a train and were mustered out at Leavenworth and discharged in December, 1865. After lie left the army Mr. Ackley returned home to his family and resumed farming. He bought a part of his father's old homestead and has made upon it various good improvements. He subsequently purchased the rest of the farm and now has two hundred and thirty acres of fertile farming land, all in a body, all well-improved, situated on the borders of Ackley Lake. It is well supplied with buildings of a good class and with the latest improved farming machinery. It is divided into two farms for convenience and is adorned by a fine orchard. Mr. Ackley carries on mixed husbandry, raising wheat and corn and having his farm very well stocked with well-bred horses and good cattle. Notwithstanding the fact that he has had illhealth for the past thirteen years he attends to his farming interests himself and is a hard worker. Mr. and Mrs. Ackley are people of kindly dispositions who are thoughtful, obliging and true to their relations to each other and to all about them. Their domestic life is pleasant and to them have been born six children, as follows: Howard L., who married Miss Jennie L. Sackett and lives in Marshall; George A., Alfred L., Fred D., Olive M. and Royal M. All of these children with the exception of Howard are living at home with their parents, and the last three mentioned are attending school at Bellevue. Whenever occasion has offered our subject has shown himself to be a loyal and worthy citizen of his county, and lie has always lent his influence in carrying forward any plan that would in any way benefit his native township. For eight years he served with great credit as Justice of the Peace. He is actively identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church at Bellevue and is one of its most zealous members. He helped build the church and is one of its Trustees. For the last few years, since Cleveland's Presidency, he has been identified with the Democrats. In his wife our subject finds an earnest sympathizer in his religious work. A MOS WILSON. Faithful and long-continued labor has secured to this gentleman a sufficient amount of this world's goods to enable him to retire from the toils of life and spend his declining years in the enjoyment of peace and plenty. He has a good residence in Marshall, which is furnished with all the comforts and conveniences, and from real estate in Grand Rapids and other investments lie realizes an income sufficient for all his wants. He is one of the oldest railroad men in the State, having begun his work here in the pioneer days of railroad construction and having for several decades been continuously employed on prominent roads. John Wilson, father of our subject, was an Englishiman and a seafarer. During the War of 1812 he was drafted into the English navy, but at Halifax he deserted and made his way to Boston, Mass., in an open boat. There he found employment on the wharves and in the harbor for a number of years, after which he bought a farm and became a 0 690 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. tiller of the soil. He carried on general farming were joi: from that time until his death in 1856. He mar- bride wa ried Susannah Davis, daughter of Joseph Davis, second d: and member of a family which is classed among the Spauldin early settlers of the Bay State, its originators there rounding having come from England. She died on the farm and restf in Massachusetts in 1852, leaving six children- comforts Levi, Jane, Amos, John, Hannah and Sarah. But been bor four of these are now living. first-born The natal day of Amos Wilson was May 7, 1826, Jackson; and his birthplace Ashburnham, Mass. He received a clerk ii but a common-school education, and at the age of Marshall. eighteen years took considerable part in the work Mr. V on the farm. Ile left it, however, to enter the three yet locomotive shops of Hickley & Drury, in Boston, used his I where he thoroughly learned the trade of a ma- were pro! chinist. He remained in the works until the spring the interc of 1849, when he came to this State and entered the who knov employ of the Michigan Central Railroad at De- observati, troit. Ile did journey work in the shops of that exemplifir city until August, when, the shops in Marshall result of being completed, he was sent there. Ile continued to labor as a "jour" until 1853, when he was promoted to be foreman, wlich responsible position he held until 1861. Mr. Wilson then rested for a few months, after which he returned to the shop and continued his RI work there until 1862. He then accepted the posi- ca tion of foreman in the Chicago & Alton shops in fo Bloomington, Ill., but about a twelvemonth later Sherman ' became foreman and engine dispatcher in the improved Michigan Central works in Detroit. In 1864 he such a nut returned to Marshall, and from that time until the the fact tl spring of 1873 was Master Mechanic of the shops one hund here. This location was then abandoned by the voted to X company and the works moved to Jackson. Mr. apple orcl Wilson took charge of the removal of the machin- plums, pea ery and of its setting up in the new shops, and which the remained there as master mechanic until the fall of the pasture 1875. He then retired from the service of the bred Jerse company, for which he had worked about twenty- and well b six years and whose interests he had faithfully is one of 1 guarded. In 1885 he became master mechanic for ing to all the road now known as the Cincinnati, Jackson & owned ant Mackinaw Railroad, but after three years retired to introduces private life. cidents in In 1847 Mr. Wilson and Miss Susan Spaulding The par ned in the holy bonds of wedlock. The s born in Acworth, N. H., and was the aughter of Clement and Lucinda (Stowell) g. She has been a true helpmate, surr her home with the spirit of mental cheer ulness that are fully necessary as material in the ideal life. To her three children have 'n, two daughters and a son: Clara, the i, is the wife of H. C. Bruce and lives in Emma is still at home; and George A. is n the book store of O'Keefe & Co., in Vilson represented the Third Ward for ars, and while a member of the Council best judgment regarding measures which posed, and did all that he could to advance est of the city. Ile is respected by those v him, and from his long experience and on is able to draw many a lesson which es the reward which comes as a legitimate the exercise of good principles and habits. E D R I C K KIMMER. A traveler here,nnot fail to be struck with admiration r a farm comprising a part of section 4, Township, it is so well cultivated, so finely, and stocked with such good animals and nber of modern machines. Inquiry reveals iat it consists of two hundred ten acres, red of which are under the plow and demixed crops. There is a large and thrifty mard, many stands of grapes, together with iches, quinces and berries, in the care of owner finds both pleasure and profit. In es are some fine specimens of thoroughey cattle. The farm buildings are ample )uilt, and the dwelling, erected in 1872, those home-like structures that are invitwho look upon them. This fine estate is i operated by the gentleman whose name 3 these paragraphs, and the principal inwhose life we are about to relate. ents of our subject were Fred and Salome PORTRAIT ANWD BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 691 POTRI AAL Kimmer, natives of Baden, Germany, and the former a cooper by trade. He died when the son of whom we write was quite small, and the widow subsequently came to America with her family, landing at New York and going at once to Stark County, Ohio, where she died two years later, in 1854. Her children were four in number and all are still living. The third child is he of whom we write. Ilis natal day was March 4, 1839, and he was not yet in his teens when the family emigrated to America. HIe had received a good commonschool education in his native tongue, and in the new home was given instruction in the common English branches. After the death of his mother he remained in Ohio about a year, working at the mason's trade with a brother. In 1855 young Kimmer came to this State and made his home with his brother-in-law, Frederic Sebastian, now deceased, in this county. Ere long he bought forty acres of the land he now owns, it being covered with timber and in its primeval condition. In the fall of 1859 he brought his bride to it, taking possession of a log house 10x12 feet. The young couple were very poor, but were abundantly endowed withl health and ambition and the mutual affection which lightened all their labors and made their life a happy one notwithstanding their self-denials. Mrs. Kimmer had one pan, which was used for the varied purposes of baking, frying, etc., and the furniture consisted of an old table, three chairs and a bed. The principal article of diet was rye bread, the meal being occasionally varied by the addition of meat and potatoes; tea was made by toasting crusts and steeping them. The shanty was not so tight but that they could count the stars through holes in the roof and frequently found their bed covered with snow in the morning. Mr. Kimmer wore overalls both Sunday and every day, and his good wife was careful to see that he had a clean pair in which to dress up. Mr. Kimmer had not even a team the first year of his residence on the farm, and he found it uphill work to prepare it for thorough cultivation. However, " where there's a will there's a way," and the little tract was cleared and eventually added to, first by an adjoining twenty, later by a one hundred, and again by a ten and a forty, until the estate became a large one and reached a condition contrasting very forcibly with its rough state. Mr. and Mrs. Kimmer are now enjoying the fruits of their toil and frugality, able to indulge in all the comforts that make life worth living and not being obliged to take much thought as to their future maintenance. Mrs. Kimmer was known, prior to September, 1859, as Miss Ann Wakelin, and is the first-born in the family of William and Mary (Blanchard) Wakelin. Her father was a shoemaker in Lincolnshire, England, but after emigrating to America he lived upon a farm. lie first came to this country in 1853, attracted thither by the wonderful stories he had heard of its resources and opportunities, and determined to look up a home for his family. He selected this county as his future residence and brought his family hither two years later, establishing. them upon section 2, Sheridan Township. There he died in 1871. The widowed mother of Mrs. Kimmer is still living, her present home being in Nebraska and her age seventy-six years. She is the mother of eight children, seven now living. Mrs. Kimmer was born in Lincolnshire, April 9, 1840, and received a common-school education in her native land. She keeps herself well informed as to general events and news of the day, and having a decided taste for reading and great natural refiement, gives greater evidence of intelligence and culture than is usual with those who have lived in the country and worked as hard as she. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Kimmer are two in number-Irwin M., born in November, 1860, and Theodore W., born in February, 1863. The older son completed his literary studies in the High School at Albion and took a commercial course in a business college in Kalamazoo. He is an intelligent and energetic young man of firm moral principles, and useful in the social and religious organizations of the vicinity. He is a member of the Farmers' Alliance and has been Superintendent of the Sunday-school at Rice Creek Church, where he is now teaching a class. He married Miss Lyda Frink, but his wife died after a short wedded life. Theodore, the second son, is unmarried. Mr. and Mrs. Kimmer are providing a home for an orphan boy, 692 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Fred Arthur Can, known as Freddie A. Kimmer. We would (do injustice to Mr. Kimmer were we to omit his connection with the Union army during the late war. He enlisted January 1, 1864, in Company A, First Michigan Engineers and Mechanics, and being ordered to Nashville, Tenn., was attached to Sherman's army. The body was kept busy, building bridges, trestles, and block-houses, and covered much ground in several States. Mr. Kimmer suffered much from exposure and illness, and has never regained his health, but is a constant sufferer. He was discharged in July, 1865, and returned to his family. Mr. Kimmer is identified with a Grand Army Post at Albion and belongs to the Patrons of Industry. His political influence is cast with the Republican party and he is always well-informed regarding the issues at stake. He has been a member of the School Board and is always interested in any movement which promises to advance the true welfare of the community. Ile has always been strictly temperate in his habits, and his sons are veritable " chips of the old block" in this respect. Mr. and Mrs. Kimmer have been members of the Methodist Protestant Church for a number of years, and he is and has long been Steward and is also a member of the Advisory Committee. He has been Superintendent of the Sunday-school for several years and also a teacher. To say that he is one of the most prominent farmers in Sheridan Township gives but a slight idea of the respect he commands, as he is looked upon as one of the most intelligent citizens to whatever class they may helong. I I. I from his farm to Marshall, taking possession of a comfortable dwelling on Eagle Street. He has a valuable piece of property in Fredonia Township, consisting of two hundred and forty acres, from the rental of which he derives a good income. In the town of Barrington, Yates County, N. Y., July 11, 1818, the eyes of Peter Blue opened to the light. Iis father, Ezekiel Blue, was born in Pennsylvania, August 13, 1783, and was a carpenter and joiner by trade. The mother of our subject was born in the Empire State, September 12, 1791, and was in her maidenhood Miss Mary Briggs. The grandfather's name was Peter Blue. In 1836 the parents came to Michigan and established their home on a raw farm in Fredonia Township, this county. The tract was opened up and supplied with various improvements prior to the death of the father, which occurred January 2, 1846. Iis faithful companion had been called hence three weeks before, December 13, 1845. They were the parents of four children-Jeremiah P., Gilbert, Peter and Phebe A. The first two named are deceased; the daughter is the wife of George W. Briggs. The school days of Peter Blue were spent in the county of his nativity and in the intervals of study he worked on a farm. He was eighteen years old when the removal to this State occurred and here he assisted his father, remaining under the parental roof until he had reached his twenty-third year. He then began his life work as a general farmer on one hundred and sixty acres of new land, which he brought under development and upon which he erected good buildings, including every necessary structure. In connection with the raising of crops he dealt to a considerable extent in hogs and cattle. He added to his original acreage and pursued a successful career, continuing to reside upon the same place until he retired from active farm life and took up his abode in Marshall. January 28, 1845, Mr. Blue was united in marriage with Miss Eliza Jane Enos,of Tekonsha Township, this county. This lady was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., December 7, 1819, and is the second daughter and third child of Jonathan and Cynthia (Howard) Enos. Her parents were natives of the Empire State, from which they came to Michi ir- z4~~~~~~~~~~~~. w~~ — ETER BLUE. It is always a pleasure to see persevering industry crowned with success and to find men of advancing years able to retire from the toils of life and enjoy comfort and repose. A goodly number of the citizens of this county have met with such success in their worldly affairs that they have no anxieties for their future maintenance. Among this number is Peter Blue who in May, 1890, retired 1~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 15 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 695 = gan in 1836, locating in Tekonsha Township, where they passed the remainder of their lives. Mr. Enos died in 1846, in his sixty-first year, and Mrs. Enos, who survived until 1878, was seventy-nine years old when called hence. Mr. and Mrs. Blue have one living daughter-Sarah H., wife of Marion Jacobs, a commission merchant in Chicago, and have lost one, Julia A., who died unmarried in 1889. Politically, Mr. Blue votes with the Republicans and is one of those who recall with pleasure the fact that his first Presidential ballot was cast for William H. Harrison and his last for Benjamin HTarrison, another member of tlat honorable family. Mrs. Blue belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church. Both are worthy members of society and have many sincere friends in the neighborhood where they so long made their home and in that to which they have recently come. A ARK McCAMLY. If well-spent and usef/l\ l (lays can be called uneventful, the life of Mr. MeCamly, the oldest native of Calhoun County and the son of its founder, is passing uneventfully. lie is now retired from those arduous duties in the discharge of which his younger days were passed, and his record as a pioneer and citizen ensures him a standing second to none in the community, although his later years are passing quietly. Iis infancy was marked by some unusual events. During the cholera plague of 1832 his mother's life was despaired of, and he was given to a friend and neighbor, to whose home lie was being taken when the frail structure over the river broke and man and babe were precipitated into the stream. The batll lhad no serious effect upon the three-months'-old boy, and his mother recovered from the cholera and her child was restored to her. Tle McCamly family is traced to the Emerald Isle, where David McCamly was born in 1704 and married to Jane Ellison in 1726. Their son, David,,Jr., was born in Ireland, married to Phebe Sands May 10, 1774, and soon afterward emigrated to I I I Orange County, N. Y. A son was born to them Angust 16, 1793, who was christened Sands and who was the immediate progenitor of our subject. The family were farmers, and an extensive estate was owned by them in New York and is still held in their name. They were long-lived, sturdy men and women, intelligent and honest. In 1830 Sands McCamly left Orange County, N. Y., and went to Orleans County, where he sojourned but a few months ere coming to Michigan on a prospecting tour. The site of Battle Creek attracted him by its beauty and utility, and he went, to the Land Office to enter the tract, but found it already taken by a Mr. Sackett. Ile bought a half interest from that gentleman and in the spring of 1832 brought his family hither. Hle subsequently purchased the entire original tract and at once began to plan for its development, selling a half interest to Abraham and Isaac Merritt and Jonathan Hart, three pioneers, and disposing of other lots to actual settlers. So well convinced was Mr. McCamly that a flourishing community would be built up here that any man who wanted a home could get a start, whether with or without means. The fame of Mr. and Mrs. McCramly for charity and brotherly kindness has passed into a proverb in this neighborhood. Mrs. McCamnly was affectionately spoken of as "Aunt Eliza," and both were sincerely mourned when they were called hence. Mr. McCamly died in May, 1864, and the date of his wife's demise was June, 1859. Mr. McCamly was the first Postmaster of Battle Creek, receiving his appointment in 1835. The mother of our subject was in her maidenhood Miss Eliza Coleman, and was, like her husband. a native of Orange County, N. Y., her natal day having been November 5, 1805. Her marriage was solemnized November 8, 1823, and resulted in the birth of six children-Mary, born November 2, 1824; George, October 2, 1826; Harriet, January 30, 1830; Mark, June 9, 1832; Ann, May 20, 1834; and Jane, January 25, 1836. The Coleman family came hither at an early day and are connectedl with the pioneer work in this State. The subject of this biographical notice received such school privileges as the time and place afforded, and on the homestead gainle( a deep, prac .1696 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. tical understanding of the vocation of a farmer. He aided in accordance with his strength in the development of the land now occupied by the thriving city of Battle Creek, and in that of the country round about. When seventeen years old he made an overland trip to California, remaining on the Slope three years, after which he returned hither and took charge of his father's farm. This township has been the scene of his labors from that time and he has become known to a very extended circle of acquaintances. The old McCamly homestead is now the Nichols Memorial Home. The wife of Mark McCamly was known in her maidenhood as Miss Celina Whitmore. She was born in the Green Mountain State, whence her parents and their family came to this county in 1834. IHer father was a successful farmer and died at the home of his daughter, October 13, 1882, at the advanced age of eighty-three years. Mrs. Whitmore still lives at the venerable age of eighty-seven, and is quite active, retaining both physical and mental powers to an unusual degree. To Mr. and Mrs. McCamly five children have been lborn, and Annie and Harry, the oldest and youngest, are still inmates of their parents' home. Carrie is the wife of C. H. Leon, of Battle Creek, and the mother of two babies —Jessie and Rodney; Mary married R. K. Skinner and has one daughlter, Ora. Eliza died when not yet two years of age. Like his father before him, Mr. McCamly always votes the Democratic ticket. He has never belonged to any sect or society, but is a moral and kindly man, winning good words alike from friends and acquaintances. Elsewhere in this volume will be noticed a lithographic portrait of Mr. McCamly. Wz~E~a~ ~ iD 08~iB~LO 1812. The daughter grew to womanhood under the instruction common to the day and age in which she was reared, and on October 21, 1849, became the wife of George Washington Smith. They removed to Riley, McHenry County, Ill., in 1857, and there the husband pursued an agricultural career until after the breaking out of the Civil War. HIe enlisted August 9, 1862, as a private in Company A, Ninety-fifth Illinois Infantry, and a year and a day later returned to his home on a sick furlough. He survived five weeks longer, then breathed his last, leaving his bereaved companion with five children. The eldest child of Mr. and Mrs. Smith was Ida Lillias, born August 29, 1850, who, on I)ecember 2, 1868, was married to Alfred Bevier. The second was William Emmet, born January 23, 1853, and married to Louisa Cole. The third child, George E., was born at Dundee, Oneida County, N. Y., August 14, 1856, and has remained single, ministering to the wants of his aged mother, who cared for him in his childhood; he has worked at different occupations but since 1.885 has been keeping a hotel at Bedford and has a fair sliare of the patronage of the traveling public; lie is also engaged in the harness business. The next on the family roll was Cyrenius C., born April 22, 1860, and now engaged in the practice of medicine at Bedford; he was graduated from the IIahlremann Medical College of Chicago in the class of 1865, and since he began his professional work here has secured a large and lucrative practice. The youngest child, Charles David, born June 18, 1862, is, like his two elder brothers, unmarried, and is living in Bedford, carrying on a drug store. HIe took up this business in 1885 and by strict attention to it and a careful study of the wants of his customers, he enjoys a thriving trade. All the Smith brothers are identified with the Republican party, following the example set before them by their deceased father. After the demise of Mr. Smith his widow removed with her family to Bedford, this county, where she has continued to reside, and where she has identified herself with the best interests of the community. She is a consistent member of the Congregational Church, and as she is still hale and |/ - RS. MARY A. HUGHES, widow of the I late David Hughes, has long been a resident of Bedford Township. She was born in the Empire State March 5, 1826, and is a daughter of Johiel Crossett and Rhoda (Shepard) Griswold. Her father came to New York from England when but a child and established his home in Yates County. He was a soldier in the War of PORTRAIT AND `BIOGRAPHICAL ALIBUM, 697 P strong, notwithstanding the trials and sorrows which have been her lot, she is able to do much to benefit those about her and comfort those who are in trouble. IIere she was married September 5, 1864, to David Iughes, to whom she bore two sons: Henry H., born September 27, 1865, and James Franklin, whose natal day was August 30, 1868. The former lives in Bedford and is engaged at the carpenter's trade, and the latter is teaming in the same place. Mr. Ilughles was born in IHarmlpshire, England, and came to America witlh his parents when fourteen years old. IIe learned the trade of a blacksmith, which lie followed until his last illness. IIe finished his earthly course October 20, 1887, dying at the age of seventy years. Ii LSON W. LEIE. Among the old residents of tlis county, mention should certainly be made of Mr. Lee, who came here at an early age, and has been as boy and man connected witli the progress of this section for more than forty years. Iis pleasant home is located on section 19, Pennfield Township, wliere he llas a half-interest in the paternal homestead. He traces his ancestry to one of three brothers who settled in America in Colonial times, his direct ancestor having established himself in Connecticut and the other brothers farther West. The land of steady lhabits was the home of the branch of the Lee family to which our subject belongs, until about tlhe beginning of the nineteenth century when his grandfather, Thomas Lee, removed to New York. In the Empire State Matthew M. Lee, father of our subject, was. born February 5, 1811. lHe learned the trade of a carpenter from his father, and also that of a cooper, which lie followed until his marriage, after which he gave his attention to farming. He came to Branch County, this State in 1848, sojourned there a year, and then settled on the place now occupied by his son. Ie had but $3 in money, and if lie had not had a barrel of pork with him would have almost starved. He cleared a tract of eighty acres, and rose from pov erty to fairly good circumstances before this section was thickly settled. He died here September 30, 1880. Ile was a I)emocrat until the first election of Abraham Lincoln, after which he was a stanch Republican. IHe was a man of strong religious feeling, and identified with the Methodist Church. Grandfather Lee had come to Branch County in the early '20s, settled near the Calhoun County line and died there. The mother of our subject was known in her maidenhood as Emily Jane Perry. She was born in New York April 14, 1814, and is still living, her home being with our subject. She is a devout and consistent Methodist. She has four children, named respectively Eunice Ann, Alson W., Emily C. and Melvin M. Hier father, John Perry, was born in Wales, and came to America when but eleven years old, having stolen away on a boat because of ill treatment he received from his stepmother. In early life lie followed the sea, but in later years he was a farmer. T'le natal (lay of the gentleman whose life claims our attention, was August 15, 1838, and his birthplace Ontario County, N. Y. He was but ten years old when he came to this State, where he pursued his studies in the district sclool until fifteen, after which he spent three years in the High School in Battle Creek. It will thus be seen that his worthy parents gave him a good equipment for the battle of life in the mental training they secured for him, as well as in the habits they cultivated at home. He helped to clear the farm and learned how to bring a tract of raw land to a high state of productiveness, and how best to keep up its fertility, and properly use its peculiarities of soil. When twentyone years old, Mr. Lee began life for himself. lHe traveled some in Indiana and Illinois, and spent one winter in the southern part of the Prairie State, engaged in buying grain. After his marriage lie occupied rented land six years, then settled on the homestead, where lie gives his attention to raising grain and stock. The lady who looks after the home affairs on the Lee farm was formerly Anna Lack, but became tihe wife of our subject January 1, 1861. Sle was born in England June 19, 1842. She possesses housewifely skill, a motherly nature, and the general 698 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. intelligence which qualifies her for the companionship of well-informed and progressive people. The marriage has been blest by the birth of seven children, all living and named respectively-Elizabeth J. (Mrs. Mamby), George W., Matthew M., Eunice, Clara, Merton and Melvin. Mr. Lee has advanced the interests of the public as Highway Commissioner, and judiciously discharged the duties of Justice of the Peace, an office which he still holds. IHe is a member of the Grange. Politically he is a Republican with independent proclivities. He is an intelligent and progressive man, and as such is entitled to the respect of his associates, while his knowledge of pioneer scenes and events makes his company pleasing to those wlho are interested in tales of the olden times. During his boyhood he saw as many as nineteen deer in a drove, and can claim the credit of having killed some of those animals. There were some bears and panthers, and plenty of wolves in this country when his life here began. - - C_ - e t 2 _ ings. He improved the whole farm and worked it with his oldest son till 1856, when he sold out to his son Stephen B., and came to Albion to spend his declining years with his children. He lived to be eighty-five years old, his death occurring in 1872. When he was a young man he was prominent as a member of the Vermont State Militia, and when the War of 1812 broke out he enlisted as a private and was subsequently promoted to be Colonel of his regiment. His father, who was also named Stephen, served in the Revolutionary War. He was a farmer and died in Vermont when a very old man. The maiden name of the mother of our subject was Betsey Kimball. She was born and reared in Vermont and was married there in 1806. She died on her husband's farm in Grass Lake Township, in the spring of 1849. Our subject was the seventh of the twelve chillren born to his parents. tIe worked with and for his father till he was twenty-one years old and gained a sound, practical knowledge of agriculture in all its branches. When he attained his majority he came to Calhoun County in the month of December, 1841, and began his career as a farmer in this section on a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which he worked on shares. Ite had left his father's home when his time was out with two shillings in his pocket and with his clothing tied up in a handkerchief, and he had journeyed hither on horseback. In the fall of 1842 he sold out his interest in the farm that he had been operating on shares, and the next two years worked in the woods getting out sills and ties for the Michigan Central R. R. Company. In the summer he worked on a farm by the month. Mr. Robinson was industrious and frugal and in due time was enabled to marry and provide a home for himself and bride. After his first marriage he moved on to the farm owned by George Ainslee, which comprised a quarter of section 15, Marengo Township. He was agent for his father who was administrator of that estate. HIe settled up the year's business and left the place on December of the same year. He then rented a farm of eighty acres in Marengo Township and moved onto it in the spring of 1845, making it his residence the following two years. The same spring, 1845, he bought L1 W. ROBINSON is of New England birth, born in Franklin County, Vt., November 13, 1820, and is a descendant of good old Revolutionary stock. Coming to Michigan in the vigor of a manly stalwart youth, after he attained manhood, he became identified with its pioneer farmers, and for forty-five years has been successfully engaged in general farming and stockraising on his fine farm on section 12, Eckford Township. The father of our subject was named Stephen Robinson. He was born in New York and went from there to Vermont when a young man. Ile engaged as a farmer in that State and also taught school for about twenty winters. In 1836 lie came to Michigan and engaged in teaming between Ann Arbor and Detroit the ensuing four years, making his home in the former place. In 1840 he bought a quarter-section of land in Grass Lake Township, Jackson County, and took up his residence on it. About sixty acres of the farm was under cultivation and it was supplied with comfortable build-:: i PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 969 his present farm, but could not occupy it on ac count of another mall being upon it. December 1st of that year lie began to build a house on his own farm and January 1, 1847, moved into it with his family. When he took possession of the place one hundred and twelve acres of it was under the plow, but there were no buildings on it except what he had put up. With characteristic energy he at once set about its further improvement, and in time developed it one of the choicest farms in that neighborhood. His brother-in-law, Robert Woodward, bought eighty acres of his land and moved into a log house and kept possession of the land about three years. Our subject then bought it back, but subsequently sold forty acres to G. F. White. Ile still retains one hundred and twenty acres of his homestead, upon which he llas placed many valuable improvements, including a tine residence and large and substantial barns, affording ample means to house all his stock. lIe has a windmill and tank at the house, one in his horse barn, one in the stock yard and one large one in another yard which holds forty barrels of water. lie has as good water accommodations, if not better, than any one else in the county. Ile has a fine well, seventy feet in depth, which furnishes a never-failing su)pply of cool and refreshing water.. Mr. Robinson does a general farming business and pays much attention to stock-raising. During the war he had a large flock of sheep which brought him in much money, as the wool that he obtained from them sold as high as eighty cents a pound. The first marriage of our subject took place in March, 1844, when he was wedded to Miss Mary Boughton, of Marengo. For many years they shared life's joys and sorrows together till they were called upon to part, her death occurring June 6, 1880. Three sons were born of that marriage, as follows: Alonzo W., who was a farmer until he went to California, where he is now engaged in business as an insurance agent; Charles E., who was a farmer until he lost his right hand in 1869, while oiling the bearings on a threshing machine, and since then has acquired a knowledge of telegraphy and is engaged at that; and Linus S., who died March 20, 1873, at the age of fourteen years. The second marriage of our subject was with Mrs, Pruella Connet, widow of Levi Connet, and a daugliter of John Lusk, of whom a sketch is given in another page of this Album. She is a most excellent woman, looks carefully after the comfort of her householl, and is well respected by all who know her. Mr. Robinson bears an honorable reputation among his neighbors and fellow-citizens, and is looked upon as a man of much capability, who has contributed his quota to promote the growth of the township and county, and has aided in elevating the social and moral status of the community. He always voted the Republican ticket after the organization of that party until a few years ago, when lie became a stanch champion of the Prohibition party. lie is a man of religious belief and helps generously to support the Presbyterian Church. ~c~~-^ ---*o ~,^**X'i^^ES^i*~o-<^OSEPH J. LEWIS. This gentleman claims the distinction of having Ibeen one of the first white children born in Battle Creek Township, where his birth occurred February 2, 1836. tIe has seen tile primeval forests give place to broad fields of cultivated land, a sparsely settled region become populous, and thriving towns dot the broad expanse. He is himself the owner of a well improved tract of one hundred acres on section 10, Leroy Township, on which he has a comfortable home in which to spend his declining years. The parents of Mr. Lewis were natives of Rutland County, Vt., their names being Harvey B. and Lucinda (Whitcomb) Lewis. The father came to Battle Creek in 1832, but soon returned to his Eastern home where lie remained two years ere bringing his wife to Michigan. He took up two hundred acres of Government land on section 36, Battle Creek Township, and later bought on section 35, where he died September 27,1866, exactly two years after his wife had departed this life. The parental family consisted of five sons and daughters, named respectively: Joseph J. and James J. (twins), William, Joseph K. and Lucy. The last named is the wife of Walter Gregory, of Kansas, I: 700 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Amid the surroundings of pioneer life and subject to its privations Mr. Lewis grew to manhood. Such circumstances are a school in which to develop sturdiness of character as well as vigor of body, and to strengthen the feeling of brotherly love and generosity, and Mr. Lewis, although deprived of the educational advantages of the present time, gained what is better than book lore-good habits and principles. He recalls seeing people move into houses that were scarcely more than a foundation and roof, and have the walls partially built around them. He thinks that people who complain of times now ought to have a trial of those when all work was done by main strength and modern conveniences were far beyond reach. People in those days, having real trials and privations to encounter, worked without grumbling and rejoiced in their ability to secure the necessaries of life, in the health and strength they possessed, and in the good will of their associates. The home of Mr. Lewis is presided over by an estimable woman who has been his cherished companion since October 24, 1861. She bore the maiden name of Rosomond McNeile, and is a daughter of William and Lucy (Millard) McNeile, natives of the Empire State. She has borne her husband one child-Lucy, who is now the wife of Seymour Burch and lives in Leroy Township. Mr. Lewis has always been an unswerving Republican. He has pursued the even tenor of his way in such a manner as to gain the respect of his associates, and while securing a good home has also secured a good name. Storrs, was likewise a native of New York, and was born in 1801. The grandfather of our subject, who was a soldier in the War of 1812, was one of the most prominent citizens of Jay in his day. He was very active in its public life and was very influential in religious matters. I-e was at one time Trustee of his township, and he held the office of Supervisor for twenty-nine years. Hle was also Justice of the Peace. I-e was one of the leading members of the Baptist Church, of which he was a Deacon for many years before his death. IIe was much interested in the upbuilding of the church and furnished the corner stone. In his political views he was an old-line Whig. The father of our subject was a substantial farmer and was much respected in the community where he lived. I-e seemed to have inherited his political principles from his father, and as long as the Whig party was in existence was one of its stanchest supporters. HIe was a member of the Baptist Church, and led a true Christian life until he closed his eyes in death in August, 1873. His wife, whose maiden name was Lovina Huff, was born in Brattleboro, Vt., in 1810, died in July, 1884, in Marengo Township and hler mortal remains were placed in the North East Cemetery. John LI. Storrs was in the prime and vigor of early manhood when he left the place of his birth and sought his fortunes in this State in 1855. Ilis first employment after his arrival here was under Ezra T. Bryan for whom he worked by the month for five years at a very small compensation. He next worked for one year for Luther G. Crossman of Marengo Township. During these years lie had wisely saved his earnings and in 1860 invested some of his money in eighty acres of wild land on section 2, Marengo Township, and this formed the nucleus of his present valuable farm. An old log house and frame barn constituted its chief inprovements. HIe and his family dwelt in the log house for about nine years and he then moved it and erected the elegant two-story frame dwelling which he now occupies. It is of modern design, is tastefully furnished from basement to attic, and was built at a cost of $3,000. This house was completed in 1873, and our subject then erected a large barn, 28x50 feet in dimensions; a shed 14x40 feet OHN HI. STORRS. The farming interests of Marengo Township are ably represented by this gentleman, whose practical skill, enterprise and business tact have brought him to the front as a farmer and stock-raiser. He has one of the best appointed and best managed farms in this section, and has been potent in developing the agricultural resources of the county. Mr. Storrs is a native of the town of Jay, Essex County, N. Y. His father, whose name was Adin PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.7 701 - — I~~~~~' --- -^ —I- --— ~~~~~~~~~~ ----~~~ --- —------- -II'~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ---- ^ --- — — ~~~~~~~~ - -'~~~~~-'~~~~~-~~ —~~~~- I~ I long for his cattle; and in the same year he erected a conveniently arranged building, 26x36 feet in dimensions, for his grain. farming utensils, etc. Later on he built a corn house, thirty-six feet square; a hog house, thirty-six feet long, behind his barn; and lastly but nowise least a fine basement barn, 36x64 feet in dimensions which was completed the past summer and is used to shelter his sheep. Ile also put up an ice and cold storage house in 1889, and has made other valuable inprovements. Ils outbuildings cost about $4,000 and the farm is well supplied with everything needful, including the best of farming machinery for carrying on agriculture properly. After he had bought his first tract of land Mr. Storrs purchased the land belonging to the heirs of his wife's father, which consisted of eighty acres adjoining his first purchase, and he then bought another eighty acres of wild land northwest of his home place, also adjoining it and making a choice farm of two hundred and forty acres of land of exceptional fertility, of whichl one hundred and seventy-five acres arc under tillage. Mr. Storrs is raising sheel very profitably and has now about one hundred and fifty head of high graded Merinos. Our subject has been blessed in his domestic relations by a good wife, who has rendered him cheerful assistance in the upbuilding of their pleasant home. Their household is completed by the only child born of their marriage, their daughter Etlie L. Mrs. Storrs has lived on this homestead since she was six years old. She was born in Cortland Township, Tompkins County, N. Y., January 12, 1833. Her name in her maiden days was Mary Jane Baker, and she was the eldest child of the eight children of Allen and Caroline (Bochman) Baker, natives of Connecticut and Pennsylvania respectively. Mr. Baker came to Michigan in 1839, coming by water to Detroit and thence to Marengo Township with a horse and wagon. He became one of the useful pioneers of this place, and (luring his life did good service in pushing forward the development of the agricultural resources of this region. His father who died three months before he did, lived to the advanced age of eighty-eight years. He was a brave soldier in the Revolutionary War and two of his brothers were killed in that I conflict in a battle in Connecticut. Their father, who was also an old soldier, went after their bodies in an ox cart, and took them home for burial. The following is recorded of Mrs. Storrs' brothers and sisters: Charles, who is the second of the family in order of birth, is unmarried and makes his home with her and our subject; Caroline married George Wilcox, a farmer; Henry is married and lives at Marengo; George is married and is carrying on farming in the town of Newton; Louisa married E. J. Wilcox and lives in Newton Township; Sarah married William D. Storrs, and resides in Charlotte; Ella Catherine, who was but three years old when her mother died in 1852, married William Luts and lives in Kansas. Mr. and Mrs. Storrs are deservedly held in high estimation by the entire community, as they are among our best people. Their warm hearts, kind manners, and many thoughtful generous deeds have gained them the friendship and affection of their neighbors who feel that they can look to them for help in times of suffering and trouble. Mr. Storrs is a valued member of the Methodist Protestant Church of Marengo Township of which lie is a Trustee. In his political views lie is a firm advocate of the Republican party. J OHIN R. BENTLEY. This name is borne by a gentleman who, while still comparatively young, has made a good record in financial circles and also among farmers. He is Cashier of the National City Bank of Marshall and is also one of the large stockholders in the institution. IIe entered the banking house as Teller in 1872, and December 3, 1878, he was elected Cashier. Mr. Bentley is a native of this county, having been born here September 23, 1842, and being the eldest son of Joseph and Louisa (Ryant) Bentley.' Iis father was born in England, September 22, 1811, and came to the United States when a mere lad. His mother was born in Connecticut January 14, 1814, and was a daughter of Daniel Ryant, who was of English descent. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Bentley came from the 702 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPH~IICAL ALBUM. -i0 PORTRA --- —--— I —~"-~~~ —"I- ------------— IT AND — BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.~1-` ~ -~ —"I ----I — Empire State to Michigan in 1837, and established their home in Convis Township, this county. There Mr. Bentleyj carried on general farming and stock-raising, gaining a competence by his industrious and well-directed efforts. He breathed his last October 17, 1888, four years after lie had been bereft of his companion, slle having passed away May 8, 1884. They were the parents of five children, but two of whom are now living-John R., who occupies the homestead; and Charles R., who is also a farmer in Marshall Township. The boyhood and youth of Mr. Bentley were passed on a farm, and he attended the common schools, and later Albion College where he pursued his studies two years. At the expiration of that period he taught one term, but being a practical farmer he returned to the homestead where he tilled the soil successfully for several years. He is still interested in agricultural work, owning and occupying one hundred acres of choice land one and a half miles north of the city on Marshall Avenue. This tract is well improved, having upon it buildings equal to any in the vicinity, and is carried on under the direct management of Mr. Bentley. It would naturally be supposed that a man of Mr. Bentley's intelligence and good breeding would in choosing a wife be attracted by mental ability and graces of character. These he found in Miss Leora Bigelow, daughter of Stephen R. and Rucelia (Day) Bigelow, of Oneida County, N. Y., and to her he was joined in holy wedlock April 3, 1889, and to them has been born one daughter, Ruth. Mr. and Mrs. Bentley are popular members of society. Mr. Bentley is a member of the Republican party, and he and his wife are regular attendants at the Methodist Episcopal Church. interest in that which is for the true welfare of the people, and the cheerfulness with which he took up the labors of life in the crippled condition in which lie was left after the war, have gained for him the hearty respect of his associates wherever he is known. Hle owns a tract of land consisting of seventy-nine acres in Pennfield Township, from the cultivation of which he derives a comfortable income, his attention being divided between grain and stock. His homestead, which is a very pleasant one, is represented by a view on another page. The birth of Mr. Traut took place in Erie County, Pa., July 24,1834. In the district schools of his native State he obtained a practical knowledge of the common branches, and during his boyhood and youth he learned much of farm life and worked some at wool carding. He remained an inmate of his father's home until he was twentyfour years of age, when he rented land and began farming on his own account. IIe continued this occupation until the needs of the country led him to lay aside his farm implements and take up the warlike weapons of a Union soldier. lIe responded to the call July 18, 1862, and August 5 was enrolled in Company C, Twentieth Michigan Infantry. The regiment proceeded at once to Washington, thence to Fort Lyon and South Mountain, and from there to Pleasant Valley, Md., where they lay encamped until October 14. They then made a night march to Nolan's Ford and cut off the retreat of Stewart's Cavalry. Shortly after this expedition the Twentieth engaged in the skirmish at White Sulphur Springs, thence went to Fredericksburg and on December 13 crossed the Rappahannock. The Battle of the Wilderness followed, and soon that at Spottsylvania Court House and then that at Cold Harbor. The next heavy engagement was Petersburg, where the regiment was in the front and Mr. Traut in the foremost rank. He was shot in the right leg just below the knee with a minie ball, and being carried to the field hospital was obliged to suffer amputation, as it was ascertained that the bone was severely shattered. The wound was received June 18, 1864, and a week later the patient was transferred to Portsmouth Grove Hospital, R. I. There he lay six months and was then transferred to the United ILSON TRAUT. Among the old citizens of Calhoun County the gentleman above named is certainly deserving of notice, if for no other reason than that he has rendered his country valuable service during the dark days of the Rebellion. His industry and sobriety, his RESIDEN CE OF WI L5ON TRAUT, SEC.8. PEN FI ELD TP CALHOUN CO.MICH. RESIDENCE OF 0. F. CURT15&, SEC.I3 MARSHALL TF, CALHOUN CO. MICH. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 705 -~ —~~-~ -----— ~~- ~ -- -"I --- I I --- ---- - ` — -- - - States general hospital in Central Park, New York City. For another six months he was in the care of the hospital force and he was then discharged, June 24, 1865. lie returned to Barry County, which had been his home for some time before his enlistment, and after a period of recuperation engaged in farming. Notwithstanding the disadvantage of having a wooden leg Mr. Traut has made a success of his chosen work. In 1876 he bought the land he still occupies and most of its improvements are due to his efforts. The commodious and modern frame barn, which is one of the conspicuous buildings, was erected in 1883 at a cost of $700 aside from his labor. The one who sympathizes most closely with Mr. Traut in all his aims is the wife to whom he was united December 20, 1877. She was born in 1847, and bore the maiden name of Sophia Hodge and was first married to a Mr. Merrill. To her present husband she has borne seven children, named respectively: Orpha M., Arthur H., Frederick II., Carl E., Earl R., Neal W. and Ruth E. The army life of Mr. Traut is commemorated through his membership in Post No. 122, G. A. R., at Assyria Center, and with his comrades he often lives over again the scenes that are of never-failing interest to the old soldiers. I-e is a Republican, earnestly believing in and advocating the principles of the party and able to expound his views clearly and well. He has been Treasurer of his school district nine years and has been Township Treasurer two years. His record as a soldier is that of one ever ready to answer the call of "forward;" gallant in action and courageous during the waiting moments that try the spirit more than the hours of conflict. The Traut family is of German stock and has been for several generations represented in Pennsylvania. There George Traut, grandfather of our subject, was born and lived to old age. His home was near Philadelphia and he was a citizen of influence. Jacob Traut, father of our subject, was born August 22, 1796, and in his early life was in the clothing business. He eventually took up farming, and in 1858 turned his footsteps westward, locating in Lee County, Ill. He did not like the country and remained but about eighteen months, then settled in Barry County, this State. After a few years he came to this county and is now living in Pennfield Township with his son William, and has reached the venerable age of ninety-five years. His wife, formerly Betsy Guyer, was born in the Keystone State and there began her wedded life. She was a mother of ten children, nine of whom grew to maturity, viz: George G., Margaret, Sarah, Jacob, Susan, Wilson, William, Elizabeth and Mary. She died at the age of four-score. She was of the Lutheran faith and in all her actions displayed the virtues of a Christian, and has left to her children the recollection of extreme kindness and tender wisdom in their control. N AS F. CuRrlTS. The native-born citizens )of Marshall Township have come to the front in various lines of work, particularly in agriculture, for which the soil of this county is so well adapted. The gentleman above named is one of the shrewdest and most intelligent farmers in this section, and has one of the best equipped farms. It consists of one hundred and sixty acres on section 13, all tillable and all developed except that part which is devoted to timber. The commodious dwelling is built of cobble stone, is well and tastefully furnished, and is surrounded by a lawn and yard which are well kept and prettily adorned, and is further set off by a thrifty orchard and beautiful grove. On the estate may be seen two ample barns and various other outbuildings, also two windmills, one of which furnishes motive power for a grinder and sheller, which is under cover. A view of this beautiful homestead is given on another page. Foxwell Curtis, grandfather of our subject, was born and died in the Granite State, the date of his birth having been July 5, 1764. Hle was of English descent. Ilis son, Benjamin F., born at Newcastle, N. H., September 26, 1808, became a merchant in the vicinity of Portsmouth. In 1836 he brought his family, then consisting of a wife and one child, to this State, reaching Detroit by the 706 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. usual conveyances. There he bought a team with of land in Marengo Township. lie also owned the purpose of driving out to this county, which fifty-five acres in Marshall Township, adjoining the he had visited the previous year and where he had first-mentioned, which became his after the death purchased land. lie did not know how to harness of his father. a horse, and had to learn that lesson before starting In 1884 Mr. Curtis sold his other property and on his trip, which took him through swamps and moved here to continue general farm work on the over corduroy roads. old place. He raises good grain of the varieties A small frame house was built by Benjamin F. best adapted to the soil and climate of this region, Curtis, who began his work here with one hundred and also raises stock of lhigh grade or full-blood. and sixty acres on section 13, Marshall Township. tie is a charter member of the Michigan Shropshire Being a man of energy, persevering and observant, Sheep Association, and has a flock of about one he became a practical and model farmer, and sue- hundred head. He has taken the premium on sheep ceeded in his calling, acquiring an estate of three at the meetings of the Agricultural Society in hundred and twenty acres which was well improved which he is interested. His cattle are graded Shortin every respect. Himself well educated, he was horns, and his hogs Poland-Chinas either of good interested in founding schools and in the establish- grade or full-blood. Three teams are kept emment of the free school system. lie not only gave of ployed in the work of the farm and the latest imhis time and thought, but was liberal in his donations proved machinery is used by its proprietor. to that and other worthy objects. Politically, he The pleasant home of Mr. Curtis is presided over was a Republican, and religiously an Episcopalian. by a capable housekeeper and amiable companion, Ile was a quiet, easy-going man, yet one who ac- who was formerly known as Miss Mary L. Jennings, complished much by his persistence, and who was and( who became Mrs. Curtis February 7, 1866. greatly missed when removed from the scenes of She is a (laughter of Legrand D. and Caroline time, January 1, 1869. (Chamberlin) Jennings, who were natives of tile The wife of Benjamin F. Curtis, and mother of Empire State. The father was a limeburner there, our subject, was born in Portsmouth, N. II., Sep- but after coming to this State in 1855, he turned tember 8, 1809, and was known in her maidenhood his attention to farming. Ile lived in Marengo as Miss Mary T. Tredick. Hier father, Capt. Tre- Township a year, then made his home in Eckford dick, was a seafaring man, who visited every clime Township, thence came to Marshall, and later rein the pursuit of his calling, and became quite turned to Marengo, where he died in 1870. Iis wealthy. Mrs. Curtis belonged to the Episcopal father Abe Jennings, a native of the Empire State, Church, in the faith of which she passed away, May was a miller in Monroe County, and also operated 16, 1884. a farm. In 1854 he came to Michigan and located The gentleman whose name introduces these para- in Marengo Township, this county. Hle will be graphs is the second of the four sons and daughters remembered by many of the old residents of the comprising the parental family. I-isnatal day was county as one of its well-to-do farmers. The ma(ctober 13, 1839, and his boyhood's home the ternal grandfather of Mrs. Curtis, was Charles farm of which he is now the owner and upon which Chambielin, an agriculturist in Monroe County, his present residence was erected by his father in N. Y., who retired to East Rush to spend his last 1849. He attended the district school during the days. winter seasons an(l in the intervals of study per- In the town just mentioned, Mrs. Curtis opened formed such home duties as generally fall to the lot her eyes to the light August 29, 1842. She lived of a farmer's son. Iis knowledge was further ad- there until she had entered her teens, then accomvanced by an attendance at Albion College one panied her parents to this county where she grew term. He remained at his boyhood's home until to a noble womanhood. She had borne her hushis marriage, when he engaged in farming for him- band three children-Mary B., Legrand D. and self, becoming the possessor of seventy-four acres Mabel G., all of whom yet brighten the parental i_ PORTRnAIT AN~D-`BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 707 PORTRAITI AMY BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 707~~ fireside by their presence there. The older daughter attended the High School in Marshall, which is but a mile and a half distant from her home, and the son is now pursuing his studies there. Mr. Curtis is now discharging the duties of School Director, a capacity in which he has served for several years. lHe has given due thought to the political issues of the day, and is one of the stanchest adherents of Republican principles. IHis attention is given almost entirely to his personal affairs and the enjoyments of social and domestic life, but lie bears such a part in the enterprises that are promulgated for the )ublic weal as is expected of every good citizen and lover of his kind. F- BEN W. GRAVES. The thrift and perseV3 verin(g energy of the Yankee race llad an ex~ cellent exponent in Mr. Graves who, as a farmer, gained a comfortable l)roperty. Iis estate consists of one hundred and thirty acres on section 29, Sheridan Township, and has been brought to a highl state of productiveness, wlile ample barns, granaries and sheds have been put uip to furnishl shelter for crops, stock and machinery. The residence now occupied by the family is a handsome, modern farm house, built in 1885 at a cost of $2,500, and is furnished with good taste and made attractive by woman's refining.touch. The Graves family is traced back to the year 1645, in the old Bay State, and is found to have been prominent in the history of that commonwealth, some of its members having belonged to the Assembly, Legislature and Senate. They were as a rule rather conservative in politics, but stanch patriots, and bore their part in securing the independence of the Colonies. The first of the direct ancestors of our subject who is connected with American history was John Graves and lie was followedby a second John Graves, who married Sarah White. The next in the line were Elnathan and Martha (Dickinson) Graves, who were followed in turn by Perez and Martha (Gillet) Graves. In the fifth generation were Solomon and Esther(Bliss) Graves and in the sixth Ebenezer and Roxena (Wells) Graves. The last mentioned were the parents of our subject and both were born in Massachusetts in 1801. The mother died in 1834 and the father married for his second wife Emily L. Lawrence, wvl lived until August 6, 1884. The father passed away in 1861. The first marriage resulted in tlme birtll of two children, the elder of whom, James, died December 19, 1889, leaving a widow and one child, Myrtie E. By the second marriage there was one child, Clara B., who is now living in South Iaven, this State, being the wife of George Smith, and the mother of one child. John Graves, Sr., was slain by the Indians during the massacre at Hatfield, Mass., September 19, 1677, and another member of the family, Isaaco Graves, lost his life at the same time. The grandmother of our subject, formerly Esther Bliss, was was of an old Massachusetts family, prominent in New England, and her father and grandfather were clergymen. iier fatler, the Rev. Ebenezer Bliss, died in 1761, at the age of seventy-eight years. Thle maternal grandfather of our subject was Capt. John Wells, who was born in Massachusetts and was extensively engagedl in woolen manufacture and amassed much wealth. Many years ago he was in the habit of crossing the then wilderness of New York and Ohio with pack horses on trading expeditions among the Indians. The natal day of Eben W. Graves was July 6, 1830, and his birthplace Ilatfield, Mass. He attended school until lie was fifteen years old and received a partial academic education. IIis father was finely educated, having taken the full academic course, and was deeply interested in educational matters, and from him the son irnmibed much of his taste for reading. In his youth our subject lhelped his father in a general store which the latter operated, and also clerked for other dealers. In 1852 the family came to this State and settled on a small farm in Homer Township, this county, which has since been platted and added to the town of Homer. The father, who had been quite a speculator in his native State, superintended the farm and interested himself also in farm property. He took an active interest in political matters and was an old-line Whig. The subject of this notice remained on the farm 708 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. in the vicinity of Homer for nine years, and then his fitness for a controlling position was recoglocated in Sheridan Township on a partly improved nized by his election to the School Board, of which farm, to which he added improvements in the way lie was a member for many years. He believed of clearing, and erecting better buildings. Every it the duty of every intelligent man to understand acre of the tract is tillable and the attention of Mr. the political situation and cast a ballot on every Graves was divided between the cultivation of the election day, and he deposited a Democratic one. usual cereals and the raising of high grade stock, The social orders had a friend in him and he heincluding horses, cattle, sheep and hogs. He was longed to a Masonic lodge in Albion and to married in May, 1870, to Mrs. Mary Gerow, nee tle United Workmen. Mr. Graves was a temperate Grimes, a lady of high mental qualities and acquire- man by principle, and one who, notwithstanding ments, estimable character and most attractive his activity in social life, was domestic in his tastes manners. The home has been blest by the birth and greatly enjoyed the comfort and happiness of of two children, James C. and Roxena M., the for- home. He was a great reader and he and his wife mer of whom is now a sophomore in Albion Col- were found to be well informed, not only on the l.ege. ordinary topics, but in a much more extended field The parents of Mrs. Graves were natives of New of knowledge. Their presence was considered desirYork State, and her mother was one of the earliest able at all social gatherings and their aid was exresidents in Albion Township, this county. She pected in every movement which was for the true bore the maiden name of Marinda Gridley and welfare of the community. came witll her father in 1834. Several years later Eben W. Graves died March 25, 1891, of cancer William Grimes, who was a speculator, came and of the stomach, and was buried by the Masonic settled in tie same township. IIe wooed and won lodge on Sunday, March 29th. His remains were Miss Gridley and after their marriage they located followed to the grave by a large concourse of peoin the village of Homer. There were born to then l)le, more than eighty teams being in the procesthree daughters, now Mrs. Mary E. Graves, Mrs. sion. Sarah J. Latour, of Detroit, and Mrs. Minnie E. _ Ellis, of Kalamo, Eaton County. All were students at Albion College and two were graduated therefrom. Mr. Grimes was a well educated man and BBY V. B. HYDE is a conspicuous figure active politician, strong in his allegiance to tile amongthefarmersandstock-dealersofFreDemocratic party. He was Deputy Sheriff and at l donia Township. He has a comfortable the time of his demise was a candidate for Sheriff home on section 23, where he owns one hundred of this county. His death was occasioned by in- and forty-one acres of fertile land under thorough juries received from a kick of one of his horses, in and intelligent cultivation. lie gives his attention 1844. His widow is still living, making her home to general farming, but has for many years made in Kalamo with her youngest daughter, and is now quite a speciality of raising fine stock. The materseventy-three years of age. Mrs. Graves was born ial wants of Mr. Hyde are looked after by a loving March 4, 1840, in the village of Homer and after sister, as he has never married. completing her studies became a teacher and pur- rhe birth of Mr. Hyde took place in Brown sued her professional work in this and Eaton Coun- County, N. Y., May 1, 1821, he being the youngest ties. She married Seth S. Gerow, of Marengo, who son and child of Ebby and Elizabeth (Osborn) died in 1867. The marriage resulted in the birth Hyde. His father was born in Lenox, Mass., Janof one child, now deceased. After a few years of uary 17, 1781, and his mother in Richmond, March widowhood Mrs. Gerow became the wife of Mr. 29, 1782. The father was a merchant and an hotelGraves, as before noted. keeper until 1836, when he came to this State, As might well be expected Mr. Graves took a bought land on section 23, Fredonia Township, deep and active interest in educational affairs and from the Government, and turned his attention to i -: r PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 709 I farming. He had been reared to agricultural pursuits, his father, Caleb Hyde, who was born in New Franklin, Conn., July 29, 1739, having been a farmer. The mother of our subject died August 22, 1838, and the father April 15, 1861. The elder children in the parental, family are Frederick, Fanny, Prudy and Augustus 0. The first school privileges enjoyed by our subject were in his native place, and he has from his youth been improving his mind, and storing his memory with useful facts. IIe is a notable historian, is well posted in the news of the day, and is a fluent and interesting conversationalist. He came hither with his parents, the journey, which took twenty-four days, being performed with a two-horse team. The first dwelling here was a log house. Mr. Hyde remained with his father as long as he lived and then took the affairs of the place into his own hands, his sister remaining to keep house for him. Politically speaking, Mr. Hyde is a stanch Democrat. His genuine worth of character, his unusual intelligence and his industrious habits have given him a prominent place in the community and won for him the respect and admiration of a large circle. 4 ATIIAN BENEDICT, an old and honored resident of Marshall, was long identified /ILZ(, witll the industrial interests of the State, but is now living retired. iHe was born August 1, 1809, in the town of Walton, Delaware County, N. Y., lie being the youngest of four children, three sons and one daughter, all of whom are deceased but himself. His father was named Mathew Benedict and lie was a native of Connecticut, his birthplace being near the town of Norwalk, Fairfield County, and 1770 was the year of his birth. IIe in turn was a son of James Benedict who was a Revolutionary soldier and a Connecticut farmer. His patriotic spirit descended to his son Mathew, who served in the War of 1812 and was discharged from the army in 1815. The mother of our subject was Anna St. John in her maiden days and she was born in the same place as his father, and in the same year. She was a daughter of Mathew St. John, who was of English descent. The parents of our subject married and removed to Delaware County, N. Y., where they took up their abode in the green woods near the Delaware River and there spent their remaining days on a farm. The names of their other children besides our subject were Polly, Mathew, and Samuel. Our subject lived amid the pleasant scenes of his birth in his father's home until he was sixteen years old, and during that time gained his education in the common schools at Walton. From the age of sixteen until he attained his majority he was apprenticed to learn the trade of a carpenter, and after he was twenty-one, followed that calling on his own account in his native State until 1835. In the month of May that year, he came to Michigan, which was then a territory and in this newly settled country he readily found employment as a carpenter. From 1847 until 1852 he was engaged as carpenter and builder, from 1861 until 1865 conducted business as a tanner in South laven, on Lake Michigan. I-e also had a leather store at Kalamazoo and removed with his family to that place. IHe remained there two years and then returned to Marshall, where he has since lived somewhat retired in the enjoyment of an income ample for all his wants. Mr. Benedict has been twice married. In 1837 he took as his wife Miss Lorinda Wakefield, a native of Sangersfield, Oneida County, N. Y. Their wedded life was brief, as the young wife died in 1839 leaving one child which soon followed her. The second marriage of our subject which took place in January, 1842, was to Miss Louisa Prentice, of Marshall, a native of Vermont, where she was born January 3,1812. Her parents were William and Temperance (HIulbird) Prentice. Her father, who was of Welsh descent, was a soldier in the War of 1812. Mr. and Mrs. Benedict have had three children, of whom two are living: Alice S., the wife of AM. Talcott, a resident of Chicago; and Frances M., widow of Searl S. Dunn, who lives in Marshall. Mr. Benedict is an old-time Democrat, who has stood stanchly by his party since the days when he cast his first Presidential vote for Andrew Jackson down to the present time, his last vote having been 710 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. given in favor of Grover Cleve!and. Our subject has been prominent in public life in the past, his fellow-citizens placing a high estimation on the soundness of his judgment, valuing his counsels, and knowing his capability. Hie was a member of the County Board of Supervisors for three years, and he has represented the Second Ward as Alderman. Iie and his wife are exemplary Christian people and devoted members of the Episcopal Church, which Mr. Benedict has served as Vestryman, and he was very active in helping to build the church. Though he is an old man now in his eighty-second year he still retains possession of his faculties to a remarkable degree, as age does not seem to have impaired his intellect in any way, and lie is still tle same genial, companionable man as of yore. I I -~- - -~- - I - - - ~ ~ - - went to Marshall. J at the age of forty-fi to Tekonsha and live the ripe age of eight her eyes in death. were Emeline, Jared, Almina, Samuel and Almina are deceased The subject of thi been five years old residence in this vici the development of t ories tliat are not con her pursuit of knowl tinued her studies in ships, while under tlh skilled in domestic ar She became the wif born at Hopewell, Or 1814. ELIND FAUROT. On section 29, Tekonsha Mr. Faurot grew t T(( ownship, lies a well-improved tract of land, and after beginning 1 adorned by a fine two-story frame house, Michigan. His life tlhe usual buildings that betoken a successful farm as he conducted his % life, and the orchard and groves that add so much honestly, contributed to the appearance of a rural home. This farm is and took a kindly int owned and managed by Mrs. Celind Faurot, who the community. lie has had charge of the business connected theire- Treasurer, although 1 with since the death of her husband more than a life. Politically he decade ago. The sixty-three acres included in the iously a Baptist, bein farm were reclaimed from the wilderness by Mr. which he belonged. Faurot and here he lived from his marriage until is better, was respecte called from time to eternity. Mrs. Faurot's taste in contact and belo1 was brought to bear, and in and about the dwelling best. He departed 1 she added those refining touches which has so much his mortal remains we to do with the attractiveness of home life. cemetery in Tekonsha Mrs. Faurot was born in New York, near the To Mr. and Mrs. town of Charlotte, March 25, 1833. Her parents, bless their happy un Nathan and Janet (Andrews) Wilder, were born whose natal day was and reared in the Empire State, whence they came wife of E. Humeston to Michigan in 1838. They made their journey ship; the younger, La with an ox-team, camping by the way, and had a ber 10, 1855, is a rai very tedious trip, finding it quite difficult at times Jackson. Mr. and ] to make their way through the forests and swamps Marion, who was b, and over the streams that crossed their path. T'hey whose present home i located in Union City, Branch County, but ere ful attention was best long removed to Tekonsha Township and still later ble taken to fit them.f::-,.::: At that place Mr. Wilder died ve years. His widow returned ed here until she had reached y-nine years, when she closed The members of the family Cynthia, Christopher, Celind, Francis. Jared, Cynthia and is biographical sketch having when the family took up their nity, is well acquainted with the region, and has few meminected therewith. She began edge in Union City and conTekonsha and Marshall Towne care of her mother she became ts and learned high principles. e of Spencer Faurot, who was itario County, N. Y., July 22, o manhood in his native place, his work in the world came to was one worthy of emulation worldly affairs prudently and I liberally to all good causes, terest in the social welfare of was at one time Townshlip iis preference was for private was a Republican and religig a l)eacon in the church to fIe was well known, and what ed by all with whom he came ved by those who knew him this life August 4, 1878, and ere deposited in the Windfall % Township. Faurot two children came to lion. The first-born, Rhoda, s August 6, 1854, became the and lives in Tekonsha Townifayette, who was born Octoilroad engineer and lives in ITrs. Faurot reared a child, orn November 6, 1851, and s in Jackson. Upon all careowed and every means possifor usefulness in this world PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 711 I and happiness in that to come. Mrs. Faurot belongs to the Baptist Church and has always taken great interest in the cause of Christianity and in all movements which pertain to the real good of the people. Iier business ability has been shown clearly by her management of the estate which was left her, and her standing in the community is that of a highly respected and sympathetic woman. _o ~ ~ ---_ _n~ IIRISTOPHER N. MARTIN came to Calhoun County in the spring of 1868 and located upon a farm in Marengo Township, where he was for several years prosperously engaged in agricultural pursuits, making stock-raising a specialty, giving particular attention to the breeding of sheep. I-e is now living in pleasant retirement in one of the many desirable homes of the city of Marshall, where he is enjoying at his leisure the fruits of his early toil. The birth of our subject occurred March 8, 1819, near Auburn, Cayuga County, N. Y., in the pioneer home of his plarents, Ephraim and Catherine (D)ernot) Martin, natives of New Jersey and New York respectively. His father was a son of Joshua Martin, who was likewise a native of New Jersey and was of Irish ancestry. The father of our subject was in early life a shoemaker, and later became a farmer. lis wife was born on the Mollawk Flats, and was of German antecedents. After marriage they settled on the banks of tile Seneca River in Cayuga County, and their first home was a small log cabin fourteen feet square. Mrs. Martin was a good marksman and her table was often furnished with (ducks that she had shot from her window. as they floated down the river. The Martins spent their entire wedded life on that farm, the mother (lying December 14, 1845. She was a daughter of Richard Demont. The father rounded out his life in 1859 at a ripe age. Our subject is one of nine children, seven sons and two daughters, named as follows: Joshua, Richard, Ephraim, Daniel,1 William, Christopher, Polly, Catherine and Philipi all of whom lived to marry and rear families, and six of whom are still living. Christopher was the sixth one of the family, and was carefully reared under good home influences by his worthy parents. His school days were passed in his native county in attendance at the local schools, and he likewise worked on his father's farm during the summer seasons. He remained at home until he was twenty-one, working mostly for his father and lie then began an independent career, engaging in clearing a farm from thirty acres of heavily timbered land. At the expiration of five years, after making many improvements, he sold that place and bought a tract of seventy-one acres, which he farmed, and he afterward bought one hundred and eighty acres of land, lying in Livingston County, N. Y. In 1840 he obtained the valuable assistance of a good wife by his marriage in that year to Miss Mary Baldwin of Cayuga County. Hter parents were Michael and Betty (Brown) Baldwin. They originated in New Jersey and were of English and German extraction. lMr. and Mrs. Martin remained for several years of their early wedded life in Livingston County, where lie was actively engaged in agricultural pursuits and made a large sum of money in the course of a few years. In the spring of 1868 our subject removed with his family to this county and located on a farm in the town of Marengo. It then comprised two hundred and six acres of good land, which he increased by further purchase to three hundred and ninety-six acres, which was all in one body and was as fertile and productive as could be found in that section of the country. Ile devoted himself to raising sheep and also raised other stock, doing a good business in that line, as his farm was well adapted to that purpose. He continued to live on the farm until his removal to Marshall in 1883, he having rented his land at a good price. He has a neat and attractive residence on North Kalamazoo Avenue, in which he and his good wife are passing )leasant days in the declining years of lives that have been usefully spent. Mr. Martin has dealt considerably in real estate with good profit and is one of the moneyed men of Marshall. His life is exemplary, as it has always been guided by high moral principles, and none know him but 712 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. = to esteem him for his native honesty, truthfulness and clean, open-handed dealings. Mr. Martin was formerly identified with the Republicans but of recent years has been a firm supporter of the Prohibition party. He and his estimable wife are among the foremost members of the Christian Church of which he is Deacon, Trustee and Clerk. Mr. and Mrs. Martin have three children: Madison died at the age of ten months; Sarah E., the wife of Charles E. Southwell, lives on a part of the old homestead; William Luther died in 1880. Our subject and his wife also have two grand-children, in whom they take great delight. -7 I;Ir - I ~ -;. engaged in farming. To him and his wife were born eleven children, of whom seven are living: Jacob T. who lives in Southern Ohio; Julia A., the wife of James D. Potter of Battle Creek; Thomas Jefferson, who lives in Syria, Mich.; Aaron, our subject; George Washington, a resident of Miles City, Mont.; Mary A.,wife of H. M. Burt of Milan, Mich.; and James Willis, who was a market gardener near Battle Creek. The widow of Samuel is still residing at No. 130 Marshall Street, Battle Creek. Aaron E. Blanck remained an inmate of the parental household till he was twenty-one years of age. His first business was farming. He subsequently served three years as a carpenter and joiner and then established himself at Battle Creek as a contractor in his line. Since coming here he -. - 3:11 ---- --- ARON E. BLANCK is one of the leading has had two farms which he has ope contractors and builders of Battle Creek. profitably. In the month of May, 187 I He was born in Venango County, Pa., Feb- to California and remained there sever ruary 9, 1847. Iis parents were Samuel the employ of a street railway comps W. and Lydia A. (Morris) Blanck, natives of New his return he took a contract to buill York.' The Blancks were originally from Holland machines for the Upton Manufacturing and the first to come to America was Jacob Blanck, He was also employed two years by who had been a soldier in his native country and Trunk R. R. to build depots and bridges. came here prior to the Revolution. lie settled in ward took charge of the erection of New York City when it was simply known as Man- Block and he has put up many other fi hattan Island. When the great struggle for free- houses at Battle Creek. ITe is very s dom between the Colonists and the mother country his business. Ite has a thorough know began, he cast in his lot with the people among in all its details, is prompt and methodic whom he had settled and fought bravely under ing it on, and is known to carry out hi Gen. Washington. His son Jacob Theodore, was in the most honorable manner, furnishi atone time a cabinet-maker in New York City but good material and putting up build prior to moving to Pennsylvania where le became most substantial fashion. As a good citi a farmer and stock-raiser. His son, Samuel W., he interests himself in the political and father of our subject, was reared to the life of a of the day, is a stanch supporter of the I farmer but later in life became a carpenter and con- party, and a Knight Templar in th tractor. Before that, however, at the age of four- order. teen years he went to sea and followed a sea-faring March 23, 1870, was the date of M1 life till after he became captain of a vessel. le marriage with Miss Lucretia Doy. She finally abandoned that calling and joined his father ter of Dr. John Doy, who came from ] in Pennsylvania. America and died in Battle Creek, June In the year 1866, Samuel Blanck came to Mich- At one time he had practiced his pr igan and took up his residence in Dexter. From Rochester, N. Y., and during his resi there he came to Battle Creek in 1869, and died was one of the leading physicians in tli here March 27, 1879. At one time he had a lum- several years. He was one of the first ber yard here, and a part of the time he was Lawrence, Kan., and was an associate of rated quite '7, he went i months in any. Upon d threshing Company. the Grand He afterthe Wakely ne business uccessful in lvedge of it 'al in carrys contracts ng nothing lings in the zen should, I social life Republican le Masonic r. Blanck's is a daughEngland to 8, 1869. ofession at dlence here lis city for settlers of the vener PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 715 - ated John Brown in the early struggles of that State in regard to the slavery question. IIe built the first frame house ever erected in Lawrence, and passed through many hardships during tle time lie lived there. ElORGE GATRELL, official stenographer to l the courts for the counties of Calhoun, "~S Eaton and Barry, being Fifth Judicial Circuit of the State of Michigan, possesses a versatile talent and is one of the foremost men of his profession in this country. Ile is a native of'England, born in the town of Totten, IIampshire, September 16, 1842. He liad the serious misfortune to lose his mother by her untimely death, when he was but four years old, and was taken in charge by a governess. -Ie subsequently attended a boarding school for young gentlemen, and at fifteen years completed his education at Southampton. At t'lat youthful age lie secured a position in the computing department of the ordnance map office of the English Government. While there he made calculations from the original notes taken on surveys in various parts of the world including portions of the Holy Land. Employed for some years witli an architectural surveyor, during his spare moments he found time to study short-hand, to which lie had been attracted by a placard containing the worls, "Short-hand taught in twelve easy lessons." After studying stenography vigorously for nine months he put it into practical use by reporting sermons for a year and a half and during tliat time lie was likewise actively engaged in Sunday-school work on Sundays. The attention of a prominent American phrenologist who was traveling in Europe, was attracted to our subject and lie desired to avail himself of liis services as an expert stenographer. Our subject accepted the third offer made, and during the two ensuing years visited the Islands of Guernsey, Jersey and Alderney, near the coast of France, and was engaged in reporting phrenological delineations of character. At ttle expiration of that time he returned to England and then employed his talents in another direction for some time, engaging in architecture and building at Southampton. While there lie was married to Miss Amelia Beckwith, a lady of high character, fine education, and rareliterary attainments, who was then engaged as a writer for the CUhristian World and other papers. In April, 1870, Mr. Gatrell with his wife and two children, sought greener fields and pastures new beyond the ocean from their old hlome, being induced to come to the United States of America by an offer of the Kansas Land and Emigration Company, with which lie was connected for about a year. Ile subsequently became Professor of Phonography at Spaulding's College, in Kansas City, Mo., in 1871, his certificate from Isaac Pitman the inventor of lphonography as to his being a competent teacher of the art and capable of writing two hunt(red words a minute, going far to secure him that position. To our subject belongs the honor of first introducing short-hand into the courts of Kansas City and Independence, Mo. IIe came to Jackson, Mich., in 1872 and once more gave his attention to architecture, and also taught phonography in tlle business college and had private pupils in the art. While a resident of that city he had some experience in court reporting and is now one of the experts of the country in tlat line. In 1873 he became official court stenographer of Calhoun County and for eighteen years has acted as stenographer for the Fifth Judicial circuit of Michigan. In this capacity lie has reported many cases, and among tliose most celebrated are the Perrin-Sibley and the Perrin-Perrin cases, which were in litigation several years. The former case which involved nearly half a million dollars was in the courts for nearly ten years before a final decision was given. It took upwards of ten thousand type-written pages to report each case. The Perrin-Sibley case may be termed a "weighty" case, as. tle records and exhibits wlien appealed from the Circuit Court to tle Supreme Court weighed over one ton (twentytwo hundred pounds.) This was the most noted case ever tried in the.courts of Michigan and Mr. Gatrell won great credit for the accuracy of his reports. Mr. and Mrs. Gatrell have established a neat and rv 1 a 'DP"l'PrD A T AL ' 10 L sJSLi. l JL 1- AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. attractive lome that is the center of true culture, and a good private library forms one of its chief adornments. Mr. and Mrs. Gatrell have five living children, three daughters and two sons, and their pleasant home circle has been broken by the death of two sons. Mr. Gatrellis a man of bright mind and quick wit, and possesses in a large degree the ready tact and fertility of resource, with other qualifications so necessary to success in any walk in life, and these have placed him at the head of his profession. He and his amiable wife are people of high standing in social circles and number many warm friends among their acquaintances. Politically he is a stanch Republican. Elsewhere in this volume appears a lithographic portrait of Mr. Gatrell. - tm ---- Im'- |~%t^~tfi! 4.t, who crossed its thr of Thankful Joslyi and respect by thos was always genial most frequent joke she was always "Th The subject of tl his youth on a fal the district school bought a farm of that some six years disposed of that pr that he could do sI on the rich soil of and bought one hum improved land in ] paid $3,400. The spent on that place near by which he be HARLES H. JOSLYN. Battle Creek Town- He retained that pr ship has its full quota of farmers and stock- disposed of it ane raisers who are good business men and have Goguac Prairie whi a thorough practical knowledge of agriculture. sixty acres of very Our subject is one of the number, and besides su- $16,800. This is a perintending the cultivation of his farm, controls provements that he a good business as a dairyman, he being one of the greatly to its value leaters in that industry in this part of the county. one of the most d Our subject is the fifth in a family of twelve Since it came into i children born to Charles and Thankful (Field) self in building fen Joslyn. His native place was Phelps, Ontario in putting up the County, N. Y., and August 26, 1815, was the date everything comple of his birth. His father, who was of English de- operations iucludi] scent, was a native of Vermont, while his mother modern constructic was reared in Massachusetts. They were people of specialist in any pa exceeding great worth who led long and useful though within the 1 lives, dying when very old and leaving behind a dairy in connectic them a pleasant memory that is cherished in the built up a very satis hearts of their children and grandchildren. The business, dealers co: mother died April 17, 1872, at the age of eighty- The fact that he ge five years. The father followed his faithful corn- with his dairy prod panion June 3, 1875, at the venerable age of and purity. ninety-five years. They had lived together on the Our subject took same farm over seventy years and they now lie hood, he being marr peacefully side by side in Phelps Cemetery, New to Miss Jane Simmor York. Of Mr. Joslyn's mother too much cannot when she was very be said. She was a woman of great benevolence years she accompan and charity whose house was a home for everyone to Ontario County, *: ',; D *! * eshold, and even yet the name n is spoken of with reverence se who knew and loved her. She and pleasant, and the father's was that under all circumstances tankful." his biographical record passed rin and gained his education in s. After he was married he sixty-one acres and lived on s. At the end of that time he roperty, as he shrewdly thought till better at his chosen calling this county. He came hither ndred and forty acres of partly Ilomer Township, for which he next fifteen years of his life were His next move was to a farm )ught after selling the other one. roperty but two years when lie d bought his present farm on ich comprised one hundred and * fertile land, for which he paid L fine location and the many imhats made upon it have added and attractiveness, and make it esirable homes in this locality. iis possession he has busied himces, setting out shade trees, and necessary buildings. He has te for carrying on his farming ng fine machinery of the best )n. Mr. Joslyn has not been a articular branch of agriculture, ast eight years le has conducted on with grain raising. He has sfactory and extensive dairying ming to him for their supplies. nerally furnishes the Sanitarium lucts attests to their high grade unto himself a wife in early manied at the age of twenty-six years ns. Her parents died in Vermont young, and at the age of seven ied her older brother and sister N. Y., with whom she lived for 717 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. three years when she went to Mr. Ezra Newton's to make that her home. She speaks in the highest terms of the kindness of her foster parents, and says they were as a real father and mother to her, always treating her and her children with as much consideration as they would their own. Mr. and Mrs. Joslyn have had three children, namely: William Newton, who lives on the homestead and carries on farming; Alice, wife of Charles Redfield, a farmer who lives in Battle Creek Township, and Charles E., who died at the age of twenty-five years. Mr. Joslyn is a genial easy-going gentleman, wlose pleasant social qualities make him a. general favorite while his ability has made him prominent in the civic life of this section. He has held various offices of trust and honor, such as that of Township Clerk, of which position he was an incumbent three years; that of Supervisor, he being a member of the County Board two terms, and he las likewise been Justice of the Peace, and has likewise filled other minor,ffices. In him the Republican party finds one of its most earnest and intelligent supporters. ie llas led an exemplary life, and whether as a public official, as a business man or in his private capacity, his rel)utation is unblemished, and though he is not a church nmember his course might well serve as an example to some who are meml)ers of churches. ONATHAN JOINSON. With the exception of a very few years the mature life of I this gentleman has been spent in Calhoun County, which he has helped to make what it is to day, a popullous and highly civilized section to which people are attracted by the proofs that have been given of its excellent resources. lle came here in 1839 when in the twenty-first year of his age and immediately began to improve tihe country by farm work. Members of the Pottawatomie tribe of Indians were numerous here and (leer and wild turkeys, as well as some savage animals, infested the country. Depredations upon the locks of the settlers were made by wolves and el bears, and care was necessary in traversing the forest lest the people themselves should fall a prey to their ferocity. Battle Creek was a small village and where flourishing towns now stand there was but an unbroken and almost pathless expanse. Mr. Johnson is of English ancestry, but the family was established in this country several generations ago, Rhode Island being the early home. In that State Richard Johnson, his grandfather, was born and lived to a good old age. His occupation was farming. He reared a small family, one of whom, Vernon, left his native State after his marriage and went to New York. There he owned one hundred and sixty acres of land and farmed quite extensively. lie died at the early age of forty-seven years. His wife, whose maiden name was Hannah Carpenter, was likewise born in Rhode Island and was of English descent. She belonged to the Society of Friends and was of a deeply religious turn of mind. 1Her husband, although he never formerly identified himself with the Quakers, sympathized with them in their belief. Mrs. Johnson died at the age of sixty-six years. She was the mother of four sons and four daughters and five of the number grew to maturity. In Chenango County, N. Y., January 20, 1820, a child was born to Vernon and -Itannah Johnson, upon whom was bestowed the name Jonathan. When old enough to begin the l)ursuit of book knowledge he attended a district school which was then conducted under the rate bill system. Being reared on a farm he began to get an insight into agriculture when quite young, and when but seven years old he worked in a neighboring woolen factory, carding, dressing cloth and doing other parts of the work that were suited to his years and strengtli. Iis father died about that time and when hut fourteen years old the lad blegan the labors of life for himself, taking up his burden with the sturdy an(d unassuming spirit so claracteristic of those who are reared among the Friends. When almost of age Mr. Johnson determined to try his fortune in the new country comprised in the State of Michigan, and coming to Detroit by water lie took the cars to Ypsilanti and came on to this county in a stage. For seven years lie worked by the month as a farm hand, receiving from $12 to 718 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. $16, according to the season and his growing repu- a member of the Grange. He has displayed sound tation as a faithful and efficient laborer. His first judgment in the prosecution of his worldly affairs, purchase of real estate was in Jolnstown, Barry in discharging the duties of office and in his interCounty, where he lived three years 'during which course with his fellow-men, among whom he has time he partially improved a farm. He then bought many warm friends. one hundred and sixty acres on section 11, Emmet Township, sixty-five of which had been cultivated. A log house and barn had been built, but with these buildings the new owner was not long content. He was ambitious to have ietter accommodations - BRAM W. DEUEL. Among the many who for man and beast and more adequate storage room are gaining a maintenane as farmers in for the crops that he hoped to raise, arid he also dec- I Fredonia Township the gentleman above sired to bring the entire acreage up to or above par. ( named is deserving of mention. I-e owns He has carried out his desires and long since gained( and occupies seventy-seven acres on section 6, the reputation of one of the best farmers in this every rod of which is made useful or beautiful and section. Besides the usual farm produce lie raises cultivated in a most intelligent and careful manner. all kinds of stock, the sheep and horses being es- It is devoted to general farming, and from twenty pecially good. A large red barn is conspicuous to twenty-five head of sheep are raised per year, among the outbuildings, and the dwelling, built in with other stock in due proportion. 1873 at a cost of $3,000, attracts the notice of Mr. Deuel has been a lifelong resident of Freevery passer-by by reason of its evident fitness for dlonia Township, having been born here June 23, its purpose. 1842. tIis father, Sidney Deuel, was born and In 1845 Mr. Johnson became the husband of reared in Washington County, N. Y., and married Ada Eliza Lowell. This lady was born in Oneida Margaret A. Wright, a native of the same State. County, N. Y., March 9, 1824, her parents being They cane to Michigan in 1836, establishing their Moses and Rachel (Brown) Lowell. Iloth were home on the section wlich is now the abiding place born in the Empire State and Mrs. Lowell (lied of their son, and in a few years taking possession there. In 1831 Mr. Lowell settled in this county, of the farm lie now operates. Here the worthy securing from the Government a good tract of couple) entered into rest, the father November 18, land. His daughter, Mrs. lolhnson, came out in 1883, and the mother February 20, 1887. They 1836 and passed through her teens here, developing were the parents of six children, named respecther mind and increasing her usefulness. Mr. Low- ively: Louisa, Maria louston, Abram; Mary, MIs. ell went to California during tlie gold excitement C. TH. Raven; John married Miss Emma Francisco; and died there nine years later, at the age of sixty- and Delia, Mrs. Frank Boughlton. The first-born four. To Mr. and Mrs. Johnson four children have died in infancy. The third child, Abram, received been born who were named respectively, Theresa his schooling in the neighboring district schoolA., Minnie J., Albert and J. The last named is house and remained an inmate of his parents' home deceased. The second daughter is the wife of I. E. uEntil their demise. lie then took control of the Wells. farm, on whicl he continued the work of improveThe fitness of Mr. Johnson for positions of pub- ment, adding much to its value and to thle comfort lic trust has been recognized by the peoplle and lie of the family that occupies it. Our subject is has been elected to several offices. Hie was Town- making a specialty of raising Hambletonian horses, ship Supervisor two terms and Treasurer six terms and has on hand three good ones. HIe also raises and is still serving as Justice-of the Peace, having Merino mixed sheep, and has just sent a nice lot held this office four years. le always votes the of lambs to the Buffalo market. His sheep are Democratic ticket, being fully persuaded that to do quite a source of income. so will be for the best interests of the nation. He is The marriage of Mr. Deuel and Miss Julia E. " ~ i: - ~ ~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHIICAL ALBUM. 719 - Woodard was solemnized( at Mrs. A. E. Brackett's, her sister, at Coldlwater, September 18, 1879. She is a (laughter of Tyler WV. and Betsey (Randall) Woodar(l, and is the youngest of the three cliilidren born to them. Her birthplacee was G(eauga Counlty, Ohio, and her natal d(ly Septetmber 14, 1853. ilhe is a devoted member of the JBaptist Church, l)ossesses the domestic acquirements and womrnanly ways that add to the attractiveness of a home and is a g(ood and cordial neighlbor. The marriaoge has been blessed by tile birth of one daughter, Pearl L., born August 19, 188~. Politically Mr. Deuel is a Republican. lie belongs to the Baptist Cllurch, has been one of the Deacons for eight years.1and is Superintendent of the Sunday-school, in which his wife is also an efficient worker. Our subject has been an active worker in the churchl for about thirty years. The intelligence and manner of life of MIr. 1)enel give him a higll standing a'mong tilhe peoplle and his many friends will be pleased to read this notice of his life. UTIE111 0. Ct R()CI(ER, is an intelligent and l)rogressive representative of the farmers and stock-raisers wh)o aIre conducting tihe agricultural interests of 1Battle -Creek Township. A native of Monroe County, N. Y., lie was born April 29, 1838, to Ebenezer L. and Lucy (Ilollister) Crocker. Of Mr. Crocker's father muchl may be said. Ile was an exemplary man in every way, was well en(lowed mentally and physically. lie was a good practical farmer, was prompt and punctual in all his dealings, and was in otiher ways anl excellent man of business. lie was for a great many years a 1)eacon in the Christiain Churchl an1I was very punctual in the pe1rformanc(e of his (religious duties. IIe was d(evote( to his church and never would miss either a sermon or a pl)ayer meeting. He came to Michigan in 1853 whenD his son Luther was a lad of fifteen years, and settled at Marshall, where his honorable life was broughllt to an untimely close in 1861. After the (leath of the father, the mother of our subject married again becoming the wife of Joseph W. Stewart in 1865. A year later Mr. and MrIs. Stewart located on the farm now belonging to our subject, and here Mr. Stewart engaged in flarming andil lassed( the remainder of his life until he closed his eyes in death in 1885. Thle mother survived himn thtree years and then she too died at a venerable aoe. lie of whom tlese lines are written, coming to thllis State in boyhood, hlas passe(d the most important lalrt of his life within its borders, andl is to-day classed anrongl the most worthy citizens of this counlty. Two yeallrs before his mother's deatl he took up llis residence on this farm that then belongted to her to care for her in her declining years, and was her stay and comrfort until she passe1 away at the age of seventy-seven. Hlis step-father had lpurchased this farni in pioneer times, procuring thle patent whlicl w'as silgned by President,Jackson, at Wllite 1Pigeon, Mich., that being the nearest land offlice. 'Whlen his mother (liedl the f-armn came into possession of our subject, who continues to make his home ulpon it. ile keeps the land up to a high state of cultivation, and has here a neat. and wellordered. place, aml)ly suppllied with all the necessary bLuildings and the most approved farming macllinery. Mr. Crocker has by no means devoted himself exclullsively to farming, as until within the last four years, lie was engaged in selling agricultural inmplements, pianos an(d organs at Nashville, Michl., and conducted a lucrative business. ItI. C(rocker and Miss Ervilla Frink were married Mllarch 12, 1863, and theirs has been an exceedingly hiappy union. Mrs. Crocker is a daughter of Nathlan P. an(l Angeline (l)ay) Frink, natives of New York. tier parents came to Michigan before marriage when the State was a comparative wilderness. Iier father was a citizen of Marshall for many years, but passed his last d'ays in Barry County. lMr. Frinlk mioved to Eaton County in 1840, settling in Eaton, where hle built the first barn that was erecte(d in the townshipl. Two years later he was elected sheriff of Eaton County. In 1854 lie was again elected to the same office and at the same time Gov. IBlair was elected County Clerk,and hence the two became quite intimate. Mr. Frink was considered the soul of honor by his associates and it is said he never presented a bill to the county 720 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. but that tile same was audited at the exact amount called for. To our subject and his wife have been born five children, of whom one, Lucy, died in childhood. The others are: Clarence F., who is a printer, but owing to ill health has retired for the l)resent to the parental home; Zillah, Roy and Lulu, who are yet at honle. Zillah acquired a good education at Nashville in Barry County. She left school for awhile before graduation to engage in teaching, but fully intends to complete her course. Her real forte is music, she having inherited a genius for the art from her father who has a natural talent in that direction. Her literary ability she inherited from her mother, who was for many years a successful teacher in the public schools of Marshall, where she was even engaged in her lrofession until a year after her marriage as the authorities did not wish her to give up her work. Mr. Crocker has never been aggressive in politics, but has always been a firm adherent of the Republican party. He is an honorable member of the Masonic order. It is the united testimony of his fellow townsmen that he is in all respects a man of conscientious principles and exemplary habits, who is free hearted, kind and considerate, and always willing to lend a hand to those less fortunate than himself. His mental endowments are of a good order, his personal traits are such as to attract to him friends and he is thoroughly capable and trustworthy. i i i I = --- ror was established twenty-seven of its political opponents have given up the battle, forced to the wall by lack of financial support. Still the Mirror comes forth in its smiling dress, week after week, showing no signs of weakness, but gaining strength with years. The parents of Mr. Cole were Abner and Fanny (Lawrence) Cole, natives of Chesterfield, Mass., and New Jersey, respectively. Their marriage was solemnized in the latter Slate, in the town of Lawrenceville, and they established their home in Palmyra, Wayne County, N. Y. There our subject, the second son and child, was born November 13, 1812. The other members of the family were Abner P., now deceased; Frances, formerly wife of George I. Parbart, of Virginia, who died in San Francisco, Cal.; James M., a resident in Jackson, Mich., a printer, and at one time publisher of the Journal in Ann Arbor; Sarah M., wife of E. I)arwin Stearns, of Rocllester, N. Y. The father was a lawyer of good ability, and as a man and citizen was highly respected. Politically he was a 1)emocrat of tile old Jacksonian stamp. lie died in Rochester, N. Y., in 1835; his wife died in Auburn, N. Y. Sle was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Cliurch. The subject of this biographical notice received but a limited education in his early life, and is principally a self-made man. When seventeen years old he learned the printer's trade, and so competent was he found to be, that at the expiration of eighteen months he was made foreman of the office. In the fall of 1838 he came to Michigan and found employment in the office of the Argus at Ann Arbor. The paper was allowed to die by its proprietors, but was resurrected in six weeks by Mr. Cole, who received the encouragement of many of the leading men of the city. It is generally conceded that to establish and successfully conduct a newspaper business requires decided ability. Mr. Cole succeeded in his venture, and for seventeen years edited and published the Argus. He then cane to Albion and established the Mirror. In the publication of the Argus he used the first printing press manufactured in this State. At the bride's home in Ann Arbor, March 4, 1847, wedding rites were solemnized between Mr. AWRENCE WASHINGTON COLE. The Albion Mirror, of which this gentleman is proprietor and publisher, is one of the oldest papers in the county, and is a well-known live sheet which supplies to its readers a compendium of well-selected news items, and presents to their minds in forcible language the moral aspect and civilizing power of movements which agitate the people. Being a Democratic publication and the district throughout which it circulates largely ReIpublican, its success is the more creditable to its proprietor, and testifies the more strongly as to his business tact and editorial ability. Since the Mir PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 721 -— I —~~~~-` —~~~~ ---` ---~~~-I- II- -I-~~~~~~-~~~ —~~ --- —--- ----— ~~~ Cole and Jane A. Finch. The bride was the daughter of the Hon. William H. Finch, a man of marked ability whose name is connected with the history of the State. Mrs. Cole entered into rest January 2, 1881, leaving her husband and a son to mourn her departure from the scenes of time, together with many friends who knew and loved her. Frank F. Cole, the son of our subject, has charge of the mechanical part of the work at the Mirror plant. He married Sarah J. Cochran of Akron, Ohio, and is the proud father of four children-Maggie L., Bessie, Lawrence and Lula. -TKEV. ISAAC COLLIER. For a few years this gentleman has been engaged in the real-estate and insurance business in Battle Creek, having given up the work of the ministry in which he had long and successfully labored. He was at one time in charge of a church in this city, and he still preaches occasionally here and elsewhere where he is well known and his ability appreciated. IIe is a son of Isaac and Rachel (Perry) Collier, both born in New York, the one being of English and the other of French descent. His father was a farmer and lived and died in his native State, entering into rest in 1867. The birth of our subject occurred September 8, 1830, near Athens, Greene County, N. Y,, and his boyhood and early youth were spent upon the farm. When seventeen years of age he struck out for himself, working his way to and through college. IIe took a course of study at Coxsackie (N. Y.) Academy, then taught a year, after which he attended the grammar school at New Brunswick, N. J. Still later he spent four years in Rutgers College, and three years in the theological school from which he was graduated in 1860. He received a unanimous call to the Reformed Church at Coeymans, on the banks of the Hudson River, and after five years of efficient work there, was urged by the Secretary of the Board of Missions to enter a western field. Accepting a call to the Reformed Church in Battle Creekl, he labored here until 1871, when having been unanimously called to Richboro, Bucks County, Pa., he removed to the East. During thirteen years and a half the Rev. Mr. Collier had pastoral care of the church in Richboro, then came West again and for a twelvemonth was settled over the Congregational Church at Augusta, Mich. He next removed to Grand Rapids, purchasing a beautiful home and supplying the Congregational Church of Lamont for a year, although occupying his residence in the city. Since that time lie has been a resident of Battle Creek, and has recently engaged in business, buying out George W. Nichols in 1887. Mr. Collier is a man of ability, well read in all that pertains to the profession of the ministry, and able to present the truths of he Gospel and co-relative facts of Bible history in a manner at once interesting and easy to be understood. His life has been one to reflect credit upon his profession, and those who are most ready to pick flaws in the character of one who stands on the watch-towers of Zion, have had little to say regarding him. June 20, 1860, Mr. Collier was united in marriage with Miss Emma Dean, with whom lie lived happily until the 10th of November, 1871, when she breathed her last at Richboro, Pa. The children born of this marriage were two in number, a daughter and son. Luella was educated at Millersville, Pa., and is now an accountant in a wholesale store in New York. She is a remarkably fine elocutionist, her instructor in that branch having been Prof. Mark Bailey, of Yale College. Fred died in boyhood, the date of his demise being November 20, 1870. The lady who now presides over Mr. Collier's home became his wife May 20, 1873, she being at that time known as Mrs. Anna 11. El'iott, nee Amer, and her home being in Philadelphia. By her first husband she had a daughter, Julia, and her second marriage has been blest by the birth of another daughter, Grace Helena, who was born January 17, 1880. Mr. Collier is one of those men who believe that politics, in the true sense of the word, is something in which every citizen should take an interest, studying the merits of various policies, and aiding in the promulgation of those which they believe to be right and just. His sympathy and support are 722 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. given to the Republican party, in the local work erable age of eighty-three years, leaving behind of which lie takes an. active part. He has never her a memory that is cherished by her offspring. held an office save those of School Inspector and Her children were eleven in number, eight of whom President of the Bucks County (Pa.) Bible Society. grew to maturity, and five are now living, two lie retains his membership in the Reformed Church, daughters end three sons. The mother was a to the work of which he first gave his talents. lie woman of strong character, stanch Christian prinis now interested in the Livingston Bell Company, ciple and a devoted member of the Methodist of which he is Vice-President. Episcopal Church. Though but a child of four years when he came to Michigan our subject well remembers thi beautiful home of his birth, the sparkling waters of the lake and the log house in which the first years of AMES M. HUGHES is one of the most his life were passed. He also recollects the inciinfluential and wealthy residents of Marengo dents of the journey hither, which was made to Township, and is classed among the leading Buffalo with a pair of oxen, by water to Detroit, citizens of the county who are most active thence with oxen to Marshall. Our subject and in its agricultural interests. lie was born in Lodi, others were compelled to walk part of the way, as Seneca County, N. Y., February 26, 1835. His the wagon often sank in the mud to the liubs of father, whose given name was John, was a native the wheels and materially retarded their progress. of Lincolnshire, England, where he was reared on Ile received his first lessons in farming on the old a farm and was also employed as a shepherd. For homestead in Newton, where his father died when some years ie was a soldier in the English army. he was ten years old. At the age of eight years He married in England and had five children born our subject drove oxen and became an expert there. His wife, who was a woman of remarkable driver. The county was very sparsely settled and energy, urged him to come to America, and in there were only six log houses betwen them and 1831 he emigrated thither with his family and Marshall. Indians were still living neat', and as located in Seneca County, N. Y., at the head of they were peaceable our subject often played and Seneca Lake, in the town of Lodi. wrestled with the Indian lads. Deer, wild turkeys In the fall of 1839 John Hughes came to Michi- and other game abounded and furnished food for gan and settled at Newton, where he bought a tract the tables of the pioneers. of land. The family located in a log cabin in tile When he was twelve years old Mr. Ilughes was woods, and in the busy years that followed cleared thrown on his own resources and worked out by a good farm of eighty acres. The busy career of tie month. All the education that he obtained was this honored pioneer was brought to an untimely in a rude log schoolhouse, furnished with slab close by his death July 12, 1845, at fifty years of benches, and the school was conducted by rate bill. age. After coming to this country lie took out At the age of fourteen years he and his brother naturalization papers, and during the remainder of John bought the old farm of eighty acres in Newhis life was loyal to the Government under whose ton Township, lifted the mortgage and actively protection he spent his last (lays. entered upon its improvement. They fenced it, The mother of our subject was in her maiden- put the soil under excellent cultivation, and bought hood Elizabeth Fisher. She was born in England eighty acres more adjoining besides two more and was a (laughter of James Fisher, a lifelong eighties, and had three hundred and twenty acres resident of that land. After tle death of the of arable land under their care. father the mother reared her family on the farm at When our subject was twenty years old he and Newton. In her old age the good mother who had his brother dissolved partnership and he took one so guarded their childhood was cared for tenderly hundred and sixty acres of land on sections 22 and by her children, and died here in 1877, at the ven- 23, in Newton Township, and located upon it. Hie l:i '1 RESI DENCE OF CHARLES E. BRADLEY, SEC.33. BEDFORD TP. CALHOUN CO.MICH. RESIDENCE OF JAMES M. HUGHS, SEC.30. MARENGO TP. CALHOUN CO.MICH. I a~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 725 made various improvements, and in the winter of 1851-52 built a frame house. The weather being cold the house was not immediately finished, and in the interval he slept either in the blacksmith shop, granary or barn. The next summer lie worked for a hard master, but after lie settled in his new home his prospects became brighter, and he has since met with more than ordinary success in the prosecution of his work. In 1867 Mr. Hlughes sold this land and bought his present homestead of one hundred and fiftyeight and one-fourth acres. -He has cleared all his land excepting fifteen acres, and has erected an excellent class of well-arranged and commodious buildings. lie has now one hundred and fortythree acres cleared and fenced. The land which borders on Rice Creek is well watered and is conveniently situated adjoining the city of Marshall, and lying on section 30, Marengo Township. In 1873 Mr. IIughes erected a handsome residence at a cost of over $3,000; he has built two large barns, 30x70 and 34x46 feet in dimensions respectiveJy, a corn house 18x24 feet, a hog house 16x22 feet, and a hennery 12x16 feet. Besides these valuable improvements he has a windmill ard tank. lie has other landed interests, comprising seventy-four acres on section 30, eighty-seven acres on section 34, and one hundred and twenty acres in Newton Township. Ils farm in its appointnents and cultivation is considered one of the finest in the county and is represented by a view on another page. Mr. Iughes raises large quantities of grain, wheat and corn, and feeds cattle and sheep. Of the latter he has a fine fock, numbering from fifty to one hundred. Mr. Hughes was married in Union City, Brancli County, April 6, 1854, to Miss Laura A. Francisco. She is a native of Cattaraugus County, N. Y., and came to Michigan in the fall of 1839 with her parents, Thomas and Lydia (Wood) Francisco, who were natives respectively of the States of New York and Massaclusetts. They settled at Newton where the father was engaged in farming until death called him hence. Two children remain to our subject and his wife, Homer and Earl, the latter of whom lives with his parents. Two children are deceased, David and Fred. H-omer, who is a farmer in this township, married Miss Emma Sidell, of Madison, Wis., and they have one child, Hazel. An open-handed, open-hearted man of a genial, jovial disposition our subject is a general favorite. Of undoubted probity and lionor he has the implicit confidence of his fellow-citizens, who value his counsel and trust him. For years he has had business in the probate office. At first it was as a guardian and subsequently as administrator. He lhas been appointed by different judges to that important office. and has settled three different estates, discharging the duties thus devolving upon him with (lue discrimination and judgment, so as to satisfy all concerned. He is now acting as guardian for an old gentleman. In 1853 and 1854 Mr. I-Hughes served as Under Sheriff. He has held the various school offices, taking a genuine interest in local educational matters. Socially he is a Knight of the Maccabees at Marshall. Politically he is a Iemocrat. C I HARLES E. BRADILEY. The fine farm owned and occulied by this gentleman gives evidence of tile thrift of its present owner and the care bestowed upon its culture and improvement by those who formerly held possession of it. It consists of two hundred acres in Bedford Township, whereon may be seen a good dwelling, substantial and ample outbuildings, and the adornments of fruit and shade trees, shrubs and vines, that so fittingly accompany a rural residence. Neatness and order prevail everywhere and careful tillage is the rule on every part of the estate. 'This pleasant homestead is represented by a view on another page. Our subject is a son of Harmon and Mary C. (Palmer) Bradley and traces his ancestry back through long lines of American citizens. The father was born in Vermont in 1817 and being left an orphan in early life, found his lot cast with a hard taskmaster. At the age of twenty years, thinking to better his condition, he sought a home in what was then the wilds of Michigan, locating near Marengo, this county, and working by the month for a 726 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Mr. Alcott. About the year 1840 he married a na- employ of the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railtive of the Empire State and three years later re- road Company; he then entered the ministry and is moved with his little family to Charlestown, Kala- now in charge of a Congregational church at Valmazoo County. There he and a friend bought one ley Falls, that State —his wife was formerly Jennie hundred and thirty-seven acres of land which they Piper. Johnny lost his life by an accident in individed between them, but of which Mr. Bradley be- fancy. came the sole possessor in a short time. Not long Charles E. Bradley was born December 31, 1843, afterward he bought thirty-two acres more, thus on his father's farm in Kalamazoo County, and has bringing up his estate to one hundred and sixty- always resided there or at his present home. lie nine acres. It was wild land when purchased, but attended the district schools and acquired a good a nice farm resulted from the industrious efforts of general education which he has constantly increased its owner. through the reading of well-selected volumes and In 1861 that property was traded for a beautiful newspapers and careful observation. March 25, farm of three hundred acres, two-thirds of which 1869, he was united in marriage with Martha t Eilen is now owned by the son, our subject. Mr. Bradley Sterrett, whose parents, James and Martha Sterrett, gave $4,000 boot, which he was to have ten years formerly lived at Sterrettania, Erie County, Pa. to pay at ten per cent interest. By diligence and After her mother's death Miss Sterrett was placed economy, the indebtedness was paid off in five in the family of a relative at Kingsville, Ashtabula years. In 1871 the wife and mother died. The County, Ohio, and remained with them until her father remained with his children until the ensuing marriage. She shared the fortunes of Mr. Bradley year, when he married Frances Kenyon of Barry some twelve years, then closed her eyes in death, County, after which he still continued on the farm breathing her last October 30, 1881. She had borne some years, but eventually removed to Battle her husband four children, of whom the first-born, Creek where lie now lives. Edwin C., died when seven years old; Willard I., Of the children of Harmon and Mary C. Bradley born September 25, 1872, ic now attending the the following facts may be mentioned: George I). Commercial College at Battle Creek; George D., was graduated from Kalamazoo College in the class born September 11, 1876, and Floyd J., November of 1862, read law with McKean Bros. of Monticello, 11, 1878, complete the little circle. The deceased Iowa, and was admitted to the bar in that place wife and mother was a devout member of the Bapabout 1866; he practiced successfully until his last tist Church. illness, being at that time Prosecuting Attorney. lie A second matrimonial alliance was contracted bv had never married and came to his old home to die, Mr. Bradley February 14, 1883, his bride being breathing his last October 21, 1869, at the early Eunice McAlister, daughter of George W. and age of twenty-eight years. Randall P. left the pater- Mary (Silvers) McAlister. This lady is of Scotch nal roof to aid in the defense of his country, enlist- and Welsh descent and was born in Seneca County, ing in September, 1863, as a private in Company N. Y., April 15, 1841. Thence her parents came A, Seventh Miclligan Infantry, known as Kellogg's to this county in 1844, taking possession of the Mounted Rifles. Exposure brought on illness from same farm now owned by Mr. Biadley. Her mother which he died at Columbia College Hospital, Wash- died June 21, 1870, and her father January 29, 1873. ington, D. C., in March, 1864. Charles E., our The McAlister family includes seven brothers and subject, will be mentioned hereafter; Morris II. sisters who grew to manhood and womanhood. marriedl Janet Angel and has five children; he for- They are Hugh, who died in Kansas in 1889; merly lived on a part of the home farm, but is now Thomas, who went to California in 1853 and was in Kalamazoo. Silas died in infancy and Alice J. living there when last heard from; Mary, formerly at the age of eighteen years. Albert I. was grad- the wife of George Sheldon, who died in 1885; uated from Kalamazoo College in the class of 1881, Joseph, a druggist in Augusta, Kan.; Nancy, who tfter which he spent two years in Kansas in the married Joseph A. Waldo and died 'in Seneca i-::: PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 727 Falls, N. Y., in 1886; Eunice, wife of Mr. Bradley; Frances, who married John Hause and lives in Clinton, this State. Mr. Bradley was Treasurer of Bedford Township two years, Commissioner of Highways two years, and is now serving his third term of four years as Justice of the Peace; he is also Treasurer of his School D)istrict. Politically he is what the Kansas papers call "a Republican dyed in the wool." Lie is a Trustee in tile Baptist Church at Battle Creek, where his honored father is a Decaon. The senior Mr. Bradley has filled various official stations, such as Commissioner of Hig hways, Township Treasurer, etc., and was a member of the State Legislature in 1 879-80. So hospitable, kind and free-hearted are Mr. and Mrs. Bradley that even the stranger within their gates feels the charm of their manner and is glad to be with them. Mrs. Bradley is a model housekeeper, and tlhe well-selected library which is one of the chief adornments of the dwelling, shows that ler husban( and herself do not neglect the thoughits of wise men. She (liffers from her husband somewhat in religious belief, being a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, but both agree in trying to live in accordance with the doctrines of Christianity. r EORGE A. WELTON. This worthy citiC/ r zen of Le Roy Township is one of the old %.J( soldiers whom all true lovers of their country delight to honor, and from whose lips the story of the war falls with as thrilling interest as before peace shed her benign influence over the nation. In tracing the ancestral history we find that Mr. Welton is as well entitled to wear the blue as any one can be, he being descended in both lines from those who fougllt and bled in various contests for freedom and the rights of mankind. IIis paternal great-grandfather fought from the battle of Bunker Hill to the close of the Revolution. His grandfather went through the War of 1812, and his father spent a year and a half in the Union army during the late Civil War. His paternal great I i - -1- -l- ---- -- - - — l ~ -.-, — ---- -- I- --- --- - --- - - - grandfather was a Revolutionary soldier and was believed by his family to have been dead, but was restored to them after a year's absence, during wlich lie had been on board a prison ship at Halifax. Confinement and ill treatment had so impaired liis health that he died a short time after his return to his family. The relatives of Mr. Welton who performed loyal service for the Union were simply legion. The parents of our subject were Abijah and Sally (Mason) Welton, both natives of the Empire State but from tlieir childhood residents of Ohio. In Cuyahoga County, of that State, their only son, George A., was born October 18, 1844. He was a lad fourteen years of age when the family removed to Waukesha Township, Kalamazoo County, tills State, where the father owned and operated a sawmlill. 'he son was pursuing his studies in tlhe common sclool when the Civil War begaln, and laying aside his algebra and university arithmetic he took up thl musket instead, determined to do his best to maintain the existence of the nation and defend its honor. This ended his school days, but lie hadl already obtained a very good education for one of his years, and by the means open to all men of intelligence ile lias added to his youthful knowledge and kept himself well informed recga(rding current events. It was after completing a (lay's work that young Welton bade good-bye to his friends, after hearing the news from Bull Run, andt walked as far as the home of his uncle, W'lliam Riley, in Le Roy Township). The next morning lie went on to Battle Creek where he enlisted as a private in the Sixth Michigan Infantry for three years or during the war, the date of his enrollment being August 1, 1861. His first introduction to the '-Johnnies" was at Sewcll's Point, Va., March 5, 1862. lie afterward took part in the battles at Vicksburg May 20, Grand Gulf May 27, Amite River June 26, Baton Rouge August 5, 1862, Woodstock October 9, 1864, Cedar Creek October 19, Madison Court House December 24, Louisa Court House March 8, 1865, Petersburg April 2 and 3, and Appomattox Court House April 9. In August, 1862, he was promoted to the rank of Corporal for coolness and courage on the field al Baton Rouge; 728 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. taking the place of a comrade who was reduced to the North Athens Cei the ranks for cowardice at the same engagement. organization. He an In 1863 he was made a Sergeant and soon after- faithful and useful me ward became Color Sergeant. at Athens, and he offi( At Port Hudson, La., January 10, 1864, Mr. Wel- caused his resignation. ton was discharged by reason of physical disabil- when called from see itv and returned to his home where his health so none who know him improved that on August 6 following he re-en- the call, "Well done, tered the service. On this occasion he joined vant; enter thou into Company A, Seventh Michigan Cavalry, in which he continued until the close of the war, being mustered out at Ft. Leavenwortli, Kan., July 17, I --- —- - 1865. He received a slight wound on the cheek at Baton Rouge and incurred disabilities on account of which he is now drawing a pension of $30 per OIN E. FOLE month. Besides the direct ancestors from whom the people of C he derives his war spirit, we may state that he is is now their Pr( connected with the Gen. Warren who fell at the recently elected battle of Bunker Hill, and with the Warners of Derocratic ticket by E Revolutionary fame. dred, and was the fil After returning from the service Mr. Welton ticket in this county f worked at lumbering until failing health compelled century, and the only him to abandon that occupation. The ensuing Mr. Foley was born ii three years were spent by him as an agent for to Kieren and Mary various articles, and lie then began painting, a was a farmer and the s trade which lie followed until compelled to aban- lis father during his y don work entirely. Ilis happy home is presidled age he resolved to ge over by a lady who came to him as a Christmas ingly entered the Higl gift in 1868, prior to which time she bore tle ward pursued his stud name of Henrietta F. Richardson. She is a ldaugh- College, teaching sclho ter of Henry and Mary Ann Richardson, of Athens, In August 1875, le cal this county, who are natives of England. Her study of law with M brother, George H. Richardson, belonged to Coin- he continued until Ma pany It, Thirteenth Michigan Infantry, and died mitted to the bar andl while in the service, being at the time on his way in Marshall and began home after having marched with Sherman to the alone. sea. Mr. and Mrs. Welton are the parents of five In November, 1877, children, named respectively: Buelah E., Frank E., ship with Willis S. G Frances HI., Henry A. and Florence L. Geer & Foley. This co Mr. Welton has always been an unswerving Re. fall of 1878, when Mr publican and his acquaintances know where to moved to Nebraska. find him on all political questions. IHe is Vice Foley was appointed C President of the township Republican Club and chosen to fill that ofilc is a loyal member of Joseph Smith Post, No. 215, elected Justice of the G. A. R., at Fulton, Kalamazoo County. He was of his term was again for six years Justice of the Peace but resigned on of 1888 he was a cand account of ill-health. He has been Secretary of cuting Attorney but w netery Association since its d his wife llave long been mbers of the Baptist Church ciated as Clerk until ill-health He will be greatly missed nes of time and sense, but doubt that he will hear thou good and faithful serthe joy of thy Lord." W`. __ Y. This name is familiar to ~alhoun County, as Mr. Foley osecuting Attorney. lie was i to that office on the straight a majority of about one hunrst Democrat elected on that or upwards of a quarter of a y one elected last fall (1890). n HIomer, February 28, 1852, (Wood) Foley. Iis father 5on worked upon the farm for youth. However, at an early t an education, and accord1 School at Homer and afteries for some time at Ilillsdale ol (luring the winter months. ne to Marshall and began the essrs. Miner & Stace, where rch, 1887. Ile was then adshortly after opened an oflice the practice of his profession, Mr. Foley formed a partnereer, under the firm name of nnection continued until the. Geer, failing in health, reIn the spring of 1878 Mr. Jity Attorney, and was again e in 1884. In 1879 he was Peace, and at the expiration elected in 1883. In the fall idate for the office of Prosevas defeated, although he ran PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 729 _ --- —-— _ _. _. _ _ _ —~~ ------------- ------ ------------------- ---- ---------— ~- ------ ------- ------ ----- ---------— ~p --- —----— I over six hundred ahead of his ticket. In the spring of 1890 he was elected Supervisor from the Third Ward of Marshall, and the following fall was made a member of the School Board. Mr. Foley was united in marriage in 1876, with Miss Maggie Hopkins ofCl arendon, this county. The bride was then a teacher. She was born in Indiana, was well educated and carefully reared and is a capable-and estimable woman. Mr. and Mrs. Foley have but one child, Nina E., a miss of thirteen. Mr. Foley assumed the duties'of his office as Prosecutor.January 1, 1891, and gives promise of a judicious and vigorous administration of its affairs. lie has always been a stanch supporter of Iemocratic principles. ITe is rapidly rising in his profession as well as in popular appreciation, and llas before him the promise of a bright future. I-e is a careful, conscientious, painstaking lawyer and a pleasing, logical and graceful speaker. E UGENE G. COLE is the son of one of Calhoun County's honored pioneers and is now living on the old homestead which was his p)lace of birth and which his father developed from tlme wilderness into one of thle choicest farms in all Le Roy Township. For the past few years he has given himself to the business of farming and stock-raising anid occupies a prominent place among the men of his calling in this part of his native county. Our subject was born August 23, 1850, on the farm where he now resides, as before Inentioned. IIe is a son of Harry and Frances (Wright) Cole, the former of whom was a native of the State of New York and was of English descent, whlile the latter was of mingled English and Irish ancestry. The grandparents of our subject removed to Michigan in pioneer times and settled near Coldwater, where tlme grandfather died. Before locating here he had traveled around the country a great deal and though he:crossed Lake Erie nine times was never sick on such voyages, as is usually thle case with landsmen. The father of our subject came to this State in the early days of its settlement, in 1834, and worked in a sawmill near Adrian. He returned East in 1835, and came back to the West in 1836 and located eighty acres of land in Branch County and again returned to New York where lie remained two years, when he again took up his journey for Michigan and worked nearly two years at odd jobs, and in 1840 bought the farm our subject now lives on. He became one of the most useful of the pioneers who built the solid foundation upon which the prosperity of this county rests. lie was possessed of extraordinary energy and may be said to have labored night and (lay in the performance of the task upon which lie was intent, of evolving a farm from a tract of wild land as, after working all day very hard, if it were a moonlight night he would keep at his toil of clearing his homestead until midnight. His labor was richly rewarded as he amassed a handsome property including over three hundred acres of finely improved land. He lad no education, as his opportunities of attending school in his youth were exceedingly limited, but nature had endowced him well both physically and mentally and lie was a typical pioneer, possessing a robust, stalwart frame, and a generous frank disposition. IIe had a high reputation for honesty of purpose and act, and his word was never doubted. The life of this worthy citizen was brought to a close by his death at the ripe age of seventy-tlhree years, June 13, 1884. The mother of our subject is still living at a venerable age in the pleasant home that was built by her valuable assistance. She was a meet comlanion to her husband and lives surrounded by the respect and affection of all wlho know her. She has three sons and one daughter all of whom are living with her and their names are as follows: Eugene G.. Dolly J., Milnor, and Lula Isabel. Eugene Cole passed his boyhood on the old lomestead and was carefully reared under good home influences. lie was given excellent educational advantages and at tlle age of seventeen years attended the Oberlin Telegraph Institute to study telegraphy and completed the course there begun at Galesburg, Mich.;in a railway office in 1869. He secured a position as an operator on the Michigan Central Railroad, which he held for more than 730 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. eleven years, and for seven years of that time he visit her pa was train dispatcher. He resigned that office and home, and o secured a similar position on the Northern Pacific often hear tl Railroad, which he held for five years. they never i At the expiration of that time our subject re- The bears v turned to the old homestead in 1886, and since has often caused been profitably engaged in farming. Though since his boyhood he has had but little experience in that line, he displays a keen and intelligent knowledge of agriculture in its various branches and is conducting his operations after the most approved i LIAS modern methods. ) Ion se Mr. Cole and Miss E. Jennie Crisman were mar- - know ried August 27, 1872, and the two children, Clar- dent of this C ence E. and Grace F., who have been born to them see County, have greatly added to the pleasantness of their son of Ila aL wedded life. These children are being carefully natives resp nurtured and are receiving every possible educa- York, the f tional advantage. Mrs. Cole is a daughter of Ben- latter Septel jamin and Elizabeth Crisman, who are of Dutch days in the 1 descent and were natives of Pennsylvania and Ohio, in this towi while she is a native of Porter County, Ind. deposited in Mr. Cole's social affiliations are with the Masonic away. Our lodge at Climax. He has never been active in England fam poiitics, but is a straightforward Republican, as was was a loyal s his father before him. IIe has for some time been wife, wlose a member of the School Board and is now a Mod- passed their erator. He is likewise Drainage Commissioner of the shire lills of township. He inherited many of the fine personal death closed traits of character that distinguished his father and at Williamst( is in every way an honor to the citizenship of the subject marr place of his nativity in whose welfare lie takes a lays in the t< deep interest, and his name is associated with vari- of which lie ous plans devised for its advancement. The father Coming of one of the early pioneer families of ordinary mec this State Mr. Cole has always been keenly inter- farmer was a est(d in the history of the early life of his parents, maker. The and he has a correct knowledge of the pioneer sively engage times in this land of hIis birth. Iis father, though many years never neglecting his farm or his duties in any way, but his large was very fond of the hunt, and in early times his he failed. Hi family depended upon his trusty rifle for a supply as he finished of fresh meat, and he would often bring down a though it to( deer, a wild turkey, or other game. The mother business ruinm has often related to her children about the times history see sk when he would take them on horseback, as was then page of this t the custom, across the wild strip of country to Our subjee irents, some six miles south of their an their return at nightfall they would ie wolves howling in the forests, though had any serious encounters with them. vere a worse source of annoyance and I trouble to the early settlers. *. v -W > _, * NEWBRE, a prominent farmer living ection 35, Emmet Township, is well n and greatly respected as an old resicounty. He was born at Byron, GeneN. Y., November 23, 1826, and is a id Irene (Gibson) Newbre, who were lectively of Massachusetts and New ormer born October 4, 1787, and the nber 7, 1796. They spent their last lome of our subject's brother, William, nship, and their mortal remains are the South Emmet Cemetery not far subject is a descendant of an old New ily, and his grandfather, John Newbre, oldier in the Revolution. Ile and his maiden name was Prudence Stone, last years among the beautiful Berktheir native Massachusetts, and when their lives were buried in the cemetery >wn. The paternal grandfather of our lied Submit Burk a-id passed his last own of Elba, Genesee County, N. Y., was a pioneer. r of our subject possessed more th:in chanical genius and besides being a l carpenter, blacksmith and harnessgreater part of his life he was extenAd as a contractor and builder, and for was very successful in that business, enterprise finally led him too far and is failure reflected no discredit on him, all the contracts he then had on hand, ok his last cent, and he retired from ed financially. For further ancestral:etch of William Newbre on another )iogra)phical work. (t early in life became used to farm PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 731 work, as his father was so engaged in business that his sons did much of the labor in connection with the management of the old homestead. He was a boy when tile family came to Jackson County, Mich., in 1836, and he drove four yoke of cattle attached to a wagon from Detroit to their new home in the wilderness of that county. lie attended scllool there in a log schoolhouse that was furnished with slab benches supported by wooden pins, and the building was heated by means of a fire in an open fireplace with a wood and stick chimney. His educational advantages were limited to the winter sessions of school, as in summer he had to help clear his father's land. I-e still remembers the wild condition of the country when the family first settled in Jackson County, when Indians still lived there, and many a timne has he hunted, shot at a mark and wrestled with the Indian boys. For two summers Mr. Newbre was engaged in carrying United States mail from Jackson to Charlotte, Eaton Rapids and other points, for a distance of ninety miles. The route lay mostly through the woods, which in some places were so dense that the road could only be found by marked trees, and on some parts of the way there would not be a house for twelve miles. It was a common sight to see deer in his patlway and lie would often see as many as fifteen together, and lie quite frequently saw bears while on his long journeys, wolves also being quite plentiful. It took some time to accomplish the journey and our subject only made one trip a week in carrying the mail. Mr. Newbre came to this county in 1844, and in 1849 began his independent career as a farmer by buying one hundred and sixty acres of his present farm, which was then but slightly improved. The substantial improvements that now adorn the place have been put here by himself, and make the farm, which now comprises two hundred and twenty acres, one of the most desirable and best fitted up homesteads in this township. H-e built his present handsome and commodious frame house in 1869, at a cost of $8,000. It is heated with a furnace, is well supplied with other modern improvements, is well furnished, and is in every respect one of the coziest and most attractive abodes in this vicinity. Besides raising grain quite exten sively our subject has paid much attention to raising stock, and has his farm amply supplied with cattle, lorses, sheep, etc., of the most approved grades. Mr. Newbre and Miss Martha P. Huff were married February 19, 1851, and our subject has found in his wife one who has been in every sense a true helpmate and has been potent in the upbuilding of their hlome. They have two children-Charles H. and Emma. The latter is the wife of George Fero, who is employed in Nichols & Shepa.rd's shops at Battle Creek. Charles, who married Belle Anderson and is a resident of Battle Creek. IHe is employed on the Grand Trunk Railroad. Our subject is one of the reliable citizens of his township, and is looked upon by all witl sincere respect and trust, as he is a thoroughly straightforward, honest man whose word is as good as his bond. In politics he stands stanchly by the Republican party. Whenever he has accepted public positions lie has proved a very efficient civic officer who has worked for the best interests of his township. HIe was Township Treasurer two terms and Highway Commissioner three terms, cornprising nine years, and he is now holding the office of Justice of the Pece. OSWELL RATHBUTN is one of those wori thy citizens who, by the exercise of unflag\,ing industry, wise economy and good ) judgment have secured a comfortable home and even a competence. lIe is now occupying a farm consisting of one hundred and sixty acres in Le Roy Township, where the evidences of tle qualities that have won for the owner worldly success and high standing are distinctly visible. The estate has been so well developed and supplied with so complete and substantial a line of farm buildings that it is by common consent considered a No. 1 farm. Mr. Rathbun was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., June 22, 1817, to Thomas and Laura (Bates) Rathbun. He was left motherless when quite young, and lived in different families, working whenever 7 ~ ~ -0 I 732' PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM, an opportunity offered, and gaining what knowl- is something that should affect the daily life and edge he could by observation and careful attention who try to do their duty toward God and man. to what was going on about him. He had no By their neighbors they are highly regarded for school privileges, but learned to read and write the worth of their private characters, the cordiality after he had become quite well grown. With a of their intercourse with others and the kindly natural aptness for calculation he has been able to deeds they perform. Mr. Rathbun is a reliable transact business accurately, and frequently esti- citizen and an honorable business man. mates the results in difficult problems more rapidly than those who have had collegiate training. With this natural ability he has scarcely felt the lack of >,-. ),-i —__ A —_ early instruction, and lie has not only managed his own business successfully, but has done a great deal for the township in a manner satisfactory to ILLIAM MERRIFIELD. This name will all concerned. \A// be recognized by many of our readBeing thoroughly convinced- that his happiness W/ ers as that of a young man who is taking would be enhanced by the companionship of a true an important part in the business affairs of Tekonwoman Mr. Rathbun wooed ant won Miss Clarissa slh Township, and indeed *of the territory round Willard, daughter of Alvarius and Lydia (Albee) about. He is engaged in stock buying and shipWillard, natives of New England, but early settlers ping, a trade that was carried on by his father before in the Empire State. The young people were joined him and which he learned nuder the guidance of in holy wedlock August 15, 1840, and became the the parent. IIs market is Buffalo, N. Y., and some happy parents of two children —Lydia L. and forty-five car-loads of stock per year are sent there Eugene. The daughter married Oliver Kelsey, to by him. His reputation has become established whom she bore three children —Frank E., Reba and for honesty in all his dealings, and lie is always Mabel, the last named now deceased, as is the able to buy a second time of one with whom he has mother. Eugene married Nina Snyder and has had business. three children —I-i rold, Clara and May; his home Mr. Merrifield is a native of Tekonsha Township, is near that of his parents. born September 6, 1868, and is the fourth child of Soon after his marriage Mr. Rathbun came to Joseph and Julia (Siminson) Merrifield. His brother this State and established his home in Sandstone, and sisters are Clara, wife of Lafayette Farout, Jackson County. The dwelling and its contents whose home is in Jackson; George, who died at being destroyed by fire lie went back to New York the age of two years; Susan, who lived to be three on the first boat that crossed the lake the next years oid, and Emma, who makes her home with spring, and remained East sixteen years, farming Mrs. Farout. The parents were born in the Emand working at the carpenter's trade. He owned pire State and came hither in 1846 and 1845 respectninety acres of land there, but finally traded it for ively. They were joined in marriage in the that on which he is now living and again came township that continued to be their home and in West. His farm here was wild land when he took which the husband died in 1873. HIe was well possession of it, but his labors have resulted so known throughout the county and respected for his satisfactorily that he has no reason to regret the virtues and abilities. The widow still.lives in the exchange he made. In addition to farming Mr. village of Tekonsha and the son of whom we write Rathbun has been engaged in the lumber trade, in resides with her. shipping grain, and in other business enterprises The school privileges of our subject were en which were an outgrowth of his chief occupation. joyed in his native place and fitted him, with the Both Mr. and Mrs. Rathbun belong to the Bap- business training he received from his father, to tist Church at North Athens. They are of the carry on a useful and successful career. As soon number who believe that a profession of religion as he was old enough he began assisting his parent, i~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ADAm KRENERICK PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 735 I and becoming better and better qualified to judge of stock and manage financial affairs he was able to continue the business when his father was called from the scenes of time and sense. For so young a man le has gained an enviable place in business. circles, and in society he is regarded with favor, being well bred, intelligent and ready in conversation. ( DAM KRENERICK. The German-American citizens of this county are worthily represented by the gentleman above named, EjI whose portrait is shown on the opposite page and who is numbered among the dwellers in Clarence Township. When he came to this country in early manhood he had but his brains and hands as his equipment for the battle of life. Step by step lie worked his way until his worldly affairs were placed upon a substantial basis, and to-day he stands among the well-to-do men of the county. While advancing his financial interests lie has not neglected the better things of life, but has discharged in an able manner the duties of citizenship and helped to elevate the intellectual and moral status of the section in which lie has made his home. In Bavaria, Germany, Adam Krenerick and Katherina Miller were born many years ago. After reaching maturity they became husband and wife and reared a family of six children, three of whom are now living. They spent their entire lives in their'native land, their home being upon a farm which was quite large for that country. There the husband died nearly half a century ago, and the wife breathed her last some fifteen years later. The third member of their family was born January 24, 1816, and was christened in honor of his father, Adam. This child, is lie whose life work forms the subject of this brief notice. In accordance with the customs of the German Empire young Krenerick attended school up to his fourteenth year, and during the period of study acquired a good education in the German tongue. lie then busied himself upon his father's farm some five years, when lie could no longer restrain his I I I I I desire to try the realities of life in America, of the resources of which he had heard much. In September, 1836, he landed in New York, whence he went to Massillon, Ohio, making that place his home for three years and working at whatever he could find to do. Thence he went to Wayne County, but after a short sojourn there opened a little grocery store in Loudonville, Ashland County. After carrying on the establishment two years and doing well in trade he sold ou4 and opened up a drygoods business. Five years later he disposed of his stock and for a couple of years following acted in the capacity of a clerk. In 1855 Mr. Krenerich came to this State and settled upon the farm that is still his home. His first purchase was of one hundred and sixty-five acres on section 33, of which sixty acres were under the plow but in a very poor state of cultivation. There were some improvements, but there was much to be done to make the property come up to the new owner's ideal of a farm. Some time after his location here he bought eighty acres adjoining, but has since given land to his children, reducing his own homestead to eighty-two acres, sixty of which are now under the plow. lIe has spent thirty-five years in improving and cultivating this property and has made it a fine and valuable possession. For ten years past lie has not been engaged in active farming, although his health is so rugged that lie seems better able to pursue a busy career than many men much younger. For more than half a century the pleasures as well as the cares of life have been shared by Mr. Krenerick and a cherished wife. Mrs. Krenerick was known in her maidenhood as Miss Ienrietta HIonenberger, and changed her name to that slle now bears in July, 1840. She is a daughter of Philip and Cathrina (Rahm) Honenberger, natives of Bavaria and farmers tliere, who came to the United States in 1837. They located on a farm in Stark County, Ohio, and among the pioneers of that section labored until 1839, when the husband died. The widow made a second marriage and subsequently sold the farm and remove(d to Indiana, where her death took place. Mrs. Krenerick is the third of the six children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hlonenberger, and three of the family are now liv I 736 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I ------ I ing. She opened her eyes to the light in Bavaria, Saratoga( Germany, May 23, 1819, and received good school- Aaron and s ing in books and domestic duties. shoemaker To Mr. and Mrs. Krenerick five children have working at been born, but one has been taken from them by Sle then c death. Of the survivors we note the following: Battle Cree John A., who was born June 7, 1841, married Miss Looking Sarah Miller and has three children, their home Mr. Morel being in Jackson County; William, born January acres on sec 2, 1844, married Mena Kline, has two children and he entered lives on the same section as his father; Caroline, and which born December 24, 1848, is the wife of Henry death. Th Sheek and lives in Albion; Emeline, born Decem- thoroughly ber 21, 1850, married George S. Rober, has one thereon, th child and lives near her father. desirable ii In the various affairs in which the citizens of this only a corn section are interested Mr. Krenedrick has always sessed of n been a leading actor, though not always in an offi- thing abou cial capacity. He prefers private life to the patent were anxiety of public place, but has served as Road land has n Commissioner three years, and has been a member from the o of the School Board for perhaps a dozen years. demise to i He has always taken a deep interest in the local who is the sehool affairs and also in politics, voting the Demo- house and cratic ticket. He and his wife belong to the Ger- occurred a man Lutheran Church and he has been Class- ing gone ti Leader and while living in Ohio held other positions. and died b He has always been a temperate man, social Decembe and generous, and it would be hard indeed to find to Elizabet a more highly respected member of society. His and Marth wife is equally esteemed, and all who know the Line, Sarat good couple speak well of them as neighbors and this sectio friends. Mrs. Krenerick is in good health, and both section 11, bid fair to continue their earthly pilgrimage many removed tc years. the same y _^^^^^k^ ^n4 — tand their quently di Morehouse ARON MOREHOUSE. Among the hon- the Adelai( ored men who formerly resided in Battle and (lied D J Creek Township, but have gone to the born Octol bourne whence no traveler returns, none February 4 are better deserving of mention in a volume of her last M this nature than Aaron Morehouse. His life and who was bo: character were such as to afford a fine example to of the More others and his usefulness as a man and citizen was Of Mr. ] undeniable. He was born near Ballston Springs, He was an County, N. Y., November 9, 1803, to Perthena' Morehouse. His father was a and to the same trade he was reared, it in his native State until about 1835. ame West and made his first sojourn in ek, then a small village. about him for land on which to locate, house selected one hundred and sixty ction 26, Battle Creek Township, which from the Government in June, 1835, was his home from that time until his le land was naturally good and being tilled and good buildings erected e place became in time one of the most n the county. Mr. Morehouse was not ipetent tiller of the soil, but he was poseat ways and good taste and kept everyt the place in perfect order. The letters e signed by Martin Van Buren and the lever been transferred, but descended riginal owner to his daughter and at her ier son, Gilbert Nichols, of Battle Creek, only living descendant of Aaron Morewife. The death of Mr. Morehouse,t Marquette, August 24, 1871, he havhither with his wife in quest of health ut two weeks after leaving his home. er 16, 1827, Mr. Morehouse was married h Jane Valentine, daughter of Stephen la (Clark) Valentine, formerly of East oga County, N. Y., but early settlers in n. Their home prior to 1854 was on Battle Creek Township, and they then ) Battle Creek, where both died during ear. Their daughter, Mrs. Morehouse, grand-daughter, Mrs. Nichols, subseed in the same room. Mr. and Mrs. were the parents of two children, Ande who was born November 8, 1828. Mlarch 27, 1861, and Martha Amarette, ber 10, 1832. The latter was married 4, 1863, to S. B. Nichols and breathed arch 21, 1889, leaving a son, Gilbert, rn June 18, 1870, and is now the owner ehouse homestead. Morehouse much may be said in praise. honest, upright man, industrious and 737 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHIC AL ALBUM. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 737 enterprising, modest and unassuming. He never sought office of any kind but served for several years as Justice of the Peace and filled other township positions, yielding to the wishes of the people rather than his personal feeling. His political allegiance was given to Democratic principles, that to his mind included a fervid love of country as an undivided and indivisible whole, and during the Civil War ihe was true to the nation and the flag. H-e and his wife were charter members of the First Methodist Episcopal Church organized in Battle Creek and remained devoutly attached to the denomination until called to "come up higher." For convenience and to aid in developing a new field they transferred their membership to the church at East Le Roy. Mr. Morehouse was one of the most even-temlered of men, never being caught off his guard or (lisplaying an angry spirit, but on the contrary being "easy to be entreated," patient and forbearing. His faithful companion was equally deserving and none spale ill of them but all mourned when the honored couple entered into rest. Their memory will long be green in the hleirts of those by whom they were loved and, respected. \ _ ENRY C. EBERSTEIN. On August 11, f 1885, the residents of Battle Creek Township were saddened to learn of the death of one of the pioneers of this county, and one whose upright character and kindly disposition had won for him the esteem of all who knew him. Although passed from the busy scenes of earth he still lives in the hearts of his kindred and friends, by whom his honorable life is treasured as a priceless heritage. At the time of his death he was the oldest pioneer of the township, where so much of his active life was spent, and it is to such men as lie that the county owes its present high standing anil prosperity. In politics he was a Democrat, and though firm in his convictions and free to express hiis views he maintained the respect of all, and often serve(d his party in county and State conventions. A native of Germany Mr. Eberstein was born in Manheim, Bavaria, July 24, 1817, and passed the early years of his life among the vine-clad hills of his native land, where his working hours were passed in honest toil, and his leisure moments in learning to sing and play those German melodies which so pleased and delighted his boyish heart, and which in after life so often gave pleasure to others. Thoulgh not rich in this world's goods the family were very refined and cultured people, and were related to some of the nobles at the court of the capital of his native country. However our subject chose to stand on his own sterling worth and unquestioned integrity, and it was only by an examination of the Eberstein records that his family learned how highly he was connected. In the fall of 1832 the family, accompanied by our subject, started on the long journey to America. The trip to the port from which the emigrant family sailed was chiefly made on foot, and the ocean voyage was a tedious one of six weeks' duration. They landed at Boston, where they spent the winter, and the next spring made the long journey to Detroit. On June 11, 1833, they arrived on Goguac Prairie, and from that time until his death Mr. Eberstein was identified with the growth of the community, with the exception of six months spent in Missouri. At that time there was no village on the present site of Battle Creek and no mill or post-office nearer than Marshall. By sturdy and honest toil Mr. Eberstein became the possessor of the fine farm and comfortable home where his widow and children still reside and whence his spirit took its flight. Mr. Eberstein was a man of superior intelligence, sound practical judgment and unchallenged integrity. Possessed of industrious and thrifty habits he acquired a handsome property, and was recognizedas one of the leading citizens of his township. He belonged to that class of pioneers who gave a healthy and steady development to our State, and to whose exertion and enterprise the commonwealth is indebted for its substantial advancement and prosperity. Iis memory therefore is justly entitled to the high measure of regard in which it is cherished by the entire community. At his death he left a sorrowing family, to whlom he was intensely devoted, and who in turn were always 738 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. solicitous of his welfare. His wife, who for so lated to assist him in tilling the soil, and in de-,many years was his faithful companion, bore the pressed times pushes forward successfully. He maiden name of Christina Mead, and was born in has recently bought the family homestead on which Chenango County, N. Y., July 2, 1832, to Thomas he was born and reared. and Fannie (Bloom). Mead, natives of the same The other children born to our subject and his county as their daughter; in fact Chenango County wife are located mostly in Calhoun and Kalamazoo was the home of the family for many generations Counties, and are in homes of their own. The back. family hold membership in the Congregational In the spring of 1833 Mrs. Eberstein came with Church and are welcomed in the most refined cirher parents to Washtenaw County, Mich., thence cles of society. The children are enterprising and removed with them to Charleston, Kalamazoo have inherited in no small degree the sterling County, where the father purchased a farm. There traits of character possessed by their father and the the parents remained until their death, the father mother. They revere the memory of and recall dying in 1879, and the mother in 1866, and both affectionately their deceased father, who is also are buried in Harmonia Cemetery. They trained remembered throughout the entire county as one their daughter to a useful womanhood and gave who was foremost in every good word and work. her such devoted care and excellent teaching that Indeed his honorable and successful career amply she was fitted to become a capable housekeeper and proves what can be accomplished by steadfast per. an agreeable companion. On January 8, 1853, the severance, and furnishes an example to the youth interesting ceremony was performed which united of this generation who are beginning life without in marriage Christina Mead and Henry Eberstein. other capital than willing hands and honest hearts. Immediately after the ceremony the young couple began housekeeping on the farm which has ever__ since been their home, and where for thirty-two "years they lived happily until death entered the family circle. ORENZO TAYLOR. This venerable pioNine children were born to our subject and his neer has passed many yelrs of his life in wife, namely: Mary, Charles, Franc, George, Emma, 1 this county, and not only has he been a Florence, Hattie, Lillie and Agnes. Of these factor in the development of its agriculture, but Charles, Lillie and Agnes remain at home. Lillie his name has been associated with the good work was graduated in the class of '90 from the Battle that has been done in raising the moral and religCreek High School, and is now a teacher in the ious status of his community, and with the various same place. Her musical education has been by reforms that have agitated the minds of the peono means neglected, and for the past six years she pie from time to time, especially the anti-slavery has been taking instruction both in instrumental movement and the temperance cause, and his exand vocal music. Miss Agnes is a lover of good emplary life has been an influence for good among horses, and is a fine equestrian, caring for her his fellow-men. favorite steed herself and often driving horses that Mr. Taylor is of New England birth and antethe sterner sex would strive in vain to master. She cedents, born in Colebrook, Conn., January 18, is a lover of outdoor sports, but has a natural tal- 1803. His father, David Taylor, was also a native of ent for music, playing on almost any instrument, Connecticut. Our subject early acquired a sound but devoting her attention principally to the piano. knowledge of farming in his New England home, This talent she no doubt inherits from her German and when it became time for him to adopt a lifeancestors who were skilled musicians. Charles, the calling he chose that of a farmer. At the age of eldest son, lhas always remained at home and 'is a twenty-four years he took unto himself a wife in model farmer. He keeps the mostimproved farm- the person of Miss Mary Shaw, to whom he was ing machinery, and the best of everything calcu- wedded April 8, 1827. He and his young bride PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 739 I left their early home and established one of their own far away in Niagara County, N. Y., settling among the pioneers of Wilson. They lived there several years and then with their family of three children came to this county, arriving here on the last day of May, and cast in their lot with the early settlers of Le Roy Township. The farm upon which they then settled had been taken up from the Government two years before and is still in the possession of our subject. On this old homestead the best part of his life has been passed, and in the days of his activity he expended his strength in helping his fellow-pioneers to transform the wilderness into a beautiful,well cultivated country, making this county one of the finest farming regions in this State. October 10, 1869, death crossed the threshold of the home of our subject and bereft him of his beloved wife wibo, through a married life of fortytwo years, had been all to him that a true and devoted woman can be to her husband. Theirs had been an example of a perfect wedded life, as never had any unkind words passed between them, and each had added to the other's jogs and had striven to lighten each other's burdens. Her venerable husband cherishes her. memory in his heart of hearts and holds her name in reverence, while ler children rise up and call her blessed. Her husband says, " there never was a better woman and that she was a true Christian who was a light to guide others to the Saviour." The churcl missed her sorely, as she was a great helper in its work and was a teacher in the Sunday-school. Slle died triumphantly in the faith, declaring her love for her Redeemer. The children that blessed the union of our subject and his wife are named Theodore, Albert and Alfred E. Theodore is a resident of Oceana County, Mich,, where he has a fruit farm. Albert remains with his father and manages the homestead. Alfred E. has entire control of one thousand miles of railway on the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railroad as General Roadmaster and has his headquarters at Fort Madison, Iowa. He has long been a railroad man and is eminently successful. As a road wrecker he had no superior. Mr. Taylor is a man of sound and lofty Chris I tian principles. He was formerly one of the Ruling Elders of the Presbyterian Church, but for many years has been connected with the Congregational Churcl and was a member of the Committee of Discipline until he withdrew on account of old age. He was converted when he was twentyseven years old and at the advanced age of eightyseven years speaks with enthusiasm and clearly in every particular of that mermorable period of his life. He alone is left of the pumber of converts who embraced religion at that time. A few years before that, in thinking of the foolishness of the use of tobacco he threw away his pipes and tobacco and has never since used the weed in any form. His reform in regard to strong drink was just as radical, and has been as faithfully kept. He is firmly of the opinion that it is his temperance principles that hindered him from going to destruction long years ago, and that has given him such clear use of his faculties at his advanced age. In ante-bellum times he was an ardent advocate of the anti-slavery cause, and tells with enthusiasm of his efforts and success in advancing it. Ile was the first one to agitate Abolition principles in this neighborhood. He told Isaac Davis, now deceased, of his desire to rouse the people to an interest in the down-trodden slaves and Mr. Davis, entering heartily into his plan, loaned him a horse and told him to go to find Mr. Twist, a noted anti-slavery lecturer, and get him to lecture here. This was January 11, 1840, and he immediately started in search of the Abolitionist, and after much hard riding and repeated inquiries found him. His journey homeward was performed under difficulties. lIe had to swim one river with the horse and to ride home through the cold night air with his garments wet and his body thoroughly chilled, but he was in nowise daunted, as he had arranged for a lecture which took place a few days later and was a success. Le Roy was 'from that time a hot-bed of Abolitionism and on the 4th of the next July the excitement reached its climax, as such a celebration was then given as had never before been witnessed or has never since been seen, and anti-slavery was the chief thought and the chief theme of conversation on all sides, and many and eloquent were the speeches made. 'Tlie orA 740 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. tors were so earnest and spoke such ringing words in behalf of the poor negro as to carry everything before them and the most hardened slavery men could not withstand their appeals. The next election showed the effects of this grand meeting when Le Roy by a majority of two votes placed itself on the side of freedom and thereafter took no backward steps until the last fetter was struck off from the Afrlican and liberty was proclaimed throughout the land. The chief feature of that glorious day was the grand dinner which was provided in which over five hundred persons sat down at the tables which were overflowing with good things enough to feed more than twice the number. The bill of fare embraced ever known delicacy for which the housewives of this county have been famous for time irmemorial. First, a big cheese was provided, which had been made from barrels and barrels of milk, the hoop and press in which it was molded being manufactured purposely for it, and a better cheese was never eaten. There were all kinds of game in abundance and occupying the place of honor was a fine two-year old buck furnished by Lysander Cole which had been roasted in an oven that was built for that express purpose. Our subject was a member of the Underground Railroad Committee and helped many a poor refugee from the South in his search for liberty. Free passes were given to the escaping slaves and they found entertainment at the stations on the route, and were carefully guarded by the noble men who had them in charge until they were safe from danger of arrest. In politics, Mr. Taylor used to be a strong Republican, but he now advocates prohibition, and it is the great wish of his heart to see the demon of intemperance fully subdued. *,&,, 1g _ Harvey Talmage, was also a native of Connecticut and was a son of Jacob Talmage, who was of English birth. Our subject is a relative of the Rev. T. DeWitt Talmage, the famous pulpit orator. Jacob Talmage, with two of his brothers, came from England to this country in Colonial times and settled in Connecticut. The grandfather of our subject was a soldier in the War of the Revolu tion and did noble service for his adopted country. He finally removed from Connecticut to New York, where he continued his occupation as a farmer and rounded out a long and honorable life when more than seventy years of age. The father of our subject was a life-long carpenter, and was an adept at his trade. IHe worked in the South two years while serving his apprenticeship, he having been bound out at the age of fifteen years. In 1843 he took up his residence in this county, and he built some of the first buildings erected in this vicinity. He lived to the venerable age of eiglty-three years when death closed his useful career. He was a Democrat in politics. He served two terms of four years each as Justice of the Peace, and he never failed in whatever position to perform his duties as a loyal citizen. The maiden name of the mother of our subject was Ruth Knight and she was a native of Connecticut. She lived to be sixty-two years old. She was a firm Presbyterian in her religious belief while the father of our subject was a strong Universalist. Her father was Thomas Knight. He was a native of Rhode Island but was reared in Connecticut where he died in middle life. Our subject is one of nine children of whom seven grew to maturity: Jeremoth, Alva, Mary (Mrs. Henderson), Celius, Almera (Mrs. Chaply), Lavina (Mrs. Irwin), and Viena. Alva Talinage remained at home until he was twelve years old, and then the brave, resolute, self-reliant lad began the battle of life by himself and from that time he was self-supporting. Until he was twenty years old he was engaged in teaming through Western New York and he then took up the life of a farmer in this State, coming here in November 1843, making the journey to Buffalo by the canal and thence by lake to Detroit whence he proceeded by rail to Jackson and from there with a team to this town LVA P. TALMAGE is an old settler of u Newton Township, whose ability and enj terprise as a farmer of more than average intelligence has been influential in promoting its rise and progress for more than forty years. lie is a native of New England, born July 13, 1823, in the town of Waterbury, Conn. His father, f: 0 S -.~~ PORTRAIT AND BI[OGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -741 POTRI AN BIGAHCLABM 4 ship. He found the country round about still in the hands of the pioneers, with but little attempt at improvement. The primeval forests that covered the land were inhabited by deer and other wild game, and our subject often indulged in the hunt and has brought down many a fine buck or doe with his rifle, and he occasionally killed a bear. Ile first settled one mile east of his present residence, but two years later he bought eighty acres of land that is included in his farm on section 4, Newton Township. This was in a state of nature and not a tree on it had ever been felled by the axe of the pioneer. With characteristic energy our subject immediately began the work of evolving a farm from the wilderness. He first built a log house 18x22 feet in dimensions, in which he and his family made their home until 1865, when he built his present commodious frame residence, which is conveniently arranged, is supplied with modern improvements, and with its comfortable furnishings makes one of the coziest and most attractive homes in the neighborhood. There are other well ordered buildings on the place, and the farm is supplied with all the best machinery and modern arrangements for carrying on agriculture so as to secure the best results. Our subject, now has one hundred and ninety acres of land of exceptional fertility, whose carefully cultivated fields yield him rich harvests. He carries on mixed farming, keeping considerable stock of all kinds, besides raising grain and other produce. Mr. Talmage and Sarah C. Knight were united in marriage September 15, 1844, and in his wife our subject has found one who has made his interests her own, as a true wife should, and has been a potent factor in the upbuilding of their home, as she is a true home-maker. Their wedded life of more than forty years has had its allotted joys and sorrows, but among its greatest blessings are the twelve children that have been born of their nnion, eight of whom grew to maturity, namely: Sarah (Mrs. Mack), Leslie (Mrs. Jones), Iola (Mrs. Bingham), Albert, Eugene, Osee, Maria (Mrs. Alwardt), and Floyd. Mr. Talmage is well endowed mentally and physically. He is a man of quick, keen perceptions, is distinguished by more than ordinary energy and strength of character, and is wide-awake, prompt and shrewd in regard to business matters, while at tile same time he is scrupulously honorable and just in all his transactions, and his credit stands high among his fellow-citizens. Politically he is h Democrat. Ile has served as Commissioner two terms and lie is a member of the Grange. He interests himself in all that concerns the welfare of his township and county and none are more willing to do what they can to promote their progress. In February, 1884, Mr. Talmage met with an accident which would have killed almost any man, but which, through his hardy constitution, he was able to survive. It happened in this wise, as related by an eye-witness, Albert T. Talmage: " Six years ago the horrible accident that I am about to relate happened to my father, A. P. Talmage, of Newton. Accompany me if you please, in your mind, to the edge of an ash and elm swamp, and stand facing the west. The snow being very deep compels us to do a good deal of shoveling in order to make any progress. On the left stands a large elm tree, about sixty feet high and three feet in diameter, and without a limb to mar its beauty for about twenty-four feet. There two large limbs extend to the south and east, while the main body of tile tree leans slightly t t the north. " Now look to tile right. About twenty-six feet from the large tree you will see two trees, ten feet apart, tall and straight, with a diameter of perhaps twelve inches. The large elm is cut and falls between the smaller trees, the tops of the large limbs catching the tops of the small trees and bending them like a bow. We now proceed to cut the logs off, and are cutting the second one when father, having finished feeding his sheep, comes down, takes up the snow shovel and commences to throw the snow away from the log. When the second log is dropped the bended tree is relieved of so much weight that it straightens like a flash, the large limb is hurled back and 'the top strikes father, at the same time the other limb strikes me endwise. I jump suddenly, jerking the saw with such rapidity that it pulls my brother quickly forward and thereby saves his life, for otherwise he would have been crushed by the limb. I I 742 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 742~ ~ ~ ~~ 11 --- —-~ PORTRAIT AND ---~_1~- BIORAPICA ALBUM._-_ --- — "Glancing at father and seeing him fall like a log seemed to paralyze every nerve, but quickly regaining my self-possession, I sprang over the log and ran to father. What a sight met my gaze! The whole scalp had been taken from the skull, leaving the latter bare and blood had commenced to flow freely. To spread the scalp over my hand, pick the hark off, and put tie scalp back on the skull was the work of but an instant. The boys now came to my aid. I felt the heart but it did not seem to beat, while the pulse was apparently silent. I thought father was no more. Eugene said: ' Father, speak to me;' in a tone of anguish, I replied, ' Father can speak no more, but we must take him to the house.' We placed his body on a sleigh, started for the house, while I hastened ahead to tell mother." Hte had suffered from a compound fracture of the skull, and two of his ribs were also broken. For two weeks he lay unconscious, but his natural vigor finally triumphed over his almost mortal hurt, and through careful nursing he recovered, but for nearly three years thereafter he was unable to work. Tllis is said by the doctors to have been an instance of almost miraculous escape from death. 27, 1832; his father, John W. Freed, was also a native of Pennsylvania, and was of German descent. He was a son of Samuel Free', who was likewise a Pennsylvanian and who carried on business as a millwright at Allentown, in his native State until he came to Marshall in 1836. He helped to build the first mill ever erected in that place, and assisted his son John in building a log house on his first purchase of forty acres of land. There he lived for some time, but finally put upa frame house for himself on the corner of his son's farm and supported himself and wife by making butter, selling eggs, etc. When the infirmities of old age came upon him 1he made his home with his son until his death at the age of eighty-two. The father of our subject was a miller and millwright and worked at those callings while in Pennsylvania. In the spring of 1836 he became a pioneer settler of this township, taking up forty acres of land on section 6. lie put up a log house, and the next year returned to Pennsylvania for his family, who journeyed to this State in a wagon and were seven weeks on tie road. After their arrival here they began to improve a new home from the wilderness. The surrounding country was in a wild condition, game was plentiful and our subject used to indulge in hunting occasionally. One day he shot a deer and several days later found him in the swamp where he had dragged himself to die. J OHN A. FREED. No one in Eckford Town- Wolves used to come to the house at night and disship has been more closely identified with turb the slumbers of the inmates. the development of its vast resources than After living on his farm a year, Mr. Freed rethe gentleman whose name introduces these moved to Cowan's Mills on the St. Joseph River in paragraphs and whose portrait appears on the oppo- Branch County, and was there occupied in running site page. He is the proprietor of a beautiful and a mill about a year. He was then taken sick and well appointed farm, known fat and wide as "Elm returning to his farm resumed work upon it, cleared Grove Farm" and so named by a party of his friends and broke the land with the help of his sons, and( who one day long ago came here to picnic under made many improvements. In 1839 he began to the shade of the fine large grove of elms. These work for Oliver C. Comstock in the mill at Marshall. trees were set out by Mr. Freed when he located About that time the citizens of the place tore down here; at that time there was but one tree of that the dam and then subscribed money to help Mr. kind on the place, but now the grove covers two Cowan build a race, Mr. Freed superintending the acres of land. The estate is pleasantly situated on work on it. He remained in Mr. Comstock's emsection 6, on the shores of the Upper and Lower ploy five years. Afterward he worked in the old Brace Lakes, draining into the former body of stone mill on the Kalamazoo River for several years, water. and during that time bought two hundred acres of Mr. Freed was born in Allentown, Pa., March land which was farmed by his sons. About 1853 I ~;:i~ -: ~-:~~;; -;.~.;i: --- ~-:;:~ ~:i?;_::-:::, _:: _::.':.-Ii,;:::::i~l-~i-:;:: tJeeq( PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 715 ------------- — — —- —I- --- —' ----I- " --- —` ' --- — --- -------- -— "-"- -- -1 —1--1 --- —— 1-'__. _ 1____1__1.__1__1____ ____.____ _____ _ __ he abandoned the mill business and returned to live with his family on the farm. There he died, leaving behind him the record of a life well spent as an honest, industrious man, a useful pioneer and citizen, and a good husband and father. His wife, whose maiden name was Mary Ann Savage, was born in Pennsylvania of German parentlige, and died on the home farm in the summer of 1884. She was in every way a worthy woman and was highly esteemed by all who knew her. Our subject was the fifth in a family of thirteen children. He lived with his parents and assisted his father on his farm until he attained his majority. In 1854 lie bought forty-four acres of land on section 6, nine acres being improved. In 1856 he bought ten acres of wild land adjoining his first purchase on the north, and in the spring of 1861 purchased one hundred and fifty acres of wild land on section 1, Fredonia Township. IHe first erected a log house where his present dwelling stands. To this humble abode Mr. Freed brought his bride to whom he was wedded June 11, 1857. The same year he built a frame addition to his log house, and in that dwelling his first child was born. In 1865 he built another addition to his house, thus making it a good sized residence, which is conveniently arranged, well furnished, and a very pleasant home. In 1858 Mr. Freed built a barn 30x44 feet in dimensions, and in 1878 erected another barn 24x55 feet in dimensions with a basement, and has on his place a fine set of commodious farm buildings. HIe has a good windmill and tank and all of tile improved machinery for carrying on his business as a farmer after the best modern methods. Mr. Freed is very successful in his calling and his fine farm of two hundred and five acres is one of the choicest in this section of the country. It is all well improved, one hundred and fifty acres of it being under excellent cultivation and yielding large harvests of grain and hay, besides giving support to a good class of stock. Our subject is much interested in sheep raising and has one hundred and thirty well graded sheep. During the war he sold wool as high as $1.00 per pound and his wheat brought him $3.10 per bushel. Mr. Freed has been twice married; his first wife was Elizabeth Wade, who was born September 24, 1834, at Allenton, Pa., and was a daughter of Jonathan and Sarah Ann (Smith) Wade. Her father, who was of English descent, was a bricklayer. After a happy wedded life of several years' duration, Mrs. Freed died in 1879. By that marriage our subject became the father of seven children, three sons and four daughters, as follows: Henry W., who was born in Eckford May 20, 1858, and died in 1881; Oliver J., born January 8, 1860, and is a carpenter at Marshall; Sabra A., born April 28, 1862, and died February 3, 1870; Mary A., born February 15, 1864 and died February 1, 1870; Louis J., born July 17, 1869, and now a jeweler at Marshall; Sarah E., born May 29, 1872, and died the 2Gth of the following August; Belle M.. born January 31, 1876, and at home with her parents. Mrs. Freed was an invalid for fifteen years prior to her decease. For six years before her death she was unable to walk and became so perfectly helpless from rheumatism that she had to be fed. She bore her sufferings with patient resignation until death released her. The second marriage of our subject, which took place July 22, 1881, was with Mrs. Sarah E. Griffith, widow of John W. Griffitl. Mrs. Freed is a daughter of John II. and Alice (Sands) Wells, natives of Chatham, Kent County, England. They were married in 1832 and emigrated to New York in 1833, crossing the water in a sailing vessel. They lived for a while in Detroit, Mich., and later removed from that city to Allegan County, and from there came to Marshall in 1838, where Mr. Wells worked at his trade until his last sickness, which resulted in death September 24, 1871. Mrs. Freed's first marriage was to John Griffith, December 31, 1856. Mr. Griffith was a sash and blind maker at Marshall. Of that marriage three sons were born of whom the following is recorded: John W. Griffith, who was born September 4, 1858, is a druggist at Kane, McKane County, Pa.; William, born September 4, 1858, died in infancy; Charles J., born July 22, 1869, is a druggist in a wholesale drug house in Chicago. In 1885 our subject, purposing to retire somewhat from active business, built a large and handsome brick house in the city of Marshall, into 746 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - -I --- —--- I I - - -- - - - ` - - - -~ — - -- ` - I ` - which he moved in January, 1886, having rented his farm, He drew gravel and stone from his farm to fill in his lot, and in time had the grounds about it neatly laid out. He lived in that place four years, and then selling it came back to his farm in the spring of 1890. He now has a man engaged to farm his land on shares this year. Mr. Freed is one of the solid, substantial citizens of the township who is looked upon with honor and respect by the entire community. His reputation as an honest and square dealing business mal is the, highest and his citizenship is the best. He is strongly in favor of the Democratic party, and has stood by it through its triumphs and defeats since he cast his first Presidential vote in 1856. Religiously he is one of the worthy members of the Congregational Church at Marshall, while his estimable wife is identified with the Episcopal Church as one of its most active members. - — e — - I I J OHN BAIRD, notwithstanding the many discouragements that have met him on every hand since he began his career as a farmer, has been very successful in his work, and to-day occupies an assured place among the men of his class who form an important element in the population of Battle Creek Township. Mr. Baird is the third child of Josiah and Naomi (Ellis) Baird, and he was born in Genesee County, in the town of Warsaw, N. Y., February 2, 1832. His native county has since been divided and that part in which he was born is now called Wyoming. His father was a farmer and carried on his occupation in the State of New York for many years, until his removal in 1860 with his second wife and their six children to Van Buren County, this State, where he died. Our subject remained a resident of his native State until he attained his majority, and he then determined to see something more of the world, and came to Michigan to find what life held for him here. He had not $5 when he arrived at his destination in Van Buren County, but a stout heart, willing hands and a courageous resolve to make the best of his circumstances went far to make up for his lack of capital. Hte was not long in securing employment, as he was a capable young man, and he worked by the day and month until lie had earned $20 with which he purchased another man's claim, the money being used to pay arrears in interest due on the land. This cleared the title, but there remained an indebtedness of $450, the price of the property. Mr. Baird set to work with a will to obtain that sum, and in six years' time he had paid the debt and owned the land free of incumbrance. After retaining that place seven years Mr. Baird sold it and bargained for a quarter section of land with improvements, upon which he paid all but $800. By some misfortune he had to give up that farm, and had to start anew in life with empty purse. His indomitable courage did not fail him however in that trying situation, and he once more began the struggle upward. lie hired a farm, going into debt for material to' operate it and for stock, and managed with good success the ensuing six years. At the end of that time he came to Battle Creek Township and bought eighty acres of land, and in the course of six years paid the $2,000 due on it. Ie was prospered in his work, as under his careful cultivation his fields yielded rich harvests, and during the last three of the six years that he was striving to obtain money to pay for his property his crops were so good that he was enabled to pay $1,700 and the interest to the holder of the note against him. The farm is supplied with good buildings that are conveniently arranged and are well adapted to their purposes. The neat and commodious family residence that adorns the place and adds much to its value, was erected by our subject in 1876. We should be doing but scant justice to Mr. Baird if we omitted to mention so important a part of his life as his domestic relations. lie has been twice married. His first marriage was with Miss Julia Maria Hogeboom, and was solemnized March 12, 1861. A pleasant wedded life of nearly fifteen years was granted to them, and then the worthy wife passed to the long rest in the year 1876. She now lies peacefully sleeping her last in the Mountain Home Cemetery. In September, 1877, Mr. 747 PORTRArrrAND BIOGRIAPHICAL ALBUM. P -OR R- - A N D= - - B I O G R A P H I C A L:__ A-L-B- U M. _ ------ -I_-~~~~~~~~~._ ---. - ~~~~~~ ---~~-.~~- ~~~-^ —.-~~~~.. —. —.1_~~~~~~~~~_1~~__ _.___._ — _~~~~~~~.- I~~~.. 1~~~ 1 Baird was married to Mrs. Mary Ann (Marshman):snow, widow of William Snow. In her he found a most estimable wife, who looks carefully after his interests and makes them her own. By her first marriage Mrs. Baird became the mother of six children. Mr. Baird is not aggressive in politics, but takes a sensible view of the political situation, keeping well informed in all its phases, and siding with the Republican party. He is one of our self-made men, who are a credit to any community, and his course is worthy of emulation by the youth of the present generation who are about to begin life with no adventitious aids of fortune or name. ARIUS BICKFORD was at one time actively engaged in farming in Eckford Township, but for several years he has lived retired from business in one of the pleasant homes of Marshall, though he still owns a fine farm in the township mentioned. He is of New England birth and antecedents and was born October 25, 1809, on the banks of the beautiful Kennebec River in Somerset County, Me. He is a son of James Bickford, who was also a native of the Pine Tree State, where he carried on the occupation of a farmer. His father was a native of England. The mother of our subject was Zeruah Parker in her maiden days, and she was also born in Maine. She came of a long-lived race and her father lived to be ninety-four years old. The parents of our subject spent the first years of their married life in the State of their nativity. In 1814 they went to the wilds of Western New York and took up their abode in the city of Rochester, which was then but an insignificant hamlet in the woods. The family remained until 1853 when they came to Michigan and settled on a farm in the town of Eckford. The father's life was not long spared after locating here, as he died in 1853. The mother died during their residence in Rochester, February 8,1815. She was twice married and had twelve children, two by her first marriage and ten by her second, of whom Darius Bickford, the subject of this sketch was the youngest. He of whom we write lived near Rochester from the time he was five years old until he was seventeen, and then he left his father's home to begin life on his own account. He learned the trade of a cooper, which lie followed until his twenty-fifth year, traveling during that time as a journeyman in the Southern States. Returning from the South he took up farming on his fathler's farm near Rochester and soon established a home, being married in 1834 to the lady whom lie invited to preside over it, Miss Emily Child, of Rochester, N. Y., and a daughter of Cyrel Child. In 1836 our subject became a pioneer of this State, bringing with lin his wife and one child, traveling all the way from Rochester in a covered wazon. The little family stopped first at the town of Troy, Oakland County, whence they soon after went to Lapeer County where Mr. Bickford purchased a tract of timber openings from the Government. In October, 1839, he returned to Rochester, N. Y., and tlen went to Livingston County, that State, and was engaged on his father-in-law's farm one year. In 1841 lie removed to Pittsford, N. Y., where he established a cooper shop and resumed work at his former trade, and for some years manufactured all kinds of barrels, continuing in that business until 1852. For a year subsequently he farmed near West Mendon. In 1853 our subject again came o o this State and invested in a farm in Eckford Township, which contained two hundred and forty acres of choice land. lHe was prosperously engaged in agricultural pursuits on that farm until 1872 and during those busy years he placed it under excellent cultivation and fine improvement. In 1872 he removed to Marshall where he has since lived somewhat retired though lie still owns one hundred and fifty five acres of his original estate in E(kford Township, and from its rental derives a handsome income. Our subject's first wife departed this life November 17, 1845, at Pittsford, N. Y. Their marriage was fruitful of the following children, viz: Edward 0. resides in Toronto, Canada; Leonard A. lives Napa, Cal.; Louisa M., wife of C. S. Fassett resides in Hitchcock, S. Dak.; and Emily Elmina. 748 4 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. The three eldest are still living. The maiden name of Mr. Bickford's present wife was Frances M. Hill, and she is a native of Pittsford, N. Y. She is a daughter of Abner and Mary (Loomis) Hill, natives of Massachusetts and Vermont, respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Bickford are the parents of five children of whom the following are living: Frances A ugusta, wife of Dr. P. D. Patterson, resides in Charlotte, Mich.; Estella Ida, wife of A. D. Robinson, residents of Ord, Neb.; Fred D. is a physician and resides in Provo, Utah. The deceased are Clara Ellen and Minnie Florence. Mr. and Mrs. Bickford have a comfortable, hospitable home on Kalamazoo Avenue, Marshall, and they are people whose many fine qualities of head and heart have won for them the highest regard of a large circle of friends and acquaintances. Mr. Bickford is a sturdy advocate of the Republican party which he has supported through all its triumphs and vicissitudes these many years. He is a man of great Christian worth and in him the Presbyterian Church, with which he has been connected for sixty-two years and which he has served as Elder for a long period of time, has one of its most devoted members. i Y., June 14, 1818, and was reared to farm pursuits, acquiring a good education for the times in the district schools. His parents were Lorin and Anna (Spaulding) Hodges. Ie remained under their roof until his marriage, spending some time in teaching, but having a decided preference for farm life. In 1846, a few years after his marriage, lie removed to this State, and purchased a farm in St. Joseph County, on which he lived three years. He then came to Kalamazoo County, in which he continued to reside until his faithful companion was taken from him by the relentless hand of death, in the fall of 1886. lie then came to Battle Creek, remaining there until November, 1889, when his son and he engaged in their present pursuit. Mr. Hodges has always been a lover of fine horses, and at the advanced age of seventy-two takes great delight in driving and training them, frequently assisting in bringing the most spirited under control. Eie had the symlathy of his wife in this taste, she having been an expert horsewoman, able to ride or drive horses from which some men shrank with fear on account of their high mettle. The wedding of Mr. Hodges took place at the bride's home in Genesee County, N. Y., February 14, 1842, he being united with Adaline Loomis, daughter of Nathaniel and Anna (Higby) Loomis. To them were born six children, named respectively-Carl A., Charles C. (deceased), Ellen Augusta, Charles E., Lucy A. and Willie, the last dying in childhood. All were given good educational opportunities, and the daughters were graduated, Ellen at Olivet, and Lucy at Galesburg. Carl was a Union soldier, entering the army when but seventeen years old, in Company I, Second Michigan Infantry. LIJAl A. DALEY. A prominent place among the agriculturists of this county is a just meed of the efforts of the. gentleman above named, who is located on section 20, Le Roy Township. His farm consisting of three hundred and forty acres is a productive tract, the fertility of.,E4 -E 4- E E- e. DWARD HODGES. Hart Lake Stock Farm, situated five miles west of Battle Creek, has become known to horsemen as a place where roadsters of the best strains of blood may be found, and where extensive breeding is carried on. At present there are on the farm some thirty brood mares of high grade and three stallions-Thornton, by Pilot Medium, dam Belle, of Jefferson by Bel. mont; Van Ness, by Counselor, son of Onward from Crop by Pilot Junior, dam Lottie Williams by Pilot Medium; Abe Corday by Aberdeen, dam Charlotte Corday by Bayard. Three two-year-olds bred here sold at an average price of $4,000 each, and others will readily bring twice as much. The gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs is one of the proprietors of the Hart Lake Stock Farm, his partner being his eldest son, Carl A. Mr. Hodges was born in Cayuga County, N. I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 749 I which has been kept at or above par by wise methods of cultivation. A first-class set of buildings has been erected upon it and other improvements made which stamp it as the homne of a progressive and enterprising man. Mr. Daley is surrounded with all the comforts of life and may well be gratified with his financial standing. The birthplace of Mr. Daley was Preble, Cortland County, N. Y., and his natal day February 3, 1830. His parents, Garrett and Cynthia (Douglas) Daley, came to this State a few years after his birth, landing in Richland Township, Kalamazoo County, July 16, 1834. That section was in an almost primitive condition, with but here and there a small clearing and the few settlers had need of all their energy and hope in order to surmount the difficulties by which they were surrounded. Wolves were a source of much annoyance and loss as they sometimes attacked hogs and young stock in the very dooryard. Mr. Daley bought one hundred and sixty acres of land of a Mr. Potts who had come to this State as a missionary to the Indians, had married a squaw and was living on a farm, pursuing the arts of civilization. The Daley family consisted of ten members, there being four sons and four daughters, Elijah A. the youngest. They had not been been located six weeks ere nine of the family were suffering from fever and ague, the father alone being spared the infliction but succumbed to the same fate a little later. Water being all that the patients craved during the height of the attacks, a supply would be brought in, in advance and thus the father was able to care for his flock. The home of the )aleys was on an Indian trail at the junction of their routes to Grand Rapids from Kalamazoo and Battle Creek, and a camp of two hundred Pottawatomies was a mile and half distant. These Indians were friendly and strictly honest, never betraying the trust reposed in them by the whites. Whecn they were forced from their homes to the Far West, one, named Seemo, was indebted to iMr. Daley for less than $3, which he was not given an opportunity to repay. While the tribe was encamped at Grand Rapids, fifty miles distant guarded by the forces under Gen. Brady, this Indian stole away, made his journey to Mr. Daley's home, paid his debt and returned to his wife and children to take up his mournful march beyond the Mississippi. Few Christian white men would have done as much to preserve an unsullied character-not reputation, for he had none in the eyes of the world at large. The celebrated Indian Chief, Neequakazha, (Noonday), who led the Indians when they burned Buffalo, N. Y.,spent the last years of his life in Slater's Missionary Station near the home of the Daleys. He was there regarded as upright and honorable,apt and intelligent, and was a consistent member of the Baptist Church at the Mission. Hie belonTged to the Ottawas, a tribe more readily civilized than the Pottawatomies. Amid the surroundings and scenes of which these incidents give some idea, tlie subject of this sketch spent the early years of his life, finally reaching an age sufficient to begin work for himself. tIe bought the house and forty acres of the homestead and subsequently added eighty acres and carried on his farm here until 1866. L-e then bought the property upon which he has since resided and which he has greatly improved since it came into his possession. February 3, 1851, the day he was twenty-one years old, Mr. Daley was married to Mary Shean, daughter of William and Julia (Leavitte) Shean. This lady was born in Ireland but came to America with her parents when but three years old. The family home was in New England until 1847, when they located in Barry County, this State, where their nearest neighbors were Indians. From the red men Mr. Sliean purchased two hundred and ninety acres of the land which he owned at the time of his death, the first fifty acres of his possessions having been otherwise obtained. Mr. and Mrs. Daley are the parents of three children, all now married. Charles won for his wife Miss Ettie. Wheeler and has one child, Duane; Nellie is the wife of S. O. Bush, lives in Battle Creek and has three children-Vernon, Charles and Bertha; Elbert married Libby Gilmore, lives in Leroy Township and has one child-Ethel. For some thirty-five years Mr. Daley made a specialty of raising fine wool-bearing sheep. He was the first in Kalamazoo County to sheer a fleece of more than ten-pound weight, cutting one of '~'"rV~' "b"'~ '"""" 750 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I I ~ ~ __ _ thirteen' pounds from an animal bred by Merrill Bingham, of Vermont. This was in 1855 when wool-growing, unless in exceptional localities, was in its infancy. In 1889 his flock of one hundred head averaged eleven and one-half pounds of washed wood. He has now gone out of the business. He has also devoted considerable attention to horseflesh, raising both draft horses and roadsters, but is n6w giving his time principally to the latter. His heavy horses are from the best of Englishshire stock and the roadsters are principally Hambletonians, one of them being worth at least $2,500. Politically, Mr. Daley was always a Democrat until four years since when he cast his influence with the Prohibition party, in whose ranks he has since been found. LHe belongs to Climax Lodge, A. F. & A. M., at Climax, where he has held membership for the last eighteen years. He and his wife belong to the Congregational Church at Le Roy Center in the various workings of which he is active and useful. passed his early years in his native State, and was given the benefit of an excellent education, of which he laid the foundation in the district schools, completing it by an attendance for two terms at the Utica (N. Y.) High School. He has met with fine success in the pursuit of his calling, and has a very choice farm of one hundred and twenty acres, on which he has a fine set of farm buildings including a handsome and well arranged house, which he erected at a cost of $3,000. His farm is supplied with stock of good grades from the sale of which he derives a good income. To the lady who presides over his home and has assisted him in its upbuilding, our subject was wedded September 29, 1858. Mrs. Samson is a native of New York, and was born February 9, 1830. She is a most excellent housewife, and looks carefully after the comforts of her household. Her marriage with our subject has brought them these five children: Jennie, Charles F., Susan Lena and Carrie B. Mattie, is deceased. Carrie B. acquired a good education at Marshall, and is now a very successful teacher in the district schools. The daughters are graduates of the Marshall High School. Mr. Samson is gifted with sagacity, foresight and excellent business qualifications, which place him B ~ENJAMIN L. SAMSON is the fortunate among the substantial reliable citizel proprietor of a well-appointed farm on sec- ship. His neighbors and all who tion 11, Marengo Township. He is a stock- with him find him prompt, straigl raiser as well as a successful farmer, and is trustworthy, and they esteem him v( contributing materially to the financial prosperity times past he has been active in the of this county. He is a native of Oneida County, this place, and has held several resp N. Y., the place of his birth in Deerfield Township, He was Township Collector in 18' and the date thereof, April 26, 1836. His parents period of twenty-five years was Assi were Joseph and Martha (Crossman) San:ion. His tor. In him the Rice Creek Prot mother was born in New York in 1803, and was finds one of its most exemplary men married in 1819. THer death occurred in Pennsyl- cally he is a stanch adherent of tl vania. His father was a brickmaker and a shoe- party. maker. For furthe: parental history see sketch of Galen Samson. Our subject is one of a family of nine children, named as follows: Galen (the eldest of the family), - EWTON T. KIRK, Pension Eliza, Adeline, Benjamin L., Haden, Henry, Martha bion, is a fine representative (deceased), Crossman and Nancy. In 1857 in the veterans of the late Civil Wa opening years of a stalwart vigorous manhood, our did and suffered much for his count subject came to Michigan, and has since been iden- a fine military reputation. He was I tified with its farmers and stockmen. He had 1836 in Greenwich, Fairfield Count ns of his townhave dealings itforward and ery highly. In public life of )onsible offices. 63, and for a istant ModeraLestant Church nbers. Politihe Republican Agent at Alof the brave r, in which he;ry, and won a born April 15, y, Conn. His PORtTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL AL;BUM. 751 PORRAI AN BIGRAHICL ABUM 75 parents were John and Julia (Brown) Kirk, natives respectively of New York City and Greenwich, Conn., the former born in 1808 and the latter in 1810, coning of old Puritan stock. Nehemiah Brown, the paternal grandfather of our subject, was a gallant soldier in the Revolutionary War. Mr. and Mrs. Kirk were married in 1835 and became the parents of nine children, as follows: Newton T., Nehemiah B.; Julia E., wife of Amos J. Beebe, a farmer of Livingston; Albert; Emily, wife of Charles B. Marvin, a farmer of Tyrone, Livingston County; Arlington, a farmer of Livingston County, who married for his first wife Miss Frances Adams, and for his second wife Miss Matie Burdick; Kate, wife of Zabina Chambers, of Chicago; FEdward, a resident of Livington County, who married Hattie Alverson; Frank P., a farmer of Livingston County, who married Melissa Deal. Nehemiall Kirk came to Michigan with the family in 1850 and settled in Livingston. He married Miss Clarissa Haines. He took part in the late war as a member of Company I, Fifteenth Michigan Infantry. Albert Kirk, who lived at Fen. tonville, Genesee County, Mich., has been twice married. The maiden name of his first wife was Cynthia Horton and of his second wife, Eleanor Cornell. T'le father of our subject was a painter and followed that occupation in his native State and also carried it on somewhat after coming to Michigan in 1850. In early life he was a Democrat and continued to support that party until about the time of the opening of the war, when he became a Republican. The mother of our subject died in 1855 and the father married again. lie is still living in Livingston County where he purchased one hundred and sixty acres of land at $2.50 an acre which was then heavily timbered, and which he has since improved into a substantial farm. IHe is a capable, shrewd man of business, and has acquired a comfortable property. Lie is a man of exemplary habits and a strong advocate of temperance. The subject of this sketch was educated in the schools of the county and at Albion College, of which lie was a student two years. August 11, 1862 he enlisted in Company E, Twenty-sixth Michigan Infantry, and was mustered into the ser vice at Pontiac. From there he went to Jackson and was one of the first companies on the ground. He remained in that city until the 13th of December, when he was sent with his fellow-soldiers to Alexandria, where he was put on provost duty. In April, 1863, he was dispatched with the other members of his regiment to Suffolk, where they fought Longstreet, and were then sent to Richmond under General Keyes to draw General Lee away from his position. Our subject remained there until July 1, and then he and his fellow-soldiers were sent to New York City to quell the riots. They were there until the 13th of October, and a part of the time were stationed on Staten Island. They then joined the Army of the Potomac at Warrenton, and took part in the Mine Run expedition late in the fall of 1863. The Twenty-sixth Michigan Infantry wintered near Brandy Station, Va., in the winter of 1863-64, breaking camp May 3, and crossing the Rapidan, camped on the 4th on the old Chancellorsville battle ground. On the 4th the men engaged in the first Battle of the Wilderness and were continuously engaged in fighting until the battle of Spottsylvania the 12th of May, in Hancock's corps, First Brigade, commanded by General Miles, First Division. On the same date our subject was shot through the lungs while in front of the second line of works, and laid helpless upon the field all day, being finally picked up and taken a prisoner by the rebels. There was no surgeon to dress his wounds and only lint and cold water were used while he scarcely received enough food to keep life in him. After a stay of three or four weeks at Orange Court House, and a few (lays stay at Lynchburg, he and seventy-five others were marched seventy-five miles to Danville. IHe was subsequently taken to North Carolina, thence to Columbia, S. C., and on the 12th of July arrived at Andersonville prison sixty days after being wounded. On the 10th of September the rebels hearing that Sherman was coming scattered the prisoners, dispatching them to various points and on the 17th of November Mr. Kirk left the stockade, and was paroled at Savannah on November 20, 1864. He was placed on a steamer and arrived at Annapolis, November 26. After a stay in that A 752 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. city of four weeks, he was granted a furlough of Politically Mr. Kirk is a stanch advocate of thirty (lays. the Republican party. He is prominently identiHe had been studying military tactics and hav- fled with the Grand Army of the Republic as a ing passed a successful examination before Gen- member of the E. W. Hollingsworth Post, No. 210, eral Casey, our subject was commissioned Captain in which he has filled several offices. He is a man of the One Hundred and Eighteenth United of spotless reputation, who is strictly honorable in States Infantry. While in Andersonville his com- all his dealings and relations and is exemplary mission was sent to his regiment, but as he was not in his habits. Hee is strongly in favor of the tempresent he could not avail himself of it. ITe was perance cause, and is always found supporting any mustered in as Captain February 6, 1865, and re- reform that will in any way benefit the people. In joined the army near Fort Harrison on the James his religious views he is a Methodist, as were his River. Hi! regiment was about the first to enter parents before him, and he and his wife and family Richmond, April 3, 1865, the day that Jefferson are among the members of the Methodist Episcopal Davis left it. Captain Kirk and his command Church at Albion. were then sent to Petersburg for a few weeks and then with the Twenty-fifth Army Corps were dis- 4 L k patched to Texas where they were located at Brownsville, remaining there until February 10, 1866. The Captain was mustered out and honor- -r ATlIER JOSEPH PATRICK McMANUS, ably discharged February 20, 1866, having won a who is in charge of the only Catholic sodistinguished military record for bravery and fidel- /! ciety in Battle Creek, is held in high esteem ity as a soldier, and daring and efficiency, as a leader as a gentleman and a scholar, and has the confiof which he and his may well be proud. dence and love of his parishioners in a deep sense. After leaving the army our subject returned to He was born in Livingston County, this State, Michigan and embarked in the mercantile business IMarcl 16, 1851. Upon graduation and ordinawith L. C. Chambers, under the firm name of tion to the sacred office in June, 1884, he went to Chambers & Kirk, establishing a general store in Kalamazoo as assistant priest to Rev. Dean Hartland, Livingston County. HIe became a prom- O'Brien, remaining in that city fourteen months. inent figure in public life and in the fall of 1878 Thence he went to Dexter, where he took charge was elected County Clerk of Livingston County. of the parish and worked, successfully two years. IIe managed the affairs of that office with charac- At the expiration of that time he was called to teristic ability the ensuing six years, and was a Battle Creek, making the change in the fall of 1877. valued civic official. At the expiration of that Here he has about three hundred families to guard time he took up the pension business in which he and guide and therefore has a field for all his enerengaged there until 1889, when he removed to Al- gies. bion where he now makes his home. Hie is engaged In connection with the church, Father McManus here as pension agent nnd has charge of a large has the oversight of a flourlshing parochial school, business, as he has been very successful in secur- wherein the common branches of an English ediiing pension claims. cation are taughlt and some of the accomplishments Mr. Kirk was married at Burns, Mich., Septem- which are so generally desired. The four teachers ber 29, 1868, to Miss Mary E. Wolcott, a daughter are Sisters of the Immaculate Heart, who have of Oliver E. Wolcott, a descendant of the Wolcott taken the regular Normal course of preparation who signed the Declaration of Independence. Of for their work and are skillful in imparting knowltheir pleasant wedded life two children have been edge and gentle, yet firm in discipline. There is born: Lilian E., a graduate of the Conservatory a fifth teacher who makes a specialty of music. of Music at Albion College, and June E., who was Every effort is made to give the attendants a a student at that college. i thoroughly practical education and an equally I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I thorough understanding of what they can compass in the way of accomplishments. The church is in a flourishing and energetic community and no doubt it will be found necessary ere long to divide the parish, as the work is already arduous and only the superabundant zeal and energy of Father Mcmanus makes it possible for him to carry it on.,C~C3I~RIn_, _ L J AMES L. DOBBINS. The portrait on the opposite page will be recognized by many of our readers as that of one of the influential business men of Marshall, and one who has been connected with its interests for a score of years. He is the manufacturer of Phelps' Improved Tubular Furnaces, the headquarters for his casting being at Kalamazoo. lie deals in furnace fixtures, registers and ventilators, and manufactures all kinds of wood and coal furnaces under the Phelps' patent. In 1870 he formed a partnership with William M. Phelps, patentee of the Tubular Furnace, and in a few years bought out that gentleman's interest. These furnaces are shipped to various points, the principal trade outside this State being in Ohio, Indiana and Wisconsin. From three to five men are kept on the road from March to December and tile force is now at the maximumn. Charles Dobbins, paternal grandfather of our subject, was born in New Jersey, September 9, 1784, and Mary, his wife, in the same State, April 9, 1786. They were married in Trenton, N. J., and in that place their son Joab, father of our subject, was born June 22, 1807. This gentleman married Elizabeth Guyant, daughter of William Guyant, a native of Scotland, and his good wife Anna (Butts) Guyant, the mother of our subject, was born in Victor, N. Y., July 15, 1805. She and her husband came West after having lived for some time in Pennsylvania, and for many years the husband dealt in boots and shoes in Battle Creek. He removed from that city to Marshall, and here lie breathed his last, March 27, 1884. His faithful wife had died some months previously, the date of her demise being December 11, 1883. Their family included three children, of whom the subject of this sketch is the eldest. The others are, Emily A., wife of S. W. Dunning, now living in Allegan, this State, and Helen M., who is unmarried, and resides in Marshall. In Jefferson County, Pa., James L. Dobbins was born December 2, 1833. He was but nine years old when his parents came to this State, and here he grew to manhood and completed the education that had been begun in the East. Ile was attending the High School at Battle Creek when his parents came to Marshall and he-remained in the former city some three years, during which time lie learned building and architecture. He then came to Marshall, began contracting and building, and combined with that occupation the manufacture of furniture. He carried on this business until 1870, running a planing mill and furniture manufactory, and doing a wholesale business exclusively. Among the prominent buildings put up by Mr. Dobbins are the Peters Block, Spicer Block, Academy of Music, old Academy of Music, now used as a furniture store, the Methodist Episcopal Church and many of the best residences. After entering into partnership with Mr. Phelps, Mr. Dobbins still carried on his mill and factory until May, 1872, when they were destroyed by fire and he lost heavily. Hle finally turned his attention entirely to the hot air furnace business. May 3, 1880, Mr. Dobbins was united in marriage with Mrs. Emma Wagner, the widow of James Wagner. This lady formerly resided in Canandaigua, N. Y., and is a daughter of Bennett and Hannah Tiffany. She is cultured and refined, and presides ably over the fine residence occupied by the family. Of the two children born to her, one died in infancy, while the survivor, Bertha E., is a bright little girl in whose growth in knowledge the parents take great delight. In addition to his handsome home and business property Mr. Dobbins has other valuable real estate in the city. He is a Iirector of tile First National Bank of this place and of the Central National Bank of Ellsworth, Kan. He is a prominent Mason and has membership in Marshall Lodge, No. 20, F. & A. M., and in the Chapter and Commandery. He is an able financier and in all his business transactions employs honorable methods, so that his word /I 756 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. is depended upon and his influence is great. In eight years. He social and domestic life he is kindly and consider- he went to Clyde ate, and his general intelligence makes him an ployed as a blacl agreeable companion. Our subject fin his home, that he tile soil and sl farming. Accor< first took up his \T OBERT IRVING is an excellent representa- He busied himsel tive of the sturdy enterprising Englishmen the fifteen years who are among our most industrious and farm in very goo \& worthy citizens. He is a farmer and is spring before he conducting his farming operations on a well-kept of his property t farm on section 32, Clarendon Township. He was subsequently ret born in Cumberland, England, July 21,1822. His has been engage, father, who bore the same name as himself, was purchased his pre also a native of that country where he spent his Township in 188; life as a farmer. He in turn was a son of. Richard and is carrying o Irving who was born in the same place as himself, eral farmer. He Cumberland, and was likewise a farmer. The fa- the Hampshire a ther of our subject married Mary Lowes, a native a full-blooded rai of Cumberland. Our subject's paternal ancestors twenty-one nativ originated in Scotland, and he is supposed to have of thorough-bred come from the same branch from which Washington stocked. Irving, the famous American author, sprang. Mr. Irving owi The parents of our subject were married in the earned at the anv town of Bloomfield, their native county, and took try without mean up their residence on a farm in the parish of Wig- on these shores. ton and there their remaining years were spent, the has owned three ( mother dying when only thirty-five years old and has accumulated the father living to be eighty years old. He took his adopted couni for his second wife Miss Rachael Irving. Nine its government. children were born to him and the mother of our it is his pride that subject, three daughters and six sons, of whom for Abraham Li these three are now living: Robert, who is the secret orders and second son of the family; Mrs. Sarah Bell, who re- any way. Religi sides at Deerham, England; and Joseph, who lives good wife belongs at Glasson, England. man whose straig Robert Irving of whom this biography is prin- mands the respec cipally written was the second child of the parental citizens, and whei family. He obtained his schooling in his native esteemed. place and at the youthful age of fourteen years Mr. Irving has began the battle of life on his own account. He riage which took served a five years' apprenticeship to learn the trade Windoll, who was of a blacksmith at Warerton in his native county. himself. She die He worked at his trade in the land of his birth un- true Christian an< til he came to America in 1850 at the age of twenty- Methodist Episco] landed at New York City, whence a in the same State and was emksmith for several years. tally determined to make Michigan e might take advantage of its feralubrious climate to engage in dingly he came hither in 1866 and residence on a farm at Tekonsha. If in improving his land during that he lived there and had his d shape when he sold it in the went to England. After disposing he went back to England, but he urned to his adopted home and d in farming here ever since. He sent farm on section 22, Clarendon 5. He is constantly improving it n a flourishing business as a genhas some of the finest sheep of rnd Shropslire breeds, he having m of the latter variety and he has re Merinoes. He has a good herd I cows and his farm is very well ned a farm in New York that he ril. He did not come to this couns as he had $500 when he landed He has met with good fortune, lifferent farms in Michigan, and a comfortable property. In him try finds a citizen who is loyal to He is an honest Republican, and; he cast his first Presidential vote ncoln. He does not believe in does not countenance them in ously, he is a Methodist, while his s to the Baptist Church. He is a htforward, manly character comt and confidence of his fellowrever he is known he is greatly been twice married; his first marplace in 1842 was with Miss Ann s a native of the same county as d December 24, 1880. She was a d ever a consistent member of the pal Church. Of that marriage one PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 757 daughter was born, named Mary, who died in 1855. She was also a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The marriage of our subject to the amiable woman who now presides over his home took place June 19, 1885. Mrs. Irving, whose maiden name was Emma Cox, was a native of Gloucestershire, England, born July 6, 1835, and she was there reared to useful womanhood. known and honored throughout Le Roy Township as its two oldest residents, and it gives us pleasure to place upon these pages a brief outline of the lives of these worthy pioneers of the county who have been identified with its growth almost from the beginning. Mr. Case is of New England birth and antecedents, born in the town of Barkhamsted, Litchfield County, Conn., where his father was engaged as a farmer. The latter was a soldier in the War of 1812 and fought at Sackett's Harbor. As soon as the war was over he removed to Niagara County, N. Y., where his useful career was cut short by his untimely death when his son, our subject, was but eight years of age. lis widow went to reside with a relative at Rochester, N. Y., which was then but a small village. After his father's death our subject lived with John Smith, a farmer, for the next six years. Ile then returned to Niagara County, and was employed on a farm there until twenty-one years of age. In that year (1835) he came to this county in company with a Mr. Baker and Silas Kelsey, who located in Le Roy Township and lived there until death called them hence many years later. Michigan was then a Territory, and but few attempts at settlement had been made in this region, so our subject was one of the first to invest in Government land in this townshil, he having prudently saved his earnings before coming here, so that he had sufficient to buy one hundred and twenty acres of land, making his purchase in the month of October, 1835. This tract of Government land, except forty acres, has been in his possession ever since, though fifty five years have elapsed. After paying for his homestead he had money enough left with which to start in as fair a way as the times then required. His first work was to erect a comfortable hewed log house, which was built in a substantial manner and had a good chamber above the lower floor. February 2, 1837, our subject led to the altar Mary Ann Bush, daughter of Eli and Esther (Campbell) Bush, and he then brought her to the pioneer home that he had provided for her. Their domestic life has been one of more than usual happiness, and perhaps no family in the community has been more helpful to their fellow-men than this pioneer couple, who at all times have sought to relieve suffering and in early days did much to comfort and cheer their neighbors and to help them in their struggles to obtain a home in the wilderness. The commodious upper room in their pioneer dwelling was often used to shelter some belated traveler or unfortunate person and at one time a family with nine children lived under that roof for some months, where at the same time a man and his wife also resided. The hospitality of our subject and his wife was unbounded and was even extended to the red men of the forest, whom they often allowed to use their large chamber as a storehouse for their corn. In return for such favors the Indians were sure to bring some venison, sugar, or whatever they might have to spare, and Mr. Case says that though he never kept a gun or killed a deer in his life, the aborigines with whom he exchanged so many civilities always kept him well supplied with fresh meat. An amusing incident in connection with the Indians happened to our subject's friend Mr. Baker. One evening as it was growing dark Mr. Baker was returning from his work in his shirt sleeves, carrying his water jug, when he met several Indians with their families. One of the ponies was frightened at Mr. Baker, and threw the squaw on his back and her charge to the ground, breaking an arm of the little pappoose. The Indians claimed that he purposely frightened the pony, and for a time it seemed that despite his protests of innocence there would be trouble, and Mr. Baker was quite alarmed at the situation. But one day the father of the pappoose, Penamoo, came to Mr. Baker and 7-588 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -— -1- -- made him a proposition in these words: " If pappoose gets well you pay me $3. If pappoose die you give me one of your pappoose." Mr. Baker was somewhat anxious as to the welfare of the pappoose, who fortunately recovered though to this day it has a crooked arm, and the father received the $3. For fifty-five years Mr. and Mrs. Case have faithfully shared life's joys and sorrows together and are still living to enjoy the results of their honest toil, surrounded by the comforts of a good home which they have made with their own hands. They are among the foremost members of the Congregational Church at South Le Roy, and at the advanced ages of seventy-seven and seventy-three years respectively are always found among the attendants at divine service whenever their health permits. Life has brought to them many joys through these long years and among them those which they count the most sacred are the six children born to them, all of whom lived to rear families and two of whom are awaiting them in the life beyond. The record of their children is as follows: Abigail married James Cummings and died leaving five children; Esther married Clinton Wright and died leaving two children; Melissa is the wife of John Fenwick, of Climax, Kalamazoo County; Luman married Carrie Jacobs and lives at Benzona, Mich.; Amanda is the wife of Denise Phelps, of Athens; Hattie is the wife of George Cleveland, of Waukesha. _,~ ~ _S -,,.~. covered with forest growths, with here and there a clearing that indicated some enterprising man had begun the work of civilization. Almost from the day of his arrival Mr. Hall has had a part in the physical and social progress of this section, and he is deserving of the grateful remembrance of those who have followed him here. It may be well to make brief mention of prominent facts in the family history before proceeding with the life of our subject. His grandfather, Moses Hall, was born at Needhar, Mass., March 29, 1759, and died in this county in 1843 at the advanced age of eighty-four years, he having accompanied his son hither. He was a carpenter and joiner and in his early life devoted himself principally to his trade, but later spent his time in farming. He owned two farms and carried on quite extensive operations for the section in which he lived. He was a Revolutionary soldier, and in politics was an old-line Whig. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church. He married Experience Tolman, who was born at Needham, Mass., February 10, 1765, and became a wife in 1785. The family of this good couple included 1Iarrington, Sally, Polly, Moses, Jr., Eliza Harvey and Tolman W. The mother died in her native State. Moses Hall, Jr. was born in Rutland County, Vt.. September 16, 1797. He was a soldier in the War of 1812 and a participant in the battle of Plattsburg. His vocation was farming. In 1832 lie came to this county and bought a tract of land that is now covered by the city of Battle Creek. He erected a log house, but soon after bringing hiis family hither bought the Foster House, one of the three then standing in Battle Creek. There he lived until 1837, when he changed to a different location. He partially improved two farms and operated them successfully. He was a man of strong intellectual powers, clear views and admirable self-poise. His associates, recognizing these facts, called upon him for almost continual service in some public capacity. He was Justice of the Peace and Supervisor for years and represented the district in the State Legislature in 1843-44. Socially lie was a valuable man, having noble impulses, and being prompt to aid all who -were in distress, while his general culture, keen perceptive T3 DWARD H. HALL. There are but few men - now livingo il this county who can recall so tin vividly the early scenes connected with its growth or who have borne so great a share in the work as Mr. Hall, an honored resident of Emmet Township. He came hither in his eleventh year, making the journey from the Green Mountain State with a covered wagon, drawn by a stout team of horses. There were at that time but three houses in Battle Creek and those built of logs, and between that litle hamlet and Marshall three settlements only had been made. All around was an almost trackless region, its nearly level expanse almost PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 759 - I --- —----- I ----`~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ faculties and fine colloquial powers made him an agreeable companion. He died May 12, 1860, leaving an abiding memory among the people of Michigan. The wife of Moses Hall, Jr., was known in her maidenhood as Miss Mary Westover. She was born at Troy, N. Y., November 9, 1801, and died at Battle Creek August 11, 1838. She was of German ancestry. She was an active, capable woman, deeply interested in religion, and a consistent member of tle Presbyterian Church. She bore her husband six children, the youngest of whom, Henry C., was the first white child born in Battle Creek, his natal day being January 7, 1834. The other members of the family are Mrs. Mary E. Rawson, Edward Hastings (our subject), Aronah,- Mrs. Ellen M. Stebbins and Mrs. Cornelia Chadwick. All lived to mature years except Aronalh. The subject of this biographical notice was born in Rutland County, Vt., May 2, 1823, and began his pursuit of book knowledge and other wisdom in his native State. He has a vivid remembrance of the long journey from the East to the new home in what was then the territory of Michigan, which lasted from June until September. He recalls the frequent visits of Indians to his father's house, whither they came to swap venison for other things. On one occasion when he and his father were driving along the road, they passed a party of drunken savages who wished to ride but were refused the privilege, when one of them fired at the whites but fortunately missed his aim. Wild animals abounded and the howling of wolves was always to be heard at night until the advent of many settlers drove them from this region. Young Hall pursued his studies in the primitive log schoolhouse whose description has become historical, and in the intervals of study aided his father in clearing and improving the farm aid gave some time to hunting as a recreation. When he was of age he began his personal career, first working by the month in barns, fitting horses for market and doing other work connected with rural life. He then farmed the homestead until January, 1854, when he gave his attention to similar work on the tract on section 9, that is now his home. There wer some improvementsupon the place and many more have been made by Mr. Hall. With the exception of some months spent in the Union army, and a year and a half during the last decade passed in Dakota, he has lived here since he first took pos. session. His estate consists of eighty acres, from the cultivation of which he derives a very satisfactory income. In March, 1864, Mr. Hall enlisted in Company K, Thirteenth Michigan Infantry, which was attached to the Michigan Engineer Corps and stationed at Lookout Mountain. That famous peak was the headquarters of the regiment until September, but in the meantime they spent three weeks in a chase after Forrest. Upon breaking camp at Lookout the regiment joined Sherman at Kingston and went on the march to the sea, during the progress of which it was engaged in skirmishing with Wheeler's Cavalry almost every day. The first noted battle in which Mr. Hall took part was at Savannah and the second at Bentonville, during the latter of which lie was in action three (lays. After a period spent in recruiting at Goldsboro the force drove Johnston from Raleigh and followed him twenty-five miles, wlen the war was brought to a close. Marching to Washington the regiment took part in the Grand Review and then went to Louisville, Ky., where Mr. Hall resigned and was mustered out June 21, 1865. Ile had entered the service as a private and was successively promoted to be Corporal, Duty Sergeant, Orderly Sergeant and Lieutenant. As Lieutenant he was first assigned to Company K and later to Company H. The marriage rites of Mr. Hall and Mrs. Mary Dunn, nee Stiles, were solemnized February 5, 1851. The happy union has been blest by the birth of six children, whose record is as follows: George H., born December 3, 1851; Mary A., September 16, 1853; Moses A., March 9, 1857; Carrie L., September 18, 1859; Julia B., July 17, 1862; Willie H., July 30, 1871. Mrs. Hall was born in Russell, St. Lawrence County, N. Y., May 29, 1827. Her parents were Justus and Aurilla (Clark) Stiles, natives of Vermont. They came to this county in 1835 and the father died three months after their arrival, leaving his widow with ten children to provide for in a strange land. The neighbors, few as they were,did all in their power to assist her, displaying thea il 760 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I --- —-- - --- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-I-~~~~~ kindness and generosity that have always been con- of the Meth spicuous features in the characters of those who way worth lived in sparsely settled regions of country. The father marl widow lived to see her children taking their places Gardner n< among the useful members of society, then entered subject wh into rest in 1853, at the age of sixty-five years. a soldier in Following the example set before him by his hon- limb of a tr ored father, Mr. Hall has improved his talents by one son an taking advantage of every opportunity to acquire of our subj a knowledge of men and things. By inheritance came to Mi and cultivation he is a fine conversationalist and a daughter the half-hours spent in his society are never lost. Lyman, anl In politics he is a sound Democrat. He has been Barbara, L Township School Inspector six years, Health Officer Webster two years and a member of the Local School Board biographies fifteen years. He belongs to Post No. 32, G. A. R., common sc at Battle Creek. His long residence in this locality early set t has given him an extended acquaintance and he father in i enjoys the respect and confidence of many friends. hood, rema years old. ihe left him,~i._f??___...f.T-,.i buying fori ward beca W iyEBSTER B. ROGERS is one of the princi- and later ad pal farmers and stock-raisers of Athens With the e Township, and by his sagacity and practi- lived on th cal skill as an agriculturist of no mean ability, he where he n( has contributed his full share towards making this ship. He l county a rich and prosperous farming center. Mr.and sevent: Rogers was born July 16, 1830, one and one-half and by judi miles southwest of Albion, N. Y. His parents, Tol- his farm br man and Caroline (Strickland) Rogers were natives place well respectively of Ontario County, N. Y., and Massa- good class, chusetts. His father carried on farming for many ery and the years in the State of his birth, but he finally dis- appointmen posed of his property there, and in 1856 came to Mr. Roge Michigan and settled on land, which now forms a upon their part of the city of Battle Creek, and he lived in been produ that community until his demise November 15, Mrs. RogE 1877, at a ripe old age, he having been born in the County, N. month of December, 1801. He was a man whose Judith (Ke daily acts were guided by Christian principles and the State of nearly all his life he was a consistent member of the father was i Methodist Episcopal Church, cherishing that faith to take up i until the day of his death. He was twice married. was a son o His first wife died in May, 1861. Our subject was who served her only child. She was a true Christian member his first wife lodist Episcopal Church and was in every y of the love bestowed upon her. The ried for his second wife Mrs. Elizabeth ee Judkins. The grandfather of our ose name was Benjamin L. Rogers, was the War of 1812. He was killed by the ee falling upon him. He was the father of d six daughters, of whom only the father ect and his sister Serepta (Mrs. Moore) ichigan. The mother of our subject was of Prinle Strickland, who had one son, d five daughters, named Caroline, Mary, ucinda and Patience. Rogers, who forms the subject of this al review, gained his education in the hool and Lima Seminary, N. Y. He was o work on the farm and assisted his ts management after he attained man%ining at home until he was thirty-three Just before his father's second marriage, and began farming on his own account, ty-six acres of the homestead. He afterme the owner of eighty-six acres of it, Ided eleven acres more to his possessions. xception of five years at Battle Creek, he at farm until 1866, when he came to ow resides on section 15, Athens Townhas a well-tilled farm of one hundred y-six acres, which is highly productive, icious management he is enabled to make ing him in a fine income. He has his provided with suitable buildings of a with the best modern farming machine farm is neat and well-kept in all its its. ers and Miss Sarah C. Wickham entered wedded life April 16, 1851, and it has ctive to them of much true happiness. 3rs was born near Albion, Orleans Y., and is a daughter of Dyer F. and Dlly) Wickham, natives respectively of New York and Massachusetts. Her a farmer and in 1828 left the Dominion iis residence in the United Stales. He f John Wickham, a native of New York, in the patriot war. Mr. Wickham lost e in Canada. They had three sons and PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 761 I five daughters. The sons were named Dyer F., Case and James. The daughters were named: Mercy, Hannah, Sallie; Phebe, who was a good Christian, died at the age of thirty-two years; and one whose name is forgotten. By his first marriage to the daughter of John Kelly, a New York farmer, six children were born to the father of Mrs. Rogers, of whom four were reared: Serviah W., Joanna, William W., Sarah C. By his second marriage to Zilpha Parsons were born three children, Helen A., Mary A. and one's name unknown. Both Mr. and Mrs. Wickham were devoted members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They died in New York when old people. Mr. Wickham built the first frame house tlat was raised without liquor in Gaines, Orleans County, N. Y. Our subject owes much to the devotion of his wife who is an intelligent woman of much natural capability and is a true home-maker. She has made her husband's interests her own from the very beginning, and has walked by his side in faithful companionship for nearly forty years. Of the two children born to them, but one is now livingFrank T., a resident of Helena, N. Dak., and a farmer of prominence besides holding several public offices. Their only daughter, Carrie J., died in infancy. Mr. and Mrs. Rogers are fine people who occupy a warm place in the hearts of those about them, as they are kind, considerate and charitable and are always obliging to their neighbors. They have ever been guided by Christian precepts and are among the most valued members of the Methodist Episcopal Church of which Mrs. Rogers has been a member ever since she was thirteen years old and Mr. Rogers since he was twenty-three. NDREW M. KANE is associated with the industrial interests of Battle Creek Township as the proprietor of a flouring mill on Langley Creek, and also as the owner of a farm of eighty acres, both of which he is managing with good financial success. Burnt Hills, Saratoga County, N. Y., is the place of the birth of our subject, and May 21, 1824, the time of that event. He is a son of Richard and Mary (Harris) Kane, who were among the pioneers of this county. His father came from an old family of Dutchess County, N. Y. He was a soldier in an artillery company, in the War of 1812, having inherited his patriotism from his father who was a soldier in the Revolution. Our subject's maternal grandfather was also a Revolutionary soldier, thus it will be seen that he comes of good fighting stock, and lWhen the War of the Rebellion broke out, imbued by the same loyal spirit that had actuated his sires, he offered his services to his country, enlisting as a private soon after the battle of Bull Run in Company I, Second Missouri Cavalry, which was known as Merrill's Horse Guards. When his company was mustered in he was elected Second Lieutenant and bade fair to make his mark in military life, but on account of severe illness in his family he was obliged to resign his commission and return home and thus ended his career as an officer in the army. The father of our subject was a cooper by trade and was industriously engaged in his occupation in his native New York until 1838, when he brought his family to the wilds of Michigan, and associated himself with the pioneers of this section of the country. In 1839 he bought forty acres of land in Battle Creek Township, upon which he lived and farmed until his death in 1858, his fellow pioneers thus being called upon to lose one of their number who had worthily aided them in the great work which they were carrying forward of developing Vie agricultural resources of this county. Our subject was a lad of about fourteen years when he accompanied his parents to their new home in the wilds of this State, and here he attained a stalwart manhood amid pioneer scenes. He worked at the trade of a cooper with his father, becoming an expert in his line. He remained an inmate of the parental home until he was twenty-two years of age, when he married and established a home of his own, being aided therein by his wife, whose maiden name was Jane Elizabeth Hart. She was a daughter of Anthony and Lydia (Perry) Hart natives of Washington County, N. Y. She was a lady of much intelligence, and was a teacher in the district schools in which capacity our subject formed her acquaintance. After a wedded life of 762 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. more than a quarter of a century she passed through it vigorous suppc the gates of death to the life beyond in 1873. The the popular candi following children were born of that marriage: Presidency. He Jennie, who married George Cummings; Howard office but with gei D. who (lied in infancy; Eugene F., a miller at Battle the use of his nai Creek; Henry P., a resident of Battle Creek; not even a forlori Clarlss N. who lives at Ft. Dodge, Iowa; and successful. I-Ie h Nettie, who (lied at the age of nine years. In 1874 and has held som our subject was married to Sarah E. Andrus, a has been Treasure daughter of S. B. Stevens, and in her he has found of Highways, etc. a most estimable wife who has cheerfully co-oper- church, but holds ated with him in making their home cozy and corn- Adventists. Mr fortable. fortable property After his first marriage Mr. Kane first gave his stances, as in 186' attention to his trade as a cooper, but soon bought shoulder while he some land and farming has formed a part of his mill at Battle Crew business ever since. His parents made their home with him during the latter part of their life, and he surrounded them with every comfort and care that filial love could devise. In 1850 Mr. Kane entered upon his career in the milling business by l- ENRY B. hiring the mill for which he had been furnishing tive of an flour barrels an(d later had been head miller in it at ty, and sir different times. In 1885 he bought the mill on ) very succe Langley Creek that lie still owns and operates and the great work th he is doing a prosperous business in the manufac- most agricultural ture of an excellent brand of flour that commands ing and stock ini a really sale in the markets. He is also prosperous Township, Where in his farming operations. acres of well-tillec Our subject has had a varied experience in fol- fine improvements lowing the political fortunes of various parties. In Mr. Waterman ante-bellum times he was a strong Abolitionist and October 22, 1823, voted for J. G. Birney, when only ten thousand Waterman, native votes were cast for that ticket. On the formation and Connecticut. of the Republican party he fell into its ranks and necticut, and afti supported its first candidate, John C. Fremont. He moved to Yates C continued to support the party for several years, who was a skillful voting both times for Lincoln and once for Grant, a carpenter and m and lie then became an advocate of Horace Greeley as a soldier in the for the Presidency. Afterwards he became an ar- 1837 he once moi dent member of the Greenback party and voted for came westward M Peter Cooper, James B. Weaver and Gen.. F. the way of Buffalh Butler successively when they were candidates for to Adrian by the the Presidential chair. Since the labor movement built in this State began to agitate the public he has changed his by horses. From j political sentiments to accord with the platform of to Jackson Town the labor party, and during the last campaign gave whence he came th )rt and voted for A. J. Streeter, idate of the laboring class for the has never been an aspirant for nuine disinterestedness has allowed ne as a candidate when there was n hope that his party would be as been elected to office, however, e responsible positions. Thus he or of the township, Commissioner He is not connected with any to the faith of the Seventh Day Kane has accumulated his comunder disadvantageous circum2 his arm was taken off near the was employed in Hart's flouring ek. WATERMAN is the representa early pioneer family of this counice attaining manhood he has been essful in helping to carry forward at has made this one of the forecenters in this State. His farmterests are on section 14, Athens he has one hundred and sixty i land upon which he has placed s. was born in Yates County, N. Y.,,to John B. and Betsey (Gleason) es respectively of Rhode Island His parents were married in Coner the birth of two children reounty, N. Y., where the father, mechanic, carried on business as illwright. He did gallant service War of 1812. In the spring of re became a pioneer, as he then vith his family. He traveled by o to Toledo on the lake, thence primitive railway, the first ever, on which the cars were drawn Adrian he made his way by wagon ship in Steuben County, Ind., ie following year to Athens Town. I —: ~~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 765 --- ship, this county. He took up one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 22, which he improved and on which he lived until death closed his busy life before the war. His wife survived him a number of years. They were both active members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and were true and consistent Christians until the day of their death. They were the parents of eight children, as follows: Benoni; Louisa, who (lied in New York; Lucy A., who died at Lockport, Ill.; John, who died at Lockport; Ienry B., Adolphus, Betsey, and George, who died in Indiana. John and Benoni both went into the army from Illinois and served gallantly during the late war. The early life of our subject was passed amid pioneer scenes on a farm and his education was received in the common schools in the first log schoolhouse ever built in the home of his early years. His three elder brothers went to California, and he had to remain at home with his father on the farm until the latter's death. ' With the exception of one year in Illinois, he has lived all his life in this township since the family came to this State. IIe lived on the old homestead until 1862, when he moved to Athens where lie had a carriage and wagon shop for several years and did a good business. After the close of the war Mr. Waterman located north of Athens and carried on farming and at the same time operated a wagon shop. In 1873 he established himself where he now resides on section 14, Athens Township. The years that have elapsed since his settlement here have been busy and profitable ones. He is constantly improving his farm, which is well appointed and is supplied with good farming machinery. IHe is particularly interested in raising thorough bred horses of the Hartness stock and is very successful in this line. Mr. Waterman has been twice married. His first marriage, which took place in 1850, was to Miss Lydia A. Wood worth, a daughter of Erastus B. and Electa (Pinney) Woodworth. Four children were born of their wedded life, namely: Dwight, Bradley, Dorr and William B. In 1856 Mrs. Lydia Waterman departed this life while yet in early womanhood. For his second wife Mr. Waterman married Celinda, a daughter of George and Sarah (Clark) Wright, of Le Roy, this county. Six children have been born to our subject and his present wife, as follows: Lena, wife of A. Tenney; Lucy, Charles, Fred, Lottie and Minnie. Mr. Waterman has a wide acquaintance through liis many years' residence in this county, and has so conducted himself in all the affairs of life as to win the genuine respect of all who know him. IIe an( his wife are both people of agreeable social qualities and are in no way behind their fellowcitizens in doing all that they can to promote the best interests of their community. Mr. Waterman is an unswerving adherent of the Democratic party and keeps himself well informed as to all political movements. J AMES COURT. The gentleman whose portrait is presented on the opposite page is well known throughout this and other counties as one of the most extensive dealers and shlippers of poultry and eggs in Southern Michigan. Firm in principles, upright in character and energetic in disposition, he justly receives the high regard of the community where for many years he has lived and labored. An honest, upright man, lie acts in accordance with his ideas of right and is always thoroughly alive to the interests of his community. A native of Berkshire, England, Mr. Court was born November 26, 1839, and is the only son of James and Tryphosa (Crutchlfield) Court. The father was engaged as a farmer and was accidentally killed when our subject was only four years old. Afterward the mother married again and our subject remained with her and for a short time attended the local scllools. But his education was mostly gained by private study and by employing his leisure hours in reading good books and newspapers. Ambitious to see something of life beyond the boundaries of the island on which he was born, in 1855 Mr. Couit emigrated to the United States. He landed at New Orleans, thence went by water 766 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 111_-_1_ ---_ —_- --- - _ ___ ---------------------------- ------------ --- to Stillwater, Minn., and found work in a hotel at in social Marine Mills. In the fall of 1856 he came to Mar- the Ane shall in this county and was for a time variously belongs engaged. We next hear of him in Kalamazoo is a men County, where he was employed in chopping wood absence and logging. In that way he cleared off some three the Presl hundred acres of heavily timbered land and afterward took a contract to clear three hundred acres for the Michigan Central Railroad Company. He entered energetically upon the work before him, securing the assistance of twenty-five choppers and OH thirteen teams. In the meantime he bought a tract re of new land in Kalamazoo County, which he traded T< for property in tie city of Marshall. la] In 1877 Mr. Court came back to Marshall and plied wii entered the poultry business on a small scale, as his conspicuc means were limited. From this little beginning lie one of th has built up a flourishing trade and is constantly ty. The increasing his capacity for handling poultry and the accon eggs, and his business is advancing in proportion. and for lie ships largely to Eastern points and finds ready and every markets.for his supplies in New York City, Boston, the evid Springfield, Mass., and Bridgeport, Conn. During Among tl the summer months lie handles eggs very exten- fields is a sively. Ite employs from ten to thirty men in The pa business, which is the largest in this part of Michi- Julia (Lo gan if not the largest in the whole State. tie has and reare' very convenient arrangements for the accommoda- marriage tion of his poultry, including enclosed grounds, a near Port large building and numerous smaller enclosures remained and coops, and has every facility for packing and move far shipping. He is at present erecting a large poultry located or house and double refrigerator, the largest in the Mrs. Sno' State, 35x110 feet in dimensions, and two stories age of sev in height. companiol October 18, 1862, Mr. Court was married to son and f( Miss Salina Williams, of Kalamazoo County. Mrs. H., Eliza, Court is, like her husband, a native of England, named be( born at Oxford. They have a home that is the on the old center of true comfort and hospitality, and four daughters children complete the household: Frank W. who is The nat in partnership with his father in business under notice was the firm name of James Court & Son; Kate, Reuben County, N and James, Jr. Mr. Court is highly esteemed by home and his fellow-citizens and possesses in a marked degree branches t the enterprise. sagacity and foresight necessary for self for ft uuccess in business life. He and his wife stand well more and circles and he is a respected member of cient Order of United Workmen and also to the National Insurance Company. He iber of the Congregational Church, but in of a church of his denomination attends byterian. IN H. SNOW owns and occupies a wellgulated estate on section 17, Tekonsha ownship. It consists of a fertile tract of nd under excellent cultivation and supth many good improvements, the most ous of which perhaps is the barn, which is e finest buildings of the kind in the counarrangements that have been made for nmodation of those who operate the estate the comfort of the family are excellent, ywhere upon the eighty acres one can see lences of the enterprise of the owner. he domestic animals which graze in the fine flock of fifty-five sheep. rents of our subject were Eleazur and veland) Snow, both of whom were born d in Cayuga County, N. Y. After their they established their home on a farm Byron, on Howland's Island, where they until 1859. They then decided to rether West and coming to this county I section 18, Tekonsha Township. There w is still living, having now reached the venty-five years. She was bereft of her n in 1868. The family consists of one our daughters, named respectively, John, Polly, Adeline and Mary. The last came the wife of C. Mackey and is living I homestead with her mother. The other died when quite small. tal day of the subject of this biographical May 10, 1835, and his birthplace Cayuga r. Y. He attended the schools near his I obtained a practical knowledge of tho taught, and while doing so qualified himarm work by aiding his father, doing more as he grew toward manhood. When PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 767 _PRA AND BIGAPI --- CAL A of age, he began life for himself as a farm laborer, continuing to work by the month one year and then renting a farm which he carried on two years. In the fall of 1859 he came hither and located with his father on section 18, Tekonsha Township, remaining there ten years and during that time clearing up the farm. Oxen were used in all the farm work. In 1869 Mr. Snow took possession of his present farm, but twenty acres of which had been improved. He has cleared twenty acres of timber, placed the remainder under higher cultivation than before, and built a complete line of convenient structures. Mr. Snow was accompanied to this county by his bride, the marriage ceremony having been performed at her home in New York, August 21, 1859. She was born in Wayne County June 1, 1842, and carefully reared by her worthy parents, under whose training she acquired an excellent character and habits of usefulness. She was known in her maidenhood as Miss Lydia A. Mackey, and was the daughter of Abram and Elizabeth (Wormuth) Mackey. They were natives of New York. The father is deceased and the mother is living in Tekonsha Township. There were seven children who grew to maturity and one deceased. The happy union of Mr. and Mrs. Snow has been blest by the birth of a son, Elmer, whose natal (lay was October 15, 1868, and who is on the farm with his parents. Mr. Snow is a stanch Democrat, but is not a politician and has never cared to hold offipe. Ie pursues the even tenor of his way, enjoying home life and social intercourse, and winning the respect that is due him for his character and works. -_.>^_4< F_ — W\/ RIGHT G. PARKIS, overseer and general manager of the Calhoun County Poor Farm is one of our most expert and enterprising farmers and stock-raisers, and he is the proprietor of a farm in Marshall Township that is well-cultivated and is supplied with fine improvements. Mr. Parkis was born in Centerville, Alle. gany County, N. Y., January 3, 1837. His father, who was also named Wright, was born in 1801 in the State of Massachusetts. He came to Michigan in 1873 and died here in 1875 at a ripe age, and his remains were deposited in the cemetery in Marengo Township. He was a blacksmith by trade but figured some in real estate transactions after coming to this county, and gained considerable prominence among the substantial citizens of his community. IHe was keenly interested in politics, and was a loyal Democrat. Mr. Parkis was united in marriage to Miss Martha Miller and to them were born the following child(ren, of whom these three are deceased, viz: Miles, Melvina and Julia. Those surviving areour subject; Newell, of Marshall Township; George, the eldest, who married Miss Orpha HIolmes, and is conducting business as a farmer in Marshall Township; and Elpa Retta, who married Ezra Blake, a farmer at Lansing, Mich.; and Judith. Our subject passed the early years of his life in his native State and gained his education in the public schools. lie was in the prime of early manhood when he took up his residence in this State in 1862, and he has ever since been identified with the farmers of this county. His farm comprises sixty-one acres of very valuable land on sections 33 and 34, Marshall Township, is under a state of high cultivation and is amply supplied with substantial farm buildings, including a well-built residence, good barns, etc.; and fine orchards adorn the place. Mr. Parkis is making preparations to deal extensively in fine stock, as his farm is well adapted to such purposes. When the authorities were looking about to secure a Superintendent for the County Poor Farm, they found they could do no better than to invite our subject to the responsible position. He hss filled the office for the past eight years, and in his careful and able management of the interests thus entrusted to his care, the wisdom of his selection has been made manifest. He has managed the farm with good results and the poor people that are in his charge have been looked after with kindly consideration. Our subject is a stalwart Republicanin his political views and takes an intelligent interest in all that concerns the welfare of the country. Mr. Parkis was married March 25, 1873, to Miss Esther Wandell, a daughter of Henry Wandell. 768 PORTRAIIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL AL;BUM. 76 PO TR I AN IGAHCLABM She is a native of this State, born in Eaton County near Charlotte in 1848. She is one of three children. Her brother Albert, who is a farmer, married Miss Clara Putman of Marshall Township. hler sister Sarah, married Elijah Spencer, a farmer of Newton Township. Mrs. Parkis is a member of the Episcopal Church and her name is connected with many of its good works. The chief sorrow of thd otherwise pleasant wedded life of our subject and his wife has been in the death of their two children. The eldest, Bessie D., was a very bright, promising child and was noted throughout the neighborhood for her intelligence and precocity, though she was but two and one-half years old when she died. Her death brought great grief to her parents, but life's lessons may have taught them that it is better "Far better to smile with a deep content, O'er a baby quietly sleeping, O'er a little one safe from all that can harm, Safe and quietly sleeping. "The sun comes up, and the sun goes down, On sorrow, and sil and aching, And to all the evil that's in the world, Their darling will know no waking." sold in 1844, and then came to Calhoun County to cast in his lot with the pioneers who had preceded him. He purchased eighty acres of land in Marengo, to which he afterward added until he became the proprietor of three hundred and twenty acres. Here he erected a frame house and in the years that followed was busily employed in developing a farm. Iis death February 14, 1859, removed a valued citizen from his community, and one who had done good work in helping to upbuild the county. After his death his widow was nmarried a second time, becoming the wife of Robert Bennett, and she died May 4, 1886. In politics Mr. Austin was an old Jackson Democrat, but he was not a politician or office-seeker, as he was a man of quiet, domestic habits. Both he and his wife were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and he was very active in building up the church. Nine children were born to the parents of our subject, six sons and three daughters. Charles F. is the subject of this sketch. Richard, who was born March 16, 1827, married Miss Eliza Beers, of Eaton, Mich., and they settled in Marengo. He enlisted in 1861 in Company E, Sixth Michigan Infantry, and gave up his life for his country, dying of a disease contracted in the service, November 17, 1863, at Baton Rouge. Augustus, who was born October 27, 1838, and is now a resident of Decatur, Mich., was also a soldier in the late war, enlisting in 1861 in Company E, Sixtl Michigan Infantry, and he sacrificed much for the Union cause as he was disabled for life while in the service. He married Margaret Anis, of Lansingburg, N.Y., who died at Decatur. Reuben, born October 27, 1840, died December 12, 1842. John, born February 1, 1843, likewise served in the war as a soldier of the Sixth Michigan Regiment. IHe served his time and then re-enlisted as a veteran and was discharged with the rank of Sergeant. Mary, born October 13, 1845, is the wife of Edward George, of Lawton, Mich.; Helen, born September 17, 1848, is the wife of James Campbell, of Lawton; Clara, born February 24, 1851, married Adam Young, of Benton Harbor. Harrison, born December 30, 1853, died March 7, 1854. The subject of this sketch was educated in the, - 0 6)-w & HARLES F. AUSTIN, one of the firm of Austin & Smiti, hardware merchants of Albion, is one of the foremost citizens and business men of this municipality. He is distinguished in the history of the city as having been its first Mayor, and has been otherwise identified with its civic life. He is a native of Yates, Orleans County, N. Y., where his birth occurred February 18, 1836. His father, Harvey Austin, was likewise a native of New York and was there born August 21, 1811. January 1, 1834, he married Calista Barry who was born April 6, 1816. In 1836 the young couple came to Michigan to make for themselves a home and located at Romulus, in Wayne County. Mr. Austin took up a tract of eighty acres of Government land and commenced his pioneer life by building a rude log cabin and a barn. He hewed out a farm from the wilderness which he PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 769 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - — f F common schools and lived with his parents until he attained his majority. He was married in 1858 to Miss Mary A. Wallace who was born in Pennsylvania in April, 1839. Soon after their marriage he purchased land in Sheridan Township and there he and his young wife began life together. At the death of his father lie sold out and removed to the old homestead where he remained until 1865. In that year Mr. Austin entered upon his mercantile career as a clerk in the hardware store-of A. P. Gardner, with whom he remained three years. Afterward lie was with 0. Charles Gale & Co., with whom he continued until 1874, when Mr. E. W. Hollingsworth purchased the stock of the company and took in our subject and Henry D. Smith as partners, under the firm name of E. W. Hollingsworth & Co. In 1879 they sold out to A. J. Gale & Co. and Mr. Austin was then employed by the Gale Manufacturing Company for a short time, but Mr. Hollingsworth again purchasing the store he went with him as clerk and acted in that capacity until May, 1880, when 0. Charles Gale purchased the stock and he was with him until 1881. In that year Messrs. Austin & Smith bought a new stock and founded the firm of Austin & Smith which continues till this day. They are doing a large and flourishing business and have a fine. well-stocked establishment. Though so engrossed in business Mr. Austin yet found time to help his fellow-citizens in the administration of public affairs and has been an invaluable official in the various local offices of which he has been an incumbent. In 1881 he was elected Presi(lent of Albion College, was re-elected in 1882, and in the election of March, 1885, was again honored by being called to that office. In the following April Albion received its city charter which necessitated a new election of officers. Thus Mr. Austin was placed at the head of municipal affairs by being elected the first Mayor of the city. Under his direction the affairs of the city prospered and in recognition of his services a petition was sent to the city government to change the name of the Marshall Road within the city limits to Austin Avenue in honor of the first Mayor of Albion. Mr. Austin has witnessed much of the growth of Calhoun County and it may well be his pride that he has had a hand in its development. He has lived to see the wilderness become a well-settled, prosperr ous country with numerous busy towns, many fine farms, with schoolhouses and churches and all the indications that an intelligent, industrious people have their home here. Mr. and Mrs. Austin have been blessed in their wedded life by the following children: William W., who is engaged in the coal and oil business at Albion; Jessie G., wife of Calvin Tucker, of Albion; Fred W., clerk in the crockery store of H. H. Mann; Bert M., clerk in the Gale Manufacturing office at Albion; Sanford W., a graduate of the High School, who died in 1881, at the age of eighteen years; and Charles H., who died in 1871, at the age of ten years. Mr. Austin was elected one of the Board of Education of Albion in 1879, which office he still holds, and in 1891 was appointed by the city council one of the Commissioners of the Albion Water Works. He is and has been for the past fifteen years a Trustee in the First Baptist Church of Albion. ILLIAM N. WHITE. A pleasantly located farm on section 27, Convis Township, is the base of the financial operations of this gentleman, who is one of the most enterprising faamers and most successful financiers in this part of the county. His home farm consists of two hundred acres under careful and intelligent cultivation and supplied with buildings in such a way as to make it virtually two farms. In fact it was once in the possession of two gentlemen, but since the second tract wa bought by Mr. White it has been thrown into one place. Among the improvements conspicuous upon it is a large windmill and tank which relieves the operators of much hard work in watering stock. Reuben Banks White, father of the subject of this notice is numbered among the early settlers and prominent citizens of this county. Hie was born in Plattsburg County, N. Y., and his father being a lumberman he spent much of his time on Lake Z 770 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Champlain in the business of rafting. He learned the carpenter's trade, followed it for a short time in his native State and then for a brief period in Ohio. In 1831 he came to Marshall, where he was engaged as a contractor and builder until 1844, and where he also sold groceries and dry-goods and was in the stock business. He drove the first cattle and sheep from Ohio to Michigan and as a drover carried on a good business. When he came to Marshall there were but two houses, and those of logs, on the site of the now thriving city. At the date last mentioned Mr. White located upon a farm in Convis Township, first building npon it a log house and then making other improvements as fast as possible. There he died August 27, 1880, at the ripe age of seventy-three years. His first political allegiance was given to the Whig l)rinciples" and in later years he was an ardent Republican. Ile held the township offices and helped to defend the settlers during the Black Hawk War. His religious membership was in the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was of English ancestry, his grandfather and a brother having emigrated on account of troubles in England at the time of Cromwell. tie became a Revolutionary soldier and his son William fought in the War of 1812. The last named, after carrying on the lumber trade for many years turned his attention to farming in Marion County, Ohio, of which he was one of the pioneers. The mother of our subject bore the maiden name Chloe Fish and was born in Saratoga County, N. Y., near Ballston Springs. She was a daughter of George Fish, whose name will be familiar to many of our readers as one of the early settlers in this county. He was born in Dutchess County, N. Y., made an early settlement in Saratoga County, and in 1835 came hither, bringing his family a few months later. He was well educated and possessed more than ordinary ability and culture. IIe was a surveyor and mechanical engineer and much of this county was surveyed by him. Fish Lake, south of Marshall, was named in his honor, and he owned a large tract of land there and was at one time worth $50,000. His daughter Chloe was quite young when brought to this section. She inherited her father's mental strength and in early life was a school teacher. She was also a tailoress and did fine work; although now nearly four-score years of age she is still active and rejoices in quite good health. She makes her home with our subject, who is her third and youngest child. The other children are, Shubel, now living in Duluth, Minn., who entered the army as a private in Company A, Twenty-Eighth Michigan Infantry in 1864, and at the close of the war was mustered out as Captain; and Annie A., wjfe of A. M. Hawkins, whose home is now on a farm in Convis Township. Mr. White, the subject of this notice, is a nativeborn citizen of the township, his natal day October 3, 1846. During his early life he learned useful lessons regarding the operation of a farm, and acquired considerable knowledge in the rate bill schools that were in charge of good teachers. When sixteen years old lie entered Olivet College and took up the scientific course. After two years of assiduous attention to his books he returned home and engaged in teaching, his first school being at the Junction District. While in Olivet he had tried to enter the armny, but his father was notified by the professor and the lad was brought back. In 1866 he taught in Fulton County, then in Knox and Peoria, remaining in Illinois two years. He then returned home and spent one year in teaching in Emmet Township, after which he rented the home farm until the death of his father. In 1874 Mr. White bought the old Smith place of eighty acres adjoining, and also the homestead, where he has been carrying on general farming and stock-raising. Full-blooded Durham cattle, fullblpoded Merino and Shropshire sheep, and fine horses, among them several standard bred IHambletonians, may be seen on the White farm. The swine are also full-blooded and of the Poland-China breed. Mr. White keeps about two hundred sheep and frequently takes the premium on his cattle. In the summer of 1889 he and a partner bought one hundred and sixty acres on section 23, which they are improving. Mr. White was fortunate in winning for his wife a lady of such intelligence and genuine worth of character as Miss Amanda Gilbert. She was born in Eckford Township, where her parents, Elisha and Elizabeth Gilbert, were early settlers. She was edu PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 771 cated in Marshall and prior to her marriage was engaged in teaching, a profession for which she was qualified by mental culture, firmness of character and fine tact. She became Mrs. White in 1871, the wedding taking place in Marshall. The union has been blessed by the birth of five children, all at home, and answering to the names of Gilbert B., Erma A., Marion F., Fern and Pearl, respectively. Various township offices have been held by Mr. White, among them Treasurer, School Inspector, etc. He is a Republican stanch and true and has ably represented the Republicans of the locality as a delegate to county conventions. His social nature and benevolent spirit have led him to unite with the Masonic fraternity and his name is enrolled in a lodge at Marshall. Both himself and wife belong to the Presbyterian Church in the same city and the husband has been an active worker in the Sun(lay-school, as Superintendent and in less conspicuous positions. Both husband and wife make it their aim to keep up with the times in their knowledge of the world's events and to act well their part in every department in life. 1That they are very successful in their efforts is proven by the esteem manifested toward them by their neighbors and acquaintances...~ --- —— *otO. ^<^gB —~^~ --- —-<< — ON. WILLIAM COOK. It being the purpose of the biographical writer to record ' for the benefit of posterity the names and (b) deeds of those worthy of remembrance, he would fail in his purpose did he omit from this volume some account, however brief, of'the I-on. William Cook, now a resident of Homer. His name is not unknown to the inhabitants of this State, particularly of this, the southern part, and those who are best acquainted with the legislative affairs of this great commonwealth will at once recognize it and recall his connection with public affairs. The name borne by our subject was known and honored of men in years prior to his manhood, and he is one of a large family to perpetuate the memory and the traits of a father who was held in high repute in this vicinity. " Deacon" Henry Cook I was born in Palestine, N. Y., in 1788, and on attaining to his majority removed to Oneida County, where in 1814 he was married to Miss Maria Mumbrue. In 1831 the family came to Michigan, making their home for a short time in the town of Saline, and in the spring of 1832 coming to this county, settling near Eckford, on a prairie that is now known by the family name. Henry Cook was a man of earnest nature, publicspirited, and active in business, and was called upon by his fellow-citizens to serve them in various capacities. He represented them in the Legislature, where he was thoughtful for their good. tie was especially active in church work and was connected in some official position with the religious society of his neighborhood during a period of some forty years. He was one of the founders of the Congregational Churclh in 1834, from which grew the Presbyterian Church of Homer. So much business ability did he possess that, notwitlstanding the needs of a large family and his support of worthy enterprises, lie became one of the wealthiest men in Southern Michigan. He lived to a good old age, dying in 1874. Hon. William Cook is the third of the twelve children born to his parents. lie opened his eyes to the light in Oneida County, N. Y., May 3, 1818, and had just entered his teens when he came to this State. HIe attended the schools of the vicinity in which he lived, then took an academic course and beg(an his life's work as a farmer in Clarendon Township. By inheritance and training he was well qualified to carry on agricultural work and the years that have passed have brought him a full meed of success. His farm was his home until 1882, when he built a commodious residence in Homer and removed thereto, although he still retains his ownership of his original farm property. Without making any pretensions to the elegance of mansions in our cities, Mr. Cook has surrounded his family with many luxuries suited to the refined tastes of themselves and friends, but with nothing too good for daily use and enjoyment. His cherished companion, to whom he was married in 1850, is a native of this State and a member of one of its pioneer families, her maiden name having been Miss Louisa Woolley. Their children are: Justin rk 772 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. T., who is happily married to Miss Harriet Reed, and Lizzie M., who was educated at the Female College in Kalamazoo and the University in Ann Arbor and who, entering the field of pedagogy, has gained a high reputation. Mr. Cook was elected Supervisor of Clarendon Township yenrs ago and so well did he discharge the duties of the office that he was retained by successful re-elections eighteen years. He was the first Town Clerk of Clarendon and held the office six years. He served in the Legislature two terms, 1862 and 1864, and was very active in all legislation looking toward the preservation of the Union and the support and comfort of those who were defending it on fields of battle. In 1872 a still higher honor awaited him, he being elected to the Senate, where he served four years. He was a warm personal friend of that celebrated Michigan statesman, Zach Chandler. It is scarcely necessary to say that Mr. Cook is a Republican in politics. At present he is engaged in buying and shipping grain, so retaining to some extent his business connection with the agriculturalists, in whose welfare lie takes great interest. It is safe to say that no man in Calhoun County has a more honorable record in pulblic and in private life, or stands higher in the regard of those who know him, than the I-on. William Cook. i I — r - - turning the virgin sod whose breaking is so difficult. The parents of our subject were David and Violetta (Parker) Cobley, natives of New Hampshire and Vermont respectively. The father was a soldier in the War of 1812. A short time after that struggle he took up his abode in Georgia, Franklin County, Vt., whence in 1832 he removed to Orleans County, N. Y. His good wife died in the fall of 1853, and he subsequently came West and died in Marengo Township, this county. He was a Whig and later a Republican in political sympathy and affiliation. Mrs. Cobley was a sincere Christian and belonged to the Methodist Church. The family of the good couple included two sons and one daughter, lie of whom we write being the elder son and second child. Charlotte B. married R. M. Wilson, came West and settled in Albion, where she diedher husband breathed his last in Portage, Wis; William W. married Phebe Slade, settled in Marengo, this county, and there entered into rest; his widow also died in this county, but after her marriage with Ferris Rundio. The natal day of Charles Cobley was April 11, 1821, and his birthplace Georgia, Franklin County, Vt. Ile attended the common school there and in Orleans County, N. Y., attaining to years of discretion in the Empire State. Hie learned the carpenter's trade, for which lie had a natural aptitude, being handy in the use of tools. When eighteen years old he bought forty acres of land on which he made his home until 1851. Two years later he came to this county and purchased eighty acres of land to whichi he added until his estate amounted to one hundred and ninety acres. Iie replaced the early and prirmitive structures thereon erected by buildings of more modern material and design, and pursued a course of steady industry and wise management until his advancing years gave him an excuse for leaving his farm and settling down to the enjoyment of that which he had won. Mr. Cobley has never felt any desire to leave the (lomestic circle in order to participate in the excitements of political life and has therefore borne but little part in party affairs other than to deposit a Republican ballot. He is held in good repute as a thorough-going farmer, a reliable citizen and an honest man. G HARLES C. C(BLEY. Among the retired citizens living in Albion is numbered the gentleman above named, who has been connected with the interests of this county since early in the '50s, and during most of his time has been engaged in farm work. Ile is now making his home with a daughter and in all human probability will spend the balance of his days with her. Althoulgh he did not come to this county at as early a period as some now living, yet he knows well what hardship and toil are necessary to develop a new country, as Marengo Township, in which he located, was an unsettled region. He worked hard to make a good home, being obliged to wield the ax in removing the forest growths and hold the plow in i"" "':: -;: I:d:,:~h 7:-~: i t;: A:::: H: t::::0::;:::~~~~~~~~~~~~~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 775 _: —` --- PORTRAI A B A L B7 In 1846 Mr. Cobley led to the hymeneal altar Miss Sarah M. Williams, daughter of Chester and Margaret Williams, and a native of Orleans County, N. Y., where she was born May 1, 1827. She was a regular attendant at church services, although not identified with any religious body. lHer life was that of a devoted mother, a loving helpmate and a kind and sympathetic neighbor. She breathed her last August 9, 1890, leaving to her grief-stricken family the remembrance of years of faithful service in their behalf. HIer children are three in number: William E. married Libby Oates and their home is in Chicago, he being an engineer on a railroad; Charles Wallace is a traveling man with his headquarters in Minneapolis, Minn.; Violetta is the wife of George R. Carver, their home being in Albion. Pl~l~f~;~i:~_____TK. DWARD WIRT LAMOREAUX, M. I). There is in every human life something of interest that distinguishes it from the lives of others, and especially does mankind find pleasure in learning the incidents connected with those who have achieved success in the different lines to which they have devoted their attention. Dr. Lamorcaux may properly be termed a self-made man, having worked his way to success by means of industry and natural ability. As a physician he is widely and favorably known throughout the length and breadth of Calhoun County, and is justly regarded as one of the most learned and able mem. bers of his profession in Michigan. The attention of the reader is invited to his lithographic portrait, presented on the opposite page, and to tlle following brief outline of the main events in his life: The origin of the Lamoreaux family in America, if fully given, would prove the old saying that " truth is indeed stranger than fiction." They originated in France and were of I-uguenot stock. 'he first members of the family to come to this country were three brothers, who at the time of the persecution of their race on account of religion,when Louis XIV. revoked the edict of Nantes, fled from their beloved country, forced to leave with out a moment's warning; the last glimpse of their home showed them the lights burning and the table set for their meal. It was thus, in 1685, when a half-million people fled from France to avoid persecution, that these brothers bade adieu to their native land and sought religious freedom in the United States. The parents of Dr. Lamoreaux were William and Susan (Slaght) Lamoreaux, natives of New York. The father followed the occupation of a farmer and spent his entire life in his native State, dying October 18, 1887, at the age of sixty-one years, on the homestead where he was born and where his widow is now living at a venerable age. To them were born four children, of whom three are now living: Jennie, wife of John E. Jones, of New York; James F., who lives on the old homestead in the Empire State, and our subject, who is the eldest in the family. Carrie, who was the wife of Homer Boorom, died at the age of twenty-eight years. Dr. Lamoreaux was born in Lodi, Seneca County, N. Y., August 7, 1854, and passed the days of his boyhood on his father's farm. He laid the foundation of his education in the district schools and then entered Starkey Seminary, where he completed a good course of instruction in 1875. The study of medicine had great attractions for him and in order to fit himself to be a physician he commenced to read with Dr. V. A. Baker at Adrian. In the fall of 1876 he entered the Bennett Medical College at Chicago and took one course of lectures there. In the fall of 1877 he became a student in the University of Michigan, and was graduated fro-m the medical department June 26, 1879. lie had special advantages offered him at the University, as while he was there he was a private student in the office of A. B. Palmer, and during his senior year attended him as assistant at Bowdoin College, Maine. After graduating from the University Dr. Lamoreaux was appointed assistant to Prof. Palmer by the Board of Regents, and acted in that capacity a year. In the spring of 1880 he was honored by a call to act as assistant physician in the Willard Asylum for the Insane at Willard, Seneca County, N. Y. He was connected with that institution three years, and during that time had five I I 776 PORICTRAIT AND BIOGRHAPHICAL ALBUM. 776 PORTRAIT AND I3IOI AP —HICA ALBUM. hundred male patients under his care. This was a great responsibility for so young a physician, but he proved himself equal to it, and was held in high repute by all concerned. In 1883 he resigned his position there and in the fall of the year came to Battle Creek, and has ever since practiced his profession here with marked success. He has gained much celebrity for his skillful treatment of serious cases, and is recognized as a physician of unusual talent and knowledge of his profession. Dr. Lamoreaux was married in 1883 to Miss lattic E. Rawling, a native of New York, and of their happy wedded life one child has been born to them-a daughter-Marion R., who was born April 27, 1888. Mrs. Lamoreaux is a daughter of John and Lizzie Rawling, natives respectively of Cambridgeshire, England, and Hagerstown, Md. Mr. and Mrs. Rawling, who are now residents of Sheboygan, Wis., were the parents of four children, as follows: Eleanor N., Hattie E., wife of our subject: John William, and Edward Thomas. Prior to his settlement at Battle Creek the Doctor took a post-graduate course at the Polyclinic, New York City, and he is still a student, passing much of his leisure time among his medical works and is keeping well apace with the times in regard to new discoveries in the medical world and modern methods of practice. He is a member of the Calhoun County Medical Society and is prominently identified with the Knights of Pythias as District Deputy and Past Chancellor. He is a member of the Masonic order, has taken twelve degrees an(d is a Knight Templar; at present he is Junior Warden the Blue Lodge. In his political views he is a Republican, and religiously, a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In educational affairs he is also very active and is Treasurer of the School Board. ancestry, and is himself a native of that section of the country, born in Kittery, Me., September 21, 1850. The parents of our subject, Benjamin and Sarah (Wilson) Ordway, are natives respectively of New Hampshire and Maine. His father is still living in the latter State at a venerable age. He was a carpenter and carried on his business successfully for many years. Our subject was carefully trained in the home of his birth and enjoyed the advantages of the High School of his native place. At an early age lie evinced a strong talent for mechanical drawing and that talent was fostered by a thorough course at the School of Mechanical Drawing at Boston, the most noted of its kind in the United States. After completing his course there he learned the trade of a builder in that city and subsequently established himself in business at Attleboro, Mass. After a brief but successful career there he sought a wider field in the middle Western States and followed his calling in Illinois and Iowa. In 1876, shrewdly perceiving that the growing city of Battle Creek offered great advantages to builders and contractors he came here and was engaged in that line for a time. But his genius for architecture soon led him to abandon the actual work of building to become an architect and designer. Wishing to further prepare himself for the profession in 1881 he went to Detroit and had the benefit of instruction in both theoretical and practical architecture. Returning to Battle Creek well equipped for his calling our subject opened an office hIere, and since that time his business as an architect has grown to such proportions that it taxes his utmost energy to keep pace with its demands. Many of the substantial and beautiful buildings at Battle Creek were designed by him, of which we may specify the following: Schoolhouse No. 5, a building pronounced perfect in design, ventilation and proportion; the Phoenix Block, the Tacoma Building, Schoolhouse No. 3, the Titus Home on Maple Street and many others. Mr. Ordway was married at Portsmouth, N. II., in 1881 to Miss Sarah Prime, a lady of rare intelligence, who understands well the art of making an attractive home. She is a sincere Christian and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her RILLIA DUSTIN ORDWAY, an architect of marked talent and ability, who is conducting an extensive business at Battle Creek, is well known throughout the State as one who stands well to the front of his profession. He comes of an honorable New England PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 777 = marriage with our subject has brought them three b)right and interesting children, whom they have named Madge, Earl and Lloyd. Mr. Ordway is a gentleman of high personal standing and enjoys the confidence of the business world in a marked degree. I-e is well known in social circles as a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen and of the Royal Adelphi. Politically, he is a stalwart Republican. IDONIRAM JIJI)SON QUICK. Among the many agriculturists of Le Roy Towni ship who are gaining a good maintenance and making provision for their declining years, is the gentleman above named who is pleasantly located on section 3. He was born in Monroe County, N. Y., February 6, 1825, and with his parents, Leonard and Vienna (Dutton) Quick, came to this county in 1837. The father bought one hundred and sixty acres of land on section 3, Le Roy Township, on which he continued to live until calle(l hence. Of their family of eight children seven are yet living and most are in the Western States. With the exception of one year Mr. Quick las lived in Le Roy Township since he accompanied his parents hither, and the eighty-four acres now owned by him include sixty of the old homestead. When twenty years of age, having a desire to see some other part of the country lie went to Wisconsin where he worked on a farm for a year at $14 per month, which was then considered very good wages. Ile then returned to his former home and during the ensuing two years worked here by the month, carefully saving for tlhe purpose of buying a home. Hlis first purchase was of forty acres for which lie gave 150 in money and two thousand rails. A few years later he bought forty acres of the home farm and still later twenty additional. In 1854 Mr. Quick won for his life companion Miss Waty Fish, daughter of David and Celia Fish, who lived in the same township as hinself and whose good qualities were well known to him. Mutual happiness has resulted from the union i I although Mr. and Mrs. Quick have had some of the sorrows that fall to the lot of humanity. Two cliildren, Willie and Nellie, were cut down by the reaper death in their childhood. They enjoy the companionship of lIerbie, who carries on the farm, and Fred M. who has an interest in the store at Sonoma and is Postmaster there. The sons, sturdy young men of good habits and firm principles, follow their father's example in being stanch supporters of the Republican party. Shortly after his marriage Mr. Quick entered into partnership with Messrs. Payne & Smith and built a steam sawmill which after a few years of experience give them a fair remuneration. In 1862 it was destroyed by fire, but in less than five months a new one was running. So highly valued had the mill been by the inhabitants of this section that immediately after the fire a citizen started out, and within two days had $1,200 subscribed witl which to rebuild. Additions have been made and the establishment now has the different departments of sawmill, feedmill, planer, matcher, siding-saw, etc. Politically, Mr. Quick has been a Republican all his life. In early days lie was a strong Abolitionist and lhe has lived to see the day when that term carries no stigma with it, but on the contrary is one of high honor. ~' LIBERT SHIARPSTEIN, one of the well-tol do farmers of Marshall T'ownship, has a valuable estate on section 5, consisting of two hundred and forty acres of the fertile land which has made tlhis county so prosperous an agricultural region. A visitor to his home will realize something of the nature of thle owner and of his faithful companion, the entire place bearing evidence of the distinguishing characteristics and tle desires that animate them. Numerous and substantial outbuildings give shelter to the stock and afford storage room for the crops, and various arrangements have been made for convenience in feeding and caring for the animals and in cultivating tle soil. The most conspicuous of the farm 778 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. buildings is a barn 34x70 feet, which was built in in the fall of 1847 determined to take up his abode 1890 and is of the most approved design. The in this section. He traveled by packet to Buffalo, dwelling is pleasing to the eye, surrounded by a thence 1)y steamer to Detroit and by rail to Battle well-kept lawn with a setting of orchard and Creek, finding the journey somewhat tedious as the groves which makes the picture most attractive to trains were not of the lightning express order. The the passing traveler. It is seven miles from Mar- first year of his residence in this county was deshall and eight from Battle Creek and is therefore voted by him to farm labor by the month in Conof easy access and convenient to the best markets. vis Township, and he then bought one hundred and Mr. Sharpstein, as his name denotes, is of Ger- sixty acres of wild land which he began to break, man ancestry. His grandfather, John Sharpstein, the motive power attached to his plow being seven was born in the Fatherland and crossed the Atlan- yoke of oxen. lie built a log house in which he tic when but a boy, his parents establishing their took up his residence, but which some years ago home in New York, and his father serving through- was replaced by a more modern and commodious out the Revolutionary War. When he had reacled edifice. The estate was added to in 1880 by the mature years he became a farmer and later engaged purchase of eighty acres adjoining, this being a in the manufacture of the old Bull plows, which had choice tract of improved land. Of the entire estate, a wooden moldboard. lie finally removed to Liv- one hundred and fifty acres is now under the plow ingston County, where he continued farm work and fenced into fields of convenient size. until his death. His son, Samuel, father of our Mr. Sharpstein, operating as a general farmer subject, was born in D)utchess County in tle ItHud- and stockman, has given especial attention to that son River Valley, and followed his father's exam- which promised the best results at different seasons, pie, becoming a tiller of the soil in Livingston and during the war found profit in his flocks, sellCounty. Ie owned a large farm of four hundred ing wool at $1 per pound. lie now has a flock of and eighty acres, most of which he cleared from one hundred Merinoes, a drove of sixty fullthe forest. He bought land in this State as early as blooded Poland-China hogs, and a good herd of 1835 and having a large tract settled some of his cattle. lie las sold wheat for as high a price as sons here. Lie belonged to the Lighlt Infantry, $3.40 per bushel, but as this was at a time when New York Militia, was first a Whig and later a labor was hard to obtain, he di-l not consider it an Republican in politics, and was identified with the undue valuation. In fitting his land for habitation Universalist Church. He died in his native State and cultivation he has drained a marsh and thus in 1867. improved the sanitary condition of the county while The mother of our subject bore the maiden name advancing his own interests. of Margaret Sleight and was born in )utchess At the bride's home in Convis Township, NovemCounty, N. Y. Her father, Dr. Henry Sleight, who ber 25, 1849, Mr. Shatrpstein was married to Miss was of German descent, died in Poughkeepsie, Clarissa Markham, daughter of Jehial and Susan where he had long been engaged in the practice of (Sibley) Markham. Both parents were born in his profession. Mrs. Sharpstein became the mother Monroe County, N. Y., and there also Mrs. Sharpof eight sons and two daughters, and (lied in 1870 stein opened her eyes to the light, her natal day at the home of one of the latter in Wyoming having been February 16, 1833. During her infancy County, N. Y. her parents came to this State, making their jourThe subject of this sketch opened his eyes to ney with horses and a wagon through the Maumee the light October 20, 1825, in Livingston County, Swamp and locating in Convis Township, this N. Y., and grew to manhood on a farm. He was county, on eighty-three acres of land. This tract the fortunate recipient of good instruction in the was placed under improvement before the death of subscription schools, where the best teachers in the Mr. and Mrs. Markham. Mrs. Sharpstein was county were engaged. He remained with his par- given as good an education as the time and place ents until after he had attained to man's estate, but afforded, and careful home guidance by her good PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 779 - mother, who was a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her own children have been the objects of devoted care and she and her husband have worked together for their welfare. The sons and daughters are four in number, named respectively Oscar, Elmer, Margaret and Marian. Elmer is a photographer in Grand Rapids, but the otlers still brighten the parental fireside, Oscar working on the homestead, and Margaret being engaged in schoolteaching. John Markham, the paternal grandlfather of Mrs. Sharpstein was born in Connecticut and was an early settler in New York. lie was a Major in the American army during the War of 1812. During the early settlement of this county he came here with his sons, locating on one hundred and twenty acres of land in Convis Township and in 1835 building a house that still stands, a landmark of pioneer times. The family is of Scotch descent and the sturdy characteristics of the race have been manifested by those of recent generations. Mr. Sharpstein is much interested in the advancement of the cause of education, a fact which his fellow-citizens have recognizeld by continuing him in the office of School l)irector thirty years. lie is an ardent believer in the principles of the Republican party, never fails to deposit his vote, an(d has served as delegate to county conventions. lie is honorable in his business relations, a peacable and law-abiding citizen, and in domestic and social life exhibits traits which make him popular and highly respected. The entire family display marked intelligence and no better society can be found than that of which they are honored members. Both Mr. and Mrs. Sharpstein are entertaining in conversation, agreeable in manners and dlisplay excellent taste in the adornment of their home. IIARLES M. COBB was a prominent and influential pioneer who not only aided in the development of this county from its primitive condition but bore an honorable part in its government, and his death was a loss to its citizenship. lie was of New England birth and antecedent, born in the town of Woodstock, Vt., February 15, 1804, coming of an old New England family. lie was a son of James Cobb, who was also a native of 1hat section of the country. Our subject grew to manhood in his native State and receiving a liberal education, taught school until he was married. That important event in his life took place in Stowe, Vt., May 14, 1829, when lie was wedded to Miss Arminia Lathrop. She was born in tllat town June 1, 1807. After marriage they settled in Essex County, N. Y., where his two children were born. His daughter, AdeliaE. married 0. B. Rogers, a mason of Calhoun County, and (lied in Albion September 2, 1867, leaving one daughter-Lillian A. Mr. Cobb was made Postmaster of the town in whllich lie lived in New York and continued to reside there some years. In 1836 he determined to miake a change and try life in the wilds of Michigan. Lie came here through Canada and was six weeks on the way. The roads were rough and as there were no bridges he had to ford the streams and sometimes had to cut his way through the forests. IIe located at Albion where he immediately embarked in the mercantile business in the company of Christopher Dickinson. In 1837 they failed at the time of the great financial crash in the money world, and our subject soon afterward turned his attention to farming, which business he pursued for many years. He finally sold out and removed to town. In their home here Mrs. Cobb cedl April 10, 1873, leaving behind her the memory of a well-spent life. Our subject did not survive his worthy wife many years as he was killed by the cars February 29, 1879, while crossing the track. He was a man of strong common sense, unerring judgment, and of niuch ability. His fellow-citizens, recognizing his genuine worth and the value of the services of such a man in public life, often called him to responsible positions. I-e served as Supervisor for Sheridan Township for several years in succession and he was also Treasurer. He was County Superintendent of the Poor and very efficient in that capacity. He was prominent in educational matters and was Secretary of the Board of Trustees of Albion College. He had much to do with its success 780 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRLAPHIICAL ALBUM.CI 780 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRA~~~~~~~~~hICAL ALBUM.~~ as an educational institution, and through his in- Regiment. He was Orderly S terest the college has been a success. HIe and his pany, and was finally discha good wife were connected with tile Methodist sickness at the time he was F Episcopal Cllurch as two of its leading members Mr. and Mrs. Graves came from the very beginning. He was one of the build- in 1855, and lived on a farm ing committee in the construction of their house death removed tllem hence, of worship and he was also Class-Leader and Stew- 1863 and the mother in 186 ard of the church for many years. worthy people. The mother v and a valued member of tile Church. Her children hold 1 ence and pay tribute to her better woman ever lived." A EROME GRAVES is a highly esteemed of upright character and stur resident of Albion, who is well-known a Whig in early life and a gr throughout Southern Michigan and even Clay. When the Republican I)eyond as a dealer in horses. IIe has a he was among the first to join large and well-equipped stable in this city, in which opposed to thleextension of lie has some fine high bred horses, and he does quite tories. IIe was not an office an extensive business. the quietness and comfort of h lHe was born in Manlius, N. Y., October 30, of public life. 1827. His parents were Joshua P. and Sallie (Smitl) Jerome Graves of whom th Graves, natives of Massachusetts. When they written, is mostly self-educ were young people they went to the State of New tended the common schools York and there established a home in which they passed his early years in his reared a family of five sons, namely: Phineas, Jer- there married to Miss Addi ome, Judson II., William W., and George II. The 20, 1855. She is also a nati family was well represented in the late Civil War. in Canandaigua. to Francis a Phineas served throughout the war in the Twelfth June 7, 1834. ImmediatelJ Michigan Infantry, enlisting as Captain in his young couple came to Micl company and afterward commissioned Colonel. wedded life in a log cabin The Colonel is at present a resident of Denver, Township. Mr. Graves first p Col. IIe is a man of more than ordinary ability acres of land, and actively en and attainments, and was at one time a teacher in ment. the Albion schools. lIe was appointed Postmaster In 1868 our subject came at Albion and lield that office nine years. He worked at draying. lHe subse married Miss Lydia Ferris of New York City. in horses, a business for wl Judson H. is a prominent physician of Syracuse, adapted, as lie has a thorougll N. Y. lie also served in tle late war. He mar- and is a good judge of hort ried Miss Worden. William W. enlisted in the ing on a very proftable busil Twelfth Michigan Infantry as Orderly Sergeant, and and sold many valuable hors was mustered into the army as Captain; he did from $400 to $1,000 a pair. good service during the war. He married Miss well fitted up and has here sc Catharine Robortson and is now a resident of highly bred horses. Jamestown, Dak. He is a Republican in politics, The marriage of Mr. and Mi serving his second term as County Auditor. George to them six children, as folio H. took part in the war as a member of the Sixth March 15, 1859, a painter by Michigan Infantry and afterwards of the Twelfth August 27, 1860, is engaged i Sergeant of his comirgcd on account of irst Lieutenant. to Calhoun County with our subject until, the father (lying in 51. They were very vas a sincere Christian Methodist Episcopal ler memory in reverby saying that "no dr. Graves was a man dy principles. IIe was reat admirer of Henry i party was organiz: d it. He was bitterly slavery into the terriseeker, as he preferred iis home to the turmoil is sketch is principally ated altllhough e atin his boyhood. lie native State, and was ie Ainsworth, August ve of New York, born imd Julia Ainsworth, y after marriage the ligan and began their on a farm in Parma rurchased eighty-seven igaged in its improveto Albion and first,quently began to deal lich he is peculiarly i knowledge of horses seflesh. He is carryness and has matched ses, ranging in price I-e has his stables )me fine specimens of rs. Graves has brought ws: Charles S., born trade; Harry K., born in the crockery busi PORTRAIT AND BIOGnAPHICA-L ALBUM. 781 R N P A ness at Sault Ste. Marie; Nettie L., born October 9, 1862, is now the wife of Arthur Eslow of Albion; Willie P. born May 30, 1865; Louis J., May 12, 1870; Grace J., March 18, 1872. When Mr. Graves came to this county it was still in the hands of the pioneers. Albion was then a small village with no sidewalks and its buildings were most of them of a rude style of arlchitecture. lie llas witnessed much of its growth and llas contributed to its material prosperity. Politically he is a stancl Republican. lie is well known through his (lealings as a horseman and his standing in business circles is honorable. lie and his wife are greatly respected and she is one of the most earnest members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. _- L — ^s"Q45/@d~ b~'9 'h X ': \ ~:F~/)-REDERICK C. BROWN is one of tile promI <-) inent farmers of Calhoun County, residing,lq in Albion, who has here extensive farming interests and has long been a factor in the prosperity of this section. He was born in Madison County, N. Y., November 3, 1823. His parents, Amos and Nancy (Clhamplin) Brown, were natives respectively of Rhode Island and Connecticut, coming of excellent New England stock. They were married at Stonington, Conn., and began their wedded life in that State. They subsequently removed to Madison County. They were stanch members of the Mlethodist Episcopal Church and were thoroughly good people. In politics the father was a l)emocrat of the Andrew Jackson type, and was well posted in the political situation of the country. These children were born to the parents of our subject, all of whom grew to maturity: Marilla married Ira Welch and they settled in Otsego County, N. Y.; both died at Bridgewater, tlhat State. Mary A. married for her first husband John McCarty, who died, and she married for Iier second husband William Brugy, and died in Connecticuther husband is now living in Syracuse,N.Y.; William married and he and his wife died in Oneida County, N. Y.; Lucy married Albert Hall and they are still living in Connecticut; James married and resides in Oneida, N. Y.; Ellery married Sarah Hall and they settled in Oneida County, N. Y., where he is still living; Louisa married Gallubia Beebe and they settled in Oneida, N. Y., where they are still living; George married Matilda Bettinger and they settled in Verona, Oneida County, and there both died; John served in the Union army during thle war and sacrificed his life for his country on the battlefield at Gettysburg; Susan, who died in Oneida County, N. Y., was the wife of Chancy Rowell wlio served in the army during the war and died from the effects of a wound received in battle. In November, 1851, Mr. Brown came to this county, and in D)ecember, 1852, took unto himself a wife in the person of Miss Lovisa Marsh, a daughter of Spencer and Lovisa Marsh, natives respectively of Connecticut and Massachusetts. Her parents came to Michigan in 1817 and settled among the pioneers of Concord in Jackson County. They were the parents of five children, who grew to maturity, namely: Phinelson, who resides in Albion; Spencer, a resident of New York State; Lothrop, who lives in Jackson County; and Charles, who died while on the way to Cllifornia and was buried in this county. Mr. Brown came to this county a poor man, but his toil has been well rewarded and he is now one of the wealthy men of his community, who has borne an honorable part in developing the interests of this section of the country. After his arrival here he bought a good farm of two hundred acres, but soon sold it at an advance, and then bought one hundred and eighty acres of land now included within the city limits of Albion. He has since added to it until lie has three hundred acres adjoining the city and has. besides this valuable estate, two hundred and one acres of choice land under cultivation at Palmer, Jackson County. In 1884 lie purchased the Marengo Mills and with the buildings the thirty-five acres surrounding. He has in all five hunl-red and thirty-six acres of fine land and lie derives a handsome income from his ploperty. He may be considered a pioneer of this section, though not one of its earliest settlers, as he has done much pioneer work and has greatly aided in promoting the growth of the county, not only witnessing its transformation from a wild sparsely 782 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - — I --- — I settled region to a cultivated, well-inhabited country, but having a hand in bringing about the change. 'Thle following children have blessed the marriage of our subject and his wife: Cllarlie C., a bookkeeper with the Standard Oil Works at Chicago; Ierbert L., at home with his parents, and a graduate of Jackson Business College; and Carrie, wife of James D. Lawrence, a miller by trade, residingat Chicago. and his going to and fro was much more tiresome than any travel that devolves upon physicians of this day. His sympathy in the sufferings of mankind and his desire to alleviate distress, led him to answer every demand made upon him, whether by the rich or the poor, and many a family have cause to be grateful for services rendered without money and without price. He was well qualified to serve his fellow-men in positions of public trust and notwithstanding his busy life he did good service when elected County Supervisor. In 1852 he crossed the plains to California and spent four years working in the mines, returning to his former home by the way of New York. In politics he was first I P REIDERICK WHEELOCK, M. D., was one a Whig and later a Republican, giving his of the pioneer physicians of this county to the latter party from its organization. and as such is certainly entitled to repre- In Queensbury, N. Y., Dr. Wheelock sentation in this ALBUM. He came to the State in ried to Miss Mary Blake, a sincere Christih 1836, and in the fall of the ensuing year moved who was his cherished companion until 18 his family to Albion, where he continued to make she was called hence. She was a membe his home and where he was actively engaged in Episcopal Church and so too was her hust practice for many years. The country was wild was a Vestrymnan and held other churc and sparsely settled when lie established himself The couple may well be called the found( here, and only the brightest of day-dreams could Episcopal Church here, as their dwelling picture forth its present highly-improved and pros- stopping-place for all ministers of that d perous condition. The pioneers could not even tion in the early time, and they were t imagine the lines of rail that cross its once trackless their desire for religious services. Dr. wilderness and the wires over which the electric cur- Wheelock had two children-F. A. and M: rent carries the messages between places far distant. daughter married William L. Case, a prir Yet Dr. Wheelock lived to see all this and, looking died in Denver, Col., leaving three childre back over the half-century could rejoice with ex- crick, Isabel and Lewellyn. ceeding joy in the advance of civilization. Frederick is an attorney-at-law in A Dr. Wlheelock was the son of Asa Wheelock, a which place he came when he was but thi Revolutionary soldier, who was present at the cap- old. He was born in Whitehall, N. Y., ture of Burgoyne, and whose home was in the 1833, but has spent the most of his life in Green Mountain State. In Windlam County, he which is now his home. IIe was with his of whom we write was born March 7, 1804. Ie California four years. After completing was educated in the common schools, then took a ious branches taught in the common sc partial course of study in the Boston (Mass.) In- took a course of instruction in the Albion stitute and subsequently attended Middlebury (Vt.) and upon the conclusion of his legal stu College. In the latter institution he made his prep- admitted to the bar in [859. He is now J arations for his medical work and after his stud- the Peace, an office he has Iield for eig ies were completed, opened an office in White- For fifteen years he was interested in the d hall, N. Y. business, a part of that time with a Mr. B After his removal to this county Dr. Wheelock this place. Attorney Wheelock was ma continued his professional work with untiring zeal, Paw Paw, this State, in 1873, to Miss Frl although his practice extended over a wide circuit Mills, a cultured and refined young won influence was maran woman S81, when er of the )and, who ah offices. ers of the was the lenominairgent in and Mrs. ary. The iter who n- FredIbion, to ree years May 18, the city father in the varchools lie I College (dies was rustice of ht years. ry-goods idwell of irried in ances A. nan, who ~i:r -Ici-;l. *~ — ~:- I -3't~;;r: :; "":': r,-~-~~r: -u,:r 11Xr -'Vg:~;::I rli -+-:: ---;ii'i:-,9:-'ii:::::~:::_:i~;~:::!:~:.ii:-::::::;:;:sn ~- j'q s::~::-:?:-i:::;... -II —.;.~:~~~;:1`Fj~ y""~ C reihb~ I rri~iP-8?%? I-,,,:rt~1JEsslP~1- I hvtf:: ~-'# I_ T;i' I:I rr. 111 ~:2; 'l:d.hr:a!-~ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 785 enjoys with him the respect of their acquaintances. Both belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. The Doctor departed this life at his home in Albion May, 1887, at the age of eighty-three years. ' ')ENJAMIN C. McBETHI. There is nothing more generally respected than generosity (~ )and nobility of purpose, and the men possessed of these traits are sure to be higlly esteemed throughout any community where they may choose to make their home. People of every nation love a good and honest man and are at all times interested in learning the particulars of his life. Mr. McBeth belongs distinctly to this class, and has a high place in the regard of all who have the pleasure of his acquaintance, and it is with much satisfaction that we give his portrait and a sketch of his career to our readers. The senior member of the firm of McBeth & McBeth, veterinary surgeons of Battle Creek, Mr. McBeth is one of tle best known and most skillful men of his profession in Southern Michigan. IHe was born in Ontario, Canada, and lived in that l)ominion until lie was twenty-eight years old, when he came to Michigan. IIe early acquired an aptitude in treating various equine diseases, and gradually drifted into the practice of what he has since made his life vocation. Recognizing the importance of a thorough preparation for his calling, lie made it a careful study, and has been amply repaid for his untiring efforts. Hie makes a specialty of dentistry, and has some of the finest instruments that cal be procured. Starting in life for himself without means, Mr. McBeth is truly the architect of his own fortune, and has not only gained a reputation as a veterinary surgeon second to none in this section, but has acquired a competency for his declining years. IHe owns the property upon which his office is located and the commodious residence adjoining, in which he lives with his wife, formerly Miss Aurelia Packard, and their son and daughter. Socially, he is a Knight Templar. He is a member of the Academy of Veterinary Science and Pathology, of New York, and also holds a certificate from the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association, of which ho was Secretary in 1886 and 1887, and President in 1888. The high honors which have been conferred upon him in his profession show the esteem in which he is held by his colleagues. His popularity is deserved, as professionally and as a citizen his character is irreproachable, a:id lie is kind and considerate in his relations with all with whom lie comes in contact. Associated with Benjamin C. McBeth, and a member of his household, is his nephew Alonzo E. McBeth. He was born in Canada in 1863, and gained the preliminaries of etducation in the public schools, which was further supplemented by an excellent course of study in the Bradford Iigh School. lie began his veterinary studies in the Ontario Veterinary College in 1888, took a full course, and passed a highly creditable examination. IHe received a diploma from that institution, and afterward a certificate of membership in the Ontario Veterinary Association. After a practice of one year in Canada, he came to Battle Creek, and entered into partnership with his uncle. ile is thoroughly grounded in tile knowledge of his profession, and has already made his mark as one of tlle most able veterinary surgeons in this part of the State. He is wellknown and popular in social circles, is a Master Mason, and identifiel with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. =_r _ _.d --- —---. — _. -. - _- ------------- - - r lIARLES I). IOLMES. No name is more honored or worthy of reverence among those of tile noble pioneers of Calhoun County, by whose labors it was established on a firm foundation of enduring prosperity, than that of this gentleman who has played an important part in its agricultural, social, civic and religious development. Ile is the oldest settler now living within the borders of Albion Township, where he has conducted a good farming and stock business for more than half a century, acquiring thereby a goodly amount of wealth, and lhe is now serenely passing the declining years of a life well spent in all that goes to make a true man and a good citizen 786 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ------------------ -- ------------— ~~~~~~~~~~ --- —--- - - _-f ____l --- — amid the comforts of one of the most pleasant son Franklin for the ministry at Yale College. and attractive homes of this locality. lie was exceedingly temperate, was truly pious and Our subject is derived from fine old New Eng- a model man in every respect. Ile and his land stock. The Holmes family were among the good wife were prominent members of the PresbyScotch people who went from Scotland to the north terian Church, which he served as an Elder and also of Ireland during the times of religious persecu- as a Ieacon, and was very zealous in its every good tion, and some of then were very active in the work. Ie was also active in politics and was an siege of Londonderry. Soon after they fled from old-line Whig. Ie was Colonel in the Massachureligious persecution to IIolland, where they lived setts State Militia and was called out during the but a short time and then came to the American War of 1812. Before the regiment reached the Colonies. They landed at Boston, Mass., and the front the order was rescinded as the hostilities had progenitors of our subject made their way thrugh ceased. the wilderness to New Hampshire and were amlong Charles 1). Holmes, the subject of this review, is the early settlers of Londonderry, where a few of one of nine children, eight of whom grew to matheir descendants are still living. The family, as a turity and six of whom are living. He is the third rule, have taken an active part in public affairs in of the family in order of birth, and was born July the Granite State, and a number of its representa- 20, 1814, at West Boylston, Mass. He laid the lives have been members of the State Legislature foundation of his education at the excellent and have held other prominent offices. academy at Amherst, whither his parents removed The father of our subject, Peter Holmes, was a in his boyhood. HIe was a student in that institunative of Londonderry, N. I., born October 10, tion when the Rev. Henry Ward Beecher was 1783. Lie married Olive Graves December 26, attending there, the academy then being under the 1809. She was a native of Chesterfield, N. I-I., supervision of Dr. Colton, who gave our subject a and she also came from an old English family and certificate to teach school when he was but seventhrough her our subject is connected with Mr. teen years of age. [ie had his first and last exMarsh, of the well known dry-goods firm of Jord- perience as a teacher in Goshen, and thus ended his an, Marsh & Co., of Boston. Mr. and Mrs. career as an instructor. While he was a student at Iolmes were wedded in Massachusetts and resided the academy he was under the tuition of Mr. Perat West Boylston, and then removed to Amherst, kins, who was the first missionary appointed to Hampshire County, and resided there until 1833. Persia. During his residence in Massachusetts Mr. Iolmes Mr. Holmes was nineteen years of age when he was engaged, first as a manufacturer of cotton and his brother, Peterson P., came to Michigan goods and lie afterwards manufactured fanning with their father, and while the latter went to the mills. In the spring of 1833 he and his eldest son land office to enter the land, the two sons walked and our subject came to Michigan and settled upon to Lafayette, Ind., a distance of two hundred miles the farm on sections 22 and 23, Albion Township, through an almost unbroken wilderness. One can now owned and occupied by our subject. It then scarcely realize to day that this well settled, finely comprised one hundred and twenty acres of land, developed region could then have been in such a purchased from the Government and our subject wild condition. There were only three families livnow has the patent signed by President Jackson, ing at IHomer, and there was no house between giving them full possession. them and Union City, and then but one for a dis As the mother's health failed the old people re- tance of forty miles. The brothers reached their turned to the East the mother dying in Massachu- destination in safety, bought five yoke of young setts in the year 1848, and the father soon after. oxen and three cows, and then returned to their He was a man of marked intelligence and was new home. strongly in favor of education, giving his children After coming of age our subject took up eighty good ady4nt.ges in that respect and educating his acres of Government land in 1837. There were PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 787 - - - - -- - - - -- - but few inhabitants in this entire region then, but one log shanty on the present site of Albion, and only about five men were living in the township. Mr. Holmes is the only Iterson now living who came to Albion Township at that time. Indians still lingered around their old haunts, deer, turkeys and wolves were plentiful, and a bear was seen now and then. The roads were mere Indian trails, and there were no bridges over the streams. He and his bride wlo were married in 1836, were the first couple wedded in Albion Township, and they began life in tleir llumble pioneer llome ini limited circumstances. Mrs. HIolmes, whose maiden name was Nancy Young, was a daughter of Peter and Rosella Young. The family came to Michigan in 1835 and were among the early settlers of Albion Township. They had originally lived in New Jersey, but came to this State from New York, where they had been living. Mrs. Young, who was born in 1786 died in 1843. Mr. Young died in 1851. They were the parents of ten children, of whom but two survive, both of whom are living in Chicago. Mrs. Holmes was born in New Jersey in 1812, and was educated in the public schools. She was an extraordinary woman in many respects. She possessed a strong mind, an indomitable will, an unfailing energy, and was capable of an immense amount of work. She was kind and gentle in her disposition and in iher domestic relations was a model wife and mother and her neighbors always found her obliging and considerate. She ably assisted our subject in getting a start in life and managed the farm admirably when he was away on long journeys. After a wedded life of nearly fifty years this beloved wife and mother and trusted friend enteied into the long rest that knows no awakening this side of eternity, her death occurring May 31, 1885. She was a true and consistent Christian and was for a long time identified with the Presbyterian Church as one of its most earnest members. By their union Mr. and Mrs. Holmes became the parents of eleven children, of whom these nine are living: Henry C., a resident of Muskegon County, Mich., who married Phcebe Darling and has one child; Sarah J., wife of C. W. Saunders, of Union City, and the mother of two children; Frank lin G., who gained his education at Ann Arbor is now a lawyer at Grand Rapids, where he and his wife, whose maiden name was Dorcas Woolsey, have a pleasant home and two children to complete their wedded happiness; Caroline E., wife of Waldron Foster, of Sheridan Township, and the mother of one child; George W., a resident of Lawrence, Kan.; Mary Augusta, widow of Henry Webb, and the mtother of two children; Charles L., who married Lizzie Chalppell, and lives at Eldridge, Dak.; Eva Elizabeth, a woman of much business tact, affording her fatller a great deal of assistance while lie was in office at Marshall, who is the wife of Manly IHouston, of Fredonia Township, and is the mother of four daughters; and Edwin P. The children who are deceased are Olive, who was the wife of l)aniel Taylor and the mother of two children; and Hlattie P., who died at the age of eight years. Mr. Holmes had to go fifteen miles to get assistance in raising the log house upon his land in which he and his bride began housekeeping. I-e at once aplplied himself to clearing off and breaking up the land and Ihas made all the present improvements except tile original house, a part of which was erected by his father in 1835 and is the oldest frame house in the townshipl. le and other members of the family added to their landed possessions from, time to time until they owned eight hundred acres of choice land. Our subject's present farm comprises one hundred and fifty acres of land, one hundred and thirty of which is under a high state of cultivation, and its improvements are of a high order. Our subject has been quite a traveler in his day and has seen much of his native country, as he has not only revisited his old home in the East a number of times, but lie has made several trips to the Pacific Coast and has thus viewed the country from ocean to ocean. In 1852 he left his farm under the capable management of his wife and crossed the plains to California, being five months on the way to his destination. After his arrival on the Pacific Slope he at once went into the mines and for two years was very successfully engaged in mining. Gathering together his gains lie returned to his home in Michigan by the way of the Isthmus. 788 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. of Panama and remained witl his family until 1873 he was elected Register of Deeds for Calhoun 1859, when he was once again stricken with the County, was re-elected in 1875 and served until gold fever on the announcement of the discovery 1877. In 1867 he was a member of the State Conof gold at Pike's Peak, and lie joined the tide of stitutional Convention. I-e made tle race for his countrymen flowing thither across the plains State Legislature at two different times, and many and remained there for one season, searching for years ago was nominated for Sheriff of the county, the precious mineral. He became quite prominent but declined to accept the nomination. He has in public affairs and took part in the Territorial Gov- been one of tie leaders in local politics, first ernment as a member of tlle Constitutional Conven- as a Whig and later as a Republican. He was tion of the Territory of Colorado, held at Denver. a friend of the Greenbackers, and has always been When he was in that city tlhe homes of its people a temperance man in principle, but never a third consisted of rude log cabins, tents and dugouts, party man. Socially, lie is a member of the and there was not a frame house on the place. IHe Masonic order at Albion. IHe has always taken a was offered forty acres of land right in the heart deep interest in education, giving Iis children fine of that now flourishing city for $300, the same edlucational advantages, all of them having been land to-day being valued at millions of dollars. students at Albion College and several of them In 1860 Mr. Iolmes again went to California, and have been teachers. Ile has exerted an influence staid the first winter near Placerville. The next in securing good educational facilities in this towinspring he went into Nevada and took up a wood ship as a member of the local School Board. ranch, upon wlich lie engage(d in selling cord wood at the rate of $16 and $18 a cord whenl delivered. After an absence of four years lie returned to his home by the way of the Isthmus of Panama and llas since devoted himself to the care i SAAC L. OSTROM is one of the old pioneers of his farm and to the public interests entrusted to of this county, who is eminently worthy of his care from time to time, when he has been an notice in this biographical work, and it gives incumbent of some important civic offices. us pleasure to represent him on these pages. For Mr. HIolmes is now seventy-six years of age andl many years till the infirmities of age came upon retains to a marked degree both his mental and him lie was actively identified with the farming p)hysical faculties, his mind being as bright as ever, interests of Albion Township, and as the result and lie is still enjoying good health, his remarkably of his labors is the proprietor of a valuable farm strong constitution seemingly unimpaired by all on section 36. that he has passed through in the course of a long A native of Dutchess County, N. Y., Mr. Osand busy life. As we have seen he has been closely trom was born September 13, 1805. IHis fattier, associated, not only with the rise and progress of whose given name was Zachariah, was also a nathe material prosperity of thlis county, but he has tive of Dutchess County where he was reared to also borne a part in its government. HIe has been the life of a farmer. Hie, in turn, was the son of the recipient of public honors from his fellow-citi- Ienry Ostrom, likewise a native of New York and zens, who have recognized his sagacity and ability a farmer. Tlhe Ostrom family originated in Gerfor affairs and superior business qualifications, and many and the great-grandfather of our subject fled have often called him to assist in the management from persecution in his native land to this counof public interests. In 1837 he was Road Com- try in Colonial times. The mother of our subject, missioner. He was subsequently elected to repre- whose name was Hannah Ostrom, was a native of sent Albion Township as a member of the County New York and was of French descent. She and Board of Supervisors and acted in that capacity the father of our subject spent their entire wedded eighteen years. He has been Justice of the Peace life in Dutchess County where his death occurred and also Township Assessor for two years. In in 1814. She afterward married a Mr. Nelson,:. ~ ii ~ --;: 1~ ~~~~ ~~~~ ~~~~ ~~~~ ~~~~ ~~~ ~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ PORTRAIT AND BIO0Gk&PIIICAL ALIBUM, 789 POTiL AND,~ — BIOGRPHICA ALBUM9 whom she survived, living to the advanced age of eighty-four years. By her first marriage there were born five children, of whom our subject is the only survivor. Mr. Ostrom spent his youth upon a farm in his native State and received his education in the local schools. He was but nine years old when his father died and he then went to live with his grandfather who was a straight-laced Presbyterian Deacon, and reared his little grandson in accordance with his stern ideas as to the manner in which children should be trained. He was a man of considerable means and had owned slaves in New York when slavery was general in the Nortl in early times. Mr. Ostrom remained an inmate of his grandfather's home until his marriage in 1826 to Mary Pells, a daughter of Zephaniah and Catherine Pells. IHer parents were natives of New York and were farmers by occupation. Mrs. Ostrom was born in 1808 or 1809, in the State of New York. Iler marriage with our subject was greatly blessed and brought to them eleven children, of whom these two are deceased: Iannah, wife of David Whitney; and Caroline, wife of Edgar IIall, who died, leaving one clhild, Agnes, wllo lhas always made her home with her grandfather Ostrom and is the pride of his heart. She has been finely educated and is a graduate of Albion College. The surviving children of our subject are: Eliza Ann, who married Nelson l)ewey, of Spring Arbor, and is the mother of one chlild; Margaret, wlo married Columbus Juckett, of Tecumseh, and is the mother of one child; Sarah, who is the wife of Charles Bartlett, of Pulaski, and the mother of three children; Zephaniah, a resident of Marengo; Leonard, a resident of Tecumseh Township, who married Clara Parmeter; Charles, a resident of Albion, who married Harriet Patterson and they have two chlildren; Edward, who married Mattie Olney and lives upon his father's farm; William I-I., who lives at home with his father and is his staff and mainstay; and Catherine, a resident of Spring Arbor Township, who married I)avid Barber, now deceased, and is the mother of two children. When our subject thus in the opening years of manhood took unto himself a wife he had no other capital but his health and ambition to succeed in life. The first three years after his marriage he worked for his wife's father on his farm by the year at $10 a month. In 1829 he removed to Western New York and settled at Palmyra. He staid there one winter and his next move was to Macedon where he settled on an improved fortyacre farm which he had purchased. After a short residence upon it he sold it advantageously and moved to near Medina where he bought one hundred acres of partly improved land for $1,300. Iie and his wife lived in the log house that stood on the place for a short time and then he sold that property at the rate of $40 an acre, a big advance on tlhe purchase price. After that fortunate speculation our subject took the proceeds of the sale and came to Michigan in 1836, and invested a part of his money in two hundred and forty acres of land where he now lives. This was a beauitfull spot in the oak openings, and in tile log house that stood here hle and his family, which lie brought here the same fall, took up their abode. They had come hither by team from New York througrl Canada. But five acres of his land was broken and our subject heartily enterel upon the pioneer task of clearing and breaking tile remainder of it. In the month of June the next year the pioneers of this region witnessed one of tlhe worst hail storms that ever visited this part of the country. It destroyed tile spring wlieat and other crops, besides killing the chickens and birds. There were plenty of wild animals here in those early days and deer, bears and wolves were often seen prowling around tlie settlement. All the valuable improvements that our subject lias placed upon his land are llis own handiwork as he has never hired anyone to work for him. His industry and thrift have been well rewarded and hlis farm compares favorably in every respect with those about it. Mr. Ostrom is crippled with rheumatism and has retired from active work. Ilis farm, which now comprises one hundred and twenty acres of land, lie having disposed of the remainder to his son, is under the management of his sons Edward and William, who are successfully engaged in mixed farming. Mr. Ostrom has lived upon this homestead for PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 790 c- —I ---~ --- —---— --- — "-` —- ---`-` — 1 ---1--1 — -- L -I — --— ' ----L ----' --- —I = fifty-four years continuously and has seen this country pass through all the changes from a wilderness to its present advanced condition as one of the best developed and richest counties in the State, and it may be to his pride that he has helped to bring about this wonderful transformation. IHe has been identified with every good work for advancing the moral status of his community and for many years has been one of the leading members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, to wlich his good wife also belonged. lie is at present a Class-Leader and has been a Steward and Trustee in his time and has always given liberally of his means in support of the church. lie was one of the original members of the South Albion Methodist Episcopal Church and helped to build its house of worship. He was at one time Road Overseer of the township and in other ways has served its interests. He cast his first vote for John Quincy Adams in 1829. IHe has always stood firmly by the Republican party since its formation and has taught his sons to be true to its principles. Although temperate in habits he is a moderate smoker, using the weed for its medicinal effects. Lie has always inculcated the highest principles of right and morality in training his children and has set before them a good example. An unusually long and happy wedded life was vouchsafed to our subject and his wife who lived together sixty-one years before they were called upon to part by her death four years ago, when past seventy-nine years of age. She was a woman of sincere Christian spirit and left behind her the memory of a good life that is held in reverence by her husband, children and many friends. AVID H. METCALF, President of the ) Michigan Scoop Company, is a gentleman whose name is widely known throughout the United States from the introduction of his machines and inventions, and his contributions to the literature of technology. Prominent among the inventions which he has patented are the tinner's square, and the tinman's square sheet, I — "I —i --- —- '-`-I — -1 --- —- 111__ - the latter being the only article for a tinner's use that has ever had the metric system as its basis of measurement. On account of the importance attached to the square, it was given precedence in the patent office, and the papers made out within six days after the model was examined. Another invention for which Mr. Metcalf has received glowing testimonials, and which is sold in all parts of the country, is a schedule showing the cost of tinware when manufactured from tin of any price and with labor at any cost. The next in the ancestral line was John Metcalf, wlio was the Crown Surveyor for the English Governors in New England. The father of our subject was David Metcalf, who was born in Orange, Greenfield County, Mass., in 1785, and was a prominent farmer and a local preacher of the Methodist Episcopal Church. tHe married Mabel Tolles, daughter of Jerry Tolles, a Revolutionary soldier who lived to be one hundred and two years old. Mr. and Mrs. Metcalf removed to Whitestown, N. Y., in 1815, and there the wife (lied in 1846, leaving a family of twelve children. The husband and father came to this State in 1848, and made his home in Battle Creek until called from time to eternity. The subject of this biographical notice was born in Whitestown, Oneida County, N. Y., August 9, 1828. Ile pursued the higher studies in Whitestown Academy and Oneida Institute, and after completing his education, learned the tinner's trade, at which he worked in his native place until his removal to this State with his father. In Battle Creek he engaged in the same business for himself, continuing it in connection with hardware until burned out. He tlen traveled for a score of years, selling stoves and hardware to the trade in all parts of the United States. Having invented a scoop, a stock company was formed in 1885, and the scoop factory opened, Mr. Metcalf being President of the concern, but not ceasing to travel until the increase in the business of the company compelled him to take charge of the establishment. Mr. Metcalf now gives his entire attention to the business of the scoop factory and the manufacture of his other patents. lie has invented some fine tin-working machinery as well as the small implements before noted. He has been a contributor to A: PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.. 791 PORTRAIT AND ----I --- —---- BIOGRAPHICAL-~ ----I-~~ — ALBUM.I —~ —~-~~-~~- ~ 791 the "American Artisan" published in Chicago, and to the "Sheet-Metal Worker" of New York City. His thorough practical knowledge of the tinner's trade has been a strong factor in the success of his inventions as, unlike some men of inventive genius, he did not find it necessary to experiment and consult others regarding a work with which he was unfamiliar. The estimable wife of Mr. Metcalf bore the maiden name of Lydia Muffley, and their marriage was solemnized in Dowagiac, January 2, 1856, that being the home of the bride. She was born in Canton, Ohio, in 1834, is a daughter of Jacob and Sarah (Bortz) Muffley, and a descendant of the Muffleys who were among the first settlers in Philadelphia, Pa. Mr. and Mrs. Metcalf have one living child, Nellie, wife of W. C. Halliday of the Advance Thresher Works, and mother of a son, Roland Iver. 5\ ELVILLE J. WOOD has long been prominently identified with the fur trade of Michigan, and is also connected with the business interests of this county as the proprietor and manager of a well-appointed boot and shoe store at Athens. Ile is widely and favorably known throughl lis business and social relations, and is justly regarded as one of our best citizens. I-e was born ten miles east of Cleveland, Ohio, March 12, 1844. tie is a son of Smtoloff and Martha (Johnson) Wood, natives respectively of New York and Ohio. Timothy Wood, the grandfatler of our subject, was a merchant of English origin. HIe came to Michigan prior to the war and lived in tllis State until his death at Blissfield in 1884, at the advanced age of ninety years. Iis wife had died in Ohio in 1850. They were the parents of five or six children. One of their sons, 0. J. Wood, was the inventor of tile celebrated Wood's Hair Restorative. Smoloff Wood came to Michigan in March, 1854, traveling by boat to Detroit, thence by team, accompanied by his two sons to Athens, and settled four and one-half miles north of the village on eighty acres of land. He was famous here in his day as the proprietor of the Pine Creek Hotel, one of tlhe most noted hostelries in the State. It was a very popular resort, was always well filled with guests, and was famous for its dances which would be kept up for ten nights in succession. Besides thus successfully acting the part of mine host, Mr. Wood was extensively engaged as a cattle dealer the most of his life. He and his partner would often ship as many as $300,000 worth of cattle a year to the East. Hie was one of the moneyed men of the county, was one of its prominent and best known citizens, and in his death in 1867 its b:usiness interests suffered a severe blow. He was prominently identified with the Masons, and was a man of many pleasant and agreeable social qualities who was popular with all classes. Tlie mother of our sulject is still living, and a woman of personal worth who is much esteemed by all about her. She is a daughter of Abraham Johnson, wlo married Sarah DeVoe, and reared a family of ten children. Ile and his wife and children were all members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and were much devoted to the cause of religion. Iis people were of Pennsylvania German origin. HIe came to Caledonia, Kent County, Mich., during the latter part of his life, and resided there to the time of his death. lie was a gallant soldier in the War of 1812, and in one of the battles in which lie took an active part was wounded in the knee. He was a man of earnest convictions especially in politics, and was a strong supporter of the Whig party. Tlhe early life of our subject was passed on a farm, and lie received a limited education in tle public schools. Hle was of a bold, venturesome disposition, full of courage and high spirit, and well endowed with fortitude, tenacity of purl)ose and great powers of endurance. From early boyhood lie displayed a great fondness for hunting, and would often leave his team standing in the field, and on the impulse of the moment start out on the chase. IIe was very successful in hunting and trapping game, and often made trips East with his father to take collections of furs to sell. He has dealt in furs since he was sixteen years of age, is a fine judge of good fur, and commands a high 792 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. salary in the trade. For the past fourteen years manhood in March, 1865, in the Twelfth Michigan he has-been engaged for five months during the Infantry, Company H. He accompanied his regicold weather in buying and collecting fur for II. ment to Arkansas, and during the year that he was A. Newland & Co., of Detroit. in the army was very serviceable as a soldier, and Mr. Wood has had many thrilling and perilous was discharged with an honorable record in March, experiences during his life as a hunter. Hle has 1866. He and his wife are people of social promicaught and killed more fur-bearing animals, such nence, andl he is closely identified with the Masonic as coon, bear and others, than any man in Lower society, with the Independent Order of Odd FelMichigan. Once while on a trip to Northern Mich- lows and with the Grand Army of the Republic. igan, at Mackinaw, he was obliged to cross the He has never desired political honors, but at one strait to Marquette. The steam ferryboat was time he accepted the office of Deputy Sheriff of the frozen fast in the ice, and the party, seven men and county, and discharged its duties with characterisone woman, started across the strait in a covered tic ability and with unswerving fidelity to the true stage. As the mercury was standing at about twen- interests of the public. ty-five degrees below zero, it was anything but a In January, 1868, Mr. Wood and Miss Jennie comfortable ride, and to add to the discomfiture of Stanbro were united in marriage. Mrs. Wood is a the passengers when nearly two miles from land native of Athens, and a daughter of Dr. Charles the whole outfit, stage, horses and driver, broke M. and Lovina (Underwood) Stanbro. Her father through the ice and went down into the cold lark came from Western New York to this county, of water beneath. The occupants of the stage tum- which lie was one of the earliest pioneers. He was bled out at the rear end and paddled for about ten one of the first settlers of Athens, and one of its feet through clear water to solid ice. Their cloth- first doctors, and his name was well known and ing was instantly frozen stiff in the cold atmosphere honored throughout this region. Our subject and and every person in the party was more or less his amiable wife have had three children —Lewis C., frozen, Mr. Wood finding his feet suffered the Burr (deceased), and Ray. Their home is one of most. Another stage came to the rescue of the the pleasantest and most attractive in the city, and suffering party, and carried them all as fast as all who cross its threshold are sure of enjoying horses could go to St. Ignace, where they were pleasant hospitalities extended to them by the graspeedily relieved of their frozen clothing. When cious, kindly hostess and genial entertaining host. the accident occurred our subject lost his satchel A bill has been introduced in the Legislature, with all his papers, and his overshoes and mittens, drawn by our subject, to protect fur-bearing anibut he felt that lie and his companions had escaped mals, as these animals being caught in September well with their lives. On his winter trips Mr. and October are valueless on account of the fur Wood always carries large snowshoes, and has fre- being unprime, and he considers it would be worth quent occasion to use them, as his work lies mostly thousands of dollars if the bill passes. in the Lake Superior region, where much snow falls. In 1875 Mr. Wood opened a boot and shoe store,: -,,,,j - at Athens, which he has managed ever since with good financial success., lie is a man of great practical energy, of much enterprise, and possesses a OBERT P. ELYEA holds an honorable posiready business tact. By these traits he has pushed tion among the farmers of Marengo Townhimself to the front so that to-day he is one of our ship, where he has a good farm on section most solid and useful business men. He has had 18, and is managing his agricultural interhis own way to make in the world, and is a fine type ests with skill and profit. lie was born in Livingof our self-made men. He showed his loyalty to ston County, N. Y., July 19, 1843. Mr. Elyea is a his country by enlisting in the opening years of son of Peter Elyea who was formerly a well known UI: VVLVJ N \ILYL PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 795 farmer in this section. He was of Dutch descent, and his wife was of mingled Scotch and Dutch parentage. Our subject lived in his native State until he was ten years old and then came to Michigan in the fall of 1853 with his father, who cast in his lot with the pioneers of Marengo Township and began farming on a piece of wild land, a part of which he purchased from the Government. After attaining manhood Robert, who had had good training under his father in agricultural pursuits, chose farming as his life work and has (lone well in his vocation. lie has ninety-six acres of very valuable farming land, all of which is under excellent cultivation and yields him rich harvests iln repayment for the toil and care that he expends in its tillage. Ile has made nearly all the improvements since he purchased the place, and among them we may mention a commodious, conveniently arranged barn 35x40 feet in dimensions, witlh a basement that will accommodate all his stock in the winter. tie and his family occupy a neat, cozy dwelling, a frame structure two stories in height, well furnished and finely situated on an eminence overlooking the surrounding country. Mr. Elyca raises corn, wheat, oats and otlher cercals, has a fine vineyard, good pear and apple orchards and everything about the place indicates thritt, industry and superior management on thle part of the owner. To her who hias been tile home-maker and by her a ctive co-operation as a good housewife has assisted him in securing a competence, our subject was wedded in 1870. Mrs. Elyea was formerly Miss Fannie Shutzel, and she was born in New York in May, 1845. Her father, William Shutzel, was also a native of New York, the town of Easton, Washington County, being the place of his birth. IIe was a miller by trade and married in early life, his wife also being a native of New York, and settled in that State. Mrs. Elyea's grandifather was a Colonel in the War of 1812. Mrs. Elyea is the youngest of four children, three daughters and one son. HIer sisters are deceased. 1Ier brother Harry is married and lives in Nebraska. Mr. Elyea is well endowed physically and mentally and his many worthy traits of character go to make him a good man and a good citizen, who is kind in his domestic relations and is neighborly and obliging with all with whom he has dealings. In politics his interest is centered in the Republican party of which he is a sturdy champion. They are the parents of two children, one son and one daughter Clarles F. and Carrie. W ILLIAM ROWLEY. This energetic agriculturalist is pleasantly located on section 10, Fredonia Township, where he owns a fine property amounting to two hundred and sixteen acres. Having reached a goodly age, Mr. Rowley is content to lay aside the burdens of life and now has his estate worked on shares. IIe was born in Stillwater, Saratoga County, N. Y., January 25, 1815, and received his first schooling in his native place. At tile early age of fourteen years he started out in the world and with his older brother lie made his home some four years. IIe than began teaching, following the profession two years, and then becoming a farm laborer at $11 per month. Hle was thus employed three years, and at tile expiration of that period determined to establish a home in the West. Mr. Rowley was married in 1837 to Sarah Clute, who was born ini Clifton Park, N. Y., and together the young couple made the journey to this State with a team, being twenty-six days en route. Reaching this county Mr. Rowley located on section 23, Fredonia Township, where he placed a considerable tract of land under improvement and cultivation. In 1845 lie changed his place of abode to that he now occupies, the new home being wild land which has been brought to its present fine condition by dint of energetic and zealous labors. The dwelling occupied by tile family was a shanty 12x30 feet, with a stone chimney in one end, and the furniture they used was scarcely less rude in construction tlan the little dwelling. To happy hearts and busy hands a comparatively poor abiding place is a matter of no great importance, and many pleasant hours were lassed by Mr. and Mrs. Rowley in the home that ere long was replaced by one of more modern design and better supplied with conveniences. Two children 796 I --- —--- PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - -----— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ --- —— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ were born to them, a son and daughter, named Alonzo and Rosette. The son is now in Marshall and the daughter lives in Kalamazoo, having married Oscar Tuthill, a lawyer of that city. The wife and mother was called from time to eternity in 1877, and the following year Mr. Rowley was married to Sarah O'Donell, a lady who was born and reared in Stillwater, N. Y. Mr. Rowley is a Republican in politics and in his religious views a Baptist. IHe is honorable and conscientious in his dealings with those about him, kindly and considerate in social and domestic life, and with his good wife enjoys the esteem of his neighbors. The lithographic portrait presented in connection with this brief biographical notice will perpetuate for c9ming generations the features of an honored pioneer of Calhoun County, who assisted largely in laying the foundation of the present prosperity of this portion of Michigan. *-* fi ---_.s ~=5 —7-7 --- 5P HOMAS KNIGHT. A goodly number of f the old settlers of this county have won a K.. competence which allows them to retire from active duties, surround themselves with the comforts suited to their declining years and spend their last days unharassed by anxiety. Among this number is Thomas Knight, who is living in Marshall Township on land which he reclaimed from its primitive condition many long years ago. Beginning his career in life as a poor boy, he put his shoulder to the wheel with so much energy and good judgment that he became the owner of over five hundred acres of land with valuable improvements, and was able to bestow upon his offspring many advantages unknown to his own early years and give them financial aid in establishing themselves in life. The father of our subject, who also bore the name of Thomas, was born in Yorkshire, England, and reared to agricultural pursuits. He followed farming and in connection (lid hedging and ditching as a jobber. In 1831 he carne to America with his wife to join the son who had preceded him to the New World by a twelvemonth or more. The parents made their home in Detroit until their death, some three or four years after their arrival. Both belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church and conscientiously endeavored to discharge their duties toward God and man. The wife, whose maiden name was Ann Corringham, was born in Gainesborough, Lincolnshire, and was a daughter of Godfrey Corringham, a successful rope manufacturer. The subject of this biographical notice was born in Yorkshire, near the city of Hull, December 20, 1805, and reared on the banks of the river Humber. His education was limited to attendance at the common schools until ten years of age, when he began to work out, herding cattle and sheep along the banks of the stream at sixpence a day. He subsequently worked on a farm for his board until fourteen years old, then hired out for $40 a year that being his remuneration until 1827. Ills next occupation was hedging and ditching with his father, at whicli he was employed until 1830, when lie determined to visit America, having been led to believe that in this country he would find much better opportunities to advance. He left -Hull April 13, in the sailing vessel " Wilberforce," which encountered severe storms and reached Quebec only after a long voyage of eight weeks and two days. Mr. Knight, after landing, went at once to Detroit and made it his first effort to secure employmrent. His experiences during the next few months were trying and discouraging, and nothing but the inherent persistency of his nature prevented him from giving up in despair. Ete worked at various occupations, encountering failures and disappointments in his efforts to accumulate a little means, frequently being beaten out of his wages, and in addition to other troubles, being taken sick and using up all his savings before he was again able to work. During the latter part of his sojourn in Detroit he did quite well, having become known as an lonest and faithful employe. In February, 1832, Mr. Knight came to Ceresco, this county, found employment with a Mr. Bertram, and worked for that gentleman off and on some three yeats at $13 per month. During the same year he bought sixty-eight acres of his present farm, upon which he began making improvements as soon as possible, establishing his home in a rude PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 797 -------------— ---I-- — —I --- —-- -I --- —--------— " — --- log house. Game abounded in this vicinity and the Pottawatomie Indians roamed over the country. Mr. Knight never hunted much but helped kill one bear in the township, shooting the animal in the jaw. The energy with which lie took up the work of developing his property and the good judgment which lie showed in all matters of expenditure and investment, have resulted in a degree of success that makes his example conspicuously worthy of imitation. From the large estate of which he was once the owner, he has but two hundred acres at present, having bestowed the remainder upon his children. Ile farmed actively until 1885, when lie rented his land and retired. lie used to raise some fine roadsters and still has some good specimens on the farm. At different times he took the first premium at the county fair. Realizing the value of a good wife, Mr. Knigllt wooed and won Miss Ann Wass, to whom he was married in 1)etroit in 1831. The bride was born in Lincolnshire, England, and came to America with Mr. Knight's parents, and they were married a few days after her arrival by the Rev. Mr. Berry, of the Episcopal Church in Detroit. She proved her worth in the household, carefully managing so long as economy was necessary, wisely guiding her children, and enjoying with her husband and family the prosperity which increased year by year. She was removed from time to eternity in 1878. She had become the mother of nine children of whom we note the following: Charles F. is engaged in farming in Marshall Township; Thomas lives in the city of Marshall; Eliza is the wife of Charles Atmore, who is ranching near Denver, Col.; William is a dealer in musical instruments in Denver; Godfrey is an extensive farmer in North Dakota; John, with whom the father now lives, is a man of family, residing on the old homestead, four hunlred and five acres of which lie now owns; Jesse is a real-estate dealer in Denver; Sarah is the wife of Curran Bentley, of Marshall Township; Frank is engaged in the clothing business in Denver. He employs about thirty clerks. Mr. Knight has borne his part in the public affairs of Marshall Township, both in a public and private capacity. He was Highway Commissioner twelve years, Supervisor one year, and was elected to the office of County Coroner, but did not qualify for that position, as he visited his native land that year. This was in 1866, when he spent about a twelvemonth in various parts of England, including the metropolis and his former home. He helped build the first schoolhouse in the neighborhood of his farm and was one of the organizers of its school district. From the candidacy of Gen. Fremont until that of Grover Cleveland, he voted a Republican ticket, but he is now identified with the Democratic party. In matters of faith he is a Freethinker. lie is an entertaining companion, having a memory stored with incidents and scenes extending back to the time when Detroit was a town of about nineteen hundred inhabitants, and including much that lie saw during his visit to his native land,. He is a good-natured, lhappy-hearted gentleman, who enjoys a laugh and has a sufficiently keen sense of humor to see the occasion for one quite frequently. tUDGE HENRY A. TILLOTSON, who is now holding tlhe office of Justice of the Peace at Marshall, has long been a prominent figure in the public life of this city, and at various times has held important offices of trust and responsibility. Ie is a native of Cayuga County, N. Y., born March 13, 1825. His father, Zenas Tillotson, was a native of the same county and was a son of Capt. Tillotson who was a pioneer of that part of New York, going thither from Connecticut. Iee was of Welsh descent. The mother of our subject, whose maiden name was S. 1'. Phelps, was a native of the State of New York, and a daughlter of Joseph Phelps, who was of Welsh ancestry. The parents of Henry A. were married in Cayuga County, and lived there several years thereafter. In 1835 they came with their family to this county, and were among its early pioneers. They located at Marsllall, where Mr. Tillotson became associated with S. B. Davies, of Ann Arbor, in managing a stage line from Ypsilanti to St. Joseph, which they it 798 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. operated together a number of years and then sold. estimable lady and i The father of our subject was appointed Postmaster her family. She an by President Polk and served in that capacity four dren living: Fran years. He was afterward in the employ of the Wells, Fargo & C Michigan Central Railroad Company at Michigan Marion, Ohio; and City, Ind., for fifteen months. He subsequently Saxe of South Oma became connected for a time with the milling Our subject's fell business at Marshall. Ile died in September, 1876, superior qualificatio at a ripe age, thus rounding out a long and useful called him to assist life. His widow survived him until March, 1889, affairs. He was Trr when she too passed to eternal rest in her eighty- in 1857 and 1858. 1 third year. Of the eight children born to these Ward in 1862-63 a worthy people, three are now living. 1864. In 1877 he Henry A. Tillotson is the oldest of his parents' city, and did good s family and lie was a lad of ten years when they held that position ir brought him to Michigan. The remainder of his 1887 he was elected boyhood and youth was spent amid pioneer scenes city and is still h, and his schooling was obtained in the village school its duties with unil at Marshall. After he had attained manhood he Judge Tillotson is V continued to live under the parental roof for a prominent member time and assisted his father in the postoffice. IHe to the St. Albans I finally established a home of his own and was as- which he has been D sisted thereby by his bride, Miss Cornelia R. Chapter, No. 4, R. Ketchum to whom he was married September 19, mandery No. 17, K. 1845. Mrs. Tillotson is the daughter of Sidney grees in the Odd Ketclum, whose name is inseparably connected Grand Lodge and with the history of this county as the founder of Politically, our su the city of Marshall. Democratic party. After carrying on the mercantile business for a number of years, Mr. Tillotson entered the employ of the Michigan Central Railroad Company as conductor, and was subsequently appointed 'to the responsible position of ticket agent at Detroit, ICHARD J. ] which place he filled with entire satisfaction to the be at once re company for a number of years. He ran the first that of one o night train into Chicago over the Michigan Central Marshall To) Railroad. He finally returned to Marshall and gressive ideas of thl began farming on a tract of one hundred acres of an art and a science land lying within the corporate limits of the city. ful in his chosen ca He was thus prosperously engaged until 1868 when soil abundant crops he sold his farm at a good price, and moving to consists of one hunt Omaha was engaged in the express business there 4 and 5, which are until the fall of 1874. He then returned again to manner and are ado this city, and has ever since made his home here. complete in all their Mrs. Tillotson was born in the State of New Going back a fe York and came to Michigan when she was a small family we find a child with her parents in 1831. She is a most Society of Friends, is devoted to the interests of id her husband have two chilik R., express messenger for o., running from Chicago to I Mary M., the wife of A. W. ha, Neb. ow-citizens early recognized his )ns and at various times have in the management of public ustee of the village of Marshall lie was Alderman of the Second nd 1864 and was Supervisor in was appointed Marshal of the service during the term that he 1 preserving law and order. In Justice of the Peace of this oldinug that office, discharging form justice and impartiality. well known in social circles as a of various lodges. lie belongs dodge No. 20, A. F. & A. M. of vlaster five years; to Lafayette A. M., and to Marshall Con-: T. He has taken all the deFellows society and also the Grand Encampment degrees. bjcct stands stanchly by the M/ n,Z MIARKHAM. This name will cognized by many readers as f the leading agriculturalists of wnship who, possessing the proe age, makes of his pursuit both H. e therefore proves successlling, gaining from the fertile of excellent quality. His farm Ired and thirty acres on sections e tilled in the most thorough rned by a fine set of buildings, r appointments. w generations in the Markham Rev. Joseph Markham of the who was a prominent member PORTRAI_~T AND BIOG RAPHI-ICAL ALBUM. 799 _~I-PRA AND_~ —~ —~ BIOGRAPHICAL_ ALBUM.- 799 --- i of that body and whose name appears in the Quaker Bible. The next in the direct line is Dr. Z. Markham, who was born in Connecticut not far from New Lebanon, and practiced his profession in Hartford. The next on the genealogical tree, Joseph P., the father of our sulject, was born in Connecticut and adopted the occupation of a farmer. Aft6r some years he removed to Wyoming County, N. Y. where he continued his former pursuit for a time, then, renting his property engaged in the manufacture of grain cridles until 1833. Determining to come to Michigan, he loaded up his household goods and with a yoke of oxen made the journey to this county and set up his home in Pennfield Township. lie entered one hundred and sixty acres of land there, which he improved and upon which lie still lives, beingl now nearly fourscore years of age. Both in length of residence and in years lie is one of the oldest settlers in the county. lie has been very successful financially speaking, has owned several large farms, mostly improved by himself, and gave one to each of his children. lIe has held various township oftices and has, since the birth of the Republican party, been its strong supporter. The mother of our sulject was born in Genesee County, N. Y., and bore the maiden nlame of Delilah Wilbur. Her father, SaIluel Wilbur, a native of the Empire State, came West when a boy with lbis parents to locate in Barry County, this State. Upon reaching mature years lie engaged in farming. Miss Wilbur was the secon(d wife of Mr. Markham, who, by his two marriages llad ten children. The subject of this notice was born in Pennfield Townshilp, this county, February 8, 185 1, and spent his early years on the parental acres. Like most farmers' sons he was early set to work at the various duties that can be performed by a lad, and when it was possible to do so lie attended school, the instruction being received under the rate bill system. 1ie remained at home until twenty-two years old, when he took a school and during a term was instructing others. He then located on one hlundred acres of land in Eaton County, ten miles from Charlotte, made clearings, broke the sod and placed it under good improvements.' He was unusually successful in his agricultural work and ere I I i long was operating two hundred and ten acres. In the spring of 1882 he sold his property and bought that upon which lie is now located. This tract is five miles from the city of Mlarshall, is adorned with orchards and groves, supplied with good grades of stock and abundant farm machinery and carried on in a most efficient manner. At the bride's home in Emmet Township, Calhoun County, in 1878, Mr. Markhamn was united in marriage with Miss Susan A. De Shon. The bride was born in the township in which her marriage was solemnized and is of French ancestry. Her great-grandfather, Capt. De Shon, was a native of France and a sea captain. He finally established his home in Connecticut where his son Joseph was born. The latter made an early settlement on the HIudson River and was engage(l in farming there until his death. IIe owned a nice property. Coming on down the line, we next reach John R. De Shon, father of Mrs. Markham, who was born on the Hudson and came to Michiigan when a young man. He entered land which is now the site of the city of Grand Rapids, but afterward came to Battle Creek, in which he was one of the first to carry on mercantile business. IIe proved very successful, but after a time returned to his former occup)ation, farming, which he continued until a year before his death. IHe then returned to Battle Creek which was his fiilal home. Iis wife, Blira Markham, daughter of J. Mairkham, one of the early settlers of this county, although bearing the same name, is not connected by ties of blood with our subject. Slie is still living, making her home in Battle Creek. In 1889 Mr. Markham was elected Supervisor on tle Republican ticket and re-elected in 1890. He looks carefully after the township affairs that are placed in his hands and displays excellent judgment in assessing property, the making out of the assessment roll being included among his (ltties. In the general work of the Board of Supervisors he has served on different committees and is now Chairman of the Committee on Drains. As a member of the Republican party he has been a delegate to county and Congressional conventions and never fails to deposit his vote when the ballot box is open. iie is now holding the office Qf School 800 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Director, a position for which he is well qualified that he owned, and in the fall of 1860 bought forty by education, deep interest in the cause and energy acres one mile west of Bedford, this county, placof character. He is one of the most enterprising ing his family thereon a year later. Soon after and public-spirited of men, and without neglecting selling his Eastern property he had bought eighty his personal affairs finds time to do much to ad- acres in Kalamazoo County, this State, which he vance the common welfare. improved and sold within a few years, buying instead an equal acreage adjoining his forty in this ^^itCEr=3^37 fH bI,. | county. In 1862 he bought another tract of one hundred and twenty-five acres, on which stands his pleasant residence. IHe paid $50 to bind the barETER W. STANDLEY. The results of gain and gave ten per cent interest in addition to honest toil are shown in the present cir- the original valuation, by reason of buying on time. cumstances of Mr. Standley, who is one of Industry and economy raised the debt, and lie the prosperous agriculturalists and land- stands a free man, with a well-developed and val. owners of Bedford Township. IIe has two hun- uable property. dred and forty-five acres of fine land, upon which In the fall of 1856 Mr. Standley led to the hymenstands a beautiful residence and the other buildings eal altar Miss Thankful Buckland, who shared his which are made necessary or found to be conven- trials and cares, his joys and successes, until Christient on account of the extensive nature of his farm mas Day, 1868, when she exchanged time for eterwork. It is evident to even a casual observer that nity. Of this union there were born five children this place has been brought to its present perfection -Alice, October 20, 1858; Enos, January 18, by hard work and good taste, and that in and 1861; Clarence, October 26, 1863; Ella, September about the dwelling comfort and good cheer abound 23, 1866, and Peter, December 25, 1868. Enos and the true pleasures of home are enjoyed. was called hence in his youth, dying March 14, Mr. Standley lias the blood of patriotic ancestors 1877. Clarence spent a year and a half in Washin his ve his ei, his paternal grandfather having fought ington, but returned in 1890, and is working on during the struggle against the tyranny of the the home farm. On October 12, 1870, Mr. Standmother country, in 1776-1783. Iis parents, Jacob ley was a second time married, his bride on this and Sally (Seaburn) Standley, were natives of New occasion being Elizabeth Sunderlin, nee Warn, York and his father was a farmer and shoemaker. widow of Orson Sunderlin, to whom she was marTheir family consisted of thirteen children of whom ried February 15, 1854. By her former marriage we note the following: Abram is deceased; John Mrs. Standley became the mother of two children lives in Augusta, Kalamazoo County; Jane married -Willie C., born October 8, 1854, and Ettie, May Peter Labertaux and lives near Jackson; Robert 15, 1860. The daughter was married March 31, resides in that city; Fanny, formerly the wife of 1882, to Seward Hincllman whose home is in BedJames Halbert, is dead; Smith is living in Bedford; ford Township. Sarah Ann, wife of Albert Dustin, lives in Van The present Mrs. Standley is the youngest of the Buren County; Peter W. is the next in order of children of John and Mary (Kennedy) Warn, who birth; William is deceased; Jacob and George live lived and died in New York. Hier father was a in Ihgham County; Maria, formerly the wife of native of Schenectady, his natal day having been Charles Andrus, is deceased; Patrick was accident- August 16, 1776, and he lived to the ripe age of ally killed in Calhoun County. eighty-three years. For forty-seven years he was Mr. Standley of this notice was born June 18, a Deacon in the Baptist Church of Sennctt, Cayuga 1834, in Victory, Cayuga County, N. Y. He was County, near which his mortal remains repose. He left fatherless when but ten years old and soon after was a soldier in the War of 1812. His wife was began working on a farm. In January, 1857, he born in Broadalbin April 5. 1788, and died in Sensold the small tract of land and two lots in Victory nett December 29, 1867. Their children were PORTRAIT AND BI OG RAPHICAL ALBU ]M. 801 PORTRAI AND..BIOGRAPHICAL.ALBUM. 8 Samuel, now deceased; Mrs. Mary Ogden, deceased; John T., who lives in Allen, this State; Mrs. Catherine fHubbeld, a resident of Elbridge, N. Y.; Henry, deceased; Mrs. Hannah Bell, living in Auburn, N. Y.; George, and Mrs. Sarah Turner, who live in Sennett; Mrs. Mariah Sheldon, deceased; Ann Eliza, whose home is in Kalamazoo; and the wife of our subject. Every member of this family lived to years of maturity and of the seven who are yet living the youngest is now past fifty-five years old. Mr. Standley has never been an office-seeker, but has always kept informed on political affairs and voted the Democratic ticket. He is a worthy citizen, a prudent and energetic farmer and is generally respected for his good qualities and industrious life. Mrs. Standley is a member of the Baptist Church. '. 1 fi_](. ZtedJ I A ORNELIUS WEEKS. Every man who has improved a tract of land and placed it _ under cultivation has materially added to the wealth of his township and so of the county. Thus it is that Battle Creek Township is indebted to our subject and his associate farmers and stockraisers for much of its prosperity and high standing as a favored agricultural district. Mr. Weeks has a farm here that is surpassingly well tilled and finely equipped in every respect ahd constitutes a a very attractive home. Our subject is a son of Ira and Hannah (Sisson) Weeks, and he was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., October 9, 1830. His paternal grandfather, who bore the same name as himself, was a sea captain, and he made eleven voyages to the West Indies as a merchantman. He was captured twice by the British during the War of 1812, and the last time his vessel was burned; This ended his career as a seafaring man, and he gave as his reason for abandoning his vocation that he did not wish his children to become sailors. After the burning of his ship he was set on shore, and made his way back to his home on Cape Cod, where his ancestry, who belonged to the Society of Friends, had dwelt for some generations. He afterward left his New Eng land birthplace and became a pioneer settler of Cayuga County, N. Y., where he turned his attention to farming. He lived to the venerable age of ninety years and (lied quite well off in this world's goods. Iie left three children, of whom the father of our subject was the eldest. In 1862 Cornelius Weeks came to Emmet with his family and located near Battle Creek, his father's family having preceded him to this place a short time before. After living there more than three years the farm of one hundred and twenty acres belonging to tile father was exchanged for this place, where our subject has lived since buying it in 1865. He has in this home farm and one that he owns near by, two hundred and forty acres of as fertile and well-tilled farming land as can be found in this vicinity. The homestead is amply supplied with good buildings and includes a substantial, roomy, well-furnished house, whose inmates are as pleasant and hospitable people as one will often meet. In 1885 Mr. Weeks' barn was burned by lightning, it having been but recently filled with hay and grain. Tills was a great loss, but the building was immediately replaced by the present commodious and well-built basement barn that was erected the same fall. November 23, 1853, was tie date of the lnost happy event in the life of our subject, as he was then wedded to Miss Emily, daughter of Nathaniel and Rhoda (Mosier) Ewer. Mrs. Weeks was born and reared near Rochester, N.. Her parents were natives of Cape Cod and her father was a farimer. Mr. and Mrs. Weeks are the parents of four sons, as follows: William H.; George E., who lives at home and manages the farm; Charles S. and Ira, who are also at home with their parents. William has been twice married. He was first married to Hattie Crothers, who (lied leaving one child -Jessie. Ever since the death of her mother this child has found a home with her grandparents, who care for her tenderly. William's present wife was formerly Miss Eva Richards, a native of the State of New York. Mr. Weeks has never been very aggressive in politics, but he has always read the papers and kept well informed on political affairs, and has given his support to the Republican party since its formation, 802 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. having been a Whig prior to that event. He is a ters, all of whom grew to maturity, except one man of true worth whose reputation for honesty son who was drowned at twelve years of age. and integrity is of the highest, and with his wife George Brokaw was but an infant when his stands among our best people. Mrs. Weeks was mother died, and he was taken by his maternal reared in the Society of Friends and even now grandparents, who reared him to manhood. Ile holds her birthright though deprived of meeting became familiar with farm work in his youth, as lie with them. assisted his grandfather in his labors when he was not attending the public sclools. He was scarcely more than a boy when rumors of war were heard throughout the land, and rebellion finally broke out. Ile watched its progress with intense interest EORGE W. BROKAW was a Corporal in and in August, 1862, offered his services to his the army during tie late war and is one of country, enlisting in Company tI, One Hundred the many brave veterans who, since peace and Eighth New York Infantry. Hie took part in was declared between the North and the South, many of the most important battles during tile have done so much in the various walks of life to weary years of hardship and suffering that folincrease the l)rosperity of their country. Our sub- lowed. lie fought at the battles of Antietam, ject has devoted himself to farming and for several Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Brandy Station, years has prosperously engaged at his calling in Locust Grove, Rapidan; was at the battles of the Athens Township. Wilderness, Mattapony, Spottsylvania, and faced October 24, 1844, was the date of the birth of the enemy in other engagements too numerous to our subject in the town of Chili, Monroe County, mention. N. Y. He is a son of Isaac M. and Elizabeth In the hotly contested battle at Cold Iarbor lie (Striker) Brokaw, natives respectively of Ovid, received a wound in his right cheek and also in his Seneca County, N. Y., and Chili, Monroe County. right shoulder and lung, the ball being afterwards His father was a skillful mechanic and was quite cut out below the shoulder blade. lie suffered prosperous in his calling. IHe was twice married, greatly from his wounds and was finally discharged His first wife died in January 1845, leaving our from Finley Hospital, Washington, D. C., May 30, subject as the only fruit of that marriage. The 1865. IHe won an honorable record while in the father married a second time, and four sons resulted army, and his faithfulness and capability as a solfrom that marriage, all of whom were reared to dier were rewarded by his promotion from the maturity. In 1854 he moved to Springfield, Ohio, ranks to the position of Corporal. and there made his home the rest of his days. After After his experience of life on the Southern batthe breaking out of the war, he bravely volunteered tlefields, Mr. Brokaw returned to his old home in for the service, enlisting in the Forty-fourth Ohio New York, and March 5, 1866, he was rewarded Infantry. Ile remained with his regiment two for what lie had (lone and suffered during tile war years, showing himself to be a faithful and patriotic by the hand and heart of Miss Frances D. Tourgee. soldier, and was then discharged on account of Mrs. Brokaw was born in Saratoga County, N. Y., disability. While returning to his anxious friends, and is a daughter of Ienry and Jane (Brown) he died on the way, and thus fell a martyr to the Tourgee, natives of New York. Our subject and cause. his wife lead an exceedingly pleasant life, which The paternal grandmother of our subject was Eliz- has brought to them two sons, John and William. abeth (Coshun) Brokaw, who was a native of Sen- On the first day of April following his wedding eca County, N. Y., and was the mother of three our subject and his bride took up their abode in sons. The mother of our subject was a daughter of Athens Township and purchased eighty acres of Peter and Elizabeth Striker, farmers of Chili, N. land adjoining that where they now live and reY., who were parents of three sons and three daugh- sided there the ensuing sixteen years. At the ex-:I ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ e ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ '';"in':i,~i~;_;~,I:; ~-,: ' ' ~~!~::;e~ '0 UP PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 805 ------- 1- —1 — --- —11 --- —---- — -' --- —- --- — --- —-I --- —-- --- ---- I--' - piration of that time Mr. Brokaw purchased eighty acres of land on section 32, Athens Township, in the spring of 1882, and has since made his home here. lie has increased the acreage of his farm until he now owns two hundred and fifteen acres of as fertile and well-tilled farming land as can be found in this part of the county. Here he has all the necessary improvements and has a full supply of good farming machinery for carrying on his agricultural operations. lIe received $2,500 from his grandfather's estate, and this with his fine homestead and other property, places him among the well-to-do farmers of this township. Mr. Brokaw has in many ways, both as a brave soldier and as a patriotic citizen, shown the worth of his citizenship. lie is a man of self-respecting character, is well dowered with firmness, activity, and sound business qualifications, and his condtlct in all the various relations of life that he holds towards others is such as to inspire the confidence and esteem of all with whom he comes in contact, either in the course of business or in a social way. These traits have made him eminently serviceable as a civic official. lie was Township Treasurer for two years and now represents Athens as a member of the County Board of Supervisors, this being his second term in that imlportant office. In him the Democratic party finds one of its most intelligent and faithful supporters. Socially he is a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. A MOS HADDEN. The distinction of being the oldest settler in Lee Township belongs to the gentleman above named, who made ( his way to his farm by means of a pocket compass. He and his brother-in-law entered land together and received a title deed signed by Martin Van Buren. In coming hither they followed an Indian trail as long as they could, but completed their journey by the compass to blazed trees that marked their claim. They had brought with them some hardwood lumber, and cutting two crotched poles they set these in the ground, laid another across and leaned boards against it, so forming a little house to shelter them from the weather. Joseph Iladden, grandfather of our subject, was born in England, but came to America when a boy. lie was in the Colonial army during the Revolution. IIe farmed in Schoharie County, N. Y., and later lived in Mentz, Cayuga County, where lie died. His son Smith, father of our subject, was born in Scholiarie County, and followed his father's example in being a farmer. After his marriage to Susannahl Townsend, he went to Mentz and later to Oswego, where he died at tile age of seventy-seven years. One of his brothers is now one hundred years old. He was a quiet, unassuming man, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. His wife died in the same county as himself, and they were mourned by ten children. The third member of the parental family was Amos, who was born in Schoharie County, N. Y., February 9, 1810, and was six years old when his parents removed to Cayuga County by team. On a farm there he grew to the age of seventeen years and during that time attended school, learning to read and spell from Webster's Spelling Book, and to write with a quill pen. Ile went with his parents to Oswego County, and remained under their roof until his marriage September 30, 1830. He then made his home on twenty acres of land, which he farmed until the fall'of 1835, when he came to this State. After reaching Detroit he bought an ox team, and having running gear, he got lumber and made a wagon-box. He was eight days in reaching this county, finding mud up to the hubs. -He and his brother-in-law spent some days in hunting land, finally selecting a tract in the oak openings, four miles from the nearest neighbor. They went to Kalamazoo to the land office, and having no roads to follow on their return, guided themselves as before noted. The first efforts of Mr. Hadden and his companion were directed toward the construction of a tamarack shanty, 12x26 feet, which was covered with boards and then with bark. This made them a comfortable dwelling, and after getting settled in it they began to clear the land and break the ground with an ox-team. Mr. Hadden traded with the Indians, and when it was necessary to lay in a supply I 806 PORTlRAIT AND BJ-3OGRAPHICAL ALBUJM. 806: ~ - PORTRAI AN!BORA CLLBM of groceries, walked to Marshall where a solitary store furnished supplies. Hlc succeeded well in his work, and ere long added to his real estate. lHe had a sugar grove and built a sugar factory and made one thousand pounds per year. IH has sold some of his land, but still has two hundred acres on section 36. It is well adapted for both grain and stock, and its owner was one of tie first in this vicinity to raise Durham cattle and improve the stock of the section. Mr. Hadden has made a specialtv since 1860 of treating cancers, and is known far and wide as tile "cancer doctor." He has made some remarkable cures, and some years ago traveled quite extensively in this State and Ollio, bringing joy to heavy hearts tlhroughl his medical skill. The wife of Dr. HEadden bore the maiden name of Mary J. Dutcher, and was born in D)utchess County, N. Y., November 5, 1811. She grew to the age of sixteen years in her native county, then spent two years in Auburn and went from there to Oswego, where she was married. The happy union has been blest by the birtl of six children: Smith, a gardener in Olivet; Jerome, who died in childhood; Nathaniel, who operates a fruit farm on Catawaba Island, near Sandusky, Ohio; 1)orcas, who died in infancy; Newton, a soldier in the Ninth MIichigan Infantry, who died in his country's service in Elizabethtown, Ky., in 1862; Leonora, wife of )Dr. L. F. McCormick, who resides with her par Dr. Hadden was the first Justice of the Peace in Lee Township, and held the office four years. He helped to build the first schoolhouse and the Protestant Methodist Church. He has been School Director, andl in the religious body of which he is the oldest member, has been Trustee, Class-Leader, Steward and Sunday-school teacher. Politically he is a Republican. lie and his wife rejoice in a weddled life longer than that of any other couple in the county, and their hospitality and interesting reminiscences of former days make a visit to their home a great pleasure. Thlleir lives have been well spent, and their friends are legion. A lithographic portrait of Mr. Iladden is presented to the readers of this volume. YSANDER COLE, a venerable pioneer of I (() this county, was one of the first settlers of /m., Le Roy Township, coming here in the prime of early manhood. He is now a prosperous member of its farming community and through his many years' residence here has become well and favorably known throughout this region. October 10, 1811, is the date of the birth of our subject in the pioneer lhome of his parents, Daniel and Esther (Madison) Cole, in Otsego County, N.Y. When he was twelve years old his father and mother removed to Erie County, N. Y., whence they came with their family to Le Roy Township, in May, 1836 and settled on section 6. Our subject had preceded other members of the family in the fall of 1835, and had bought eighty-five acres of land of William Bishop. A log cabin stood on the place, a well had been dulg, thirty-two acres of the land was fenced, twelve acres plowed, six acres sowed to wheat, and six acres was planted to corn the next spring. The wheat was the first ever sown and harvested in Le Roy Township, and when it was reaped in 1836 it yielded thirty bushels to the acre of as fine wheat as ever grew, which was worth here $3 a bushel. The frost cut the corn that summer in August, so that none at all was raised on most farms. The following fifteen years that he owned that farm he never had a failure of crops. ents. The paternal ancestors of Mrs. Hladden were originally from lolland, and for matny years the home of tlle family was in Dutchless County, N. Y. There her grandfather, Christopher, and her fatller, Lawrence Dutcher, were born. The former was a farmer and miller. The father was a farmer and also ran a land-plaster manufactory. He spent the last years of his life in Connecticut. Ilis wife, formerly Mary Waldo, was born in Danbury, Conn., and was the daughter of tlte Rev. Samuel Waldo, a Baptist minister, who was born in the same place as the daughter, and during her girlhood removed to Dutchess County, N. Y. From her worthy parents Mrs. Hadden received careful training, learning those things which have fitted her to discharge the duties which have devolved upon her as wife, mother and neighbor. PORTRAI~AT AN D BIOGRAPHT-TICAL ALB~UM. 807 PORTRAIT_ AN BIOGRPHICA ALBUM 8 - - - - - - - - _- --— _._-_ —.~~~~~ --- —------------------- - -------- ------; --- — ------------ ------- - --- ----- --- -- ------------—...-.- ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~..-.-.-.~~ He paid $300 for his eighty-five acres of land and at the same time took up eighty acres adjoining it on the north on section 31, Battle Creek Township. In 1852 Mr. Cole bought one hnndred acres of land on section 7 and lived thereon fifteen y3ears. He then removed to the homestead on which he now lives, which forms one of the finely cultivated well-ordered farms of this region. Our subject was married December 30, 1838, to Miss Mariett A. Lay, and for more than half a century they have passed life together, mutually aiding each other in making the home in which they are now spending their declining years with so much coziness and comfort. Mrs. Cole is a daughter of Benjamin and Polly (Turner) Lay. Her union with our subject has brought them six children, named Oscar, Jennie, Alonzo, Homer, Exene and Luella. Three of these clildren have been spared to bless the declining years of their father and mother.Coming here in pioneer times Mr. Cole had am ple opportunity to indulge in his fondness for hunting in a land whose forests and streams, swamps and wild prairies furnished game of all kinds in abundance. In those early days he won a famous reputation as a hunter who had no equal and though now in his eightieth year is still able to carry off the laurels as the best marksman in this region. IHe has killed as many as forty deer in one fall and four in one (lay. Ile has never missed eating venison in the autumn since lie came to Michigan. When he was seventy-eight years old he sliot the largest deer that he ever killed in his life, a seven pronged buck. lie has never missed a season in going hunting, with one exception. He was detailed to kill a deer for the "big dinner" given by the inhabitants of this section on July 4, 1842, of which there is an account elsewhere in this volume. Recently, during the autumn of 1890 he carried off the honors in shooting at a mark in the big woods, driving the nail through the board from which he was standing a distance of ten rods. Nearly the whole day was spent in shooting by the best marksmen in the country around, but he was the best shot of all as he had been proven to be five years in succession. Mr. Cole has not only done his share of the hard work that is to be done in clearing a country and developing it into a fire farming region, but he has also contributed to the public weal of his township by his good service as a capable and zealous civic official. Ile was the first Assessor of the township, and was also at one time a Commissioner, and for many years was a Constable. He has interested himself in educational matters as a member of various school offices, and was School Collector for six years. He has also been Pathrnaster and has held other local oflices. -le has been equally active in the church, and has always been an influence for good in his community. For sixty years he has been a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, being identified with the church at Climax for fifteen years, and the rest of the time his membership has been with the Le Roy Church, and for fifty years lie has been a Class-Leader. In early nanhood lie was a Whig in politics and cast his first vote for Henry Clay. Ever since the Republicans organized lie has been an ardent and unswerving adherent of that party. Socially, he is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and uhas belonged to the lodge at Climax for more than thirty years. LONZO K. 'PRENTICE, Sherliff of Calhoun County, ihas demonstrated his trusti worthiness and efficiency as an officer, and j his wortll as a lrivate citizen, both in Marshall his present llome, and in places in which lie formerly resided. In this and Van Buren Counties lie has sl)ent a number of years, and during a greater l)art of the time has been connected in some way with public affairs. IHe was elected to his present office in the fall of 1888 and re-elected in 1890. As his name was announced on the Republican ticket, and the State went Democratic at the last election, his continuance in office gives conclusive evidence that the people regard him as well qualified and that he was popular. Mr. Prentice is the youngest of seven children born to Kibbe Peter and Eliza A. (Bush) Prentice, who were natives of Vermont and Massachusetts respectively. The father died in Niagara County, 808 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. N. Y., when our subject was but five years of age, informed regarding current events, and makes but the mother is still living and is now in her good use of the opportunities afforded him by his eightieth year. The natal day of the son of whom contact with various classes of society to learn the we write was June 29, 1848, and his birthplace bearing of prominent issues of the day or theories Newfane, Niagara County, N. Y. IIe obtained a of life. common-school education and when sixteen years old turned his footsteps westward with the inten --- — tion of taking up a man's work. Reaching Battle Creek he went to work on a farm, and after a year spent thus went to Van Buren County, where he OSEPI RUNDELL, ESQ. This venerable labored in a tannery three years. Ile next made man has for the past fifty-four years been his home in Battle Creek, where he engaged in numbered among the most useful citizens of blacksmithling. A year later he removed to the |J this county. In his youth he became a Township of Le Roy, in the same county. During Christian and it has been his constant aim to work a part of that time, from 1875 to 1882 lie kept for the good of others, to make the Golden Rule the post-office and also acted as Deputy Sheriff. and the example of Christ his rule of action, and We next find Mr. Prentice returning to Battle nobly has he succeeded. In the church he was Creek and entering the employ of Bach & Peters al ardent worker, in civil affairs manifested the as collecting agent, in which capacity he served true public spirit, and in every relation of life them some eight months. He was then elected acted as an honest, earnest and God-fearing man. Constable of the 'Third Ward and as such served Whatever his convictions, no one could doubt but faithfully two years, at the conclusion of which lie that he "preached what he believed and believed was appointed Deputy Sheriff and Jailer. Hie en- what lie preached." tered upon the duties of his new position January Squire Rundell was born in Oneida County, 1, 1885, and continued them four years. Ilaving N. Y., June 4, 1811, his parents being Joseph and been elected Sheriff on the Republican ticket, with Mary Rundell. When but a small boy he was a majority of twelve hundredt and eighteen votes, bereft of his father and lhe then went to live with he assumed his new office January 1, 1889. From his grandfather Rundell, at whose home he learned the time he began the duties of Deputy Sheriff up the cooper's trade which, with carpentry, has to the present, lie lias had under his control some given him occupation during the greater part of eighteen hundred and fifty-five prisoners and not his life. IHe erected many of the first buildings one has escaped from his charge. For the last in Fredonia, this county. For many years he (lid twenty years of his life he has been a public officer. the undertaking for the entire neighborhood, supThe home of Mr. Prentice is presi(ed over by plying the bereaved families with black walnut and a lady who was formerly known as Miss Sarah cherry coffins of his own manufacture. In one Caskey. Their marriage was solemnized at Battle graveyard alone more than a hundred of these Creek, November 10, 1870, and has been followed were deposited. tie not only performed the last by mutual happiness. Mrs. Prentice was born in sad offices for the dead and laid them tenderly Ohio and is of French and Irish lineage. She has away to await the resurrection morn, but was borne her husband two children: Elmer 1)., now often called upon to pray with the dying and give clerking il a dry-goods store in Marshall; and Ger- words of encouragement and comfort to those who trude M., a schoolgirl. were entering the valley of the shadow. He was Sheriff Prentice is quite interested in social or- also in great demand as a nurse and often called ders and belongs to three conspicuous lodges. lie upon to prescribe remedies for disease, as his is identified with Blue Lodge, No. 104, F. & A. M., sound sense and accurate observation had given to the Knights of the Maccabees and the Ancient him a considerable knowledge of the doctor's art. Qrder of United Workmen, He keeps himself well In early times Mr. Rundell assisted the slaves in ~~~~~_i_~~~~~~~~~ PORTREAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 809 POTAI =N BIOGRAPHIC=AL ABM 8 09 their efforts to reach a land of liberty and was an active member of the underground railroad company in days when Le Roy won the proud distinction of being the first township in the United States to carry an Abolition ticket. It was he who cast the first Abolition ticket in Athens. He united with tile Baptist Church when eighteen years old and labored long and hard for the upbuilding of Zion, contributing liberally of both time and money. When an organization was perfected in the wilderness here, in 1838, he was ordained Deacon, and lie was ever the most generous member of the society. It was largely through his influence that the house of worship at North Athens was built, and the pride with which the grand old pioneer witnessed its completion is almost beyond comprehension. The triumpl he enjoyed was followed by a sequel which only the hopes of a future made bearable. The mind of Squire Rundell was too noble and broad to hold to the doctrine of close communion, and he felt that all true believers were his brethren and should be treated in all respects as such. After having served as a Deacon for forty-eight years without a suspicion having overshadowed him, he was excluded from the communion of the church to the welfare of which lie had so largely contributed, because he shared in tie sacrament with those outside its pale. Thus left out of the fold ~which was his choice, he, at the age of seventysix, was obliged to find another religious home, and lie and his wife are now honored members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Riley Corners. Although poor in this world's goods they are rich in hopes beyond the grave and have garnered an abundlanlt store of kind wishes and deep affection from the people among whom they have long lived and labored. In 1832 Mr. Rundell was marriedto Miss Waitey Wheeler, of Cayuga County, N. Y., with whom he lived happily for eleven short months, when God in his wisdom saw fit to take her to himself. January 1, 1835, Mr. Rundell was again married, his bride being Miss Fanny D. Studwell, who shared his joys and sorrows and labored with him for the interest of mankind for nearly forty years. The wife was then called away and he in his old age was again left without a companion. To this union there were born six children, viz: William J., Charles E., Waitey A., George J., Mary E. and Lucy J. Of these two are now deceased-Waitey, formerly the wife of William Week, wlho died in 1863; and Lucy J., who married E. H. Fleisher, a Methodist minister. They removed to Kansas where she died October 7, 1889, leaving one girl and two boys. The present wife of Squire Rundell was united to him in marriage October 20, 1874. Her maiden name was Rhoda Davis and she was born July 4, 1822, in Franklin County, N. Y., but came to Michigan early in her teens. She was first married to Israel Harvey, a mechanic, who died in Athens, this county, in 1860. By him she had seven children: Charles, Isabel, Frances M., George W., Jane and two who died in infancy. Frances, who died in 1890, was the wife of Bennett Briggs; Jane married George Clearwater. ( AIMUEL HUIIXFORD, an old pioneer of this county, is well-known and respected by its citizens, as he has lived here since the early days of its settlement, and has not only been an interested witness of almost its entire growth from the wilderness to its present populous and flourishing condition, but he has had a hand in its advancement. For a period of fifty years he has been an honored resident of Albion anrd as a dealer in real estate and a capitalist, he has promoted its development and financial prosperity. Our subject comes of good old stock, and is a native of Conway, Franklin County, Mass., where he was born March 6, 1807. His father, who bore the same name as himself, was born on the Island of Martha's Vineyard in 1774. The Huxfords originated in England, and the first of the family known to come to this country was Capt. Huxford, a seaman who was shipwrecked near Martha's Vineyard. He managed to make a landing on the island, and was so pleased with its appearance that he concluded to make his home there, and our subject is one of his lineal descendants. The mother of 810 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. our subject, whose maiden name was Lucy Iale, has established a character for industry and inwas born March 14, 1776. She was of English de- tegrity unquestionable, and from my personal scent and her ancestry is traced back to the famous knowledge of his acquaintance with the business, I Mathew Hale, whose descendants came to the New can cheerfully recommend him to any one who World at an early date, and settled largely in may want to employ him as a clerk in a store, with Massachusetts. the assurance that he will give good satisfaction." Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Eluxford, Sr., were the Armed with this certificate of character, Samuel parents of the following children: Robert E., who Illxford started westward September 7, 1827, and was born September 2, 1804, came to Michigan in journeyed into this State across the intervening 1827, but after living for awhile at Iexter, Wash- wild country, and thus first came here when Michitenaw County, returned eastward and settled at gan was a Territory and was still in the possession Lyons, N. Y.; he died in Michigan about 1839; of its aboriginal inhabitants, with its primeval George, who was born December 15, 1806, married forests and wild prairies scarcely trodden as yet by Miss Caroline Gibbs, and after living awhile in the white men who were to redeem it from its Jackson County, came to this county, and died here primitive wildness. Ile took up his abode where in 1887; Sarah, who is now deceased, was born Dexter now stands, but on account of sickness he March 3, 1807; Seymour, was born April 5, 1809, afterward returned eastward as far as New York, and died in Massachusetts when young; William and lie was subsequently employed on a canal boat F., who was born April 11, 1811, married Nancy running between Albany and Buffalo. In the fall Crane of Albany, N. Y., where he was for many of 1829 he went back to his old home at Conway, years connected with the office of Comptroller and remained there nearly two years. In 1830, lie prior to his coming to this county, where lie died again came to Michigan and went to live with an January 3, 1852; Henry, who was born July 6, 1 813, uncle in Washtenaw County. lie hired out to cut died in Massachusetts; and Lucy Ann who was born logs near the IHuron River at $11 a month for the March 2, 1815, married Edwin N. Mallett, of winter, but only continued that work one month Wayne County, this State. The father of the fam- when lie returned to his uncle's and assisted him in 'ily was a strong Whlig in his political views and was splitting rails to fence his farm. He was charmed a great admirer of Daniel Webster and Ienry with the country here and delighted in the freedom Clay. He rounded out a useful and honorable life of its pioneer life, and writing the following spring at Lyons, N. Y. in 1828. His widow afterward in glowing terms to his brother George who lived came westward and died in Jackson County, this at Lyons, he advised him to set fire to his buildings State. and by the light of the flames come to Michigan. The subjectof our sketch was educated in the One day while at Dexter, he saw a team coming district schools at Conway, Mass. IIe was a manly, over a hill, and as it approached he was overjoyed self-reliant, straightforward lad when he began life to see that the conveyance contained his brother, on his own account as a clerk in that town in the mother and sister, who had come to build up a store of a Mr. Batchelor, who gave him a salary of home in this new country. $45 for his work during the year that he remained Mr. IHuxford's first purchase of land was of forty with him. He subsequently was employed in the acres in Jackson County, which he subsequently same capacity by a Mr. Billings, who gave him sold. Ie afterward bought two hundred acres of $200 a year for his services and when he left his land, upon which he built a log cabin. He subsestore favored him with the following high recom- quently disposed of that place to Mr. Michael mendation as to his character and ability: "I, the Brown, and determining to visit the Territory of undersigned, do certify that the bearer, Samuel Wisconsin, set out with two others for that purHuxford, Jr., has been engaged as a clerk in my pose. The little party proceeded on their way to store about three years in this town, and has made that then almost unknown country, and walking to good improvement considering his opportunity. He St. Joseph they boarded a small sailing vessel PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 811 - -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- - ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ I. - --- ---- - - -- bound for Chicago. If they could have foreseen the wonderful future of that little hamlet they might have invested their money in its swampy lands and in time have become millionaires, but they passed on unconscious of what destiny held in store for the little trading post on the shores of Lake Michigan and finally arrived footsore and weary on the present site of Milwaukee. They were all the while on the outlook for a suitable location and went as far as Waukeslia. Mr. Huxford being unwell, and thinking Michigan was good enough for him; decided to return to this State and passing again through Chicago, made the entire homeward journey on foot. In 1841 our subject came to Albion, where lie was employed as a clerk for a man by the name of Hanna, and afterward he was a clerk for Crowell & Jackson, with whom he remained one year. Since that time he has been in business as a money lender and as a real-estate agent, and has accumulated a comfortable property. He came to this State without money, but by industry, wise economy, close calculation and excellent business habits, has become one of the solid men of thle county, and is enjoying his hard earned gains in one of the comfortable, attractive homes of Albion. All through life he has borne the same high character for honesty of purpose, and all who have had dealings with him have ever found him perfectly honor able in his transactions. Mr. — uxford was first married January 1, 1834, to Miss Samantha M. Hurd, a native of New York State. She was born August 15, 1813, and closed a long and useful life April 3, 1880. She was the mother of three children: Frederick William, who was born May 28, 1835; Sarah M., was born August 12, 1837, and is the wife of Gilson E. Murdock, a resident of Albion; and Adelaide, who died at the age of six years. Frederick, who is a resident of Cherokee County, Iowa, married Mary Bothwell and they have had three clildren —Charles B., Edward D., and Clayton, the latter of whom is deceased. Mr. Huxford married for his second wife Miss Mary F. Tompkins, the youngest child of Gabriel and Phcebe (Jones) Tompkins, who were originally of Dutchess County, N. Y., whence they removed to Monroe County, and settled near Rochester. They reared a family of twelve children, of whom three are living, namely: Garretson, a resident of Cincinnati, Ohio; Elizabeth, wife of Caleb Linden of New York; and Mrs. lluxford. The wife of our subject is a lady of fine accomplishments and is highly educated. When she was twelve years of age she attended school in Syracuse, N. Y., at Mrs. Iluntington's Seminary. She subsequently spent two terms at Falley Seminary and four years at the Polytelchnic school at Clhittenango, N. Y. AMES FREY. The fact that a man was engaged in the service of his country dluring thle trying days of the Civil War and that lie bore a galiant part in many a hardfought contest, is sufficient to make his history interesting. We are therefore pleased to be able to present to our readers an outline of the experience of James Frey, for many years a resident of Le Roy. Ile is a son of Joseph and Nancy (Long) Frey and was born 'February 21, 1841, il Elkhart County, Ind. His father was a cabinet-maker and at that business the son worked from his boyliood until the breaking out of the Civil War when lie was one of the first to respond to his country's call. Mr. Frey was a member of the Battle Creek Artillery, a militia company, but in the latter part of 1861 lie enlisted as a private in Company C, Second Michigan Infantry, in whichli he served until March 24, 1865, when lie was discharged at Ietroit. Upon the organization of the command a short time was spent at Detroit in camp drills, after which it was sent to Ft. Wayne, Mich., where the boys were sworn into the service on May 25 for three years. Shortly afterward they were sent to Washington, D. C., where they went into camp, having on their way thither paused at Camp Curtin, Pa., where they drew guns and ten rounds of ammunition. From Washington they went out and took part in the first battle of Bull Run and from the battle ground returned to Arlington Heights where they worked at throwing up forti. 812 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. fications until Gen. McClellan took command. been to secure the money, as the silver could not They then went to the Peninsula and took part in be secreted, lut the paper had been. the siege of Yorktown, the engagement at Will- After enduring the hardships of a whole winter iamsburg and the skirmishes in front of Richmond without blankets or fuel Mr. Frey was taken to in the fall of 1862. After the battle of Gaines Andersonville, Ga., to endure the scorching rays Mill the regiment went back toward Harrison's of a warmer climate. His second prison he reLanding, being continuously engaged for seven gards as little, if any, worse than Belle Isle, perdays, the skirmishes culminating in a fight at Mal- haps because by this time he had no hopes to vern Hill. There they recruited, then spent a blight. At this place he was attacked by scurvy short time at Fortress Monroe, after which they and rheumatism, from which he has never fully rewere sent on a transport to Locust Point, near Bal- covered. The next winter was passed at Florence, timore, thence to Louisville, then to Vicksburg S. C., which, though less notorious, was in the and Jackson, Miss., then to Cumberland Gap and opinion of Mr. Frey as bad as either of the other then to Knoxville and Lenoir Station where they prison stations. In January, 1865, he w:.s taken to began building winter quarters. Before the forti- Goldsboro, N. C., and thence to Wilmington, fications were finished the boys were ordered to where, with his comrades, he was exchanged about London to check the progress of the Confederate the 1st of February. From sickness induced by forces under Gen. Longstreet. That General per- starvation he'was unable to proceed to the North, sisted in his design and the Union forces retreated but remained in the hospitals for a few weeks. to Knoxville and threw up fortifications, having Thence he went by boat to Annapolis, Md., where a fight at Campbell's Station while on the retreat. the poor boys were clothed and their wasted enerNovember 24, 1862, the works were charged and gies were recruited before their discharge. Mr. Frey, after being wounded in the left knee. Mr. Frey-returned to Battle Creek, but for a was taken prisoner and during the next fifteen long time was unable to work. September 13, months endured sufferings so intense that he pre- 1868, he led to the hymeneal altar Mrs. Sarah fers not to have them recalled to his mind very (Shattuck) Vanbrocklin, daughter of Charles and often. He was taken to Belle Isle, near Richmond, Hannah Vanbrocklin, and the union has resulted and for four days had nothing to eat. The pris- in the birth of one child-Leo, who remains with oners were kept there during the winter and there his parents. occurred the following incidents. At one time a ~I^^4_ —.~C~l|2IS^>'~_____C2-,_> prisoner, urged on by the cravings of hunger, killed a dog belonging to a Confederate Sergeant and dressed it to eat. Not knowing the guilty party ON. FREDERICK F. HOAGLIN. Standall rations were shut off for three days when the i))) ing in the front rank among the citizens Of poor fellow, in order to save his companions, con- Albion is the gentleman above named who fessed to the deed. He was compelled to eat raw () has been some years past identified with the some of the flesh that he had yet in his haversack. business life of the city and who is now worthily Mr. Frey says he had a piece of the meat, which discharging the duties of Postmaster. His father was then well relished, but thinks now he would had succeeded in his desires to the extent of being prefer pork. At one time for a minor offence a able to give his children good practical educations guard shot into the crowd, killed two prisoners and valuable home training, and upon his demise and wounded a third, and for this noble deed was left to them an honorable name and a strong desire rewarded by a furlough. The commander once to perpetuate all that was best in the characters of announced that silver would be given in exchange those to whom they owed their being. for greenbacks and this was actually done, but the Timothy and Jane (Fisher) Hoaglin were born next day the prisoners were ranged in a line and in Tompkins County, N. Y., and were there marthe coin taken away from them. The object had ried. When this part of Michigan was a compara-. 1 7~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ .J_ ir; r m:~: 'r.: ~ CHARLES ADAMS PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 815 tively unsettled region they came hither, and being in but limited circumstances went industriously to work to build up a good home. Mr. Hoaglin first purchased eighty acres of land to which, by hard work and economy, he was able to add until at the time of his death he held the title to four hundred and forty acres, all under cultivation. IHe had been aided in his efforts by the best of wives, who preceded him to the silent land, dying in 1873, while he survived until 1876. Mrs. Hoaglin was a faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In his early life Mr. Hloaglin was a Whig, but at tile organization of the Republican party lie cast in his influence with that body. The family of which our subject makes one consisted of nine sons and daughters, but five of whonl remain on earth. John K. is now one of the prominent farmers of this county; Walter S. is also an agriculturist and a resident of this county; Eugene E. is a merchant in Albion; Asenath is thle wife of 11. 1)emnery, their home being in Fulkton, S. Dak. 'The only other survivor is the lIon. Frederick F., of whom we write. Another son, George W., enlisted in the Sixth Michigan Infantry in 1861 was mortally wounded at Baton Rouge. 'Tle subject of this notice was educated, as are most farmers' sons, in the schoolhouse near his home, but having been born at so late a period in the world's history as April 29, 1848, and in Albion Township lie had somewhat better o))portunities than had the former generation. Hie supplemented the information gained in the district school by a partial course of study in Albion College. In 1871 he found employment as a clerk here and worked in that capacity until 1875 when lie established himself in business as a (lealer in clothinig. In tile management of this enterprise lie has displayed shrewdness and tact and has l)uslled it to a successful issue. IIe is strictly honorable in his dealings, careful in the selection of goods and caters wisely to the wants of a large number of citizens. Since coming here Mr. Hoaglin has been honored by all the city offices from the Mayoralty down. In 1889 he was appointed Postmaster, of which office he is still an incumbent. Twice has lie been called on to represent his district in the Legislature and VLI VV ~L/J~VVVII\ LI-V ~-~UVCIVV IL ~ILIU n worthily has he discharged the duties which fell to his lot in the legislative halls. IIe is a member of the Odd Fellows' order, has filled each of the Chairs and represented the "home lodge in the Grand Lodge. Mr. Hoaglin in 1878 led to the hymeneal altar Miss Mary M. Cunningham, a native of Onondaga County, N. Y., and a lady of much intelligence and charming manners. The happy union lias been blessed by the birth of one child-Floyd. By all who have the pleasure of his acquaintance Mr. Hoaglin is held in high esteem for his sterling worth and uprightness of character. We are therefore pleased to be able to furnish our readers with this brief account of his life. TIIARLES ADAMS. This well-known resident of Marengo 'Township is contributing hlis quota toward sustaining and extending the great farming interests of Calhoun County. lie is pleasantly situated on section 27, where lie owns a valuable farm and where lie operates both as a stock-raiser and as a tiller of the soil. Hle understandls well how to direct his labors advantageously and his good management is evidenced in the appearance of his estate and in the reputation he enjoys of being a good farmer. His capability in managing his affairs and energetic character have placed( himn in the front ranks of the enlightened agriculturists who have (ontributed so effectively toward the advancement of the coinmunity. In Green, Chenango County, N. Y., Mr. Adams was born l)ecembsr 8,1807. Unto his parents, Abraham and Betsey Adams, natives of New York,eleven children were born, three of whom survive. 'wo sisters of our subject are living in Wisconsin at the venerable ages of eighty-eight and ninety years respectively. A brother, James, now deceased, was a successful farmer and lived at Crab Orchard Springs, where lie owned an interest in the springs. Our ulhject was reared to the life of a farmer and early gained those habits of persistent industry and unswerving integrity which have always marked his VIIV~ ~~~~~~l~~~b Irru~~~Z11 I* 816 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ----— I --- = career. In1853, in the prime of a stalwart manhood, he came to Michigan and the ensuing two years was engaged in farming in Homer Township. In 1855 Mr. Adams bought his present homestead in Marengo Township and actively entered upon the pioneer work of reclaiming the land from its primeval condition. He succeeded nobly in his efforts and during the intervening years he has embellished his estate with many substantial improvements. He has a handsome and commodious barn 35x60 feet in dimensions,besides other conveniently arranged stock-barns and outbuildings. -Ie pays a great deal of attention to raising fine stock, making a specialty of Merino sheep, of which he has a large flock. During the late war he sold wool for $1 a pound, and his wheat brought him $3.03 a bushel. Mr. Adams has not attained his prosperity unaided, as he has had the valuable assistance of a thrifty, practical wife, to whom he was wedded May 1, 1829. Their happy union has resulted in the birth of twelve children; of these David is a resident of the village of Marengo; Philo, a resident of Mississippi; Martha, who lives on the old homestead with her parents; Arvilla, Mrs. Gardner, who lives in Marshall; Alice, Mrs. Fish, who resides in Marengo Townsllip; Francelia, who resides in Nebraska; and Charles, the youngest of the family, who lives on the old home place. Mrs. Adams was born in Chenango County in 1812, her parents being David and Aseneth Shattuck, of New York. She is the third in a family of thirteen children, of whom five are yet living: Clarice, a resident of Sheridan Township; Roxie, who lives at Albion; Jeanette, a resident of Petoskey, Mich.; Forbes, a resident of Iowa; and Jackson, who lives in Marengo Township. Mr. Adams possesses many sterling qualities and his fellow citizens hold him in great confidence and place the utmost reliance upon his veracity, for in all his transactions he has ever dealt conscientiously and uprightly. He has mingled in the public life of his township, has been a Justice of the Peace and Road Commissioner, and has held minor offices. He is one of the prominent members of the Christian Church and was for a number of years Deacon of the church of that denomination at Marshall. His political sentiments are in accord with the I I I ~ ~ ~ ~ -- - principles of the Republican party. He is a firm believer in the value of a good education and his children were well educated and very successful teachers in the various district schools of the county in their youthful days. In the month of January, 1891, in his eighty-fourth year, he split and piled up ten cords of green wood; he milks two cows, takes care of his horse and chickens, and looks after many other things about the farm. The reader will be pleased to notice on another page a lithographic portrait of Mr. Adams, whose memory will be revered by a host of friends long after he shall have passed away..4 —____^- ____-4__ r HIL S. GORE is classed among the bright ) and enterprising young farmers, who have come to the front to assist in carrying on the / great work of sustaining and extending the agricultural interests so well begun by their sires. He is a grandson of the late Deacon Larned Gore of honored memory, and he is managing with consummate ability and success the fine old homestead in Le Roy Township that his grandfather bought from the Government more than a half century ago, the deed of his land being signed by President Van Buren. Our subject is the second of a family of five children born to Albert and Candace (Hardenberg) Gore, the others being Irmie Ella, wife of C. E. Barnes, Deputy Commissioner of Labor at Lansing; Genevieve, wife of C. Batt, of Ft. Wayne, Ind.; Delnora and Eldon H., who are both attending the public schools of Battle Creek. Phil was born in Yankton, Dak., May 7, 1863. The grandfather of our subject, familiarly known as Deacon Gore, was one of the earliest pioneers of Le Roy Township, coming hither in 1835, and in 1837 he took up the land from the Government on which our subject now lives. In the home replete with comfort and happiness, that by years of toil and the cheerful assistance of his good wife he evolved from the wilderness, he lived until death closed his mortal career in 1872. His devoted companion and helpmate survived him until November 16, 1889, when she too passed to eternal rest. He PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 817 I —~~~~~~ ----~~~ -- — ~~~~ --- ~~~ --- --— ~~~~~ - -~ was not only active in helping along the material prosperity of his township, but he was an influence for much good, and will long be remembered by his fellow pioneers and old neighbors and friends for the honesty and uprightness of his character and for his earnest, Christian life. He was ever doing what he believed or knew to be right, and was one of the pillars of the Baptist Church. He died triumphant in the faith. When told that death was near he said, "If this is dying it is the happiest moment of my life. Rejoice! rejoice! rejoice!" and with those words on his lips he passed into the life immortal. Deacon Gore was the father of four children-two sons, Albert and Mahlon; and two daughlters, one having died in infancy, and the other, Emma C., is the wife of H. F. Long, a farmer of West Le Roy. The sons won fine military records in the late war. They enlisted early in defence of their country. Albert was a member of the Illinois Western Sharp-shooters, in which he rose to the rank of First Lieutenant. Mahlon was a member of the Second Michigan Infantry. Both are yet living and are valued citizens. After the war the brothers engaged in the newspaper business, Albert, the father of our subject, establishing himself at Independence, Mo., where lie published the Independence Messenger. Lie began the publication of this paper in the season of 1867-68, and soon incurred the enmity of the people of that vicinity who had been rebel sympathizers during the war, and threats of violence were often made because of his loyalty to his principles. Lie had not, however, served through the war to be easily daunted by threats and he pursued his legitimate business without displaying any fear. In the fall of 1868 when our subject was five years ol(d, his father had removed to the suburbs of the city where all was quiet. In the dead of night when the family was quietly sleeping, the Ku-Klux fell upon them and they awakened to see their home in flames and barely had time to escape death. They fled to their nearest neighbor, the IHon. John P. St. John, and our subject well remembers that he had to lie in bed until kind friends made him clothes so that he might be presentable in company. Twenty-two years have passed since that time, but Mr. Gore says that, child though he was, it made such an impression on him that it has affected his course politically, and time can never efface the remembrance of those days. From Independence the family went in a short time after they were burned out to Kansas City, where the father established himself in the printing business, remaining there thus employed two years, and then removing witl his wife and children to La Cygne, Kan. In 1875, he and his family returned to his father's old homestead in Le Roy Township, where our subject now lives. The father is a man of wide experience, who is well endowed mentally, and not only as an officer in the late war, but as a private citizen has he shown the value of his citizenship, and he is well known and respected. The son of whom we write pays a touching tribute to his mother, who is the idol of home and is revered by all for her many Christian virtues. She has led a life of self-denial and devotion to the interest of her family and her every act has been for their benefit or to help some unfortunate, and her children say truly that it is to her they are chiefly indebted for what they are. After coming to his grandfather's old homestead our subject's boyhood was much like that of other farmers' sons, and was largely spent in the winter seasons in attending school at the Creek and in helping in the farm labors during other times of the year. In 1880 he took entire charge of the farm and has attended strictly to its management ever since. This is a valuable piece of property, is under fine tillage, is amply supplied with the necessary buildings, and our subject keeps everything about the place in good order. February 18, 1883, Mr. Gore led to the altar Miss Lettie J., daughlter of Zelora and Sarah Jane (Muir) Fuller, natives of Oneida County, N. Y., who came to Le Roy Township in 1866. The union of our subject and his wife has been one of mntual happiness, and has been blessed to them l)y the birth of two children-Earl and Bertha. Our subject possesses in an eminent degree the confidence of his neighbors and fellow-citizens, who, seeing in him a man well fitted for the responsibilities of public office have called him to take charge of the township treasury and he is now filling his second term as Treasurer in a manner to justify 818 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ---— his selection for the position. He and his wife are both members in good standing of the Methodist Episcopal Church of West Le Roy. In politics Mr. Gore is unswerving in his allegiance to the Republican party and is always at the front when needed. EWIS TOWNSEND, who is now living in honorable retirement in one of the most attractive homes at Marshall, was for many years one of the leading farmers of this county, owning extensive landed interests and dealing largely in stock. He was born in Monroe County, N. Y., near Rochester, October 19, 1817. His father whose name was Ezra Townsend, was also a native of New York, his birthplace being in the eastern part of that State amid the beautiful scenery of the Catskill Mountains, and August 30, 1788, was the date of his birth. He was the son of Robert Townsend, who was of English descent and was a farmer in that region. The mother of our subject, whose maiden name was Janet Trumbull, was born May 13, 1791, in the eastern part of the State of New York. Her mother, Rebecca Trumbull, was of Scotch descent. The family removed to Monroe County in 1810 and settled on a farm. In 1831 the parents of our subject removed to Washtenaw County, Mich., traveling by boat from Buffalo to Detroit and by wagon from the latter city through the wild country journeying a part of the way by the Chicago turnpike. They settled nine miles east of Ann Arbor on the Ridge road. The mother did not long survive the trials and privations of pioneer life in their new home, her death occurring in 1835, her husband and four children surviving her. The following is the record of the children: Rebecca married Walter Watson and died at the age of seventy years; Zebulon died in 1840; Lewis is our subject; George W. lives near Galesburg, Mich. The father died March 13, 1851, and his community was deprived of a good citizen who had been useful as a pioneer and was in every way worthy of respect. Lewis Townsend passed his school days in his native county until he was eleven years old. In that year his education, as far as the schools were concerned, was completed, and he continued to make himself useful to his father until he was sixteen years old. His father then gave him his time in lieu of his share of the paternal property. Our subject then began life in earnest and worked hard for a year at farming for $10 a month, but he was cheated out of half of his wages by his dishontst employer. In 1836 he set out from his father's pioneer home in Washtenaw County, with his few personal belongings tied in a handkerchief, and with his ax over his shoulder, and made his way on foot to Grand Rapids, a distance of one hundred and sixty miles. The present populous flourishing city of that name was then but an insignificant hamlet in the woods, and during his stay there of fourteen or fifteen months he cut one hundred and fifty cords of wood right where the business part of that city now stands. He also engaged in splitting rails and making fences. IHe then returned to Washtenaw County, and with a part of the money which he had earned lie bought twenty-five acres of land in Superior Township, and soon, with the aid of Miss Maria Trumbull to whom he was married July 7, 1838, lie became possessed of a home. Eight acres of his land was tilled and he actively entered upon its further improvement and afterward bought eighty acres not far from his first purchase. In 1851 he disposed of his property in Washtenaw County and coming to this county bought four hundred and forty acres of land in Marengo Township going into debt for it to the extent of $1,200 which amount lie paid in less than two years so successful was lie in his farming operations. tIe has bought other land and owned more than seven hundred acres. Besides that which lie still owns he has given land to his children which amounts to about $10,000 in money. Mr. Townsend has made as much as $10,000 in one year in selling sheep, cattle and hogs and during his active business life was one of the most extensive stockmen in the county. Ile retired from active farm life about 1864. Mrs. Townsend, first wife of our subject, who died February 6, 1885, was born near Pittsford, N. Y., and her parents were James and Harriet (Hart) Trumbull who were from Central New York and were among the pioneers of Washtenaw I - - -1 I I I I I I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 819 County. Though slle bore the same maiden name as the mother of our subject, she vvas no relative. Of the six children born of that marriage to Mr. and Mrs. Townsend, these three are living: Viletta T., the wife of Matthias E. Barhite of Kalamazoo County, Mich.; Miles, a resident of Marengo, Calhoun County; and Owen L., a farmer in the town of Marengo; Myron (lied in 1865 at the age of nineteen years; Jerome, who was a veteran of the late war, being a member of the Eleventh Michigan Cavalry died in the fall of 1885 and Eveline died in infancy. Mr. Townsend was married to his present wife, formerly Miss Caroline De Le Vergne, November 9, 1885. Mrs. Townsend was born in Livingston County, N. Y., and is a daughter of Samuel and Maria (Miller) De Le Vergne, both of whom are deceased. Mrs. Townsend has two children Frank and Almon J., by her first husband, Nathan Robinson. Mr. Townsend has been a Republican since the organization of the party. During the war he was active in forwarding the Union cause, and lie was the enrolling and enlisting officer of Marengo Township throughout the Rebellion. For eight years Mr. Townsend was Justice of the Peace and he was also identified with local educational interests as Director of Schools. For eleven years lie was a member of the County Board of Supervisors representing Marengo Township. Mrs. Townsend is a member of the Presbyterian Church. 9 L IAS C. MANCIIESTER is honored as a pioneer of this county who has had a hand in the development of its agriculture, and for many years was identified with its business interests. lie is now living in honorable retirement in his comfortable home o(n Maple Street in the most beautiful residence quarter of the city of Battle Creek, where le and his aminble wife are passing their declining years in the enjoyment of a handsome competency. Mr. Manchester was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., June 29, 1813. His parents were Caleb and i I Lydia (Chidester) Manchester, natives of New York, and descendants of old Puritan stock. Our subject passed his boyhood on a farm, and so well did lie improve his opportunities for obtaining an education, at the age of eighteen years lie was fitted for a teacher, and entered that profession. In the spring of 1836, lie came to Michigan and chose a location near Battle Creek, which was then a mere hamlet in the wilderness, there being but two frame houses and the lovely street called Maple was then a part of the trackless forest. After selecting the spot of his future abode, our subject returned to New York for his family. After they had taken up their residence here he and his wife went to work with a will to make a home, and before many years had passed they were in comfortable circumstances. Ile was a merchant in this city until 1862, still continuing, however, to operate his farm. Since 1887, he has lived a retired life. IJe was possessed of good business capabilities, was shrewd and far sighted, and conducted his affairs with excellent judgment, so that in time he became well off. Mr. Manchester has been greatly blessed by a good wife, to whom he was married January 1, 1835, and for more than half a century they have lived together and have shared life's joys and sorrows, each contributing to the other's happiness. Mrs. Manchester was in her maiden days Amy Ann Howland, and she is a native of New York. Her marriage with our subject has brought to them ten children, all of whom grew to maturity except the eldest, who died aged two years. They carefully trained them to good and useful lives, and cheerfully sent five of their sons to help fight their country's battles during the late war. All of them did good service in the Union army, and all returned to their old home after the close of hostilities. Mr. Manchester is a man of high and honorable principles which have guided him through life and have placed him among our most trustworthy citizens. In ante-bellum times he was firmly opposed to slavery, and was outspoken in his views. IHe was a Whig in the early part of his life, and lie assisted in the formation of the Republican party. In 1869 he joined the Prohibitionists, as he is strongly in favor of temperance legislations and has always ad Ways 820 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. been a consistent temperance man. He is an inde- being left an orphan in childhood made his home pendent thinker on all subjects, and for many years with an uncle about seven years. When nineteen was identified with the Spiritualists. He and his years old he went to New York City and secured amiable wife are noted for their hospitality, and employment as clerk in a grocery store, where Je every one has a word of kindness and respect for remained two years and a half. The ensuing two them. years were spent as an employe in a clothing estab4. ^ _____i~ _^ _ _ _,glishment and he then, in 1843, came to this State, J= = — A '|- '"locating in Jackson, where he was employed as a clerk. A twelvemonth after coming West he purL ENRY B. WOLCOTT. Among the farmers chased eighty acres of raw land in Eaton County, of this county who have so managed their built a house thereon and put thirty-five acres affairs as to be able to retire from the activ- under the plow. Hle then sold the property and ities of life, secure in the enjoyment of the bought fifty acres in Sheridan Township, this comforts of a pleasant home, may be mentioned county, and made a permanent settlement here. Henry B. Wolcott, who resides upon section 21, lIe has added to his real estate until he now has a Sheridan Township. He has been a hard-working large farm of two hundred and thirty acres, every and fiugal man, and one whose energy of charac- part of which has been brought to a high state of ter has been exercised on behalf of the community productiveness. It is now operated by a son of the of which he is a member, as well as for his personal owner. Considerable attention has been given to aggrandizement. He is a representative of one of fruit culture, and many fine trees and shrubs adorn the first families of Connecticut, and his own life the estate as well as add to its value. The present might well be taken as typical of the traits of the residence, a modern and substantial structure, was Yankee. built in 1874. The Wolcott family was one of the first known At Spring Arbor, Jackson County, in 1848, Mr. in Connecticut, and no less than eight different Wolcott was united in marriage with Miss Loretta places have been named in its honor. Oliver Wol- H. Hopkins, daughter of Isaac and Charity (Smith) cott, Secretary of the Treasury under President Iopkins. Her parents were natives respectively of Washington, and one of the signers of the Declara- Rlode Island and Pennsylvania, and after having tion of Independence, was a direct ancestor of our resided in New York were numbered among the subject. Grandfather Wolcott, who rejoiced in the early settlers of this State. Their home was on given name of Wyatt, fought during the Revolu- Cook's Prairie near Homer, where both died when tion, and one of his brothers was Governor of comparatively young. Their family consisted of Connecticut. The father of Henry B. Wolcott was seven children, but two of whom are now living. a farmer until a short time before his marriage. He She who became Mrs. Wolcott was born in Cortthen took up his residence in Columbia County, land County, N. Y., in 1831. After forty years of N. Y., which was the home of the bride, but in happy wedded life she entered into rest April 25, 1825 removed to Genesee County, which was the 1889. She had been faithful to the duties whicll permanent home of the good couple until called devolved upon her in her various relations in life. hence. John Chester and Sylvia (Goodrich) Wol- and had made many warm friends. The children cott were the parents of eight children, but three she reared were seven in number, all now married of whom now live. These are: Mrs. Crane, whose but Julia J. and Katie Belle, the two youngest. home is in Peoria, Ill.; Oliver, who lives in Mar- L. J. married Flora Comstock and lives in Albion; shall County, Ill.; and Henry B., subject of this lie has a family of live children. Henry J., who biographical notice. The maternal ancestors were married Miss Julia Allen and has three children, is known in Connecticut through several generations. the inventor of the well-known Wolcott WindThe subject of this biographical sketch was born mill. Vernon S. married Miss May Davidson and in Columbia County, N. Y., October 13, 1818, and they also live in Albion. These three sons are y I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 821 members of the Union Windmill Manufacturing Company in the city where they reside. Evelyn M. married Rachel Babcock and has three children; he lives upon and operates the home farm. Cora is the wife of Charles Billinghurst, has two children and lives in Albion. Mr. Wolcott has kept himself well informed regarding political issues, and from the time that he cast his first Presidential ballot for Martin Van Buren he has worked with and for the cause of Democracy. As a matter of course he is interested in the welfare of agriculturists, and he has therefore identified himself with the Farmers' Alliance and Patrons of Industry. He has served as Road Commissioner during a period of four years, and has also been Director of the local School Board. Like all wlo are descended from the early settlers in New England he has been anxious that his children should receive good educations, and has given them every opportunity possible, several of them having been graduates from the High School. Personally, he is a man of temperate habits in all things, one whose life has been devoted to labor and who has made a good record as a citizen and neighbor. His sons inherit much of his energy and thrift, and those living in Albion are carrying on an extensive business, while the one who manages the farm is doing well with the estate. ASAIIEL M. HAWKINS. This name will i be readily recognized by many of our readers as that of one of the oldest settlers of Convis Township, and one of its most energetic citizens. IIe is a farmer, and in tilling the soil has gained a solid financial position, having a large amount of land with its proper accompaniments of buildings, stock and machinery. It consists of two hundred and forty acres on sections 27 and 34, and comprises the original homestead here of his father, Asahel Hawkin, who will be remembered by the older citizens as one of the prominent agriculturists of this section. The Hawkins family is of Welsh lineage and was known for two or three generations in Vermont. In that State Benoni Hawkins, grandfather of our subject, was born and reared, and from that State he joined the Revolutionary forces when but a boy. There also Asahel Hawkins opened his eyes to the light, his birthplace and early home being in Bennington County. Hie removed to New York during the early settlement of Saratoga County and for several years worked for Judge E. Cowan. In 1836 he came hither, being one of the first to set up a home in Convis Township. Hie had entered eighty acres of Government land, and here beginning at the bottom of the ladder, he rose round by round until his estate was of the extent now held by his son, was well improved and his home supplied with many comforts. Like other pioneers he built a log house, cutting the timber therefor from his own forests. He worked by the day for others as opl)ortunity arose, while at the same time developing his land and managing his expenditures so as to add to it. IIe held various local offices, among them Township Supervisor. Clerk, Highway Commissioner and Justice of the Peace. He built the first schoolhouse in the township and in every way possible advanced the interests of this section. The wife of Asahel -Iawkins and mother of our subject bore the maiden name of Adelia Derby. She was born at Hague, N. Y., and was a daughter of Daniel l)erby, who was but a boy when he joined the Colonial army. He was of Scotch descent and a native of the Green Mountain State. Mrs. Hawkins died in this county in June, 1881, but a few weeks after her companion had entered into rest, he having passed away in April. To this worthy couple six children were born, of whom four now survive. Our subject has the honor of having been the second white child born in Convis Township and of being exceeded in the length of residence by but two who are now living here. His natal day was October 21, 1836. His school privileges were limited to three months per year when schools were kept up by rate bills, and the building in which he pursued his studies was of primitive construction, logs and slabs being the materials. When seven years old he began to work in the garden, drive oxen and perform other services suited to the strength of such a lad. At the age of sixteen he t t I I I I 822 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. managed the breaking team of five or six yoke of oxen and thought this great fun. He recalls the frequent sight of Indians, well remembers their removal, and looks back with feelings of mingled sorrow and pride to the time when Marshall was the chief market and large tracts of land were untouched by marks of civilization. When he became of age Mr. Hawkins was put in clarge of the homestead, on which he remained until he was thirty-seven years old. He then went to Eaton County, bought a farm of eighty acres near Olivet and carried on his work there nine years. At the expiration of that period lie sold out and bought the old homestead, upon which lie continued to made improvements and still further increase tile productiveness of the land. Wheat is his principal grain crop, and he raises cattle, sheep and hogs and a few horses of good grades. The slleep are Merino or Shropshire, and his flock numbers about one hundred and thirty head. Five acres are devoted to orchard trees, the oldest of which grew from seed brought here in the pocket of the father. The buildings upon the place include a comfortable dwelling, such barns, granaries and sheds as the extent of the work carried on makes necessary, and a wind-mill and tank wlence water is conveyed wherever it is most needed. The farm is but little more than five miles from Marshall and is thus within easy reach of a good market. The marriage of Mr. Hawkins and Miss Anne White was celebrated in Convis Township April 25, 1866. The bride was born here, and belongs to a family of which more extended notice is given in the sketch of W. N. White on another page of this volume. The union lias brought mutual comfort and happiness to the bride and groom, and has been still further blessed to them by the birth of five children-Myron, Sophie D., Fritz W., Reuben C. and S. Frank. The last three named still nake tlheir home with their parents; Myron is clerk in a clothing store in Charlotte; and Sophie is engsged in school-teaching. All are graduates from the High School. Mr. Hawkins has served in the capacity of School Director for years, having held the position in Eaton County as well as here. He was Commissioner of Highways for a lengthy period, is a member of the Board of Review and has been Justice of the Peace for years. He is a stanch Democrat, has been a delegate to county and State conventions and never fails to deposit his vote for the principles in which lie so firmly believes. He is a Mason, holding membership in a lodge at Olivet. Mrs. Hawkins belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church there, and Mr. Hawkins is connected with the Episcopal Church in Marshall. Both are highly respected, and Mr. Hawkins has the name of a jolly, goodnatured and companionable man, as well as a thorough farmer and reliable citizen. WEV. WILLIAM D. SIMONDS, pastor of | tle Independent Congregational Chulrch at Battle Creek, is a gentleman of ripe culture and of marked talent, and already stands among the leading ministers in this State, though yet in early manhood. Our subject was born in Illinois in 1855, and comes of a sterling New England ancestry. Hle is a son of A. A. Simonds, who is a native of Vermont, and a farmer by occupation. Our subject laid the foundation of his education in the State Normal School at Randolph, Vt., and then pursued a course of study in the Spaulding Classical Academy at Barre, Vt. IIe subsequently became a student at Amherst College. After leaving college Mr. Simonds came to Illinois and engaged in teaching school. While thus occupied lie began preaching, and subsequently took a course of study in a theological seminary at Chicago. His first regular charge was at Jefferson, [ll., and from there he was called to Iowa Falls, Iowa, to the pastorate of the church at that place. In 1887 lie received an urgent call to the Indepen. dent Congregational Church at Battle Creek, and has since been located here. This is the leading church of the city, and numbers among the congregation some of the most prominent and intelligent citizens of tlhe place. The building is a commodious structure of appropriate design and is free from debt. Mr. Simonds is a strong, noble character, who I c A al-wl~~~~~l Anticipa ed V-,' Mldives V.,, M 7.........~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ig PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 825 - is an influence for much good among the people with whom he has come to dwell. His sermons show him to be an advanced( thinker and a rare scholar. Ile is clear and forcible in his utterances from the pulpit or platform, using vigorous Saxon in which to express his thoughts, and in no uncertain tone states his views on all subjects in a straightforward, manly manner, he having the courage of his convictions. The church is prospering both materially and spiritually under his fostering care, and is an important factor in raising the religious status of the city and in forwarding all good causes. To the amiable wife who has cheered and sustained him in his sacred work during his ministry, the Rev. Mr. Simonds was married in 1878. Mrs. Simonds was formerly Miss Ida Colburn, and is, like her husband, a native of Illinois. She is devoted to his interests and las had much to do with his success. She is a true home-maker and a wise and tender mother to their children, of whom they have four-Gordon, Wendell, Willie and Gertrude. E DWARD C. IIINMAN. The publishers of this BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM would fail in tlheir purpose were they to omit from this volume some account of the life of Edward C. Hinman whose portrait appears on the opposite page, and who is one of the honored citizens of Battle Creek. He is a native of this county, born March 1, 1852, and obtained his early education in the public schools of Battle Creek. He then entered the Michigan State University at Ann Arbor, taking the scientific course, for which his mind had a decided bent, and being graduated in the class of '74. ITe became assistant engineer on the Fox and Wisconsin Rivers in Government employ, and retained his position from 1874 to 1880. At that date Mr. Hinman went to Port Huron, where he engaged in the grain business with C. A. Ward & Co. After two years of business life he returned to his native county, and locating in Battle Creek became the head of the milling firm of Hinman & Ward, which was in successful olperation until 1887. Mr. Hinman then sold out and after three years of retirement took an interest in the Battle Creek Machinery Co., and is at present Secretary and Treasurer of that flourishing industry. He finds many ways in which to employ his mental ability and vigorous nature, and enjoys to the full the comforts and pleasures which his financial circumstances allow him and his family. Mr. IHinman was married in Ann Arbor October 25, 1876, to Miss Carrie L. Risdon. The bride was a d(aulghter of Lewis C. Risdon, who died in Ann Arbor March 16, 1887. Mrs. Hlinman was a cultured, refined woman, whose education had been completed at Gannett's Institute in Boston, Mass. She was called from time to eternity June 29, 1887, leaving two daughters-Gertrude R. and Belle R. Mr. IIinman married his present wife, formerly Isadore M. Risdon, June 11, 1890. This lady also is possessed of high mental attainments and the pleasant manners of a well-bred woman. lier education was acquired at Ann Arbor. Mr. H-inman is a man of unusual intelligence and brings to bear upon every question presented to his mind the powers of a vigorous intellect and the judgment of an educated conscience. IHe is a Vestryman in St. Thomas's Church. In politics he is a decided Republican, taking an active interest in party affairs and being a member of the State Central, county and city committees. He represented his ward in the Common Council two years. He is a member of the Cemetery Board and Chairman of the Manufacturing Committee of the Business Men's Association. In the social orders lie is somewhat interested, and at present holds office in the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and belongs to the Blue Lodge, Chapter and Cornmandery of the Masonic Order. His good citizenship, interest in all that pertains to the advancement of the community and fine personal character, entitle him to respect and he receives a due share of the goodwill of the people. The name Hinman is supposed to be the same as Inman, being simply an English pronunciation followed by a change of spelling. It is certain that the Hinmans and Inmans in tracing their genealogy reach a common coat-of-arms, although b~llrV1~Vb 2VIV RVV-L~I 826 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. the exact date of the change in spelling has not citizen. IIe died in Seattle, Wash., February 19, been determined. The first of the name of Hin- 1873. His widow is one of the oldest pioneers now man to come to America escaped from England in living in this county. She is a remarkable woman the days of Oliver Cromwell, the Protector, he who lives largely in the past and takes great delight having belonged to the Body Guard of King in reciting facts relative to the olden times. She Charles I. From the Dutch records at Albany, comes of an excellent family, tracing her ancestry N. Y., is appeals that Sergt. Edward IHinman to the Tillotsons, who were prominent in the early offered his services to Gov. Stuyvesant to fight the history of New York. Her grandfather, Gen. Indians, but the sturdy old Governor having as John Tillotson, had a fine military record and also much faith in the goodwill of the red men as he attained to judicial honors, having been Associate had in that of the English, rejected the offer. Judge of the Supreme Court of New York. Hier Sergt. Hinman settled in Stratford, Conn. Of his father, Ira Tillotson, represented Tompkins County son Benjamin, the next in the direct line, little is in the New York Legislature, and after coming to known. In the third generation Noah filled many this State was Register of Deeds for this county for notable offices, took part in the councils of the eight years. He died in Bellevue several years colony and was in divers ways a conspicuous figure. ago. In the succeeding generation Abijah, who was born March 17, 1733, was a Revolutionary soldier and- —. present at the battle of Bennington. Iis son, Adoniram, who was born December 6, 1757, enlisted with Ethan Allen in 1775, was at Ft. YRON R. KNICKERBOCKER has for Ticonderoga on the occasion made notable by the many years borne an honorable part in language of the leader of the Green Mountain boys, advancing the agricultural interests of this and witnessed the execution of Andre, of which he county, and while doing so has borne his wrote an account still preserved in history. share in promoting the growth of Albion TownContinuing to trace the family in the direct line ship, where lie has a good farm on section 27. His we next find Truman H., who was born in Pitts- father was John H. Knickerbocker who was a field, Mass., December 1, 1781, and removed to native of Dutchess County. N. Y. He was bred to Castleton, Vt., where his son John Flavel was born the life of a farmer, and in due time was married March 17, 1816. The latter came to Michigan in to Ann Lloyd, who was likewise a native of Dutch1838, establishing himself as a merchant in Belle- ess County. They continued to live in the State vue. In 1851 he came to Battle Creek, where he of their birth until death called them hence, he followed the same pursuit as before. To him and dying October 2, 1829, at the age of thirty-five his wife six children have been born, the subject of years, while yet in life's prime; and her death this notice being the third. The eldest is Capt. occurring April 8, 1847, when she was fifty-two F. A. Hinman, who belongs to the United States years old. They were the parents of eight chilEngineer Corps and is now located in Norfolk dren, of whom three are now living. Va.; the second is Belle, wife of C. A. Ward, Our subject was the third of the family, and was banker and real-estate dealer in Port Huron; the born May 8, 1822, at Pine Plains, Dutchess fourth is Harriet, wife of W. L. Collins, of Chi- County, N. Y. IIe was only seven years old when cogo; the fifth, John F., Jr., whose home is in ie had the sad misfortune to lose his father, who Washington; the sixth, Clara, who is still with her had removed with his family to Genesee County, parents. N. Y. The mother continued to live on the home The mother of our subject, Harriet E. Hayt, was farm until her death, and our subject made his born in the Empire State November 1, 1809. Her home with her as long as she lived. He laid the father, John T. Hayt, came to Michigan in 1834, foundation of a good education in the common locating in Bellevue and becoming an influential schools, and subsequently attended a select school: v~ru:~ uv,,,,,\,,, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 827 for awhile. During his youth he helped to work the farm, and after he left the old home he was employed in navigating the lakes one season. September 20, 1849, Mr. Knickerbocker took an important step in life that has had much to do with his prosperity and happiness, as on that day he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah A. Waldo, a daughter of Hiram and l)ulcina (Foster) Waldo. HIer parents were both born at Bridgewater, Conn., in 1799, and were married in Genesee County, N. Y., where they continued to live until the mother's death, which occurred in 1844. The father was married a second time, Miss Maria Crane, of Genesee County, N. Y., becoming his wife. She still survives him, at the age of seventy-two years, and makes her home in Iowa. Mr. Waldo was a carpenter and joiner by trade, and he was also a farmer. In 1847 he removed to Rockford, 111., and after spending three years there came to Michigan and settled in Kalamazoo County. lie spent his last days in the home of our subject, and died here July 13, 1862, at the age of sixty-three years. By his first marriage he became the father of seven children, of whom five are now living. Three of the seven children of his second marriage are living. Mrs. Knickerbocker was the sixth child of the first marriage of her father, and she was born on the home farm in Genesee County, N. Y., October 16, 1830. She received a good education in the common schools, which sle has supplemented by intelligent reading of good literature, and she is a lady of superior mind and much culture. She taught school before her marriage, teaching one term in New York and two terms after coming to this State. She is one of the leading members of The Gleaners' Literary Society, of which she has been Chaplain two years, and she is one of its Programn Committee. She takes an active part in the proceedings of the society and has written many interesting essays to be read at its meetings. She was early trained in Christian precepts by her parents who were Presbyterians in early life but later joined the Church of the Disciples, of which they remained zealous and active members during their years of usefulness. Her father was a Whig in politics. He was strictly temperate in his habits. Our subject and his wife spent the first year of their wedded life in Genesee County, N. Y. In 1851 they came to Michigan and settled upon the farm in Albion Township on which they have ever since resided. It was then but partly improved, and Mr. Knickerbocker has since added to the residence, making it more commodious and comfortable, and he has built a good barn and all other necessary buildings. Ile has eighty acres of land under fine cultivation and a ten-acre lot of timber. He has added much to the attractiveness of his place by the orchard that lie has set out and by the beautiful shrubbery with which he has adorned the grounds. He and his wife have worked very hard in the upbuilding of this pleasant home and can now enjoy the fruits of their early labors amid its comforts, free from the cares and toils of their early life, as they have secured a competency. Mr. Knickerbocker still has the farm under his management though for two years he has been severely afflicted with neuralgia and rheumatism. Mr. and Mrs. Knickerbocker's marriage has been greatly blessed to them by the birth of five clildren, in whom they have much happiness, as they have been carefully trained and well educated to useful and honorable lives. Their record is as follows: Mary D., who was born August 18, 1850, is the wife of William Anderson, of Albion Township, and the mother of two boys-Arthur and Charles; Charles H., born August 1, 1853, and now a resident of Albion City, married Flora Keller, and they have three boys-Lloyd, Glenn and Clifford; Ella M., who was born February 25, 1856, died in the same year; Carrie E., who was born June 2, 1861, married Milford D. Galloway, of Albion, and is the mother of two daughters-Carrie Eleanor and Mary D.; Dwight W., who was born August 17, 1868, is now stenographer and book-keeper for the Electric Stove Works and Michigan Bath Tub Co., of Homer. The children all attended Albion College. Dwight W. is a graduate of the Albion High School and of the Commercial Department of the College. The two daughters are fine musicians, and they have taught school. The whole family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Albion City. They have all 828 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I taken an active part in the Sunday-school, and both Mr. and Mrs. Knickerbocker have been teachers. The children have always been constant attendants and Mrs. Anderson ilas been Superintendent of the same for two years. Mr. Knickerbocker has been a member of the Sons of Temperance, and he is strictly temperate in all things. He has always been interested in political issues, and in early life took sides with the Whigs, but since the formation of the Republican party has given his allegiance to it. IHe is a stanch temperance man, and his sons are also advocates of temperance. Our subject has helped to advance the public interests of his township as a member of the local Sclool Board. into the interior of the State and engage in farming. They settled in Hampshire County, where the younger members of the family were born. One object, and the leading one my grandmother had in going to a farm was, if possible, to prevent her sons from following the sea. The two eldest clildren were boys, and the fond mother hoped by educating them early in life in agricultural pursuits to keep tlem from the perilous occupation of their father. But in this she failed. She had a brother (Nathan Winslow) who was master of a whaling ship, and when in port he visited my grandmother, and of course told his exciting stories of life on the ocean, which undoubtedly called up in the memory of the father his own life on the sea. While these old sailors talked over these scenes through which they had passed on the deep, especially the poetical part of a life on the *,o ~ ---; =::V- ----- - -- -------- -~ ----,~F-~ ON. PHILO CLARK, a well known and re- ocean wave, the boys listened with ears open. The spected citizen of Albion, was a pioneer of result was they went to sea with their uncle, the Steuben County, Ind., with whose growth, eldest son then being eighteen years old, and the material prosperity and public life he was olier two years younger. closely associated for many years, until he became "My grandfather's children numbered thirteen, identified with the agriculturai interests of this nine boys and four girls, as follows: Zenas, county more than a quarter of a century ago. Nathaniel, Nathan, Phoebe, Elisha, Asa, Mehitable, Our subject was born in Madison County, N. Y., Phoebe, Joseph, Sally, Isaac, Winslow, and Zenas. January 24, 1815, coining of a fine old New Eng- Two of the daughters and two of the sons bore the land ancestry, his genealogical record extending same name, which is explained by the fact that the back to tie early days of the Pilgrims and the Puri- first Zenas and Phoebe died before the others were tans, as we g tlher from the following, which was born. The two who went to sea were gone two or written some years ago by Mr. Clark at the request three years, and were shipwrecked on their return of his son, R. E. Clark: home, the captain and all of the crew, save five "At your request, I now undertake to put on including the two brothers, being lost. The tears paper the knowledge I have of the past history of of the mother did not avail to prevent them from our family, some of which will be fragmentary and going to sea again, and they made several voyages, not very reliable. That which dates back of the occasionally visiting home. Neither of them lived second generation from myself is tradition, not to be old, but both lost their lives on the perilous well authenticated. deep. The rest of the children lived to mature "' My father (Asa Clark) was born October 6, years and became the heads of families, except the 1776, in the State of Massachusetts, Barnstable two named Phoebe, both of whom died young. County, on that point of land known as Cape Cod. The sons were farmers, two associating the trade His father followed the sea as a whaler, and in of carpenter with that calling, and one of these, early manhood attained the responsible position of Isaac, was a local Methodist minister. All had a captain of a ship. He continued in the same busi- a very limited education, but all could read and ness for some years after he was married, until his write, except the last Zenas, who could not write, family became quite numerous. Then, through the and his reading was very imperfect. influence of his wife, he was persuaded to move "My grandmother Clark's maiden name was PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 829 Winslow. Her mother lived with her and, if my memory is not at fault, she lived to be some over ninety years old, her death occurring about 1780. This shows she was born near the close of the seventeenth century, or seventy or eighty years after the landing of the Pilgrim Fathers and the founding of the Plymouth colony in 1620. The name of one of the leading men of that colony was Winslow, who was a young man at tile time of the emigration, and was the second or third Governor of the Massachusetts Bay Colony. From this I draw the conclusion the time was so short that intervened between the first emigration and the birth of your great-great-grandfather Winslow that he was probably a descendant of the Winslow who came over in the 'Mayflower.' ~'As to the Clark branch of our family, I have no knowledge of it farther back than my greatgrandfather Clark. But on reading of the colonization of New England, we find that the next colony to be llanted after that of Plymouth was Salem, and among the colonists of that town the name Clark is found. From that I conclude that the Clark branch of our family were among the early emigrants to the New World. " The maiden name of my mother was Pratt and the maiden name of her mother was Jones. This grandmother lived with my parents many years. being with them at the time of my earliest recollection, and continuing to live with them for some time after. It is to lier I am indebted for the habit of reading. She lived in a room by herself, and as she liked to have me read to her, I spent many of my winter evenings in that way. She lived to a good old age, being something over ninety years old when she died. ll The Pratt branch of our family, I think, was not among the early immigration from the old world. I learned from my mother that some time during the early wars between the English and French colonies, two brothers of the name came over to this country as soldiers and, like many soldiers of that time, they found plenty of room. One of them was the father of my great-grandfather Pratt. My grandfather Pratt was twice married. By his first marriage there were three children: James, Elisha and Lydia. By the sec ond marriage there were ten children: Seva, Sally (my mother), John, Matthew, Betsy, Jacob, Benjamin, Polly, Joseph and Aseph, all of whom were born in Massachusetts. All, except Seva, settled in Vermont, whence they emigrated to New York about the year 1800, and most of them located in Madison County of that State. Wlien I was a child there were living with a radius of five miles of my father's home seven of the younger members of the family and all the elders of the family, and they remained there until the older members of their various families had grown up and moved westward. All married and reared numerous children, except Benjamin, wlio died when a young man. The others lived to old age, none dying younger than sixty, and one (John) lived to the great age of ninety-two. All were farmers but two. John and Mathew associated the millwright and carpenter business with their farming in early life, and likewise engaged extensively in distilling, and in milling, and retailing dry-goods. Later in life they were in company in business and became quite wealthy for the time in which they lived. There were nine in my father's family, eight of whom grew to maturity and reared families, the other dying in infancy. "My father was married November 28, 1799, to Sally Pratt, who was born August 13, 1 776. Tliey migrated the same year to New York and settled in Chenango County, where they lived three years. They then removed to the town of Eaton, Madison County, where the next thirty years of their lives were passed. At the expiration of that tite they took up their residence in Ontario County, the same State, where my mother (lied in 1835. My father then returned to Madison County and married Miss Polly Houghlton for his second wife, and continued to live there until his death, which occurred in 1850. There were then but three of the family living. T'lie names of my parents' children are as follows: Huldah, Mathew, Lyman, Alonzo P., Benjamin, Sarah, Philo, and Philena. Huldah married Isaac Stewart, and in 1840 removed with him from Madison County, N. Y., to McHenry County, Ill., where they both died. Mathew married Rachel Bump, and subsequently removed from Madison 830 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. County, N. Y., to Steuben County, Ind., where started for what was then regarded as the ''Far they both died. Lyman married Lovisa S. Scutt West," traveling by Lake Erie to Toledo, and for his second wife (having previously married thence by the primitive railway, with its strap rails, Mrs. Mary Short, who died) and settled in Ontario to Adrian, and finally arrived at their destination County, where they both died. Alonzo married in Steuben County, Ind. Mr. Clark had preMiss Betsy Bump in Madison County, and later viously visited that part of the country in 1836 in moved to Ontario County, N. Y., thence to Steuben search of a suitable location, and had bought a County, Ind, where they passed their remaining tract of wild land from the Government, at $1.25 days. Benjamin married Mary Wright in Ontario an acre, going to Fort Wayne on horseback to enter County, N. Y., and later removed from there to the land. He had found the country in a very Steuben County, Ind, whence they came to this wild, sparsely settled condition, and had journeyed county, where he died in 1889. Mrs. Clark is twelve miles without seeing signs of any human still a resident of Albion. Sarah married Orville habitation. What few houses there were then in Sawyer, and they first located in Ontario County, the county, were rude structures of logs, sometimes N. Y., whence they moved to Steuben County, without a floor other than the ground on which the Ind., where they both died. Philena married dwelling stood. One night our subject slept on the twice. Her first husband was Elmer Cooper, of floor of such a cabin, and there was no chimney in Ontario County, N. Y., where he died. She then the building, but a hole was cut in the roof to let married Warren Starin, and they moved to Rock the smoke out. Meetings were held in those days County, Wis., where they died." in the cabins of the pioneers by the itinerant The subject of this biography laid the foundation preachers, whose circuits extended a distance of of his education in the district schools of his native fifty miles. State, and then pursued a partial course at the Our subject sold his first purchase the year academy at Canandaigua, N. Y. When he was after he settled in Indiana, and bought eighty seventeen years old he commenced teaching school, acres of land to which lie added until he had a and taught nine winters in succession, with one ex- choice farm of three hundred and eighty acres of ception. Ie married early in life and established arable land. The humble log cabin, 18x20 feet in a home of his own, his union with Miss Elizabeth dimensions, in which he and his wife first lived, Fitzgerald taking place in 1841. Her parents was supplanted by a comfortable frame residence. were Walter and Sarah Ann (Redman) Fitzgerald, In 1864 Mr. Clark sold his property in Indiana natives of Maryland. The former was born April and came to this county, where he purchased a 15, 1759, and the latter March 28, 1769. They a section of land in company with his brother in were wedded in Maryland September 7, 1793, and Sheridan Township. They carried on farming tobecame the parents of a large family of children, gether a few years, and then divided the farm each of whom Mrs. Clark is the youngest and the only taking his share. In 1881 our subject came to Alsurvivor. bion and has since lived in the beautiful home that In 1805 Mr. Fitzgerald moved from Maryland he then erected. to Ontario County, N. Y., crossing the Alleghany Mr. and Mrs. Clark have shared the joys and Mountains in wagons, and fording the Susquehanna sorrows of wedded life for nearly half a century, River nine times in traveling a short distance. Ile and have afforded their friends a happy example of was a man of more than ordinary intelligence and true marriage. They are the parents of two chillearning, and for many years was engaged in teach- dren, of whom Reuben F., (lied at the age of seven ing. He died in 1830. Mrs. Fitzgerald came years. Their only remaining son, Reuben Emmet, westwerd with her son, and died in 1841. Both was given the advantages of a liberal education she and her husband were life long members of the and is a graduate of Albion College. lie is now Baptist Church. cashier of a wholesale establishment at Chicago, Ill. Soon after their marriage Mr. and M-rs. Clark In early life our subject was an Anti-Mason; PORTRAIT AND BIOG RAPHIICAL ALBUM. 831 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 831r~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~~~~~~.. afterward a Whig; later a Republican, who was much opposed to the extension of slavery, and at present is a Prohibitionist. While in Steuben County he was very prominently identified with its public life and held all of the township and one county office. In 1858 and 1859 he was a member of the Indiana State Legislature. In whatever capacity he servel he showed the same uprightness and unswerving inteoritv that has characterized his whole life, and the same sagacity and excellent business qualifications that have always guided the management of his private affairs. These made him invaluable as a civic officer, were potent in the upbuilding of Steuben County, and have materially helped to advance the prosperity of this county. He and his estimable wife are people of true Christian worth and have long been identified with the Christian Church. E DWARD F. CHAPIN is a fine representative of the native-born citizens of this county, who are now among its most prominent farmers and stockmen. IHe is one of the foremost men of his calling in Marengo Township, where his valuable farming interests are centered. The farm on section 9, which he now owns and occupies is his birthplace. He is a son of Samuel and Sophia (Powell) Chapin, who were early pioneer of this county and were numbered among its most influential and best-known citizens. The father was born in Springwater, Livingston County, N. Y., June 17, 1819. He was a son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Setson) (hapin, natives respectively of Long Island and Dutchess County, N. Y. Samuel Chapin, Sr. came to Michigan in May, 1834, in territorial (lays and purchased eighty acres of land in the township of Sylvan, Washtenaw County, to which he removed his family in the month of September, the same year. His homestead was amid the forests primeval in a wild country that was full of game and his nearest neighbor was seven miles away. In 1837 the grandfather of our subject exchanged his land in Washtenaw County for one hundred and sixty acres in Marengo Township, and took up his residence on it the 5th of July, and the following day began breaking the sod with a yoke of oxen. His useful career as a pioneer of the county was brought to a close by his death in 1842. Iis widow survived him until 1850, when she too entered the life immortal. The father of our subject was a stalwart vigorous youth when he accompanied his parents to their new pioneer home and he afforded his father valuable assistance in breaking and preparing his land for cultivation. During the harvest season the first year they came here he worked for Robert IHuston for $1 a day. He continued to live in the parental home and to assist his father in the management of his farm until he attained his majority. After the death of his father he returned to care for his mother. She subsequently went back to her relatives in Canandaigua, Ontario County, N. Y., and the farm was leased. Mr. Chapin continued to work by the month during the summer of 1853. After he began farming on his own account he was exceedingly prospered and became one of the substantial men of Marengo Township, where he owned much valuable property including his fine homestead of three hundred and eighty-one acres of fertile, well-tilled land. November 11, 1846, the father of our subject was married to Mrs. Sophia Bagg, whose maiden name was Powell, and she bore him the following clhildren: Edward F., Margaret S. and Ellen Beach. Ellen is the wife of Frank R. Parker, who is carrying on business as a hatter at Battle Creek, and is a very prominent man in that city. Mrs. Chapin was the daughter of J. L. Powell of Trenton, Oneida County, N. Y. She was born September 14, 1809. Her first marriage which took place in New York, April 14, 1833, was to M. J. Bagg. They moved to Michigan that same spring and were among the first settlers of Marengo Township. Mr. Bagg died in their pioneer home April 28, 1842, while yet in life's prime. The mother of our subject was a woman of fine character, of more than ordinary intelligence and was a noble type of the pioneer women of this county wlio were so potent in its upbuilding. She was a woman of large heart and warm generous nature and her good 832' PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -----— ~ --- —---— ~ --- —-- -— _ --- —----— --- -- Ii --— --- ------ deeds were known near and far. She was one of man ol the leading members of the Pioneer Society of ber of Calhoun County, which she served as Vice-Presi- time ai dent. The father of our subject was one of the years c influential citizens of the county who always took erable a deep interest in everything pertaining to its well- years o being, generously aiding all enterprises calculated health for its improvement. In his political views he was of the steadfast in his adherence to the Republican party. Mrs. C Religiously, he was a valued member of the Pres- ties, wl byterian Church at Marshall, of which he was a her hus Deacon and his wife and daughter also belonged to people that church. Christi: He of whom this biography is written has passed Presby his life amid the pleasant surroundings of the farm two clhi that he now owns and occupies, and he ranks among of the the most prosperous farmers of this township. He Their d has his farm well stocked as he makes a specialty 1874, a of horses and fine Merino sheep, from the sale of Octobel which lie derives much profit. He has made many Mr. ( valuable improvements on his place since his father's that h( death, and now has one of the best equipped farms farmer, in this section of the county that is complete in all man, ha its appointments which are first-class, and the soil zenship is under the best of cultivation. I-e has erected a office of very handsome residence at a cost of $3,000, also striven four large barns, including a basement barn that is his towi 30x100 feet in dimensions. IHe has a fine orchard His poli and he raises all kinds of small fruits belonging to mulgate the horticultural kingdom that flourish in this cli- stronges mate. January 1, 1873, was the dale of an important event in the life of our subject, as he was then united in marriage to Miss Ellen Conger. Mrs. Chapin was born February 21, 1843, in Genesee R County, N. Y., and came to Michigan in 1856 with her parents who settled in Litchfield, where her I father is still living at a venerable age. Her mother propriet died February 14, 1891. She had two brothers and Ione cou two sisters, one of whom, Mrs. A M. Kellogg, died ing fami January 1, 1891, at the home of our subject. With tleman. this exception all are married and well settled in took pl: life, and she is the youngest of the family. IIer Judge ( father was a farmer during his active business life. The prii lle has attained the ripe old age of ninety-two years other pa and still preserves his mental faculties to a marked early scl degree, and his memory is remarkably good for a his stud f his years. -He has been a consistent memthe Methodist Church for a long period of nd in his political views was a Whig for sixty )r until he became a Republican. The venmother of Mrs. Chapin, who was eighty-six f. age when she died, had been in declining for two years. She was a zealous member Methodist Church for more than sixty years. hapin is a woman of many amiable qualilo has many warm friends, she sharing with;banA the entire respect and esteem of the among whom they live. She is a sincere an and one of the leading members of the terian Church. In their attractive home ildren have come to complete the happiness wedded life of our subject and his wife. laughter Maggie May was born March 23, and their son George Edward was born r 11, 1878. Chapin's career in life in all the relations e has held with others, as an intelligent " a public-spirited citizen and an honorable is been such as to reflect credit on the citiof his native county. He has held the f School Director and Pathmaster and has in every way to advance the welfare of nship, in which he takes a genuine interest. itical views coincide with the principles proed by the Republicans, and he is one of the st advocates of his party in this vicinity. ZANKLIN W. DICKEY. Even the passing traveler in Marshall would be likely to hear of the Seven Oaks Farm, and of its tor, Franklin W. Dickey; and certainly no Id remain long in the city without becomliar with the business project of this genHe is a native of the city where his birth ace, August 18, 1839, his parents being Tharles and Mary A. (Wakeman) Dickey. ncipal facts in their lives are given on ange. Our subject passed his boyhood and iool days here, and when he had finished lies aided his father in the store, on the ~~727-*~ K a ~ n~lC~;~".-.;/ /... — --- 'op / I'll 11-11 v PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 835 farm and in general business affairs, until he had reached his twentieth year, when he began his own career. Mr. Dickey upon beginning business engaged in farming and wool buying, dealing largely in fleeces for Eastern parties, and taking his father's place in many of the business affairs that had been conducted by the latter. He also turned his attention to buying fine horses and fitting them for sale and he has owned some of the finest teams in Southwestern Michigan. For these he has received fancy prices and the business has grown to such proportions that he has been obliged to erect extra barns and sheds and increase his facilities for meeting the demand. He handles annually from five hundred to six hundred horses, which find markets in different parts of the world. His superior judgment, and skill in handling them, gives him a decided advantage over some dealers and he is widely and favorably known among horsemen. Seven Oaks Farm is included in the corporate limits of Marshall, while other outlying tracts are owned by Mr. Dickey. On the home farm is a large and comfortable residence, supplied with many modern conveniences and furnished in excellent taste. The large horse barn which Mr. Dickey found it necessary to erect in 1884, is 40x 140 feet, with two wings, each 16x24 feet. A second barn, 30x100 feet, and ample sleds for the protection of the stock, together with a fine windmill, make the place conspicuous and quickly attract the attention of every passer-by. That part of the land of Mr. Dickey that is devoted to crops is intelligently handled and every approved method is used to develop and enrich it. Very satisfactory results are obtained, but the chief business of Mr. Diekey, and that upon which his reputation mainly depends, is connected with that noble animal, the horse. The present wife of Mr. Dickey bore the maiden name of Mary A. Perry, and is a native of Tecumseh, Lenawee County. The union has been blest by the birth of three children, named respectively: Donna L., [-arry P., and Dwight C. Prior to his union with Miss Perry Mr. Dickey had been twice married, but in each case was bereft of his companion soon after marriage. Various official positions have been held by Mr. Dickey, some of them connected with the government of the section and others with educational and social matters. He was Township Assessor four years and has been a member of the School Board seven years. He was Secretary of the Calhoun County Agricultural Society some years since and later was President of the same four years. He often represents his county as a delegate to State and Congressional conventions and takes an active part in the local political work of the Republican party. During the Civil War he was promoted from the ranks to the position of Major in the Second Michigan Cavalry. W ALTER H. ALEXANDER, dealer in lumber, coal and all kinds of building material at Marshall, is one of the native-born citizens of the county who are rapidly coming to the front in business and in social affairs. Ile is the youngest son in a family comprising eight sons and eight daughters, but four of whom are now living. The parents, Morgan J. and Sarah J. (Clisbe) Alexander, were natives of Wales and New Jersey respectively. The father emigrated to the United States when of age and stopped for a time in Auburn, N. Y. He afterward went to New Jersey, where he married, and whence he came to this county in 1836. Morgan Alexander located on land in Fredonia Township which he bought from the government and which he improved, making of it a fair and fruitful estate. He was a tanner and finisher of leather and had worked at his trade in the East. His name is linked with that of others who did much to make of this county what it is to-day-a well developed agricultural and manufacturing region and the seat of a high civilization. He passed to his eternal reward in 1851, while his widow survived until March 19, 1891; although in her eighty-eighth year at the time of her decease she retained to the last full possession of her faculties. The maternal grandfather of our subject was a soldier in the War of the Revolution. p 836 PORTRAIT, AND 'BIOGRAPHICAL A~LBUM. 836PORTRAIT AND _3IOGRPHICA AL.UM. The natal day of Walter H. Alexander was November 27, 1845. He passed his youth on the farm on which he was born, attending the cormmon schools and taking a part in home duties until he was twenty-one years old. ITe then came to Marshall to aid his brother Morgan, who was then engaged in the lumber trade, and he bought an interest in a dray and transfer business which he retained until 1870. He then went to Kansas, took up a homestead in Washington County, and besides working upon it, engaged in the lumber business. IHeremained there five years, then selling out his interest he went to Lewis County, Mo., where he married Miss Martha Ford, daughter of Jesse and Agnes (O'Neal) Ford and a native of the county in which the wedding was solemnized. Soon after his marriage Mr. Alexander removed to Martinsburg, Keokuk County, Iowa, at which place lie was variously engaged for two years. During 1879 he returned to Marshall and again assisted his brother, remaining with him some four years, when the connection between the two was severed by death, Morgan Alexander passing away September 28, 1882. Our subject then bought the stock and succeeded to the business, to which he added the handling of soft and hard coal and building material. His lumber yard is conveniently located near the Michigan Central Railroad track, not far from the depot, and he therefore has good shipping facilities. To Mr. and Mrs. Alexander three sons and five daughters were born, named respectively: Mabel, Morgan, Mark, who died when only five months old; Robby, who was drowned at the age of six years; Florence, Alice, Pearl and Gladys. T'he oldest son, Morgan, is deve4ping business ability and making himself very useful to his father, whose assistant he is. The children belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are being carefully trained for positions of prominence in the social and business world. The order of Masonry has some attractions for Mr. Alexander and he belongs to St. Albans Lodge, No. 20, and Lafayette Chapter of Marshall. After careful consideration of political questions, he gave his allegiance to the Republican party and he continues to vote that ticket. Religiously, he is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, while his wife belongs to the Baptist Church. Both have had good opportunities which this period affords to increase their mental culture and develop their spiritual lives and they have the esteem of all who know them. The many friends of Mr. Alexander will welcome his portrait on another page, as a valluable addition to the AiLBUM. OHN STARK SANDERS, who is busily engaged in agricultural pursuits in Burlington Township, is a descendant of sterling New ( England stock, and numbers among his ancestors one of the most famous generals of the Revolution, the hero of the battle of Bennington. As a soldier in the late Civil War he showed himself to be a worthy scion of his illustrious great-greatgr.nndsire. Our subject was born January 20, 1832, in Bazetta. Trumbull County, Ohio, to John and Susan (Davis) Sanders. John Sanders sprang from Benjamin Sanders,-who was born in England in 1735 and came to America in 1755. IIe first settled in Worcester County, Mass., whence he moved to Vermont with his wife and two sons, and died in the Green Mountain State, November 10, 1809. His widow, Hannah Sanders, departed this life October 2, 1819, at the age of seventy-eight years. Zebina Sanders, grandfather of our subject, was born in Athol, Mass., and was married to Maribahl Oliver. They moved to Vermont and were early settlers of Sudbury, Rutland County, where their remaining days were passed, lie dying March 20, 1813, and she September 8, 1829, at the age of fifty-five years. They were stanch members of the Baptist Church. The following are the names of their ten children: Lois, Oliver, Zebina, Lucy, Aseph, John, Polly, Worster, Joseph and Daniel. John Sanders was born June 26,1805, at Sudbury, Vt. In 1825 he became one of the pioneers of Trumbull County, Ohio, where he purchased a farm. IHe was there mtarried, taking as his wife a daughter of William and Ann (Luce) Davis. Gen. Stark, of Revolutionary fame was the grandfather of Ann PORTRiAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 837 PTIA BO AILLM8 _ ~ ~ ~ - - - - - - I- _- - -- - - Luce Davis. In the spring of 1837 Mr. Sanders started on the rough journey through the intervening wilderness for Michigan with teams, being nearly a month on the way. After his arrival in this county he entered a quarter of section 36, Burlington Township, and besides this had one hundred and twenty acres of land on section 2, which he had entered and purchased in the fall of 1836. lIe located on the latter and sold his land on section 36. He actively entered upon the hard labor of clearing and improving his homestead, and in the years of toil that followed made it into one of the best farms in the township. His life was rounded out at a ripe age, June 8, 1873, and death then took away an honored pioneer of the county wlo had been useful in the assistance he had given in developing the resources of this region. He served his people well in various township offices, and was always alive to his duties as a citizen. He was a man of sturdy, upright principles and was always found in favor of the right. IIe and his wife were sincere Christians, were members of the Church of the Disciples for many years, and his widow is still connected with that church. In eaily years he was a Whig, but after the formation of the Republican party he was ever its firm supporter. lie and his wife reared a family of seven children, namely: Cordelia, I)iantha, John, Benjamin Franklin, Aaron (who died at the age of twenty years), Decima an( Flora. Mrs. Davis' father who was a farmer, was the first settler of the town of Bazetta, in Trumbull County, Ohio, where he resided the rest of his (lays. After the breaking out of the War of 1812 he was drafted and served as a soldier. le was the father of fifteen children, one of whom was killed when a child. The following eleven grew to manhood and womanhood: Aaron; Mathias, a resident of Montana; Reuben, who died in Texas; Judson and Stotton, tie former of whom is deceased; William, a wealthy farmer in Ohio; Elijah, a physician at Cleveland,Ohio; Susan, Maria, Lucy and Louisa. John S. Sanders received a limited education in the primitive schools of his day that were taught in log schoolhouses. IHe, however, gained a thorough knowledge of farming on his father's farm, which has been of use to him since he has owned a place of his own. At the age of twenty-one years he left home and worked by the month for from $12 to $15 a month for two years. At the expiration of that time he began to learn the trade of a carpenter, which he has since followed in connection with farming, and is a very capable and skillful mechanic in that line. He bought his first farm in 1862 which consisted of forty acres of the old homestead, of which he now owns eighty acres, which is most excellent farming land, and is amply supplied with all the necessary buildings and machinery. February 8, 1864 was the date of the enlistment of our subject in Company A, First Michigan Sharp-shooters. He took part in the Battle of the Wilderness and in the hotly contested engagement with the enemy at Spottsylvania. In the latter place he was wounded in the left hand and leg, and for three months was in the hospital at Alexandria, Va. As soon as possible he rejoined his regiment and did good service in the siege of Petersburg and in the skirmishes on the Weldon Railroad. He fought at the battle of Deep Bottom, was with his regiment at Poplar Grove Church, and was active in the battle in front of Petersburg, March 24, 1865. -Ie assisted in the attack on that city in the following April and whenever his regiment was at the front he did his duty faithfully and bravely at all times whether on the battlefield or in camp, and was deservedly promoted from the ranks to the position of Sergeant of his company. He was honorably discharged with a good military record at Jackson, Mich., in August, 1865. His part in the war is comnemorated by his connection with the Grand Army of the Republic. He is also known in social circles as a member of the Masonic fraternity. The most of his life has been passed in this county and since attaining manhood he has been classed among the best citizens of his adopted township, who in whatever capacity he has served it, as Treasurer or Highway Commissioner or in any other local office, has always done what he could to further its highest interests. Our subject was married February 5, 1854, to Lydia Stephens, a daughter of John and Mahala Stephens, of Calhoun County. Her parents came from Canada to the United States. Her father was i ~ 838 PORTRRAIT AN D BIOG RAPU ICAL ALBUM. 838 PRRI AN IOGAPICLL a blacksmith and also a farmer by occupation. Two children were born to our subject of that marriage: Mary and Martha, twins, the former the wife of R. Barker, of Denver, Col., and the latter the wife of F. P. Spooner. Tie second marriage of our subject, which was solemnized January 2,1857, was with Amanda French, a daughter of Hiram and Amanda (Waterman) French. Her parents were natives of Brown County, N. Y. and they came to Michigan in 1842 and located in Burlington Townstip, where her father resided until death. Five children have been born to our subject and his present wife, namely: Julia L., wife of George Gregg; Carrie, wife of B. Witter; Judson W., of Grand Rapids; Urville T., and Claude S. school and then shall. He assis made it his hor whhn he went t clerk in a store, months, then in and in August, partnership was F., the firm nan but subsequent] kell. In 1855 Mr. for the bank an New York, the years. In 1871 ness which he h representing set He has succeede able manners, p i",. r ENRY CURTIS HASKELL. This well- ability to pres )) known insurance agent in Marshall has been are particular] interested in the welfare of this county since Careful to repr )1836, when he came here a youth of some depended upon sixteen years. He was born in Oakhaln, Worces. tional stability ter County, Mass., May 28, 1820. His father, In the year 1 Reuben Haskell, was born in Rochester, Mass., in riage with Miss 1777, and was a farmer by occupation. The necticut, but at mother of our subject bore the maiden name of She had accomr Lavina Athearn, was born in Martha's Vineyard in Phebe S. Mason 1779, and was the daughter of Belcher Athearn. husband's fort In 1827 Mr. and Mrs. Haskell went to Western changed time f New York and thence came to this State, settling March, 1875. on a farm in Bellevue Township, Eaton County. dren, all living At the time of his demise in February 1842, Mr. Henry M., Mar Haskell had two hundred acres under good im- Frances E., wh( provement and quite well developed. His wife and foreman of the ten children surviving him, the widow dying in Grand Trunk I Marshall in 1859. is practicing n The boyhood of our subject was passed in Mon- Mary is the wi roe County, N. Y., and his time was divided be- Porter is secon( tween home duties, study and recreation, in propor- patent office; V tion usual to one of the youngest members of a ter was a gradu large family. He had seven brothers and sisters of the Navy De older than himself and two younger, but of the after graduating entire circle only four members are now living. ship and was an After coming to this county young Haskell con- The present tinued to pursue his studies, first in the district noble character i for a time in the Academy at Marsted his father upon the farm, and le until he was twenty-two years old, to Jackson and secured a position as He was thus employed eighteen the fall of 1843 came to Marshall 1844, opened a general store. A s formed with his brother, Charles ne being Charles F. Haskell & Co., ly changed to C. F. & H. C. HasHaskell sold out and became agent d business safes of Lillie & Son, sale of which he conducted for ten I he engaged in the insurance busias continued until the present time, veral of the most reliable companies. id well in this line having the agreeersistency without offensiveness, and ent the claims of his business that ly required of insurance agents. esent only reliable companies, lie is and his personal honor gives addito his business standing. 845 Mr. Haskell was united in mar3 Laura T. Mason, a native of Conthat time a resident of Marshall. panied her parents, Rev. Stephen and i, hither in 1838. She shared her unes some thirty years, then exfor eternity, breathing her last in She was the mother of seven chiland named Laura T., Stephen M., y C., Porter D., and William L.; and o died in infancy. Stephen is now tin and copper department of the Railroad shops in Port Huron; Henry iedicine in the Upper Peninsula; fe of N. J. Howe of Delphi, Ind.; i assistant scientific examiner in the Villiam is an artist in Chicago; Porate from the Annapolis, Md. school apartment, spent one year in Europe g and one in Newport on a school i Ensign when he resigned. vife of Mr. Haskell is one of those s who reflect credit upon the name PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 839 - ----------- ---- I of woman, and who may readily be believed to represent good families by reason of their own intelligence and breeding. She was born in Petersboro, Madison County, N. Y., September 13, 1837, bore the maiden name of Matilda Delaria Lamb, and is a daughter of Seth and Delaria (Jenks) Lamb. Her parents were born in Berkshire, Mass., and were of Welsh and English extraction. Her father was an own cousin to Gerritt Smith, of national renown and was of the same political belief. Her maternal grandmother, Naonli (Sumlier) Jenks, was a first cousin to the Hon. Charles Sumner. She was living in widowhood in Lyndonville, N. Y., when wooed and won by Mr. Haskell to whom she was married January 8, 1879. Mr. Haskell was present at the birth of the Republican party in Michigan and has never swerved in his allegiance to its principles. Whatever he sees to regret in the actions of its members, he yet believes that its platform embodies the best principles of government "by the people and for the people." He and his wife are enrolled among the members of the First Presbyterian Church, in which he has served as Clerk some eighteen years and Deacon and Elder thirty-two years. It is scarcely necessary to say, as it is self-evident from the foregoing regarding their lives and characters, that Mr. and Mrs. Ilaskell are among the most highly respected residents in the city. V ILLIAM C. HENRY has been a resident of this county a quarter of a century, and during that time has won an honorable reputation as a skillful, practical farmer and stockraiser, his place being among the best men of his class in Albion Township, where his agricultural interests are centered. He is a son of John Henry, a native of Clenango County, N. Y., and a farmer. He married Theresa Manter, who was also a native of New York and was born in Monroe County. The paternal grandfather of our subject was named William Henry, and he was a farmer by occupation. John Henry was a prominent citizen of Monroe County, where he carried on farming for many = -- ------------ years, and both lie and his wife were life-long residents of New York. He interested himself in education and politics and in his last years was a Republican. Both lie and his wife were devoted members of the Free Will Baptist Church. He died in 1878 at a ripe old age, and she in 1885, well advanced in years. These worthy people were the parents of four children, as follows: William C., our subject; James C., a resident of New York; George S., who lives in Indiana; and Slayton, a resident of New York. William C. Henry is the eldest child of the family and he was born on the old homestead in Monroe County, N. Y., November 7, 1830. He obtained his education in tie public schools of his native county, and under his father's instruction gained a sound knowledge of agriculture. At twenty years of age, a stalwart active youth, he started out to fight life's battles on his own account, and began by working on a farm by the month for one season. His next venture was as a renter. After that he carried on his father's farm on shares. After marriage Mr. Henry rented a farm at Parma, N. Y., for two years and then lived on a rented farm at Clarkson three years. The next two years he spent at Parma Center and one winter at Grace, N. Y. He subsequently passed two years at Ogden and Adam's Basin, and then resumed his residence at Parma for a short time. In the fall of 1865 he and his wife came to Michigan and have since made their home upon this farm on section 10, Albion Township. He has here eighty acres of choice land, which was almost entirely in a wild condition when it came into his hands. It was covered with timber and grubs and only by hard pioneer labor has he cleared it, placedl it under fine cultivation and improved it into one of the most substantial places in this county. In 1875 he built a neat and well-ordered residence, erected a good barn in 1872 and another in 1890. One of the numerous attractions of his pleasant home is a fine orchard of four hundred trees set out by his own hand, besides much small fruit. He devotes his farm to general husbandry, raises considerable grain and has high graded stock. Mr. Henry and Miss May Electa Bascom were united in marriage July 2, 1854. Mrs. Henry is a 840 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. daughter of Sliubael and Electa (Bridgman) Bas- a short time. She taught school one season in the com, natives respectively of New Hampshire and State of New York. On leaving school she by no Vermont, and born in 1803 and 1808 respectively. means ceased perfecting her education, but has The Bascoms are descendants of a family of French always been a constant student and is a lady of Huguenots, who came to this country from France marked culture and literary ability. She has had in 1634 and settled first at Dorchester, Mass., and a wide range of reading, possesses a vast fund of later at Windsor, Conn. Thomas Bascom was the information and is one of our best writers. She is first of the name to come to these shores, and he connected with various papers. She writes for the was for many years a prominent man at Windsor. household department of the Michigan Farmer and Many of the family served in the early Indian of the Detroit Free Press; her articles often appear Wars, in the Revolution, in the War of 1812, and in the Practical Farmer, of Philadelphia, Pa.; she many of them were ministers of the Gospel. Mrs. writes much for the Michigan Christian Advocate, Henry's father was a relative of Bishop Bascom, of which is published at Detroit, and she also reports Kentucky, and also of President John Bascom, of for the Albion papers. Among her most noted Wisconsin. Her brother, Levi, is an artist of much articles we note: " Those Evangelists," which apmerit at Louisville, Ky. peared in the Christian Advocate May 3, 1890; " A Mrs. Hetlry's paternal grandfather was Shubael Farmers' Picnic," written for the Michigan Farmer, Bascom and he was born at Greenfield, Mass., in December 13, 1890; "What is a Woman's Duty to.1773. He settled at Hinsdale, N. H., in 1799. Woman?" a paper read before the Ladies' Literary Mrs. Henry's maternal grandfather was Guy Union of Albion, March 29, 1888, and published Bridgeman, who was a native of Vermont, and an in the Michigan Farmer of May 12, the same year, early settler of Orleans County, N. Y. Mrs. Hen- which attracted much attention and favorable comry's parents were married at Guilford, Vt., in 1827 ment. Another strong and sensible article preand moved thence to the State of New York and pared by Mrs. Henry and read by her before the for a few years lived at Portageville. From there Albion Women's Christian Temperance Union, they went to Clarkson, where they remained until was entitled " Early Influences," and was published their removal to Brockport, whence they went to in the Michigan Farmer of October 19, 1889. Still Parma, where they made their residence until the another paper entitled, "Of What Use Is It?" a death of the father. The father died in 1853, while sensible and broad view of the uses of the farmers' yet scarcely past the meridian of life. He was a club in any community, was read by her at tile man of an intelligent, inquiring turn of mind, who Farmers' Institute held at Concord, Mich., Januwas well-read, especially in the Bible, and took an ary 15 and 16, 1890, and listened to with much interest in Scriptural arguments. He was a sound pleasure by all present, and was subsequently pubUniversalist in his religious views, while his wife lished in the Michigan Farmer January 25. Mrs. was a devoted Episcopalian. They were the par- Henry has an easy, pleasing style of writing and ents of eight children, of whom four are now liv- at the same time wields a vigorous pen and uses ing. Their son, Henry H., gave up his life for his clear-cut telling phrases. country near New Orleans, La., during the Civil Mrs. Henry, as may be supposed, is one of the War, his deatl occurring in 1863. Their sons, leaders in all literary and social movements in this Levi and Charles II., were also in the Union army section. She is one of tile Board of Directors of during that dreadful conflict. The latter is now a the Ladies' Aid Society connected with the MethoBaptist minister at Pottsdam, N. Y. dist Episcopal Church, of which she and her husMrs. Henry is the third child of the family and band are among the prominent members. She is was born January 23, 1837, at Clarkson, N. Y. connected with the Albion Farmers' Club, which She laid the foundation of a liberal education in meets once in four weeks to discuss farming and the common schools of her native State and at the literary topics, and is a member of the program academy at Clarkson Corners, which she attended committee and takes an active part in the proceed PORTRAIT NND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 841 _-~~~`I-~ PORTRAIT~ ---~~ ~ _XND ---~ — B ==__iOGRAPICAL ALBUM.__ — 8-41 - ings of the club. She is also President of the Ladies' Literary Society of South Albion, called the Gleaner Society, which is partly literary and partly social in its nature and meets once in three weeks for the mutual intellectual improvement of its members. Mrs. Henry is likewise a member of the Monday Afternoon Club, of the city of Albion, composed of ladies who meet once in two weeks for intellectual diversion. She is also President of the Albion Ladies' Library Association of the city of Albion. The chief sorrow of an otherwise j)leasant wedded life has been in the death of the two children born to our subject and his wife: Willie, who (ied in infancy, and Charles W., who died at the agye of seventeen years. Mr. Henry is a man who is temperate in all things, is exemplary in his habits, and bears an honorable reputation among his fellowcitizens. He is a sturdy Democrat in his political views and is the only one of his family who holds to that party. I l HRISTIAN F. VOGEL. Few, if any, citizens of Marshall have lhad a more varied experience than this gentleman of the incidents in whose life we make a brief mention. He is now operating a Business Exchange and International Passenger Agency, representing several steamship lines. I-le owns city property and a small farm near by and is financially well situated. He is the oldest son of Christian F. and Christina (Kaufmann) Vogel, and was born in Saxe Weimer, Germany, November 28, 1828. HIls mother died when the son was quite young and the father, who was a miller and farmer, in 1863. In accordance with the custom of his native land young Vogel attended school from the age of six to that of fourteen, after which he continued his pursuit of knowledge, especially of language, by the aid of a dictionary in the intervals of work on the farm. In 1852 lhe sailed from Bremen on tlle "Vater Gruner," commanded by Capt. Gearheart, and with the twenty-eight other passengers landed in New York after forty-two days sailing. He went at once to Philadelphia, thence to HIarrisburg and Pittsburg, walking most of the way and sleeping in hay stacks. He first found employment at Pittsburg as a common laborer and then became a farm hand. After a time he secured a position on the Pennsylvania Central Railroad among the Germans, which was much more to his taste than working amlong Irishmen as he had previously done. -Ie became expert in preparing the road bed from rock and plastering, and was retained in the service of the company until their work was completed. He was subsequently employed on a tunnel, for which he devised a plan and on which he made estimates. After this work was done he was employed on the Allegheny Valley Railroad. Mr. Vogel went from Pennsylvania to New Orleans, where he took a contract to unload steamships, working a gang of men. There he made $800 and increased his mental ability by learning the French language. Thence he went to the Isle of Cuba where lie became steward and made several trips between Havana and New Orleans, where he acquired a knowledge of Spanish. He then went North to St. Louis, Mo., on the steamer "Uncle Sam," and being taken sick was relieved of most of Ihis money before his health was restored. Upon his recovery he found emnlloyment in a general store and later went on a trading expedition on the steamboat "Fanny Smith," to a point twenty-two hundred miles up the Missouri River. Stopping at a lan(ling hie made a tour into the country and the boat leaving a day or two sooner than lie had expected he was thrown on tile mercy of tie Indians. le believes that his life was spared becaue lie was a foreigner, as they seemed to limit their hatred to tihe Yankees. After a lapse of nine (lays Mr. Vogel was picked up by a passing boat and worked his way back to St. Louis. In 1863 le came to Marshall and for a time carried on a restaurant and grocery store, then dealt in real estate and was an insurance agent. His present occupation hias been already noted. For the past twenty years lie has been Notary Public. Mr. Vogel has been twice married, first to Miss Jennie E. Vont Romps, a native of Germany who died in 1877. His second marriage occurred in 1883, his bride being Mrs. Mary M. Zuncker, widow 842. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. of Christian Zuncker. This lady breathed her last in 1887. Mr. Vogel by his first wife has one daughter living-Mary Elizabeth, who married Henry Beuner and now resides in Chicago, Ill. While our subject lived in Chicago he held several important offices and had for his associates such men as John Wnnfutui.rth Ha twee alunuQce t."< hA fani at tho ment, and has brought the entire tract to ent fine condition, adding to the natural of the soil by a proper rotation of crop4 use of wise methods. After a time Mr. Shipman bought a fu tract of choice land that was fenced and in lThict addad f th la nricrinal form horiln r"ant VvT IIVLU I ll. 111i Wals alWayZ ) Uo C lUUIUn u tIu 11X, 1 iU t V i l l Ue 1u1I - 111I liit-L, I lltt front in new enterprises, and was one of the organ- piece of property, and the buildings upon i izers of the Republican party in Chicago and at the equalled in the township. A view of the head of the German theater. dious residence appears on another pag handsome structure was built in 1881, at $5,000. A set of barns afford shelter fo "-^' —; ----^e~:~WS^^ '^ ' | kstock, and storage room for all the crops k from season to season. That devoted espe LBERT W. SHIPMAN. In speaking of grain is 36x46 feet, for horses 25x28, f the successful farmers of this county, 28x36 basement, for sheep 24x80, and mention should certainly be made of Mr. 22x28. There is also a milk and ice-hous Shipman, whose fine farm consists of one and a good windmill with pipes extending hundred and twenty acres on section 31, and forty tank to the buildings before mentioned. on section 29, Convis Township. He was born in machinery of various kinds is used here, at Niagara County, N. Y., June 10, 1826, within seven assortment being a hay fork operated b miles of the famous cataract of Niagara. When power, which relieves the farm hands of c seven years old he came with his parents to this able hard work. The orchard and gr( State, they traveling with a team to Buffalo, and thrifty and so placed as to be both useful a crossing to Detroit on the old "Enterprise." Thence mental. they came by team to Jackson, then a hamlet and During his residence in Jackson Cour more conspicuous as a mudhole than promising as Shipman and his brother operated a sawinil the site of a city. In the neighborhood the lad water-power, some four years. After comil grew toward man's estate, making the most of his he devoted himself principally to tile ra limited school privileges until two years had grain, wheat being his chief crop, but othl elapsed, when the opportunity to attend the district products not being neglected. ITe raised t school of Jackson was given him. domestic animals, and in all his affairs pros When he was sixteen years old young Shipman an unusual degree. This result was not discontinued his studies in the schoolroom, and without effort on his part, but on the cont gave his attention entirely to his proper share of made use of his native shrewdness by assi the home work. During his twenty-first year he to his own purposes all the information h worked out some months, and when he had reached gather regarding his chosen vocation. He his majority bought a farm in Rives Township, retired from active farm work and rents hi Jackson County, whereon he located. It consisted to his son-in-law. Ten acres of land de' of eighty acres, to which he added forty after hav- fruit trees, including many varieties of pea< ing improved the original tract, continuing to make apples, shows that Mr. Shipman has taken it his home until 1854. During that year he sold terest in horticulture, and we learn that he it and bought one hundred and twenty acres of his quently taken premiums at the fairs. present estate. A house 16x24 feet stood on this The father of our subject was William S tract and fifty acres had been paced under the who was born in Connecticut in 1800, ar plow. With four yoke of oxen and a span of twelve years old was bound out to a Mr. horses he took up the work of thorough develop- Genesee County, N. Y. He did not return.~~~~~~~~~~P its presfertility s and the orty-acre nproved. kes a fine it are uncommode. This a cost of >r all the:ept over ecially to or cattle for hogs e 12x24, from the Modern nong the y horse2onsideroves are ind ornanty, Mr..1 run by ng hither lising of ier farm hle usual pered in attained trary, lie milating ie could has now is estate voted to ches and great inhas frehipman, idl when Peck, in n to his I. - 1 1 1 - - - -.1. - 1 - - - I - l l - - -. I., -i~,.;~;~.~.~:.:;:~; ~T_; _II~i.l-j r:l\il n1~.,;.....i'r.:~::::::IJ:l.i:'Lli:/li, 't.I~-rl'~:~~-;.-.-i.~ ii;-.-:. ~.~~ -:i. 'I -i; r: rl-~?II:;~-:~~: ~~ ~~ j It ~;;,.:~~~: 1:;; ~;: ~i ~: 1,Ir:: ~ ~ -,-:~..::::::.-~' i ~'-:~-; ~ ~ ~ ~~ — I ILt51 ULNthL UOF A.. WSHI-PIM/AN, 5L(C 3I. (ONV1I ITr. CALHOUN CO. M ICH. A S I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 845 own home until he was thirty-one years old, which was after the death of his father. Ile followed farming and for a short time made his home in Niagara County, N. Y. In 1830 lie came to this State, walking from Detroit to Jackson, two and a half miles from which place he bought a farm. It was on the old Territorial road, and consisted of eighty acres. Returning to New York, Mr. Shipman remained there three years, then brought his family West and took possession of a log house he had put up during his previous visit. Three years later he traded his property for one hundred and twenty acres not far distant, which he operated until 1857, following which he made his home with our subject a short time, then bought property in Verona, where he died in 1861. The mother of our subject was known in her maidenhood as Miss Lucina Wheeler, and was married to William Shipman in Genesee County, N. Y., which was her birthplace. IHer father was a farmer there. She survived her husband more than a decade, dying in Verona in 1872. Their family consisted of ten sons and daughters, the subject of this notice being the third in order of birth. Mr. Shipman of whom we write, was married in Convis Townslip, this county, October 12, 1848, to Miss Rachel Burch, who was born in Ontario County, N. Y., being a daughter of Wyatt IR. Burch, who removed to this county in 1844. She is a woman of intelligence and piety, who lias devoted herself with untiring zeal to the comfort and welfare of her husband and child, and done much to endear herself to those with whom she has had neighborly associations. The only child of Mr. and Mrs. Shipman, is Flora A., wife of Henry E. Whitbeck, who operates the Shipman farm. She completed her education in Olivet College. Mr. and Mrs. Shipman had two sons who died in infancy. It would not be easy to find a more ardent member of the Democratic party than Mr. Shipman. IHe has frequently been a delegate to county conventions, and when the ballot box is open, never fails to cast a ticket for those who are pledged to support the principles in which he believes. He acted as Drainage Commissioner three years, but has not otherwise been in public service, preferring to = devote his attention to his own extensive interests. He visited the Centennial Exposition at Philadelphia in 1876, and if he lives will visit the World's Fair in Chicago in 1893. Mrs. Shipman is identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church. AAVID S. SWIFT. This gentleman has been identified with the history of this county since 1845 when, a youth of sixteen years, he came here with his parents. IHe was reared on a farm and now occupies the place owned by his wife and mother-in-law, and known as the old Henry Hopkins farm. The estate consists of more than three hundred acres, and is supplied with the conveniences of modern farm life and many evidences of culture and refinement not to be found in the homes of even the prosperous agriculturists unless they are unusually intelligent and open-handed. A view of this fine estate will be found on another page. The Swift fanily is one of the oldest in New England and is of English extraction, as is the Woodworth family, which is that of Mr. Swift's mother. Grandfather Swift when a boy often accompanied his father from Cape Cod on whaling expeditions, and when nearing his fourscore years greatly enjoyed recounting the thrilling experiences and hairbreadth escapes in which he participated. When a boy of fifteen years, unable to swim, he was once thrown into the water but was picked up before life was extinct. Prior to the War of the Revolution the great-grandfather of our subject emigrated to New York where he and his descendants followed the business of farming. The maternal grandfather of David Swift was Abel Woodworth, who was an officer on board a privateersman during the Revolution and bore a part in some severe fights. He was for a time confined on board a prison ship, but survived the suffering endured there, and eventually died at a good old age in Austerlitz, N. Y. The parents of our subject were Samuel and Betsy M. (Woodworth) Swift, both of whom were 846 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. born in Austerlitz, Columbia County, N. Y. In only been May, 1845, they brought their family to this but has dor county and set up their home in Bedford Town- and better ship where the father died three years later. The born of the widowed mother survived until 1854, when her natal day remains were deposited by the side of her deceased born April husband in Battle Creek Cemetery. The children gust 26, 18' of this good couple were eight in number: Samuel ing Olivet MorLon makes his home in De Kalb County, Ill.; course. Al Elizabeth M., who never married, resided with her possess mus brother Charles in Battle Creek, and (lied January daughter p 30, 1891; Nathaniel moved to Illinois and later to upon the fit Red Wing, Minn.. where he now resides; Charles as his instr C. was a retired farmer and occupied a pleasant orchestra w home in Battle Creek until his death, January 1, domestic ci] 1891; David S. will be spoken of at greater length many friend below; Harriet C. W. died in 1848; Kent died Upon cor when two years old, and his remains repose in Swift locat Austerlitz, N. Y.; Abel W., who married Letitia years later Smalley, lives in the Indian Territory, where he County. I: has been engaged in coal mining. Miss Elizabeth ford, which M. Swift was an invalid for twenty-five years, and father Apri although debarred from many kinds of work did getic, perse, fine needle and fancy work. vating and As before noted David S. Swift came to this ing of the county when sixteen years old, prior to which time by all who I he had worked and studied in the usual proportion, of ninety-tl acquiring industrious habits, practical knowledge Mr. and Mr and good principles. He remained on the farm gregational with his father as long as the latter lived, and con- well preserv tinued to give his attention to agricultural pursuits, unusual (leg adding to his inheritance when able to do so and ing compan: carrying on extensive operations in the raising of from Dutch crops and stock. With the thrift inherited from and her hus his sturdy ancestors and inculcated by his parents dier who w he made good use of every foot of his ground, husband wa wisely gauged his expenditures until his financial receives a standing was assured, and supplied his family witl account. every opportunity for personal improvement and The recor proper enjoyment. Hopkins is a At the somewhat advanced age of thirty-six Isaac Beatt years Mr. Swift was married to Miss Mary E. Hop- November kins, daughter of Henry and Mary E. (Casey) 1820, died Hopkins, who were natives of Cayuga County, ber 28, 182S N. Y., and came to this State in the year 1835. ton, born Ja Mrs. Swift is a woman of much intelligence, refined now living tastes and Christian character, and one who has no t 1827; Robe a sympathizing and efficient helpmate, ie much to cultivate the artistic talents nature of her offspring. The children happy union are: George Milton, whose was February 24, 1868; Edith Lilian, 3, 1874; and Elizabeth Blanche, Au77. The elder daughter is now attendCollege, pursuing a literary and musical 11 the children are well advanced and ical ability of a high order. The elder lays upon the piano and the younger ite, while the son has chosen the cornet rument. Together they make a home hich adds greatly to the pleasure of the rcle, as well as to the enjoyment of the ds who gather about them. ning to this State the parents of Mrs. ed in Niles, Berrien County, but two removed to Charleston, Kalamazoo n the spring of 1849 they came to Bedwas their home until the death of the it 1, 1865. Mr. IIopkins was an enervering man, who took delight in cultiimproving his land and in the upbuildcountry. He was held in high regard knew him. Mrs. Hopkins, an aged lady iree years, now makes her home with s. Swift. She is a member of the ConChurch at Augusta. She is remarkably ed, retains the use of her faculties in an ree, and is an intelligent and entertainion. Her father was a Representative ess County, N. Y., about the year 1805, sband's father was a Revolutionary solent into the army from Hebron. Her s a soldier in the War of 1812, and she pension of $12 per month on that d of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. is follows: Jane H., now the widow of ie and living in Decatur, was born 29, 1818; Nancy, born October 11, in 1851; George Henry, born Decem2, now lives in Cass County; John Milinuary 15, 1825, died in 1846; James, in Kalamazoo, was born November 4, rt, born December 11, 1830, died in PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 847 I 1866; Mary Eliza, wife of our subject, was born August l, 1835; Albert Josiah, born September 17, 1838, died in 1860. Mr. Swift has held several local offices, having been Supervisor two terms, Justice of the Peace several terms and a school officer much of the time since he reached his maturity. In his younger days he spent some time in teaching, and has always been deeply interested in the cause of education. He is strictly temperate in his habits, never having used strong drink or tobacco in any form. He is not identified with any religious body, but contributes to the support of the church, as did his father before him. Mrs. Swift, her son, and daughter Edith, belong to the Congregational Church at Augusta. In politics Mr. Swift is a firm Republican. The family as a whole is pleasant, agreeable and hospitable, and ranks high in the community for mental culture, well-bred manners and upright character. J OSEPHI SHIPP was a well-known and valued pioneer of this county, and for many years was a prominent farmer and citizen of Eckford Township, doing much to advance its material growth, bearing an honorable part in its public life and using his influence to elevate its social and religious status. Our subject was born in Shipping, Sudbury County, Gloucestershire, England, May 28, 1816. His parents were also of English birth. His father, William Shipp, was a miller and baker by occupation. Our subject remained an inmate of the parental home until he was sixteen years old, when, in 1832, he came to the United States and sought employment in Chautauqua County, N. Y. He worked there for Tho'mas Saunders near Silver Creek about ten months. We next hear of him at Toronto, Canada, where he went in 1833. He remained there but a short time, however, when he made his appearance in Marshall, this State, and in 1834 began to engage in buying and selling stock. He subsequently went into the bakery business in partnership with Edward Bostwick, and they carried it on about one year. In 1841 Mr. Shipp revisited his home in England, and on the 13th of March, 1842, was wedded to Miss Elizabeth Saunders. She is the sixth child of Thomas Saunders, who was a native of England, as was her mother also, her maiden name being Ann Smith. Ier father was superintendent of a large estate in England until he came to this country in 1832. During that summer he worked in the woolen mills at Pittsfield, Mass. In the fall he removed to Chautauqua County, N. Y., and commenced to negotiate for some land, but his proceedings were stayed by his death as soon after moving there he was drowned December 4, 1832, while crossing Silver Lake in a canoe. He was twice married and the maiden name of his second wife was Christiana Shipp, who was of English par-ntage. The fall after his death she returned to England. After his marriage Mr. Shipp came back to the United States in June, 1842, accompanied by his bride, making the voyage in a sailing vessel. From New York he and his wife took a boat to Albany, went from there by canal to Buffalo, thence by boat to Detroit, from there by team to Jackson, and from the latter place by stage to Marshall. He leased a sawmill at $500 a year from John D. Pierce at Ceresco. IHe operated the mill one year and then turned his attention to farming, buying in the fall of 1843 a quarter section of land in Emmet Township, from John D. Pierce. He built a log house into which he moved his family and immediately entered upon the hard task of clearing his land, and (luring the two years that he lived upon it cleared abouteighty acres. In 1845 he removed to Marshall, but after spending a year there returne to his farm in Emmet Township and in the ten following years he cleared the remainder of it. He then removed to Marshall in 1855 disposing of his farm at a good rate, to Edward Butler. He opened a meat market, which he managed until 1862 when he again devoted himself to farming, buying three hundred and twenty acres of land on sections 20 and 29, Eckford Township, of Mr. Elisha Gilbert. This farm was partly developed and he actively went to work and made many valuable improvements. He built a good house and in 1870 erected a large basement barn. During the remaining years that he was permitted to toil he placed the 848 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. land under excellent cultivation and actively en- in May, 1875; Frank R., who died in infancy; Hargaged in general farming and stock-raising. He riet L., who is living with hler mother; Mary A. E., was sick for many years before his death and for who died in July, 1882; Frances M., and Frances E. sixteen years was unable to work, but he bore his who died in infancy; Ellen J., who married Floyd B. sufferings with cheerful resignation until death Frost; Emma Belle, who married Lewis Sackett, a released him August 26, 1887, heart disease being farmer in Eckford Township; and an infant son the cause of his demise. He was a man of solid who died when only a few hours old. When their worth and of sound practical ability, who stood son Thomas was a very small boy his mother sent high in the estimation of his fellow-citizens, who hiim into the field for potatoes, and while there he often sought his advice and found him to be a sa- was frightened by a large bear. He did not mengacious counselor. He was frequently called upon tion it to his mother however, and was sent the to fill the responsible position of Administrator next day on the same errand accompanied by his and settled several estates, performing his task with little sister who was three years of age. He reported rare judgment and unquestioned integrity, and to seeing the bear to his older brother on the afterthe satisfaction of all concerned. He mingled in noon of the second day and a party of neighbors the public life of his township and represented went out to hunt the animal and shot him. He was it one year as a member of the County Board of an extra large bear of great weight. This little Supervisors. He also held the important office of incident shows how wild the country was even then County Treasurer for four years and administered in the early days in the married life of our subject the affairs of that office with characteristic fidelity and his wife. and skill, leaving the finances of the county in good order when he gave up the position. He was a man of an earnest religious nature, which found expres- I N [ision in the Baptist faith, and he was one of tne leading members of the church of that denomina- ENJAMIN P. HESS. The seat of the agrition of which he was at one time Treasurer and was cultural operations of this enterprising also one of its Trustees. In his political views lie gentleman is on section 28, Clarendon was a strong advocate of the Republican party. Township. He has there a farm of one Mr. Shil)p was greatly indebted for his prosper- hundred and twenty acres, the greater part of which ity to the valuable assistance of his good wife who is under cultivation and the management of which, survives him. She is a very capable woman and in connection with work at his trade, keeps him is managing her affairs with much tact and business busily employed. He is a shoemaker and does ability. She owns one hundred and seventy-six much work for the neighborhood, throughout which acres of the three hundred and twenty acres bought lie is known as a good workman. Upon his farm by her husband and makes her home on it. She is he has a steam feedmill which furnishes the surworking the farm on shares with her son-in-law, F. rounding country with ground feed and in connecB. Frost, and derives an ample income from its tion with which a blacksmith shop is run. The well-tilled fields, which are kept up in the same high engine which is the motive power of the feedmill state of cultivation that they had attained in her is operated by Mrs. Hess, who is a capable engineer husband's day. Mrs. Shipp has recently built a and withal a good business manager. beautiful modern frame house, in which she and Mr. Hess is a grandson of Peter Hess, who came her family have one of the coziest and most attrac- from Germany to America many years ago and tive homes in this vicinity. spent the greater part of his life in New York. He Mr. and Mrs. Shipp had eleven children,four sons is believed to have been a Revolutionary soldier. and seven daughters, as follows: William S., who His son Amos, father of our subject, was born in died in Eckford Township, April 23, 1874; Thomas the Empire State and there grew to manhood and J., a farmer in this township; Jennie E., who died began the work of farming. He married in Gal I I I I I I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 849 way, N. Y., a native of that place, by name Maria Slade. Her father was Benjamin Slade, who was also a native of New York. Soon after their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Hess took up their residence in Somerset Township, Niagara County, whence they came to this State in 1835, via Canada. They located near Palmyra, Lenawee County, on a tract of raw land and putting up a log house continued to improve the property. After living there about fourteen years they removed to Eaton County, where they improved a place which was their home until 1860. They then came to the location that is now the home of their son. Here they entered into rest, the husband dying January 31, 1875, and the wife August 22, 1890. The latter was then eighty-four years old. The family of which Benjamin Hess is the youngest member included also Volney, who lives on section 29, Clarendon Township, and Mrs. Phebe Jane Sprague, whose home is in Eaton County. Benjamin was born near Palmyra, Lenawee County, November 1, 1839, and received his first schooling in a log schoolhouse in the neighborhood. The temple of learning was of the rude description so well known in the early days, with slab seats and writing desk around the wall. When grown to manhood Mr. Hess still made his home with his parents so long as they lived, and continued to improve the homestead, to the value of which he has greatly added since it came into his possession. In 1867 Mr. H-ess received a valuable Christmas gift, it being no less than the wife who has made him a happy home and ably assisted hin in building up their fortunes. Slle was born in Clarendon Township, October 12, 1838, and bore the maiden name of Laura J. Enos. She is the oldest of live children born to Newman and Margaret (Blashfield) Enos, who are numbered among the early settlers of this vicinity, having come hither in May, 1834. They were born respectively in Onondaga and Cortland Counties, N. Y. Mrs. Enos breathed her last April 27, 1871, but Mr. Enos is still living and is now seventy-eight years old. Mr. and Mrs. Hess have had but one child, a son, who (lied in infancy. The political allegiance of Mr. Hess is given to the Democratic party and his first Presidential ballot was cast for Stephen A. Douglas. He is not a believer in secret societies, but carries on his philanthropic work and social life through other means. It would be hard to find a more industrious man than he, or one who is more peaceable and lawabiding. IRAM M. RYDER. Among the men who have secured a competence by honest efforts in tilling the soil, and who are now surrounded by every comfort and able to enjoy all reasonable pleasures, is the above-named gentleman, who is located on section 27, Marshall Township, within easy walking distance of the city of the same name. His farm consists of one hundred and twenty-one acres, all improved land, and forming a beautiful piece of property. Bear Creek winds its way through the fields, and Bear Lake is included within the boundaries. A large and substantial dwelling, ample barns, graneries, etc., and a windmill and tank indicate that the comfort of the family and the care and housing of stock and crops are well provided for. The law1 is adorned with fine evergreens, an(l fruit and forest trees lend their cooling shade and give of their fruits. Near Ellington, Chautauqua'County, N.Y., April 7, 1833, the fourth of the eight children of Benjanin and Polly (Mears) Ryder was born. The infant was christened Hiram M., and lived until seven years of age at his birthplace. His older brother having been accidentally killed by the fall of a tree, his father became dissatisfied and removed to Wyoming County, where the lid attended the schools which were kept up by the payment of a rate bill. He subsequently had the privilege of attending the Perry Seminary, but in quite early life found much to do in and about the home. lie remained with his parents until he reached his majority, and early in the year 1855 he came to this State. He and a Mr. Walter Hansen, after spending a short time south of Battle Creek, began breaking land in Athens Township, the motive power being oxen and five or six yoke being attaclied to the breaking plow. The first year they turned the sod on one hundred acres and the next 850 F IPORTRAIT ANDBIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. year on thirty acres, and planted to wheat, it being the abode of civilized man. In 1840 he went to a large object indeed that stood in the way of their Perry, Wyoming County, bought two farms and progress across the fields. operated them until 1863, when he came to this In 1857 Mr. Ryder bought one hundred and State. He bought a farm in Leroy Township, this sixty acres of new land in Leroy Township, cleared county, and lived upon it until a short time before it and otherwise prepared it to produce good crops. his death in 1878. He had one brother, Nathaniel, He built two houses, a barn 34x60 feet, and other and several sisters. His faithful wife breathed her outbuildings, and raised the tract from a value of last the same year, the month of her demise being $10 per acre to one four times as great within January. She also was a native of the Green eight years. He then sold the property and bought Mountain State, and of the same county as her hustwo hundred acres of partly improved land in Fre- band. Mr. Ryder was a Republican in his political donia Township, valued at $55 per acre. To this views. one hundred and twenty acres was subsequently The subject of this biography was married in added and upon it a house was built for $4,000. 1857 to Miss Mary Smith, a lady who was born in Within a few years the dwelling was destroyed by Norwich, Vt., September 12, 1832. She was but fire, but in its stead soon rose a brick building cost- an infant when brought to this State, and her childing $4,200. The farm is enclosed and divided into hood was passed on a farm nine miles from Detroit. fields of convenient size by neat fences and well- She recollects seeing Indians about the old home, kept hedges. Mr. Ryder has some fine horses, and remembers well when they were driven from Hereford and Galloway cattle, and Shropshire the neighborhood. In 1839 her parents came to sheep. He was one of the first to raise Cotswold this county and here she grew to womanhood, reand Shropshire sheep and sold wool as high ceiving such an education as the schools of the as ninety-five cents a pound. He has also time gave opportunity for and prepared herself for raised wheat for which he received $3.25 per bushel. the position of a home-maker. Her happy union In securing and developing this property Mr. Ry- with Mr. Ryder has been blest by the birth of a der went in debt $8,000, but paid it off in four son, Myron, who remains with his parents. years. He made $3,300 clear in one year on two The father of Mrs. Ryder was Cephas Smith, hundred acres of land. In the fall of 1890 he who was born in Norwich, Vt. He adopted the traded this beautiful piece of property for another occupation of a farmer and in 1833 came to Wayne of less extent but nearer to Marshall, where he is County, this State, driving over the country in a now living. one-horse wagon. He bought forty acres of land The Ryder family is of English descent, the first in the vicinity of Detroit, but soon traded it for of the line in America having been the great grand- three hundred and twenty acres in Bedford Townfather of our subject, who crossed the Atlantic with ship, where he broke the sod and made various imseven sons and settled at Wells, Vt. The grand- provements during the six years of his residence. father of our subject became a sailor and a vessel- When he came to this county and bought what is owner, being captain of his own craft on the At- known as the Barney farm, there were but two or lantic. During a terrific storm, when none of his three houses where Battle Creek now rears its walls men would climb the mast, he went and was blown and towers. He owned the large amount of six therefrom and met his fate. Ile was then fifty-five hundred and forty acres near that place, where he years of age. His son Benjamin, father of our sub- resided some years, finally removing to a fourject, was born in Rutland County, Vt., in 1800, and hundred acre tract five miles from Battle Creek. followed farming as lis occupation. When of age He was a pre eminently successful man, every he married and removed to Chautauqua County, enterprise seeming to turn to money at his touch. N. Y., where he improved several farms. He owned He died in 1887 at the age of eighty-three large tracts of land near Jamestown, from which he years. His wife, formerly Jane Ladd, who removed the heavy forest growths fitting them for was born in New Hampshire, died here in 1887, at: 0 0 - PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 851 - — I ----I- ---- — --- —— ---II --- — -— '- ----`I — --- —- --- — ---------— i --- —-------------------- -------- the age of eighty years. Her father was of Spanish birth, and she, being left an orphan at an early age, was reared by friends in Vermont. She was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Justin Smith, grandfather of Mrs, Ryder, was born in England and came to America with his parents when a boy. Their home was made in Vermont, and after growing to manhood Justin Smith became a large landowner and stock-dealer. In early days he came to this State and located four miles south of the site of Battle Creek, owning four hundred acres of land. He was a devout member of the Presbyterian Church. His father and some of his brothers had fought in the Colonial Army during the Revolution. Mr. Ryder is not one who bends his energies to secure public office, but is liberal in the support of worthy enterprises and earnest in his advocacy of wise measures by those in power. He was formerly a Republican but is now Independent. He is Past Master in the Masonic Chapter in Marshall. He was also identified with the Odd Fellows fraternity in that city, but joined them in Ceresco. Generous and kind-hearted, intelligent and prosperous, he enjoys life to the utmost, he and his estimable wife dispensing hospitality within their own home and being favored guests in many another. M AMES E. CONKLIN, one of the large landowners of Bedford Township, has in his home farm three hundred and twenty acres of fertile land bearing good improvements of all kinds and under careful and intelligent cultivation. HIe comes of a race of tillers of the soil, and with his natural aptitude for farm work increased by careful observation of the methods of others he has made a success of his calling and given added lustre to the name of "farmer." In addition to his home place, he has the parental homestead of one hundred and twenty acres, a mile distant, under his care making a total of four hundred and forty acres. Refore giving the main incidents in the life of Mr. Conklin it will not be amiss to speak of his ancestors and other members of the family. His great-grandfather Conklin served in the Revolution and the family for several generations lived in Westchester County, N. Y. The maternal grandfather, Capt. Paddock, lived in Scipio, near Rochester, and was extensively engaged in the lumber business. His title is believed to have been obtained (luring the War of 1812 when he is known to have been in the army. Both the Conklin and Paddock families are traced back to England. The father of our subject was James Conklin, born in Westchester County, N. Y., and the mother, formerly Hiersilla Paddock, in Dutchess County. When he was about twelve years old the father went to Jefferson County, and after he became of age to Rochester, where lie lived five years. He was married there about 1830 and a few years later came with his wife and three children to Battle Creek, then a small village. From Rochester to Detroit the Conklins traveled by canal and steamboat, taking their household goods with them. At the latter place a team and wagon were purchased by means of which the journey was completed. The cook stove, then a rare article of furniture in this section, was placed in the front of the wagon, a blanket placed over it, and here the mother sat enthroned during the tedious and difficult trip. In the East Mr. Conklin had worked at the cooper's trade and at farming. The first year after he came to this county was spent in locating lands, as he was an expert woodsman and a crack shot with the rifle. Shortly afterward lie removed to Van Buren County, settling on a farm of one hundred and sixty acres, which he sold after operating it two years. Mr. Conklin next established his home in Paw Paw where lie lived four years, after which he returned to Bedford Township, making it his permanent home. Ifis death occurred in September, 1887, after fifty-six years of wedded life. He survived his wife but ten days, when he was laid to rest by her side in Oak IiJll Cemetery in Battle Creek. Mr. Conklin was a Democrat, following the belief of Andrew Jackson and being, like him, outspoken in his expression of opinions and stanch in the support of his principles. During the war 852 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICALC ALBUM. he advocated the preservation of the Union, even had at any price. His first engagement was on a at the point of arms, gave aid and comfort to the Government ranch at $80 per month and rations. soldiers and sent two sons to the battlefield. Al- He next tried mining on the American River near though somewhat aggressive in politics he was fair the town of Yankee Jim, with but rnoderate suein argument and never lost his temper. Both he cess. The ensuing two years were spent in the and his wife were devout members of the Baptist lumber trade after which he again tried mining, Church. this time in Sierra County, near Downieville. The brothers and sisters of the subject of this After roughing it three years he found the fever sketch were: William, George H., Herbert, Walter very much abated and completed his cure by takand Sarah. William was born in 1834, enlisted as ing a ticket for New York via Lake Nicaragua, a private in Company H, Merrill Horse, served Central America, the price $150. two years as such and two years as an officer. Her- A few months after his return to his old home bert was educated at Battle Creek, was for years Mr. Conklin was married, wedding Rhoda A. Loder, conductor on the cable cars in Chicago but now a step-daughter of Abraham Frost, an old pioneer resides at Hickory, N. C.; George H. enlisted in of this county and a daughter of Jeremiah and Company H, Merrill Horse, in the spring of Clara (Keeler) Loder. Her parents were natives 1865, was discharged the fall of the same year at of Westchester County, N. Y., the father of French Nashville, and died in Chicago a few years after and the mother of English descent. The marriage the war; Walter lived a few years at Grand Rapids, of Mr. Conklin and Miss Loder was solemnized three years in South Dakota and is now a resident October 10, 1856, soon after which the young husof Chicago; Sarah, formerly the wife of E. R. Fin- band bought eighty acres of his present farm, ley and a resident of Battle Creek, died in May, paying $21 per acre. He has added to this as cir1887. cumstances warranted and brought it to a condition The subject of this biographical notice was born that is highly creditable to his judgment and indiat Rochester, N. Y., Independence Day, 1832, and cates great prosperity. Politically, he is and always came to this State when a lad of some four years. has been a Republican. His wife belongs to the lie attended the district school and gained some Episcopal Church at Battle Creek, as do two of higher instruction at Kalamazoo in a branch of the their children, George H. and Clara B., while Michigan University, under the guidance of Dr. another son, Loder F., is a Baptist. There is a Stone. At the age of nineteen he had a severe certain class in all sections of country who judge attack of gold fever, and took as a prescription a of a man by his worldly success, but the better ticket from New York to San Francisco, via Pan- citizens respect Mr. Conklin not for what he has ama. This was rather costly medicine as the pas- gained but for what he has done and what he issage alone was $240, and it was preceded by the useful, honorable, intelligent and pious. journey to the American metropolis. Mr. Conklin The children of Mr. and Mrs. Conklin are six in was obliged to walk a part of the way across the number, four sons and two daughters. Frederick Isthmus but about twelve weeks after leaving home L., who was born July 5, 1856, married Iienriette landed in California, May 24, 1852. When in Eldred and has two sons; his home is in Stockton, sight of San Francisco he had but $2.50, but he sold Cal., and his occupation that of a miller. Loder his overcoat to a fellow-passenger for $5 and from F., born October 24, 1858, still lives under the this small sum paid fifty cents to land and $2.50 parental roof and operates the farm; Clara Belle, for supper, lodging and breakfast in a board shanty born April 12, 1863, was married to C. L. Weaver, by the wharf. December 27, 1888, and is now living in Buffalo, After breakfast Mr. Conklin began his search for N. Y., where the husband is engaged in mercantile work, knowing well that $4.50 would not keep him pursuits; George H1., born June 13, 1866, was long in a country where high prices were the rule graduated from the college in Battle Creek in the and poor accommodations were all that could be Class of '85 and the University at Ann Arbor in a"" L2/ PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 85-5 the Class of '88. His second diploma was in medicine and for anyear after its receipt he was assistant to Dr. Stowell in histology; he then located at West Superior, Wis.,/wliere he has a good practice. Eunice T., born D)ecember 10, 1868, has for the past year been visiting her brother in California; Arthur J., born July 3, 1871, remains at home. Mr. and Mrs. Conklin have lost one child, Matilda II., who was born January 8, 1861, and died June 20, 1865.,e LARK H-. SHORT. Notwithstanding the physical disability incurred during the Civil War Mr. Short has prospered in worldly affairs and owns a good farm and home. The estate consists of one hundred and twenty acres on sections 1 and 2, Lee Township, and is so neat and orderly in all its arrangements as to attract the attention of the passing traveler and win his commendation. Well kept fences, ample barns and other buildings, a homelike residence and a large and thrifty orchard are among the adornments which add to its original value. The property is virtually two farms, there being two complete sets of buildings. Wheat is the principal cereal raised, and Merino sheep the most important of the domestic animals, although other stock of good grades is to be seen. The family name was originally spelled Shuvort, but was changed to its present farm while the father of our subject was on shipboard. That gentleman, Capt. Andreas Short, wa born and reared in Copenhagen, Denmark. While attending college, at the age of fifteen years, lie with several of his fellow-students was pressed into service on an English man-of-war. For several years following lie lived in the midst of remarkable scenes and was himself the hero of some escapades and experiences that proved the old saw, "Truth is stranger than fiction." The English fleet was overtaken by the Turks, and Mr. Short being among those who were captured did duty as a slave until he was finally rescued by the English. IIe had been away from his home so long that he had forgotten his mother I tI ou n eteeoewilnl nitdi h tongue, and he therefore willingly enlisted in the navy and rose to the rank of Captain. He was with the English and Turks on the high seas for over thirty years, and his life during that period would furnish material for an interesting volume. During one fight he was struck by a boarding pike, which penetrated the thigh and pinned him to the gunwale, where he was compelled to stand until released by his own men. At other times he was wounded by cutlasses and spears. During the War of 1812 an incident occurred which led to Mr. Short's becoming an American citizen. During the progress of a storm at Black Rock he was unable to hear the commands of a superior officer, and he and another captain were tied to a mast and thrashed for not obeying. This cruel punishment, so undeserved by them, led them to desert, and dropping into the river that very night they swam across to New York State and made their way to an American camp. After remaining there a time Capt. Short struck out on foot, and reaching Canandaigua, N. Y., found work on a farm. In 1845 Capt. Short came to this State and located in IIillsdale County. He took possession of a tract of land in the woods, built a log house and improved a farm which he cultivated until 1847. Ile then removed to the vicinity of Jonesville, carried on his work there until 1850 and then located near Brookfield, Eaton County. He improved eighty acres there, but finally came to this county to the home of his son, and died under his roof in August, 1866. After becoming an American citizen he identified himself with the Democratic party, but in 1_856 became a stanch Republican. lie was a member of the Free-Will Baptist Church. The wife of Capt. Short and mother of our subject was born in Onondaga County, N. Y., and bore the maiden name of Luwana Iowe. She died in Branch County, this State, leaving as a heritage to her children the recollection of devoted care and wise advice. Iier father, William Howe, was born in England, but became so thoroughly identified with American principles after his emigration that he fought against the mother country in 1812. He was a farmer by occupation. The children of Capt. Short and his wife were six in number, lie 856 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. whose name introduces this sketch being the third vices rendered the country by the women of the in order of birth. He was born January 23, 1832, North, who sent their loved ones out with encourin Livingston County, N. Y., and in the vicinity aging words and took up the double burden of of his birthplace passed his boyhood and youth. care and anxiety. After his return Mr. Short His school advantages amounted to very little, as bought forty acres of additional land and continued he had to go five miles on foot to reach the school- to successfully operate it. house. Mr. Short has been twice married, his first conMr. Short accompanied his parents to this State panion being Artemisia Dibble, who became his in 1850, and after their arrival worked out on a wife in 1854. She was born in this county and was farm and then labored at the blacksmith's trade in a daughter of Ralph Dibble, formerly of New Albion three years. This work was too hard for York. The present Mrs. Short bore the maiden him and he returned to agricultural pursuits in name of Clarissa Patchin, and was born near OberEaton County. When he bought the property on lin, Ohio, January 12, 1841. When she was in her which he now makes his home it was heavily tim- twelfth year her parents came to this county and bered and it was necessary for him to cut down here she grew to womanhood, and November 8, trees to make a roadway. IIe and one assistant 1857, gave her hand to our subject. Her paternal built the house, and lie cleared the eighty acres and grandfather was a physician in Monroe County, fitted it for human occupancy. In August, 1861, N. Y., and was of Scotch and English parentage. he enlisted, being enrolled in Company F, Nintll He removed to Lorain County, Ohio, where he Michigan Infantry. practiced his profession and became the owner of a Mr. Short was mustered in at Detroit and at- farm. He was a soldier in the War of 1812. The tached to the Army of the Cumberland. Soon father of Mrs. Short was John Patchin, who was after his enlistment he was detailed as wagon- born in Monroe County, N. Y., but lived for a master and he therefore did not fight as did his number of years in Lorain County, Ohio. He was comrades. although lie performed equally important a.shoemaker by trade and owned a small tract of and dangerous service. Mitchell, Grant, Buell, farm land. After his removal to this State he Sherman and Thomas were in turn his commanders tilled the soil until his demise. His wife, formerly and some of the most important battles of the war Annie M. Spencer, was born in the same county as were witnessed by him. In a few of them lie took himself, and is still living on the homestead in Lee a fighter's part. The list includes Shiloh, Ft. Don- Township, this county. IHer father, Zara Spencer, elsen, Corinth, Murfreesboro, Shelbyville, War- was a native of Connecticut. He was of French trace, Lexington, Winchester, Stone River, Chatta. descent, was a soldier in the War of 1812 and was nooga, Chickamauga and Missionary Ridge. His wounded in the service. clothes were riddled with bullets, but he was never Mr. Short has been Highway Commissioner seven-wounded. His health was impaired by exposure teen years and School Director for an equally long and toil, and in May, 1864, he was mustered out period. -le has been Pathmaster times almost at Chattanooga and discharged for physical disa- i innumerable, being placed in that office about every bility. He has never recovered his former strength other year. His political allegiance is given to and at times has not been able to leave his couch. Republican principles and he has been a delegate During the absence of Mr. Short the farm was to conventions. He belongs to George A. Walker carried on by his capable wife who, while suffering Post, No. 256, G. A. R., in Partello, is now Past all the pangs of anxiety and suspense that a Commander and has filled each of the Chairs. He woman's heart could know, neglected no duty but attended the National Encampment at Columbus. looked energetically after their affairs, even to the Mrs. Short belongs to the Women's Relief Corps setting out of the orchard which now gives them auxiliary to George A. Walker Post, was formerly an abundance of fruit. In recalling the history of its Secretary and has been President three years. those dark years we are too prone to forget the ser- She is a lady of more than ordinary intelligence PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 857 c ----~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ and stands side by side with her husband in the high estimation of the community. Their family consists of two sons-Charles II. and Ernest V.the elder married and the younger still at home. Elsewhere in this volume will be found a lithographic portrait of Mr. Short.,,,1e 3 4,,~,,- — " — - AROLINE PARKER SHARPSTEEN. In looking backward to pioneer times and tracvi ing the progress of a section, step by step, to a high development of its physical resources and advanced civilization of its inhabitants, we are too apt to overlook the part woman has had in this progress- It is found to be true that not only by their words of encouragement and the ordinary duties of houselold life did women take a prominent part in pioneer labors, but that they also planned and in many cases bore an active part in the manual labor necessary to bring about such good results. We are pleased to present to our rea(lers a brief account of the career of Mrs. Sharpsteen, who is one of the two still living of the original settlers in Pennileldl Township. Lemuel Parker, the father, and( Joseph Parker, the grandfather of our subject, were born in Vermont on the estate that has been occupied bay members of the family for more than a hundred and thirty years. Grandfather Parker served some months as a volunteer in the Revolutionary army, and it is said that he was prohibited from further service on account of poor health. He was a man of sturdy habits, with a character above reproach. lie was a Presbyterian and adhered to his religious beliefs with the tenaciousness characteristic of the times in which he lived. IIe died at the advancedl age of ninety years, entering into rest January 27, 1825. Tie Bible, hymnbook and cane he used more than a century ago are now in the possession of his grand-daughter, Mrs. Sharpsteen. The father of Mrs. Sharpsteen occupied the paternal estate of one hundred and sixty acres and followed in his father's footsteps in business, character and faith. lHe was a firm believer in tihe tenets of Presbyterianism and an active worker in the church. He was universally respected and beloved by all who were well acquainted with his character. He died in his native State, March 1, 1862, at the age of seventy-seven years. He had married Esther Sprague, who was also born in the Green Mountain State. She was a devout Christian, a kind mother, and strove to rear her family in the paths of honesty and virtue. Her gentle spirit passed the portals of this life to a better world beyond in 1860, her years on earth having numbered seventythree. She was the mother of eleven children, named Clarissa, Zeruah, Anna, Amanda, Mary, Isaac, Caroline, Ann, Etlian, Esther and Nathan. Two of these died before reaching maturity. Capt. Philip Sprague, maternal grandfather of our subject, was born in Hlartford, Vt., and for many years before railroads were built he was a mail carrier between his native place and Boston. Hle was an officer in the Colonial army during the Revolution. lie possessed excellent qualities of both mind and heart. His age when called hence was ninety years. He was tile son of a Welshman who was one of the first settlers in the Green Mountain State. Mrs. Sharpsteen was born in Hartford, Vt., February 23, 1820. During her early childhood her parents removed to Genesee County, N. Y., where she grew to maturity. There she was given the best education the district schools afforded and thus laid the foundation for her present extended fund of knowledge. October 9, 1834, she was joined in wedlock to Anson Sharpsteen, who was born in 1815. Soon after their marriage the young couple took up their residence on a farm where they remained until September, 1836, when they disposed of their effects and started for Michigan, then considered the far West. The journey was mide witl an ox-team to Buffalo, thence by boat to l)etroit, and from there to Calhoun County with oxen and a wagon. There were several families in the party and among the number was Joseph P. Markham, whose sketch appears elsewhere in this volume. Of those who settled in Pennfield Township at that time and within a few years thereafter he is the only survivor except Mrs. Sharpsteen. The party reached Calhoun County September 29, and Mr. and Mrs. Sharpsteen selected the south-. I 858 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALB1 east quarter of section 36, Pennfield Township, isfaction of mind which they entered from the Government. The in the near future place was heavily timbered and clearing was an better world. She arduous task. As soon as a few trees could be the New Church a felled a log cabin was put up and in this the new with religious inter owners made themselves as comfortable as possible. The part she has h Many hardships and privations were consequent mankind and the g upon their remoteness from civilization and primi- will probably nev tive surroundings, but all were cheerfully and called to her rewar courageously endured. The first barrel of salt bought Mrs. Sharpsteen after their arrival cost $14. Indians of tile Pot- Union army, and a tawatomie tribe were numerous and their trail from in the battle of Fi Wet Prairie to Bellevue ran directly by the home she frequently wall of the Sharpsteens. The savages belied that title distant, for the ma by being inveterate beggars and by making their the news. Once m exits and entrances in a peaceable manner, although mond had been su frequently with so stealthy a step that their sudden so great was her ir appearance would startle the inmates of a cabin. at ten o'clock at n They often called at Mrs. Sharpsten's and never to learn if the rep( thought of rapping for admission. mitted to vote on l Wild animals were so numerous in this section sympathy with tl as to greatly annoy and sometimes endanger the many papers and pioneers. Deer in droves would make their appear- posted on the issue ance in the clearing about the log cabin and browse taste for literature on the twigs from the newly-felled trees. Bears were has become a stor sometimes seen, and wolves made frequent inroads well digested ideas upon young stock or small animals. The first wedding that occurred in Pennfield Township took place at the home of the Sharpsteens in the fall of 1837, the contracting parties being William G. Wheaton and Amanda Parker, sister of our sub- (i ILLIAM C ject. Mr. Sharpsteen was a hard-working man and \ A near Sono energetic in clearing and improving his land. In \/ of the gen 1855 he built a two-story frame dwelling at a cost standing monunme of $2,000 aside from his own labor and in this sub- of home and caref stantial structure his widow still lives. She was one hundred and f bereft of her companion October 7, 1876, he being improved and bear at that time sixty-two years old. source of a good ii Of the eight children born to Mrs. Sharpsteen the influence of seven grew to maturity, namely: Mrs. Maggie Hay- The residence no ward, Mrs. Esther Dickson, Alfonso, Irving, Samuel, erected in 1875 an Estelle and Frank. That they were carefully in- ient arrangement structed in the principles that should govern their Everything in an' conduct and in the useful habits that have been comfort and order exemplified in the lives of their parents, scarcely ilar spirit is manif needs to be said. The mother is now three-score William Christy and ten years old and looks forward with great sat- November 19, *, UM. and comfort of heart to the time when she shall be called to the is a member of what is termed and has been closely identified rests for upward of forty years. ad in bettering the condition of,ood deeds she has accomplished Ter be fully known until she is rd at the Judgment Day. had twenty-four nephews in the in only brother who lost his life redericksburg. During the war ked to Battle Creek, seven miles il; so anxious was she to learn vhen it was rumored that Richrrendered to the Union forces, iterest that she hitched up a team ight and drove to Battle Creek ort was true. Although not perpolitical questions she is in strong lie Republican party and reads periodicals, thus keeping well es of the day. She has a decided and her naturally brilliant mind ~ehouse of interesting facts and )HRISTY. An attractive farm ma, LeRoy Township, is the home tleman.above named and is a It to his industrious habits, love ul management. It consists of fourteen acres, which have been utified, making them not only the ncome, but the center from which comfort and happiness radiates. w occupied by the fanily was d is of pleasing design, convent and tasteful surroundings. d about the home has an air of and throughout the estate a simest. r was oorn in Glasgow, Scotland, 1830, to James and Lilly PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 859 -- -1-~~~~~~~~~~ ---~~~~~11 --- —— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~-~~~- ~ ~ ~ -— ~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~-~~~ —~~~ ----— ~~~~~~~~~ —~~~~- ~ ~ ~ -- -----— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~-I- -- ---— ~~~~~~~~~~~ (McGlochan) Christy. His father was a linenweaver and tie parental family included four children older than he. Educational advantages were poor and William never attended school a day in his life. He was taught to read, and through this medium and by conversing with those who had been to America, he became filled with a desire to see for himself the laud of which so much was written and said. Before he was eighteen years old he carried out this desire, embarking on the "Esmerelda," a sailing vessel, in June, 1848, and six weeks later landing in New York City. Young Christy went at once to Orange County, N. Y., where lie had acquaintances, but after a short visit returned to the metropolis where he remained during the ensuing six months. lie was then engaged in farming in Orange County for five years, and in 1855 came to Battle Creek in company with two other young men. A period of two years was spent in farming, at the expiration of which Mr. Christy felt justified in taking a companion. He had wooed and won Miss Frances Marion Wood, daughter of Barnett and Fatama Wood, she and her parents being natives of Steuben County, N. Y. After their marriage the young couple lived on the farm of Mrs. Christy's father and in that vicinity until the outbreak of the Civil War, when Mr. Christy determined to do all that lay in his power to save tie flag of his adopted country. The name of William Christy was enrolled in Company A, Sixth Michigan Heavy Artillery, August 20, 1861, and he who bore it was discharged at Morganza Bend, La., August 22, 1864, by reason of the expiration of his term of service. Soon after his enlistmert lie was detailed by Gen. Butler for service in the hospital department, first as smallpox nurse. He did not bear arms, but was often exposed to greater danger than those who (id, as lie was frequently on the field during the battles and while removing the wounded could not seek shelter. During a part of the time he had charge of tie medicines of the different wards and it was his duty to procure delicacies and supplies for the hospital, he being allowed to pass through the lines and go anywhere at will. One of the dangerous places in which Mr. Chris ty was placed was during an expedition to White River in 1863. The sick of the Sixth Michigan and four companies of unarmed men with the hospital stores were on board the "Clara Bell" going up the Mississippi River. When rounding American Bend they were fired into, one man killed and five badly wounded, and the officer in command surrendered. Surgeon C. V. Motram determined to strike for liberty and was heartily joined by the others, even by the darkey who tarred the wood with which to get up steam when they dashed for the other shore. Notwithstanding the heavy firing which ensued immediately upon the vessel being pointed toward shore, there was but one man wounded, and before the boat was set on fire by hot shot, he and those who had been injured before the surrender, were removed and all reached the Union lines in safety. Their escape seems almost marvelous and too much credit for the plan and its execution cannot be given the noble Dr. Motram, who is now living in Leavenworth, Kan., and the others wlo joined so heartily in the attempt. After the regiment was disbanded at Kalamazoo Mr. Christy returned to his home and bought the land upon which he now lives, paying $3,000 therefore. The success which he has aclrieved is worthy of the spirit of the Scotch laddie who boldly left his native land to seek his fortune among strangers, and who has displayed the vigor of mind and body and the careful calculation that is characteristic of the nationality. While building up his own fortune, lie has borne his part as a true man in the deeds of kindness which brighten life and has been by no means inactive in various matters of social interest. In severe cases of sickness he sometimes goes out to nurse, his experience having especially fitted him for such duties. lie is an active and enthusiastic member of Farragut Post, No. 32, G. A. R., at Battle Creek. He always votes the Republican ticket ani is always ready to cast his ballot and give the influence of his presence and good words whenever by so doing he can aid the party. He and his wife are respected members of the Dutch Reformed Church. Mrs. Christy is deserving of especial mention as a true friend to the old soldier. She is a member of the Woman's Relief Corps and haS for the las 860 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. three years been Senior Vice President. She was a delegate to the State Convention at Adrian, and has been active in everything that the corps has undertaken to promote their efficiency and add to the means which they can expend in benevolence. This is not to be wondered at, as she has the blood of patriot ancestors in her veins, her great-grandfather having been a Revolutionary soldier and her grandfather a participant in the War of 1812, and she has also the sympathy in the cause which would necessarily follow her husband's connection with the army. For two years Mr. Christy was President of the Southwestern Association of Soldiers and Sailors. To Mr. and Mrs. Christy seven children have been born, but four have left their parents' roof for homes of their own. Barnet married Addie 'I'iller and works in the Nichols & Shepherd shops; Maria is the wife of William Minor; Lillie Ellen is the wife of Alphonso C. Minor; Willie married Ettie Marsh and lives in LeRoy. The married daughters reside in Battle Creek. Fatama, John and Dora L. are at home, and the last named is pursuing her studies in the Battle Creek High School, while John is attending Krug's Business College. = — ~ - - ------- ~ ---- - --.. about 1836. He was a lifelong farmer. After living in Marengo Township some years, he came to Lee Township, where he improved three different farms. He was a hard worker and a successful farmer. Ile died on the homestead that his widow still occupies. She bore the maiden name of Eliza Carver, was born in Whitehall, Washington County, N. Y., and is a daughter of James Carver, a native of Rhode Island, of whom further mention is made elsewhere in this volume. Our subject is the youngest member of the parental family, and was born April 29, 1856. lie was reared and educated on the farm, and remained thereon until he was twenty years of age. Hie then began the work of life on his own account, and in a few years established his home, winning for his wife Miss Ula Kibler. Becoming the possessor of eighty acres of land, he tilled the soil two years, then traded it for partly improved property on section 27. Here he built and carried on his work, having two hundred and forty acres in all, but finally disposing of all but his present acreage. IIe has brought much energy to bear upon his work, and has carefully observed the methods of others, weighed their theories, and rejected or accepted in accordance with the dictates of sound sense. The wedded life of IMr. Long began February 23, 1879. His wife was born in Lee Township, July 22, 1861, and is the second child of James and Annie (VanWie) Kibler. Her brother Charles died at the early age of twenty years, and her sister Hattie is living with her mother. She is descended in both lines from old settlers here. Her grandfather, Philip Kibler, a New Yorker, located in Marengo Township, but subsequently bought on section 4, Lee Township, and here spent his last years. His son, father of Mrs. Long, was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., was quite small when lie came here and grew up amid the pioneer scenes. Ie purchased the homestead of one hundred and twenty acres, made further improvements upon it, and closed his eyes there January 2, 1882, when about fifty-six years of age. He enlisted on the 17th of March, 1865, in Company I, Ninth Michigan Infantry, serving until the close of the war. In-politics he was a Democrat. Mrs. Kibler was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., June 27, 1838, and was a daugh ARRY LONG. The native-born citizens of this county number among them Harry Iong, who was born in Lee Township, and has always made it his home. Ile has now rented his farm, an eighty-acre tract on section 27. His property is quite valuable, the soil being naturally fertile, and having been made more productive by a proper rotation of crops and the use of wise methods of fertilization. The buildings are firstclass and sufficiently numerous to supply every need. Under the control of Mr. Long the acreage has been devoted to grain fields and pasture ground for stock. Mr. Long is a son of one of the earliest settlers in Marengo Township, this county. This pioneer was Henry Long, a native of Pennsylvania, who went to Somerset County, Ohio, when a young man. There he married and thence he came hither PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.. 861 PI ter of Abraham and Esther (Vanarman) VanWie, both of whom were born in New York. They came hither in 1847, first locating in Marengo Township, but removing to Lee Township. Mr. Long has been a delegtate to county conventions, acting in behalf of the Democratic party, in whose principles he firmly believes. He lias served his fellow-men as Pathmaster, and has done whatever he could to advance their interests by means of liberality towards worthy enterprises, and a manifestation of the true public spirit in all local affairs. He is much interested in the progress of the cause of education, and his only child, a daughter l)ora, is being given every possible opportunity to become cultured. He and his wife belong to the Patrons of Industry, are popular members of society, and receive a full measure of respect from those who know them. HARLES W. WAYr is a native of Southern ( Michigan and the son of a pioneer family. He has a finely located farm on section 3, Convis Township, that in point of cultivation and improvements ranks with the best in its vicinity. IHe is the eldest of the eight children of John G. Way, of whom a sketch appears on another page of this work. Our subject was born in Bellevue Township, Eaton County, March 22, 1837. He was reared in Convis Township, and received the common-school advantages that were afforded to the children of the pioneers of this section during his youth. He remained at home with his parents until he was twenty.one years old and then entered upon his prosperous career as a farmer, locating in that year (1858) on his present farm, which then comprised eighty acres of land. It was wild land and it has only been by hard pioneer labor that he has brought it to its present fine condition. He continued to live on the home place for a few years while he was grubbing his land and placing it under the plow, and he then erected suitable buildings and has since made it his residence. He has sold six acres of his original purchase, so that he I now has but seventy-four acres of land, all of which is under admirable tillage and is provided with first-class improvements, including a fine house, substantial barns, a choice orchard, and pleasant groves also adorn the place, which is finely located two and one-half miles from Bellcvue. Our subject gives his attention to general farming and to raising well-graded stock. The marriage of Mr. Way and Miss Charlotte A. Perry, the daughter of an old pioneer of this county, was celebrated in this township August 27, 1863. Mrs. Way is, like her husband, a native of Bellevue Township, where she was born May 30, 1844. Her father, Joab Perry, was a native of Rhode Island, and was a farmer by occupation. From his native State lie went to Cortland County, N. Y., where he married. In 1838 he came to Michigan, and from Detroit made his way to Homer Township by team, and a short time later went from there to Bellevue Township. He bought land on section 3, Convis Township, after having lived in Bellevue Township two years, and immediately entered upon its improvement. It comprised one hundred and three acres, which was in a wild condition, but he developed it into one of the choicest farms in its vicinity. In early days he operated an ashery and made potash. He was prominent in the official life of lis township, which he at one time represented as a member of the County Board of Supervisors, and he was Justice of the Peace and held other public positions. Politically, he was a stanch ally of the Democratic party. His home was broken up by the death of his wife in 1880, and he then came to spend his declining years with his daughter and our subject, and died in their home May 8, 1890, at the age of eighty-five years, his death being caused by la grippe, tle epidemic that was then so prevalent throughout the country. During his life he was interested in spiritual phenomena and was a Spiritualist. Mr. Way's mother's maiden name was Jane Crawford, and she was born in Cortland County, N. Y. She was a daughter of Joseph Crawford, a native of Rhode Island, who was a pioneer farmer of that section and spent his last years in that county. The mother of Mrs. Way was seventy 862 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. two years old when she died. She was a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Way is the youngest of seven children, of whom five are now living. She was reared here and was given excellent educational advantages in the common schools and in tile Bellevue High School. When she was eighteen years old she commenced to teach in the vicinity of her home, and was thus successfully engaged for some three years until her marriage. She is tile mother of two children, namely: Lida, who married Orange Winans, a farmer who has an eighty-acre farm near Olivet, in Eaton County; and Charles P., who lives at home with his parents. In addition to tile home farm of seventy-four acres Mr. Way operates forty acres of the old Perry farm which belongs to his wife. He is a thoroughly practical farmer and enjoys the reputation of carrying on his agricultural operations with skill and ability. Both he and his wife are among the intelligent members of the Patrons of Industry at North Convis. They are people of fine personal attributes, whose social relations with all about thein are of the pleasantest. Politically, Mr. Way is a firm believer in the policy of the Democratic party and advocates it when opportunity offers. I I- - - - the father, Thomas, Jr., came to America in 1836. He settled in Henrietta, Monroe County, N. Y., taking up work at the trade of a blacksmith, in which he had been engaged in his native land. After a sojourn of a year he removed to Pittsford aui there also worked at his trade, but after a time bought and took possession of a farm. Two years were spent in tilling the soil, when Mr. Huggett returned to Pittsford, bought two acres of land and resumed his former occupation. In 1855 he came hither and established his home in Convis Township improving a tract of one hundred and twenty acres. After the death of his beloved wife he removed to Bellevue and remained there until called hence. He was a Democrat. His wife, who was known in her maidenhood as Mary Wickham,was born in Sussex, England, and came with him across the ocean. Their family consisted of twelve children, of whom Jesse was the fifth in order of birth. In Sussex, England, eighteen miles from Lon. don, he of whom we write was born March 8, 1832. tJe was a child of four years when the family left London on a sailing vessel which was sixteen weeks in reaching New York, having been delayed by severe storms. In the Empire State the lad grew to manhood, early learning to blow and strike for his father and even working out some before he had become of age. He went to school and sat day after (lay on a slab bench, surrounded by rude log J ESSE HUGGETT is pursuing a successful walls, poring over the text books which compared career as an agriculturalist, owning and op- with those of the present day seems scarcely more erating one hundred and thirty acres in Con- than products of semi-barbarism. When he had vis Township. The property includes sixty attained his majority he entered upon his personal acres on section 17, twenty-five on 19, and forty- career by becoming an employe of the State on the five on 20. It is choice land, enclosed and sub. repair force of the Erie Canal. divided by well-kept fences, supplied winth ample te fall of 1855 Mr. luuggett came by rail to buildings including a windmill and tank, and 'this State, where for a short time he was engaged adorned with numerous fruit and shade trees. It by the month as a farm hand, after which he culis watered by Indian Creek and is favorably situ- tivated the soil of a rented tract twelve months. In ated, having good drainage and a pleasing contour. 1860 he bought that which is now his home and at A view of this fine estate is presented on another once began to clear and otherwise improve it. page. Much of the work was done with ox-teams and so Mr. Huggett is an Englishman and for at least much untilled land was there still in this locality two generations prior to his own birth the ances- that wild game was quite abundant. In 1878 Mr. tral home was in Sussex. His grandfather, Thomas Iluggett put up the present substantial and homeHuggett, died in the mother country and thence like dwelling, in and around which woman's refin-:9 rfr oF ^s. J. H. PENNIMAN, N192.MAPLE ST. BATTLE CREEK. MICH. RESIDENCE OF JESSE HUGGETT, sEc.17. CONVIS TP. CALHOUN CO.MICH. A: v t PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 865 - ing touch is plainly manifest. Poland-China hogs and Merino sheep are raised upon this farm in considerable numbers and the usual cereals have their proper place in the farm economy. The marriage of Mr. Huggett and Miss Fannie Callender was solemnized in Bellevue, August 31, 1856. The bride was born in Convis Township, May 6, 1840, and spent the most of her youth here in the pursuit of the useful studies and occupations. When ten years old she spent a year in Sheboygan, Wis.,and when fourteen went again to that city with her sister and remained there two years. She was carefully reared by her good parents, Dewey S. and Clarissa (Parker) Callender, and has developed many of the virtues which add lustre to the name of woman. Her father was born near Rochester, N. Y., and was the son of a farmer, Jared Callender. He learned the trade of a shoemaker, but after coming hither in 1836 engaged in farming in Eckford Township. He subsequently entered other land which he improved and whence he removed to Kalamazoo County. Early in the '60s he went to Melrose, Wis., where lie had a valuable farm on the Black River. There he spent his last days. He was an earnest member of the Republican party. The mother of Mrs. IIuggett was born in Vermont, in which State her father, Lemuel Parker, was a farmer. That gentleman removed to New York and finally came to this county, being one of the first settlers in Convis Township. Here he breathed his last, highly respected by his associates. His daughter, Mrs. Callender, died in Wisconsin in June, 1889, leaving nine children, Mrs. Huggett being the sixth. To our subject and his wife six children have been born, but the third, George W. has been taken from them by death. Charles W., is a farmer in Convis Township; Mary F., is the wife of Frank Avery and lives in Marshall Township; Maude is the wife of Daniel Greenman of Marslall; Henry is at home; and Camilla married Abe Lincoln Walkinshaw of Convis Township. Mr. Huggett is not conspicuous alone for his ability as a farmer but for his public spirit and worth as a servant of the people. Being particularly interested in educational matters, his interest has been utilized by his acquaintances, who have I - made him School Moderator, Treasurer and Assessor. He was retained in the last-named office nine years. Besides these positions he has been Pathmaster, and he has advanced the interests of the Republican party as a delegate to county conventions and by stanch support of Republican principles under all circumstances. He and his wife are identified with the Baptist Church at Bellevue. They greatly enjoy the society of their friends and are given to hospitality, even receiving graciously and welcoming cordially those whom they have not come to know and love as they do their valued associates. LLEN T. HAVENS was ini former years prominently identified with the business interests of Battle Creek, being one of her most successful dealers. He was born in Connecticut, January 18, 1818, but during his youth became a resident in Palmyra, N. Y., whither his father, Eldridge Havens, removed. There he was brought up to mercantile pursuits and fitted for the career which he afterward pursued in so worthy a manner. He came to Battle Creek in 1844 and established himself in the drug business which he followed eight years. Lie was very ambitious and in every particular fitted his place in business and social circles. Mr. Havens was removed by death February 29, 1852, leaving a widow and one child. His daughter was too young to realize her loss, but his companion felt the full force of her deprivation in having to part with one who had been an affectionate and considerate husband. In business circles the death of Mr. Havens was regarded as a blow to the financial prosperity of the city, and his removal from the scenes of time was understood to have taken away one of the most worthy citizens. The marriage of Mr. Havens had been solemnized in New York May 25, 1846, his bride being Miss Aurelia F. Smith. She is a daughter of Frederick and Anna M. (Grandin) Smith, the former of whom was born in Vermont and the latter in New Jersey. The Grandins are an old family of New Jersey and I 866 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -1 —. - -~ - - -- -, - -. - - - - -. - - - -.- - - - - - -, ~ - - --- --- --- _=. = _ ==.. ~~~ _-;; ____ —~~~~~~ --- —------- II --- —-- - - - - - -~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -----------------— ~~~~~~~~~ --- —-- --------------- --— ~~~~~~~~~~~ are presumably of French extraction. Mr. Smith was a lawyer and judge in Palmyra, N. Y. Mrs. Iavens is a lady of culture and taste and her home on Maple Street is one of the most beautiful in the city, both in its exterior and its interior. It is the gathering place of the best society Battle Creek affords and friends from abroad frequently enjoy its lhospitality. Mrs. Havens has the companionslip of tier daughter, she also being now a widow, with two children, Allen 1-. and John B. lHer husband, J. II. Penniman, after having practiced dentistry in Battle Creek a number of years, died January 31, 1886. Mrs. Pennilnan has enjoyed many privileges and has been well fitted for her high station in society. On another page of this volume the reader will notice a view of the elegant residence of Mrs. J. H. Penniman. tunities for obtaining a comfortable living than on their native soil. They landed in New York City, and from there made their way to Clyde, Wayne County, N. Y. They were without means, and all that they had to depend upon to earn their bread and butter was their hands. For two years Mr. Pritchard carried on farming at Clyde, and then came to Michigan. IIe bought his present farm which was at that time a tract of wild land, and here he and his wife began life in the most humble manner. He put up a log shanty to which he added an L in the spring, and worked hard to place his land under cultivation. It is now in a first-class condition, and he has plurchased more land, so that his farm comprises three hundred and twenty acres of choice land which is mostly well tilled, and upon which he has placed a fine set of buildings. After many years lie replaced the log house by a more commodious residence, and he has three large barns on his place; one 40x80 feet, and one 150x25 feet in dimensions. Our subject devotes his farm to general husbandry, and has some fine graded stock, including - -AM6 -A H~:fii~' ~i, II~ A AMES PRITCHARD has made of his life a eighteen horses of good success since coming to this country a poor paid much attention to tl man, and is now one of the substantial, well- but has somewhat abandc to-do farmers of Clarendon Township, whlere stock business. He has ac he las one of the best improved farms in the county. property by strict attenti He is of English birth and antecedents, born De- and prudence, and by jud cember 11, 1832, in old Sudbury, Gloucestershire, is a man of shrewd comi England. Hlis parents, Isaac and Elizabeth (Lock- ability, and has shown bin stone) Pritchard, were also natives of England, and and enterprising farmer. were born and reared in the same place as their to the politics of the day, son. In their later years they came to America of the Republican party. and lived With our subject until death closed their have had six children, as lives, and they now lie sleeping side by side in the (deceased), Sarah, Jason, cemetery in Clarendon Township. They were the parents of eight children, of whom seven are now -i living, three sons and four daughters. Our subject is the eldest son of the family. IHis boyhood was passed in the place of his nativity, ('"IIOMAS J. SHIPP and( he remained with his parents until he was ((( this county, is p twenty years old. He was married in 1851 to Eliza farming on sectioi Saunders, who was born and reared in the same Township, where he has place as himself. The newly wedded couple at once was born in Marshall, A set sail for America to build up a new home in this parental history see sketch land, where they felt they would have better oppor- The early life of our subjE grades. Ile at one time ie raising of fine sheep, )ned that branch of the rcumulated this han(lsome on to business, by thrift icious man'agement. IIe mon sense and practical aself to be an intelligent He is well-informed as and is a sturdy advocate Mr. and Mrs. Pritchard follows: Thomas, Louise Charles aid Frank. ', the son of a pioneer of )rosperously engaged in ns 20 and 29, Eckford an excellent farm. [le pril 17, 1845. For his of the late Joseph Shipp. ect was passed on his fa PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. _......,...... -. X 0 L _=-L _ = D. = = _ =. = _ _ _ _ == =~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- --- 867 ther's farm, and he gained his education in the schools of Marshall. He only attended school about two months after leaving Marshall. When he was sixteen years of age he came to this farm witll his parents, and in the spring of 1880 his father divided the three hundred and twenty acres of land that he owned here, and gave him a quarter of a section. There was a debt upon it whicli our sub. ject paid. About ninety acres of the land were improved, and he erected a dwelling into which he moved in the month of June, that year. In 1883 he built a large and conveniently arranged basement barn 36x54 feet in dimensions, and has other substantial farm buildings. His land is mostly under fine cultivation, and from its rich harvests he derives a good income. IHe is considerably interested in stock-raising, and has a fine flock of sheep, six head of horses and nine head of cattle, including six cows. He has his place well supplied with good machinery for carrying on farming operations. On November 22, 1871, was the (late of Mr. Shipp's marriage with Miss Frances S. Skinner, a native of England. Mrs. Shipp was four years old when she accompanied her father, John Skinner, to this country. Mr. Skinner staid in the State of New York about a year, and then came to tils State and settled on a farm in this county, he being one of the prosperous farmers of Eckford Townslip. His wife, who was also of English birth, died about twenty-five years ago. Mr. and Mrs. Shipp are happy in their married life, which has been blessed to them by the birth of three children, two sons and one daughter, as follows: Frank J., aged eighteen years; William Samuel, fifteen years old; and Mary Elizabeth, called 'Bqessie," aged nine years, all of whom are at home with their parents. Mr. Shipp is well endowed with energy, enterprise and a good capacity for business, and these have placed him in the forefront as one of the most useful and valued citizens of his township and county. His fellow-citizens have found him wise in council, full of public spirit and one who strives to promote the best interests of the community in whatever position he is placed. They have often called him to offices of responsibility, and well has he discharged the duties thus devolving upon him, showing himself eminently worthy of the cornfi dence placed in him. lie has represented Eckford Township as a member of the County Board of Supervisors for the past six years, and for the last year has been Chairman of that body, and has been a Constable for one year. Hle is one of the leading members of tile Methodist Episcopal Church of which he has been Trustee for the past seven years, and has been Superintendent of the Sunday-school for one year. In his political views he is decidedly a Republican. Hle cast his first Presidential vote for U. S. Grant in 1866, and has been true to the party ever since. r LON 1). BUSHNEILL. It is doubtful if the j activity manifested by this young gentlenman in affairs of personal or public import can be exceeded in the county. As a farmer he is industrious, progressive andl enterprising and lie therefore gains a good income from the fruits of the fields he tills. His home is on section 21, Le Roy Township, and from it lie has been absent only when attenlding Olivet College from 1872 to 1874. lie is the fifth son of Dudley and Olivia Bushnell, whose history occupies another page in this volume, and was born in the house in which lie still livo D)ecember 3, 1855. Mr. Bushnell was fortunate in winning for his wife a lady of mental culture, accomplished and refined, and of Christian character. This lady bore the maiden name of May Iva Taggart and is a daughter of William H. and Catherine (Shean) Taggart, now of this township. When but sixteen years old she entered Olivet College and a year later began teaching, a work in which she was very successful. The confinement and tax upon the nerve forces required of a teacher did not agree with Miss Taggart and she gave up the work. Notwithstanding the cares that devolve upon her as wife and mother, she acts as organist in the church and Sunday-school quite often and leads the singing. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Bushnell was solemnized at the bride's home October 12, 1881, and they have been blessed by the birth of 868 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. three bright children, Ray Elon, Howard Carlton and Meda May. The year after his marriage Mr. Bushnell was elected Township Clerk, an office he held for five consecutive terms, after which he was chosen Supervisor. In the latter capacity he is still serving with general satisfaction. For the past twelve years he lhas been School Moderator, and in church matters he is equally active and zealous. His membership and that of his wife, is in the Congregational Church at Le Roy, sometimes known as the Old South Church, and he has been Clerk several years, and at divers times Sunday school Superintendent or teacher. The society was the first organized in this part of the county and in 1887 the congregation and their friends celebrated the semi-centennial of that event. Mrs. Bushnell was formerly teacher of the Sunday-school and her services were highly appreciatel. Mr. Bushnell joined the Odd Fellows fraternity as soon as he was old enough, and held a minor office the first year; the next year lie was elected Vice Grand, then Noble Grand, and as Past Grand lie represented the lodge of Climax, Kalamazoo County, at Lansing, in Representative Hall. On account of the distance of the lodge from his home lie has withdrawn from it. Politically he is a trueblue Republican, often serving as a delegate to conventions, and at all times laboring to advance the interests of the party, but managing to keep the good will of his opponents by giving them a fair hearing when party measures and principles are being canvassed. ~^ \^ _\A-'^ ' ^ this place over forty years it needs but a monent's consideration to decide what course was pursued and what the nature of the man, if at the conclusion of his life the unanimous expression was of confidence —the many incidents related invariably to his credit —the one word more than all others in letters of condolence, he was 'honest." In the early years with the slower process of threshing, the whole year was taken up getting the wheat to market and by that means all could find its way through the one course and it came liis way year after year. All the wheat raised was ground and the flour sliipped away. Later, with the faster process of threshing, his trade was divided with tihe shippers of wheat, yet many a time the farmer camte first to him with the remark "I have always sold my wheat to John Evans and I want to sell it to you now." It was the custom to contract the whole crop, (-ith lays and sometimes weeks to deliver, and with nothing but the word to bind the bargain, but no one ever heard of a refusal to fulfill the contract. Numerous incidents are related of those who were boys, as it were, just beginning for themselves, going to him with so much at stake that all seemed depending on their shrewdness to accomplish the most, but going away fully satisfied with mankind, for the transaction was so easy and their best calculated shrewdness forgotten under the influence of a plain, earnest, honest word. Mr. Evans was not given toreminisences or reciting oft-told tales, and the writer of this biography (HI. M. Evans) alone of all the family is left to relate such incidents as from time to time came to his attention, aided by a diary commenced the day of his departure from England at the age of less than twenty years, and closed on his arrival in Marengo. This record, however, but fixes dates and places. In reference to a trip back to England is noted his course from Liverpool to Saxmundham where he visited his mother and sisters, and which leads one to suppose was his birthplace. October 25, 1812, was his date of birth, shortly after which his father died, leaving his mother in poor circumstances with three daughters and an infant son. Doubtless Mr. Evans inherited his business char J O11N EVANS. Of all the citizens of Marengo village Mr. Evans was most prominent during the longest period of time. His occupation as a miller brought him in contact with all classes within a wide range of country and his relations were such as to touch constantly the sensitive element of human nature, as the principal product of the farm and the bread of the family were directly involved in the purchase of wheat and the grinding of grists. Occupying PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 869 acteristics from his mother who kept a toll-gate procured by bid; this was atttended to by the daughters, while the mother and son were away attending "market days" and country fairs with pony and cartloads of fruit purchased at wholesale at the markets. Sometimes the load would be sold at good rates on arrival and the return home made immediately, while at other times they retailed the whole at still better rates, however, not to the liking of the son, as it meant long days and late journeys home. His services being so useful on these occasions, his opportunites for schooling were very meager and about eleven months of steady attendance was all he had. At the age of eleven years Mr. Evans was bound out by his mother to a miller some distance from his lhome; she paid his master ~20 sterling and the term of service was seven years. Two incidents during this time perhaps are worthy of mention, besides which little of note occurred. A bakery being connected with the mill the days were very long and many times the tasks arduous. Scarcely any spending money was given and no holidays, the half of every other Sunday being the only time of his own he had to anticipate. He haid an uncle wlio, with his family, lived near the mill, and at one time he was passing his uncle's window on his half holiday when lie overheard him say "There's that John Evans again." tie turned away, and so far as is known, never saw or heard of the uncle or his family again. While in the service Mr. Evans developed considerable strength and upon one occasion while testing it with others upon a sack of flour his master proposed lie should shoulder and carry the sack to the grocery some distance away, and as a banter, p)romiscd him a sovereign when he did it. He replied that he was tired then, but when rested would do it, as he believed lie could, and was assured his sovereign would be given on the completion of the task. The way was level except across a little bridge which, sloping considerably, nearly defeated his undertaking, as lie was afterward heard to say it was an "awful hill" with that sack of flour on his back. The sack was set down on the grocery step and he sank down exhausted, black in the face. The papers noted the event as quite important. Some time elapsed without any reference to the sovereign, but the scarcity of such or even smaller pieces of money moved him to finally ask for it, only to be refused with the assurance that his master kept a pony and cart for that purpose. Years afterward, when the apprentice owned a mill, a letter came to him across the sea from the master applying for a situation. Six and one-half years of his apprenticeship having expired, about 1830 Mr. Evans was given his time and lie then commanded wages for his work, the first of which went to repay his mother. June 4, 1832, lie sailed from Yarmouth and August 10 following arrived in Quebec where he staid on the ship until the 21st, making more than two months and a half on shipboard. Thence he went to Montreal and on September 1 to York (now Toronto), and commenced work there on the 5th. H-e left York Alpril 4, 1833, for Rochester, N. Y., and began work there on the 10th. Again during the summer lie went to Canada and in his diary is written: "July 4th returned to Rochester, a celebrated day with the Yankees." On December 6 lie obtained employment in Linden, Genesee County, N. Y., where he sojourned for some time. In his diary Mr. Evans notes another trip to Canada in March, 1834, and having returned thence, lie bought a house and lot in Linden on June 1. In 1835 he rented a mill, but a few months later sold out his chance. He was united in marriage on the 25th of January 1836, and on the 9th of March, 1837, left Linden for England, arriving in Liverpool April 14, and after a visit of ten days with his mother and sisters returned to New York in the same ship in which lie had made the voyage to England. IIe worked in Rochester most of the time until engaged to come to Marengo where lie arrived August 18, 1839. le was then but twenty-seven years of age and soon became first miller. The mill was built of sandstone, well appointed, doing a large business, and his accumulations were nearly equal to the pay lie received, as lie had the hearty co operation of his wife who had an abundance of work in her trade as a tailoress and the best of dispositions to do it, thus keeping the house well provided. However, this prosperity was not to last long A 870 PORTRAIT AND ~BIOGRAPHICALI ALBUJM. 870 PORTRAIT AND BIO~I~APHICAL ALBUM. I I I - only two years or thereabouts, when the mill was Detroit, burned down and the miller was thrown out of sought t employment. The mill was not rebuilt, the prop- of his cii erty being owned by Eastern parties, and for sev- Chandler eral years employment was found in Marshall and in his o Ceresco. Finally he returned to Marengo, bought guarantee the water privilege and built upon contract the manner c mill that now stands a monument to his energy The p, and perseverance. In 1866, at the close of the the time. milling season, his property was all in good repair seeking i andl he had a good sum in the bank. He expressed notwithsl a wish to retire largely from business and hesitated terests, c to commence the following season, but with the cor- advantag respondents soliciting his flour and those of whom when oth he bought wheat so many years coming to sell, in office to addition to the fact that he possessed better facili- sold and ties than he had ever enjoyed for business, he en- liable to gaged and lost. The mill then secured the debt to take it and.finally after his death went to pay it, notwith- self and standing more had been paid on it as interest and lived, hi: principal than the original claim. attend to A good llome was the first investment made by his son s Mr. Evans in Marengo and is such still for the mill, sawl only one left of his family. In all the varied in- employin terests in which he engaged lie bronught system times mal and order to the front. Lie employed liberally and dwelling paid liberally, creating work seemingly many new, eigh times for the sake of giving employment. lie early book, tin adopted a system of employing men with families, terly retr providing them with a house with a view of their contained staying years with him and becoming familiar with hand. the business. So persistent was he in this that Tenaci that criticisms were sometimes expressed, but those ii larger, with him the longest approved and were often follow, la enabled with the accumulation of years to start for character. themselves. Many looked to him in an emergency in politics and scarcely any in vain, and hism oney was lent, the Breck not let. The credits he gave were enormous, the was the ( notes he received few, and never a mortgage. for Breck Milling was the principal business in which Mr. from a co Evans was engaged, and although lie was largely beside Br in debt on tile purchase of the property farmers and he w were in the same condition and money very scarce. istration -ni had possession of a store building, but no one nounced seemed disposed to put in goods, and seeing the Mr. Ev disadvantages to himself as well as to others in the ary 25, 1 necessity of going six miles for trade, he went to well-to-d( and walking to the largest wholesale house he proprietor and made a plain statement rcumstances. He was told by Zachariah to.order all the goods he wanted and send rder for more when needed. No other e seems to have existed but that in his )f presenting the case. ost-office with its exacting demands upon, with the very small compensation, was a master without success when Mr. Evans, tanding his numerous and diversified in-.onsented to take it. It can be kept to re only in connection with a store, and ier parties started a store lie resigned the them. In a short time the goods were the store vacated, and the office again be closed when Mr. Evans again consented le finally put in a stock of goods himcontin ued to keel) the office as long as lie s son in the meantime coming of age to it. He was Postmaster over thirty years, ucceeding him at his death. With the nill and cooper-shop —his business proper, g seven to ten men constantly and oft. ny more, building a mill, warehouse, large and two dams, rebuilding almost wholly it dwellings and a large cooper shop, no ne book, bank check, post-office quarirns or letter of his corresptondence ever a penstroke other than that of his own ous in little things, generous and liberal measured by the judgment of good to visli in nothing, he possessed an admirable He was never a member of any church; he was a Democrat up to the time of:enridge Lincoln-Douglas period when he only one in the township to cast a vote:enridge. Iis reason was that he came untry of wars and tile election of anyone eckenridge was ominous. The war came as thoroughly in accord with the adminof Lincoln and ever afterward a proRepublican. rans was married, as before noted, Jann836, to Mahalla Jolls, the (aughter of a ) farmer in Linden, Genesee County, N. Y. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 871 The ceremony was performed bl William Mitchell, first judge of Genesee County. The young couple began housekeeping February 24, 1836, and for more than fifty years enjoyed a domestic life of unusual felicity. Mrs. Evans was born January 16, 1813, and was a member of a family of eight children, four boys and four girls. Going to and returning from school she passed a tailor shop in which was employed an intimate lady friend and she proposed learning the trade. It was looked upon by her parents and sisters as an idle suggestion and paid no attention to it until she was actually engaged at her work. The sisters were more disposed to stay at home, attentive to the household duties, and she, feeling she could be spared, and being of an unusally independent nature, sought this as a means of doing something, rather than making something, for the large farm and brick house, with all within the family to do the work, afforded ample provision for her necessities. Mrs. Evans continued to manifest throughout her life the independence whicl characterized her youth. She was mated with one who possessed equally decided ideas, and her indifference to his conduct of affairs outside was just equalled by his indifference to her conduct of affairs inside, so that the line may be said to llave been drawn at tle front gate. She was more than usually attentive to home duties and in early years made considerable money at her trade, while tlat received from her fatler's estate was controlled exclusively by herself, the income from which shle always explended for gifts. At the death of her husband, February 8, 1881, all his business interests came to her and she controlled them with the assistance of lier son, larvey M., tolerating no interference from any source. She controlled her business interests even after the estate was finally settled, with ample means for ler own wants, and gave especial attention to sellc property as required a great deal of care and expense. She was an intelligent woman whose warm heart, superior qualities and charitable disposition were well known and gained for her lasting friends. She died May 25, 1890, and serenely passed to the life beyond, leaving behind her a good record as a wife, mother and friend. The only survivor of the family is the son, Harvey M., from whom the facts above mentioned were gained. He was born December 12, 1842, and las been for many years actively identified with the best interests of the community. He held the position of Assistant Postmaster eighteen years, was Township Clerk and Justice of tlie Peace. Politically he is a stanch Republican. 3"C -'_ -~ ---.8 DiIDMOND UPRIGHrT, a well-lknown resident of Albion, is a veteran of the late war, in L _, which lie fought long and well and won a military record that reflected credit on tile Michigan troops. He was born in Wayne County, N. Y., April 14, 1825, to George and Lauretta (Ackley) Upright. In early life Edmond learned the trade of a blacksmith, and followed that somewhat in his native State. In 1858 he catne westward as far as Michigan, and for a short time stopped at Albion, and from there went to Marshall. At the breaking out of tile Rebellion, lie, with true patriotism and undaunted loyalty, was among the first to respond for the call for troops, enlisting in the First Mlichiganu Infantry, Company I, whicll was a three montls regimtent. lie took part in the exciting battle of Bull Run. At the expiration of his term of enlistment lie was honorably discharged and returned home. He did not stay there long, however, but again entered the army, enlisting in the Seventeenth Miichigan Infantry, as a member of Coml)any G. lie was sent with his regirent to Arlington HIeights and bore a gallant part in the battle of Anteitam or South Mountain. While he was in the thick of tile fight at tlat place he was injured by a piece of shell striking him over the heart. This severe shock disabled him for active service, and lie was sent to Louisville, Ky., where le was discharged. Notwithstanding the sufferings and privations that lie had had to endure while fighting on Southern battlefields, our subject again enlisted in 1863 in the engineer and mechanics corps, and assisted in building the stockade between Chattanooga and 872 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Atlanta, and was with Sherman on his memorable march to the sea. He was also on the celebrated march to Washington, where he took part in the Grand Review. After he was mustered out of the service after the close of the war, our battle scarred veteran returned home, having won great credit from his superiors for his soldiership. During the war Mr. Upright was rewarded for his hard service in the field by the hand and heart of Miss Harriet Piper, to whom he was united in marriage December 25, 1863. Mrs. Upright was born in Hillsdale County, this State, October 29, 1850. She is a daughter of Ira and Susan Piper, who were early settlers of Michigan, coming here when it was scarcely more than a wilderness. Mr. and Mrs. Upright are the parents of two living children, Minnie L. and Belle M. The former is the wife of Ed Bellmay, they have one son, whom they have named Eddie. Belle is the wife of Lewis Fisher, of Albion. In politics Mr. Upright is a stanch Democrat, and has always voted with his party with one exception. While in the army, thinking a change would be disastrous, he voted for Abraham Lincoln the second time he was a candidate for the Presidency. Our subject is an honorable member of the Grand Army Post, of Albion. He and his family are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are well thought of in the community. a * w - eS improvements on the place and there he and his wife spent their entire wedded life, she dying in 1850, and he in 1870, at the age of seventy years. Those worthy people were the parents of three daughters and six sons, whom they named Joseph, Abraham, Elijah, Elizabeth (deceased). William, IIannah, Aaron (deceased), John and Lydia. He of whom we write was the second son of his parents, and was carefully trained by them to a stalwart manhood in the place of his birth. IIe obtained his schooling in his native town, and in assisting his father in his farm work, he gained a good practical knowledge of farming. He remained at home with his parents until he was twenty-four years old, and during the latter part of the time farmed the homestead with his father on shares until his marriage in 1849 with Catherine Good, when he established a home of his own. Mrs. Sechler is also a Pennsylvanian, and she was born May 22, 1827, and grew to womanhood in her native place. Her marriage with our subject has brought them one son, Jolin L., who was born July 20, 1851. He resides at home with his parents, and affords his father able assistance in the management of the farm. Our subject still continued to live in Pennsylvania for some nine years after he was wedded, but in 1859 he left his old home in order to take up his residence in Michigan, where he thought he could carry on his business as a farmer to a much better (advantage than his native State. IIe first settled on section 32, Fredonia Township, where he purchased a tract of land that was covered with brush which lie cleared from the place. Lie fenced the land, built a house and placed the farm in a very good condition before he disposed of it at a good advance on the original cost in 1873, and bought with the proceeds the farm upon which he now resides in the same township. Seventeen acres of this land needed clearing and he immediately set about the task and now has that under excellent cultivation as well as the remainder of his one hundred and sixty acres of land. He has placed many good improvements on the farm, and has here a valuable piece of property. He devotes himself assiduously to general farming and stock-raising, and is doing well. BRAM SECHLER is a respected member of the farming community of this f ounty. For several years he has owned ( and occupied his present farm on section 7, Fredonia Township, and has made here a comfortable home as the result of a hard, earnest, laborious life. He was born in Columbia County, Pa., March 6, 1826. His father, whose given name was Jacob, was also of Pennsylvania birth, and was there reared to the life of a farmer. He married Elizabeth Mench, who was likewise a native of the Keystone State. After marriage he and his bride began their wedded life on the old homestead that belonged to his father. Mr. Sechler made many [' CN c PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 875 = Mr. Sechler is a thoroughly good man of upright moral character, possessing many kind and neighborly traits, and he is well-liked by all who know him. He is a sound Republican in his political principles, and he and his wife are members of the Congregational Church, of which they are constant attendants and toward the support of which he contributes liberally. ILLIAM MARTIN. It affords every lover \ of his kind pleasure to note the fact when \J earnest and honest efforts are crowned with worldly prosperity as well as with the commendation of society. In the case of William Martin, thrift has resulted in a comfortable fortune which has enabled him to retire from business and enjoy a1ll that makes life best worth living, unharrassed by care. HIis home is in Marshall, where he established a flourishing mercantile business thirty six years ago. In May, 1890, he transferred the business to his son James, who is now carrying it on at the old stand. This is a three-story brick building well adapted for merchandising and filled with a carefully selected stock of general merchandise. In County Tipperary, Ireland, in 1834, William Martin opened his eyes to the light. lie was the sixth of eight children born to James and Ellen (Blake) Martin, and from the fraternal band but one member has been removed Iy death. The parents were possessed of but little means, but did their best to fit their children for the battle of life. The father died in 1849, and the mother subsequently emigrated to America and eventually died in Marshall. Ier decease occurred in November, 1888, and her age was eighty-nine years. The school days of William Martin were spent in the parish of Killbarron, in the township of Bellevue, and lie continued his studies until lie was fifteen years old, by which time he was well versed in practical knowledge, and ready to do good work in the world. Two years after leaving school he came to America in company with his mother, I brothers and two sisters. The party stopped in New York City for a time, and there William attended school. In the spring of 1850 he came to Marshall and entered the employ of Michael Harrigan, who was carrying on a general store. He served that gentleman as clerk four years, at the expiration of which time he decided to begin business on his own account. His capital did not amount to more than $250, and with that he went to Detroit and bought his first bill of goods of Zachariah Chandler. His business tact and good appearance enabled him to get a credit of a little over $3,000 worth of goods, and he made a payment of what money he had. On the arrival of his stock at Marshall, Mr. Martin set about to show the goods to the best advantage, and in a short time he had a good trade. He was able to pay his obligation before due and ever afterward paid it promptly, and from that time forward lie had no trouble in securing all the credit he desired. He bought largely, attended carefully to business and prospered from the first. His industry and judgment have raised him from the condition of a poor boy to a man of solid financial standing, with business and residence property in the city, outlying farm lands, and a considerable acreage in the State of Kansas. The home of Mr. Martin is made pleasant and attractive by the good taste and capability of his wife, formerly Miss Bridget Higgins. She is a daughter of Timothy Higgins, was born in Ireland and came to the United States when sixteen years old. 1Her happy union with our subject was solemnized August 24, 1857, and has been productive of mutual good. Seven children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Martin, viz: Mary, wife of James Pahy; James F., a merchant at Marshall, to whom the father's business was turned over; William, also a clerk in the store; Sarah, who is still living under the parental roof; and Joseph, a clerk in the store of his uncle, James Martin. Two daughters, Bridget and Catherine, died when less than six years of age. Politically Mr. Martin is a strong adherent of the principles of Democracy. lie and his family are communicants of St. Mary's Catholic Church, and devout believers in all its tenets. He contributes 876 PORTRAIT, AND BIOGtRAPHICAL ALBUM. 876PORTRAIT- AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. generously to its support and to every benevolent movement projected by pastor or people. Elsewhere in this volume the reader will notice a lithographic portrait of Mr. Martin. jARKER P. HAMILTON. For several | decades this gentleman has been closely connected with the interests of this section l of the country as a farmer and stockman. He has an extended acquaintance in the rural districts and is well known to stockmen of Chicago, to which city he made weekly visits for several years, buying by the carload there. Since 1872 he has lived in Eckford Township, his fine farm consisting of one hundred and eighty acres on sections 10 and 15. It is a well-regulated estate, where excellent arrangements have been made for the comfort of those who dwell there, the care of stock and crops and convenience in its operation. Mr. Hamilton is a "Green Mountain boy," and his parents, Stoddard and Mary (Sheldon) Hamilton, were born in the same State, the one in 1791 and the other in 1792. -The father was a soldier in the War of 1812, and Charles Hamiltoi, grandfather of our subject, was a Revolutionary soldier. Josiah Sheldon, maternal grandfather of Mr. Hamilton, traced his lineage back to England. The marriage of the parents of our subject took place January 1, 1818, and they established their home in Chittenden County, Vt., where the husband was engaged in general farming. Thence they removed to Franklin County, N. Y., and after a sojourn of five years went to Madison County and lived in Hamilton a twelvemonth. They then made their home in Springwater, Livingston County, until October, 1855, when they came West and resided in Eckford, this county, three years. Returning to the Empire State, Mr. Hamilton died in 1865, and his widow subsequently returned hither and was a permanent resident until her death in 1880. The parental family comprises three sons and five daughters, of whom we note the following: Lucy L. is the wife of Robert McMaster; Parker P. will be spoken of at greater length below; Fla villa is the wife of John McKenzie; Flavel S. is a member of the firm of Hamilton & Rogers, grainbuyers at Eckford; Mary E. is unmarried and makes her home with the brother of whom we write; Martha L. is the wife of J. A. Washburn, a farmer in Eckford Township; Lynus S. is engaged in farming and stock-raising; Cornelia is the wife of Edward Young. The gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs was born May 23, 1820, in Chittenden County, Vt., and lived there until he was eight years of age. He then accompanied his parents to the Empire State, and in Franklin and Madison Counties pursued his studies in the district schools, which he had also attended in his native State. When old enough to begin the labors of life lie embarked in the lumber business in Livingston County, N. Y., where he built three sawmills and carried on a trade amounting to between $40,000 and $50,000 per year. His location being near Rochester and Dansville being likewise a convenient market, he enjoyed excellent facilities for trade. After residing in that locality thirteen years he went to Canawaugus, Livingston County, where he was engaged in business four years. In 1856 Mr. Hamilton came to thi3 county, making his removal in the spring and at once settling on a farm. He bought and sold a number of tracts of land, and for eight years was a: resident of Marshall, whence lie removed to his present home. He is now engaged in general farming and stockraising, and also buys and sells flocks and herds -a business in which he has been occupied fifteen, years. For eight years he operated as a stock dealer for C. S. Crane and for some time he bought sheep for Eastern parties. He was in the habit of buying several carloads on each visit to Chicago, and was one of the extensive shippers of Southern Michigan. The marriage of Mr. tIamilton and Miss Minerva Brewer was solemnized at the home of the bride, March 6, 1845. Mrs. Hamilton was born in Livingston County, N. Y., and is the only daughter of John and Mary (Carney) Brewer, whose family also included two sons. Her father was born in Livingston County, N. Y., but was descended from Pennsylvania families of German ancestry. Her PORTRA~IT AND BIOG RAPHICAL ALBUM.I~ 877.P AND BGPC ALUM 877 mother was a native of Livingston, N. Y., and was. of Irish parentage. BAtll Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church, in the various branches of the work of which they take much interest, and in wllich Mr. Hamilton has hleld all the official positions. The first Presidential ballot cast by Mr. Hamilton was for a Democratic candidate in 1844, but for years he has been identified with the Republican party and his last vote was for the present President. In prosecuting his calling he is energetic and manifests good judgment, by this means getting good results for his outlay of time, means and strength, and acquiring an excellent reputation among the members of his class. IIe is intelligent in the general and comprehensive meaning of that term, and in conversation is able to lIold his own and add decidedly to the interest of social gatherings. -,. -------- --— ^ — ANIEL BAKER. This old soldier and pensioner of the Government is well entitled to the stipend( he receives for injuries sustained while in the service of his country. He was one of tlose who enlisted at "the first tap of the drum," and before "thle shot heard around the world" had ceased to re-echo over the forests and plains of the Northern States. Although he was not able to go through the war it was from no fault of his, as lie ardently desired to re enter the service after having been discharged. Whatever he could do for his country has been done and his ardent Datriotism seeUms to increase with his years. The paternal grandfather of our subject was born in France, came to America in Colonial times and fought against the British during the Revolution. He died in Connecticut. Iis son, tile father of our subject, was boriJ in New York, and in his youth became a cool)er. When about twenty-four years old he entered the ministry of the Presbyterian Church, and in his manhood also embraced tle science of medicine and labored for the cure of souls and bodies in Seneca County. In 1834 he came to Michigan and took up his abode at Flat Rock, Wayne County, where he continued his min isterial and medical work and also cleared a farm. He subsequently removed to Monroe County, where he breathed his last. Inheriting the warlike spirit and love of country that had animated his father, lie took part in the War of 1812. The mother of our subject was known in her maidenhood as Miss Annie MIorey. She was born in Connecticut and was a daughter of Joseph Morey, a lifelong resident of that State, a farmer by occupation and a Revolutionary soldier. She died in the same county as her husband, leaving eight children to mourn her loss. The subject of this notice is the third in the direct line who have borne the name of Daniel. He is the fourth child born to his parents, his birthplace having been near Fayette, in Seneca County, N. Y., an( not far from the hlke from which the county takes its name. His natal day was November 29, 1824, and nine years of his life were spent in his native State. lie then accompanied his parents hither and, although quite young, aided his father in clearing land and soon became quite a notable hunter. Game being very plentiful during his youth a(nd its pursuit very attractive to him, he did little else for several years, and received from his friends the title of "old Indian." He killed more (leer than any other person in the vicinity, and bear and other animals were also brought down by his rifle, sometimes not without close encounters. HIe was quite severely wounded in one tussle with a bear and camre near beingkilled by a wounded buck which fought two hours. He associated quite freely with tle Indians and learned to speak the Wyandotte and Shawnee languages. Mr. Baker remained with his father until he was seventeen, then began life for himself as a hunter and farmer. Tie improved eighty acres of land which he sold, and in 1860 bought an equal amount in this county, at what is known as Big Island. Ile had made some improvements and was farming industriously when the war began and he enlisted in the First Michigan Infantry, Company I. ie was mustered in at Detroit and sent via Ft. Wayne to Washington, whence lie went out in tle first battle of Bull Run. While helping to put up buildings at Sugar lhill lie fell from a scaffold, broke several ribs and injured his head so that he 878 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~ 1~ has since been unable to perform manual labor. He was discharged for physical disability and, after some time spent in recuperation, made an attempt to re-enlist but could not pass the required physical examination and was obliged to content himself at home. Mr. Baker took charge of the farm, overseeing the work and continued to carry on the place until 1886, when hersold it and located on ten acres on section 23, Lee Township. He built the pleasant residence he occupies, put up barns and made other improvements, so that his place though small, is comfortable and attractive. Here he lives a quiet life, sufficiently near town to enjoy communication with theworld, and surrounded by friends in whose society he takes great pleasure. In Lee Township in 1862 Mr. Baker was married to Mrs. Mary A. Baker, widow of Hoziel Baker. She was born in the Empire State, bore the. maiden name of Corby, and has been a resideut of this county from an early day. She had eight children by her first marriage and six are now living: Lucinda is a resident of Monroe County; Charles lives in Kansas; Samuel in Montana; James in Monroe County; Augusta, wife of Eugene Sanders, on a farm in Lee Township; and Jane, Mrs. Samuel Smith of this State. Mr. Baker always votes the Republican ticket. He belongs to the George Walker Post at Partello. FRANK CHURCH. A traveler in this county will find many fine farms and tasteful dwellings in and about which are to be seen all the evidences of prosperity, home comfort and good taste. One of the finest in Sheridan Township is that of Mr. Church, the estate consisting of two hundred and seventy-seven acres of land, nearly all under cultivation, and devoted to the purposes of grain and fruit-raising and to the breeding and feeding of stock. Much attention is given to milch cows and Mr. Church has established a milk route in Albion. A complete line of barns and other outbuildings lhas been erected at considerable expense, and the residence,.which is one of the best in design and construction in the township, is finely furnished throughout. It was built in 1885, and in its fine setting is a prominent and attractive feature in the landscape. The paternal grandparents of our subject were Jesse and Margaret (Munson) Church, who removed from the Bay State to Riga, Genesee County, N. Y., in 1806-07, and made their home there till death. They were the parents of three children, all now deceased. One of their family was Chandler M., who was born in Berkshire County, Mass., July 31, 1804, and married in the Empire State, April 2, 1829, to Lura Warner, who was born in Ontario County, N. Y., in 1807. This couple made their home in the Empire State until 1834, the husband being engaged in the forwarding business on the Erie Canal. At the date mentioned they came to this county and settled on an unimproved farm on section 33, Sheridan Township. The quarter section was taken from the Government and a log cabin being built upon it, the owner began a systematic course of improvements. He finally put up what was then the finest residence in the township and added one hund(red and sixtyeight acres to his landed estate. In his youth Chandler Church had received a common-school education and had fitted himself for school teaching, which vocation he followed for some time. He acquired a thorough knowledge of surveying and after coming hither surveyed much of this locality. He became very prominent, taking especial interest in institutions of learning and churches. He was one of the first to lend a helping hand in putting up a Methodist Episcopal Church in Albion, and was an early patron of Albion College, giving $750 to it. In 1851 he removed to California via the water route, crossing from the Gulf to the Pacific on tile Chagres route, being transported up the river in a scow propelled with poles by the natives. After reaching the Golden State he moved about for a year, then settled on Buckeye Ranche in Nevada County, where he kept an hotel and also carried on the ranche. He was a member of the Vigilance Committee. He died November 22, 1857, and two years later the widow and family returned to Michigan. They spent two years here, then again went west and PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 879 --— - --- -- I occupied Buckeye Ranche until 1869. At that time they again came to this State and made their permanent home where our subject now lives. The widow died here October 2, 1883. Chandler Church and his wife were the parents of five children-two of whom are now living —J. Frank, of whom we write, and Mary E., widow of B. C. Whitman. The latter is now in Paris, France, where her only son, Crosby C. Whitman, is taking a medical course. That young man completed his literary studies and musical course in California, then went to Cambridge, Mass., and entered Adams Academy to fit himself for college. After his graduation from Harvard University he began the study of law there, but after a twelvemonth crossed the water determining to take up the study of medicine instead. He has finished the third year of the medical course, but intends to continue his studies until graduated. Ile is a most excellent musician as well as a fine scholar. The subject of this sketch was born September 21, 1846, on the farm which is now his home. lie was five years old when the family removed to California, and he had but limited opportunities for schooling. His first attendance at an institution of learning was when ten years old, but from his own experience and observation he is firmly convinced that children should not be sent before the age of eight years. After he was fifteen years old he studied in Albion Seminary one term. His father died when he was eleven years of age and he has been doing for himself since he was sixteen years old. He began his personal career as a stock-rancher in California, caring for cattle during the winter season and in the summer freighting with a tenhorse team and also. managing the ranche. In 1867 he owned and drove a six horse stage coach between Colfax, Grass Valley and Nevada; afterward running from Cisco, Cal., to Virginia City, Nev. On one occasion the coach was capsized and a lady had a limb broken, for which Mr. Church was obliged to pay $2,500 damages. Mr. Church was finally obliged to abandon his occupation on account of inflammatory rheumatism from which he suffered several months, during which his business "went by the board." We next find Mr. Church engaged for the Vir I ginia & Truckee Railroad Company during the construction of the line, and working up from a salary of $75 to one of $200 per month. The latter amount was being received when he came with the other members of the family to Michigan in 1869. The year after their return to this State he bought out the heirs to his father's farm, upon which he settled a few months later. In 1878 he moved into Albion and engaged in the sale of groceries and agricultural implements, but in 1882 returned to the farm. He. has made money, as the fine improvements upon his estate testify, and uses his means for the comfort and enjoyment of the family circle and in aid of public enterprises, which will tend to the elevation and prosperity of the people of this region. An event of great interest to Mr. Church transpired November 2, 1871, it being his marriage to Miss Ida McCormack, daughter of George and Julia (Neal) McCormack, pioneers of Sheridan Township. Mr. McCormack died several years since, but his widow still survives and now resides in Albion Township. Mrs. Church was born August 15, 1849, in Sheridan Township, received a good common-school education and began teaching at the early age of fourteen years. She was possessed of unusual intellectual powers and good judgment, and it is said that her school at Marengo was one of the best in the locality. She was afterward a student at Albion. She bore her husband fotr children-Mary Elizabeth, Chandler M., George McC. and Frank Eben. The daughter is now a student at Albion College and the doors of that institution are open to the others whenever they are fitted for college life. Mrs. Ida Church was called from time to eternity October 23, 1888. The lady who now presides over Mr. Church's home became his wife April 11, 1889, prior to which time she was known as Miss Alberta Bigelow. She is a daughter of Albert and Olive 'Bigelow, who live on a farm in Hillsdale County, and was born there November 19, 1863. She received a commonschool education and is a refined and Christian woman belonging, as does Miss Mary, to the Methodist Episcopal Church. Both have been active workers in the Sunday-school and are most useful members of the coimmunity. Mr. Church 880 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ has never been connected with any religious body, although he is a firm and earnest believer in the truths of Christianity and has, since 1868, been eudeavoring to incorporate them in his daily conduct. Mr. Church was the founder of the Farmers' Club, a society that meets at the homes of its members and is designed for mutual improvement, and he and his wife organized the Sheridan Union Literary Society. lie takes an active interest in local school affairs and has been a member of the School Board for six years. He was the originator of the Ancient Order of United Workmen in this neighborhood and its first Master Workman. Inl political circles he is prominent, works hard for his party and is a host in himself on election day; he has frequently been a delegate to conventions and probably possesses as much influence as anyone in the township. He has always been a Democrat and gives no uncertain utterance to his opinions regarding free trade, being unequivocally opposed to tariff except for revenue. Although reared in the " toughest" kind of a community and virtually in a bar-room, he has never been intoxicated, never uses tobacco in any form, and used profane language only a month. No one can truthfully accuse him of having deceived them in trade or otherwise, but all agree that lie has been just and honorable in his associations with his fellow-men. ATHEW H1. WHITE. It is scarcely possible for those who are reared amid the comforts of our present civilization to realize the struggles through which the pioneers passed in opening up the country which is now capable of supplying the wants of its nu. merous inhabitants and thousands of dwellers in other parts of the world. The picture presented by our imagination, vivid as it seems, bears but a faint resemblance to the reality, yet even this suffices to fill our hearts with gratitude to all those who bore a part in the work on the frontier. The subject of this sketch is one of the early settlers of the county and has just reason to be proud of his labors and the success he has achieved. His homne is in Sheridan Township, the estate consisting of seventy-seven acres on section 26. In order to understand the character and work of Mr. White it is necessary to speak of those from whom he derived his being. Iis fattier, William C. White, was born in Connecticut November 25, 1787, was well educated and began school teaching when but seventeen years old. lie gave his attention after a time to farming, and marrying a New England woman, occupied a tract of land in his native State for several years. lie then removed to New York and a few years later to Ohio where he took possession of a farm of two hundred and fifty acres. After sojourning there three years he came to Michigan in the fall of 1835, and settled on land, a part of which is now in the possession of his son. lIe bought two hundred acres from the Goverment, on which not a furrow had been turned, and building a log house, at once began to make clearings and culti. vate fields. lIe was in good circumstances, but the surroundings were such that he was compelled to endure privation and exercise self-denial in common with other frontiersmen. Neighbors were few and their houses remote from each other, the roads were poor, the Kalamazoo River was not bridged, and Marshall was the most convenient milling point. There were but three or four houses on the present site of Albion, wild game abounded and many Indians roved about through forests and clearings. In Illeir quest of game the savages often set fire to grass or trees and a wide circuit of country would be swept over by the devouring element. Mosquitoes were so thick that the settlers had to make smudges to protect themselves and every one suffered from fever and ague. The White family, although living in a log shanty, using furniture made with poles and rough boards, and huddled together in close quarters, were as happy as the day was long. The older generation among those early settlers has now passed away and comparatively few of those who came here in boyhood are left to tell the story of the old times. The parents of our subject were members of the Presbyterian Church and very prominent in furthering PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 881 the religious interests of the community. Mr. White was a Deacon and in the absence of ministers frequently conducted services. He passed to his eternal reward in September, 1838. Iis faith. ful companion, who had borne the maiden name of Betsey House and was born in Connecticut June 13, 1789, survived until November 15, 1868. But two of the ten children born to them are now living. Mathew White, who was the sixth in order of birth in his parents' family, opened htis eyes to the light in Connecticut August 24, 1819. He received his education in the district schools of the States in which the family lived prior to their removal here, where there were no schools until two years after they came. He had not reached his majority when his father died, and being the eldest son, upon him devolved the oversight of the farm and responsibility of the head of the household. He had already taken some part in the developing work of the locality and he continued the process of clearing and breaking up the farm. Not long after the death of his father the estate was settled and lie took his share of the property in wild land, every acre of which lie has personally improved. Beginning with sixty-four acres, he added to his real estate by buying out some of the other heirs, subsequently disposing of all except seventy-seven acres, in which his son now has an interest. All the present improvements are due to his own efforts, aided by the encouragement, good counsel and prudent household economy of a faithful wife. This lady was known in her maidenhood as Miss Victoria Lyman and comes of the old New England stock which has become a synonym for thrift and frugality. Her parents, Clark and Orinda (Adams) Lyman, were natives of Vermont, born April 5, 1795, and January 9, 1800, respectively. Mr. Lyman was a farmer and in his youth a school teacher. A few years after their marriage he and his wife started for Ohio with an ox-team, consuming forty-one days in their trip. They settled in the wilderness where they hewed out a home, sojourning there about sixteen years and coming to Michigan in 1836. They located on a new farm in Livingston County and brought it to a fine condition, improving it according to the usual custom of energetic people who believed in home comfort. Mr. Lyman was called from time to eternity November 10, 1866. His widow survives, makes her home with her daughter, Mrs. White, and has reached the venerable age of ninety-one years. She belongs to the Presbyterian Church, with which her husband was identified and of which he was an active supporter. The paternal grandfather of Mrs. White was the Rev. Gershom C. Lyman, a minister of the Presbyterian Church in Vermont. Mrs. White is the fourth of six children born to her parents, five of whom are now living. She opened her eyes to the light in Ohio April 7, 1826, received a good common-school education and subsequently attended a select school and Albion College. She began teaching when quite young and continued her professional labors ten years, even carrying on her work after her marriage, as she and her husband were poor and anxious to secure a competence. The marriage was solemnized March 21, 1849, and two children have come to bless the home. The elder, Junius L., born September 15, 1850, married Susie Wills and lives on the home farm. He has three children-Ada M., a briglht little miss of six years; Mabel L., one year old; and a babe, Mathew M. W. He is a worthy son of a worthy sire, is held in good repute for his personal character and is keeping tip the credit of the family name. The younger of the children of Mr. and Mrs. White is Lucretia H., born January 17, 1853, and now living in Detroit. Mr. White hauled lumber for the first bridge built in this section and his father helped to organize the first church. Having seen the country grow in population and change from a wilderness to a garden spot, he takes great pride in the State and in the work in which he has borne a part. Mrs. White has no less reason to be pleased and grateful with the high civilization and great prosperity of this commonwealth, as her family has done much to aid in bringing about this result. Both belong to the Presbyterian Church at Albion, and they are among the five oldest members of this society now living. Mrs. White has been connected with the Sunday-school for forty-five 882 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM., _ ^ --- —-- years and has been a very efficient teacher. Mr. White has been School Director and has always taken a great interest in local educational affairs. In politics he is a Republican. It will be hard to find a couple more highly respected than Mr. and Mrs. White and certainly none are better deserving of representation in this BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ILLIAM MORGAN. A simple recital of the facts in the life of a useful man is the strongest testimonial that can be given of his merit and the best monument that can be reared to his memory when he shall have passed away. We shall make no attempt to embellish the history of William Morgan with fine words, but let his character and attainments speak for themselves. Ile is a resident of Bedford Township and his farm and dwelling, a view of which will be noticed on another page, are conspicuous for systematic arrangements and evidences of thorough equipment and wise use. Although not a native of America Mr. Morgan recalls no other home, as he was brought here in his infancy. He was born in County Kent, England, in the town of Headcorn, November 5, 1826, his parents being William and Susannah (Crook) Morgan. Having determined to establish a home in the New World the parents set out on what proved a tedious voyage of six weeks, and after landing at New York located near Mina, Chautauqua County, N. Y. There they purchased a small piece of land in the dense woods, built a primitive house and moved into the same before the doors were hung or the windows set. They lived in that place for many years but at length removed to Ripley in the same county, and later to Erie, Pa. In the latter place they sojourned until 1868, when they came to this county, both eventually dying in Le Roy Townshi p. The schooling of Mr. Morgan was of a practical nature, and having a natural taste for intellectual pursuits he has made better use of his opportunities than is sometimes the case. Almost as a matter of course he learned how to carry on a farm and man age stock, and at the age of twenty-one years lie and his older brother, Jabez, bought the homestead. After operating it a year our subject sold out his interest and traveled to Wisconsin via a steamer from Buffalo to Milwaukee. From the latter port to Janesville the land seemed to be a solid wheat field, scarcely any crop except the one being at that time raised throughout that section. Mr. Morgan spent a season near Janesville, working on a farm at $1 per day, which was then considered big pay. He then returned to the East and made his home in Erie, Pa., where in 1854 he set up his own household. The lady whom Mr. Morgan won for his companion was Eleanor Gordon, daughter of James and Annie (Earl) Gordon. Her grandfatler, John Gordon, was a native of Scotland and with a brother belonged to the British army. The two came to America in the same vessel with Lord Cornwallis when that famous officer was sent to quell the rebellion of the Colonists and after his surrender at Yorktown chose to remain in the New World. Both located in the Mohawk Valley and in due course of time became thoroughly in sympathy with American principles and institutions. When the Colonists found it necessary to again take up arms against the mother country, James Gordon, father of Mrs. Morgan, joined the army and for his services afterward drew a pension, which continued to his widow after his decease. After his marriage Mr. Morgan turned his attention to the dairy business, in which he continued twenty-five or twenty-six years. Lie then sold his dairy to Pearl Codling, who is now a near neighbor, and removed to his present home. The farm which he bought was early known as the Sutton Farm, having been located by Isaac Sutton, sold by him to William Watson, and by that gentleman to the present owner. The tract was beautiful, even in its primitive state, as it was a nearly level expanse on which wild flowers and wild fruits grew in abundance and over which deer gamboled and wild fowls wandered. It would be hard to say which formed the most beautiful picture, the primeval wilderness or the present well arranged farm. Mr. Morgan has raised grain and stock, paying about equal attention to each. Although he has RESIDENCE OF NICHOLAS SUNDBERG, 5EC.14. MARENGO T!. CALHOUN' CO. MICH. ELSiUENCE OF JOHN DEDRICK.SEC. 16. LEE.TP. CALHOUN CO RESIDENCE OF WILLIAM MORGAN,SEC.25. BEDFORD TP. CALHOUN CO.VMICH. *y PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 885 ------— —I — I ' -- not made a specialty of stock-raising, yet he has marketed many sheep and cattle and in that branch of his occupation has taken delight. So greatly has he become attached to his stock that he still has some of the same strains he had nearly forty years ago, when he first engaged in business for himself. To Mr. and Mrs. Morgan three children have been born. Gertrude died in infancy, but Jessie Ellen and Benjamin Gordon are still living. T'he son is now operating the home farm. His wife was formerly Miss Janie Moore of Battle Creek, in which city she was engaged in teaching prior to her marriage. They have one child-William Earl. Jessie E. is the wife of George II. York and the mother of a daughter-Helen. Mr. York is a native of Johnstown, Barry County, and now a traveling salesman for Marshall Field & Co., Chicago, Ill., for whom he has worked several years. Mr. and Mrs. Morgan have made their house the home of other children and have perhaps done more to aid the homeless and friendless than any other couple in the neighborhood. Mrs. Morgan was engaged in teaching some twelve years prior to her marriage, having begun her professional work at tile early age of seventeen years. It was one for which she was especially qualifiel, not simply by her ability to impart mental instruction but by the tact which led her pupils to desire knowledge and to wish to do right. In the education of her own children she has taken great interest and both studied in Battle Creek High School. The daughter was compelled to leave when in her senior year on account of sickness, but the soln added to his High School course that of Stone's Business College, from which he was graduated in 1883. When first entitled to the right of suffrage Mr. Morgan was a Democrat but after some years, during which he followed the leadership of the renowned Stephen A. Douglas, he became identified with the Republican ranks, in which he has held an unfaltering course to the present time. Although not a member he attends and contributes liberally to the support of the Congregational Church. In fact he is liberal toward every good object and his friends say of him that he never forgets that an other man's interest is to be considered as well as his own. Tile hungry never leave his door unfed, and hospitality is so prominent a characteristic of the family that it cannot pass unnoticed. The stranger is given a welcome which makes him realize that life is worth the living, and a few hours passed in Mr. Morgan's home are treasured among the pleasant incidents along life's pathway. In 1877-78 Mr. Morgan erected his present residence, which is supplied with all the modern conveniences, such as hot and cold water in every room, bath-room, furnace, etc. A reading room containing a well-selected library is the favorite resort of Mr. Morgan and the appearance of the volumes indicates that they are for use, not show. The stock of newspapers is sufficient to absorb many leisure moments and provide the members of the household with a thorough knowledge of the events that are transpiring in the world. A fine piano shows that music lends its charms to the home life, and the eye is feasted by the beauties of foliage and blossom in the conservatory as well as in the surrounding grounds. ICHOLAS SUNDBERG. Nothing can af) ford the biographical writer greater pleasure 1 than to record the deeds of those who have struggled against adverse circumstances and, under discouragements which would have thoroughly disheartened many men, have persistently pursued their way, displaying sterling qualities of character and high principles. Particularly is this true when success has at length rewarded the efforts of the tireless worker and he is able to surround himself with the comforts of life. The results of the untiring efforts of Mr. Sundberg.are partially shown by the possession of the fine estate, a view of which appears on another page of this volume. As boy and man Mr. Sundberg has lived in Southern Michigan since pioneer times, and for many years has been industriously engaged in farming in Marengo Township. While helping to develop the agricultural resources of this community he has improved a farm which is now a valua 886 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ble piece of property. Mr. Sundberg is a native of the State of New York, and was born November 14, 1828. His father was born in Sweden, August 18, 1780, but passed only a few years of his life in the land of his birth. At the age of nine years lie ran away and spent twenty years as a sailor on the ocean, prior to settling in New York. At the age of thirty-four years he left the Empire State and located in Wayne County, this State, becoming a pioneer thereof. The father of our subject purchased two hundred and twenty acres of land in Wayne County, all but sixty acres being bought from the Government, and all in a wild condition. lHe immediately commenced the work of clearing and improving the land, and erected a log house in which his family made their home. Ile became well known, and his upright life won for him the regard of his entire circle of acquaintances. After a long and useful life he died at his home November 29, 1859, leaving behind him an honorable name as one of tle pioneers of Southern MIichigan. Sometime in the '20s Mr. Sundberg had been united in marriage with Miss Mary Iarris, who was born in New Jersey, April 23, 1796. She survived her husband many years and passed from earth August 9, 1881, at a venerable age. They became tlie parents of twelve children, eight sons and four daughters, all living to be old men and women, the family being noted for longevity: Catherine, the eldest daughter, married Theodore Ayers, a tailor, and they live in Long Island, N Y.; Augustus, a farmer of Washtenaw County, married Mary Ann French; Jane married for her first husband Peter Vaneyse, and after his death she married Samuel Post, a farmer of Wayne County; John married Polly Shuck for his first wife,;ind after her death he married Belle IIanner; Emily married Charles Barry, a farmer of Wayne Count; Peter, who resides on the old homestead in Wayne County, married Mary Kent. Our subject was reared under pioneer influences, anid after attaining man's estate first settled in the eastern part of Marengo Township, on an eightyacre tract of land. He afterward sold that and bought the farm where he now lives, which is pleasantly located on sections 14 and 12, Marengo Township. It comprises one hundred and twentyseven acres of land of exceeding fertility, level and easy of cultivation. It is fenced into convenient fields, is under admirable tillage and supplied with all the necessary buildings and farming appliances in use by the modern farmer. June 25, 1845, the marriage of our subject with Miss Mary A. Barry was duly celebrated, and has brought to them much happiness. They are the parents of the following four children: George, the eldest, who married Cora Snyder, and is a prosperous farmer; Archibald, who lives at home and assists his father iin the management of his farmn; Hiram, who married Clara Warner and also resid(s at home, engaging in farming; and Clara, the youngest child, who married Charles Sebastian, a farmer and mason. Mr. Sundberg votes the Democratic ticket, and is a firm believer in the doctrines of his party. He is a man of sturdy common sense, who is honest and fair in his dealings with mankind and occupies a worthy position among ills fellow-citizens. OIN DEDRICK. This gentleman began his agricultural work on forty acres of unimproved land, and at the bottom of the ladder, up which he has climbed round by round until he has become the owner of two hundred and forty acres of choice land on sections 16 and 17, Lee Township, all well improved and well stocked. His present financial condition has not resulted from chance, but from wise planning, de termined industry and straightforward dealing. The large, handsone residence which is represented by a view on another page, was built upon section 16, in 1887 and is surrounded by a well-kept lawn, and the trees and shrubs that form so appropriate a background. Three barns stand upon the farm, and a large windmill and tank relieve the hands of much labor in caring for stock, while the latest improved machinery still further lessens their toil and adds to the rapidity with which work is accomplished. The birthplace of Mr. Dedrick was New Haven PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 887 Township, Huron County, Ohio, and his natal day December 6, 1845. For facts regarding his parents, George and Mary Dedrick, we refer to the biography of Morton Dedrick on another page. Until he was in his ninth year the lad remained in his native county, but he then accompanied his parents to this State, the journey being made with a team and wagon. HIe helped improve the farm, breaking ground with oxen, wielding the ax on heavy timber, and performing other duties not always undertaken by farmers' sons of the same age. His schooling was limited and his entire attendance at the institutions of learning would not exceed nine months. He may well be said to be self-made as to education as well as worldly possessions. Mr. Dedrick was in his teens when the Civil War began, an(l soon after passing his sixteenth birthday he enrolled himself among the defenders of tlhe Union. lie was mustered into Company A, Eleventh Michigan Cavalry, at Kalamazoo, in September, 1862, and was sent south to Lexington, Ky., near which city the command was engaged in skirmishing and bushwhacking. HIe participated in all the battles in which his regiment joinedthirteen, and twenty-five or thirty skirmishes. Among the heavy engagements were two at Mt. Sterling, King's Salt Works, Wytlheville, Marion, Strawberry Plains, Pulaski, Salisbury, Greenville, Athens and HIazel Green. During these conflicts he received a flesh wound in the back of the neck, two on the right leg and a sabre cut across the right breast, which penetrated to the ribs and from which he was fortunate to escape with his life. Mr. Dedrick was the youngest and shortest member of the regiment, and by no means the lightest, being of a sturdy build. lis comrades took a liking to him as the youngest of the band, and he still further gained their goodwill by his dash and daring, his disposition being much like that of the renowned Gen. Custer. He was one of the forty men that made prisoners of an entire company of the enemy, and he himself captured a rebel major on another occasion. This was during a battle where the rebel had cut down several of Mr. Dedrick's comrades. The captor still has the watch and chain which he took from his prisoner and which he has carefully preserved as a trophy of his vic tory. IHe was taken prisoner at Mt. Sterling, but the same night made llis escape. He was also taken calptive six miles from Greenville, S. C., by seven Confederates, and after riding with them awhile put spurs to his horse and escaped by its fleetness, having his clothes cut in several places by the bullets that were sent after him, but reaching his comra(les uninjured. At the close of the war he was mustered out at Nashville in July, 1865, and discharged at Jackson, Michigan. Ile had had a chance for promotion, but did not accept it. When he returned to civil life, after nearly three years of army experience, lie was not yet twenty years o(ld. The parental roof sheltered Mr. Dedrick until he was twenty-two years of age, when lie bought and located upon a forty-acre tract and built a log house in which to make his home. -Ie made the imlprovements, and as he was prospered bought otiler land and so still further increased his income, wliile at the same time adding to the beaut3 and comfort of his home. LIe is engaged in general farming, of wlicli he has a practical knowledge. lie devotes rather more attention to stock thian to grain, raises good grades of cattle, swine and sheep, and some good road horses. His flock numbers from one hundred to two hundred and fifty head, and the fleeces average well in quality and weight. Mr. I)edrick was fortunate in being able to win for his wife Misb Belle Palmer, daughter of Truman Palmer, an Ohio farmer, and herself a native of the Buckeye State. She has a fine intellect and great adaptability, two qualities which she made good use of as a teacher. She began her pedagogical work when but sixteen years old and continued it fifteen terms. IHer marriage to Mr. Dedrick was solemnized at her home August 15, 1877. Having no children of their own Mr. and Mrs. Dedrick are rearing and educating a boy named William Palmer. As Commissi6ner of Highways Mr. Dedrick served the Public three terms and as Township Treasurer two years. For sixteen years he has been School Treasurer and this office he is still holding. He is a member of the Democratic party, whose principles he has thoroughly considered and judges to be best adapted to the needs of the peo 888 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. --- - - - ~ -~..~cl --- - - - - - — f: - pie. He is a member of a Masonic lodge in Marshall and a Grand Army Post at Partello. It may be said without flattery that Mr. Dedrick is one of the most popular farmers of the township, and well he may'be, as he has so well proved his ability in business affairs, his patriotism and valor, and his good citizenship; moreover, hle is a jovial, friendly man, who knows how to enjoy that which he has secured by hard work and to make others happy also. J OSEPIH E. OTT. Without detracting from the merits of other able and intelligent farmers, it can justly be said that Joseph E. Ott is as skillful an agriculturist as this section as ever known. Le has been closely connected with the physical progress of this county for a score of years and the farm he formerly owned in Eckford Township-sold to Mr. Coonwas tle finest, as regards high culture and completeness of buildings, for many miles around. He now operates and occupies the farm of A. G. Dickey, one of the best near Albion, and comprising a part of section 31, Sheridan Township. In Northampton County, Pa., in 1815, John Ott was born, and in the same county in 1812 Christiana Emery opened her eyes to the light of day. After arriving at years of discretion this couple united their lives and fortunes and reared a family of nine children, the sixth of whom is the subject of this biographical sketch. Mr. Ott was a blacksmith, but after following his trade exclusively for a few years, he operated a farm and a gristmill, still in his native State. He was in fair circumstances when in 1862 he came to this county and bought two hundred acres of land on section 6, Albion Township. The farm was partially improved and he continued its development and made two additions to the residence. After his demise the property sold for $100 per acre, showing that it was highly developed. Besides carrying on his farm Mr. Ott speculated in land quite successfully. He was considered one of the best farmers in the locality and was a prominent member of the community. He was well educated, having a good knowledge of the German language in addition to that of the English branches. Politically he was a stanch Republican. He took great interest in the education of his children and in all public affairs tending to the elevation of society. He was one of the supporters of Albion College and was an active member of the Grange. He and his wife belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he held an official position. He entered into rest in May, 1882; his widow survived, living in Eckford Township and enjoying good health for a woman of her years. The gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs was born in Northampton County, Pa., February 19, 1844. lie received a good commonschool education and at the age of thirteen years was apprenticed to learn the trade of a carpenter. After serving three years he began work as a journeyman and continued to wield the saw and plane in the Keystone State for a dozen years. During the raid of Lee's army lie enrolled himself in the militia for the protection of the State and when the rebels fell back was sent to Hagerstown, Md., the command having volunteered to serve outside of the State. He remained in Maryland a month, during which time he saw the gallant Gen. Sedgwick brought in wounded. When his services were no longer needed Mr. Ott was honorably discharged and lie resumed the duties of civil life. Before he had reached his majority Mr. Ott had taken upon himself the obligations of a husband, being married in June, 1864, to Rosanna Boyer, daughter of Isaac D. and Caroline (Boyer) Boyer. The bride was born in Snyder County, Pa., November 25, 1843, had been well educated in the common schools and been given much valuable home instruction. She has shown her devotion to the interests of her family by the constant and wise care bestowed upon matters pertaining to their interests and has ever been social and kindly in her intercourse with those about her. She is a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church and earnestly endeavors to live as becometh a true believer. Her parents were natives of Pennsylvania and her father was a man of considerable prominence, greatly interested in public matters and serving in various county offices. In his native State PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 889 he was a farmer and merchant, but coming to Michigan in 1881, he lived a retired life until called hence in the spring of 1890. His wife had passed to the silent land in December, 1885. Mr. Ott continued to reside in the Keystone State and work at his trade until April 19, 1869, when he came West and established himself on a farm in Eckford Township, this county. After a few years lie and his brother Peter E. began to operate the old homestead, continuing their work together a couple of years, after which our subject carried it on alone for a time. After the death of his father he moved to the homestead, making it his place of abode two years, when it was sold and he returned to his own farm. In the spring of 1889 he sold the property, which in the meantime he had brought to a high state of cultivation and improvement, and came to his present location. The residence that he had put up in Eckford Township is a model farm house, with all the modern conveniences. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Ott consists of a son and four daughters, whose strength of intellect, artistic talents and culture give them prominence wherever they become known. Tie son, James I., is now connected with the establishment of A. H. Andrews & Co., in Chicago, Ill. Chrissie was graduated in 1886 from Albion College and was a very successful teacher until this year. She is now living in Chicago,having married C. F. Dickey. She is a skillful musician who showed the perseverance with which she was endowed by practicing six hours per day during her last term of musical training and receiving a diploma when quite young. Carrie M., wife of Edward Graham, living in Marengo Township, this county, has been a successful teacher. Nettie, who is now sixteen years of age, will finish her course of study in Albion College next year. She is a fine elocutionist, has a good knowledge of music and the ability to draw sweet strains from her chosen instrument. Mabel, twelve years of age, is peculiarly gifted in elocution and has received the silver medal in the public competition at Albion. She gave a successful series of entertainments in Pennsylvania, the entire program being rendered by herself. She began her work in the local literary society, in I which the entire family have taken great interest. Mr. Ott has not only kept himself well informed regarding political issues, but has worked for the interest of his party and is an uncompromising Republican.- He has been a member of the School Board for seventeen years and is now Director of the district in which he lives. Honorable in his associations and dealings, interested in the material prosperity of the country and in tie higher development of its citizens, he is held in good repute as a man and a neighbor, while his reputation.as:an agriculturist is not excelled. <. A.. ^r. EV. FREEDOM R. RANDALL, pastor of the Cook's Prairie Church, is one of the leading ministers of the Free Will Baptists in Southern Miclligan and has been very potent in the upbuilding of that denomination both spiritually and materially. He is a native of this county and has always lived here. He was born April 10, 1842, two miles north of Burlington village, in the pioneer home of his parents, Gilbert and A!ma (Howe) Randall. Gilbert Randall was a son of John and Lucinda (Granger) Randall, who were born respectively in Bridgewater, Conn., and Oswego, N. Y. John Randall was one of six brothers who were among the pioneers of Monroe County, N. Y. In 1841 he again became a pioneer, cdming to Michigan and settling on two hundred and forty acres of land in the western part of Tekonsha, where he resided until death closed his mortal career in 1858. IIe was a man of considerable prominence, and prior to his demise had served as Justice oft he Peace for twelve years. Politically, he was in early life a stanch Whig and after the formation of the Republican party gave it his hearty support. He was a conspicuous figure in the Baptist Church, of which he was Deacon for many years. He and his good wife reared five children-John Gilbert, Charles G., Harvey, Francis and Sarah. The'father of our subject was born in Monroe County, N. Y. He came to Michigan in 1841 and settled in the western part of Tekonsha Township. 890 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. = He had a promising future before him as a farmer, when his life was cut short in its very prime by his untimely death in the spring of 1844 at the age of twenty-nine years. He was the father of these four children: Harvey R. who gave up his life for his country during the late war, dying at Ft. Leavenworth, Kan.; Augustus, Freedom R.; and Edgar, who served in the Civil War as a member of the First Michigan Regiment and was wounded in the first battle of Bull Run. The mother of these children was born in Monroe County, N. Y., and was a grand-niece of Elias Howe, the celebrated inventor of the Howe sewing machine. Our subject was reared on a farm and received a good education in the English branches. As soon as he was old enough after his father's death he had his own way to make in the world. He also was a soldier during the late war, enlisting December 5, 1862, in Battery F, First Michigan Light Artillery. The first battle in which the young soldier took part was fought at Rocky Face, at which time he served under Gen. Schofieldwho was Corps Commander, Gen. Milo Haskell being then Commander of the Second Division, T'enty-third Army Corps. He was present at the battles of Buzzard's Roost, Resaca, Rome, Peachtree Creek, Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta, Kingston, Big Shanty, etc., he taking part in twenty-one battles in all, and though in every engagement in which his company participated he was never wounded. Just before reaching Nashville his command was cut off by the enemy and had to make a detour of one hundred and seven miles to go a distance of seven and onehalf miles. He and his comrades arrived at Nashville, however, in season to take part in the great battle at that place. The last engagement in which our subject fought was at British Cross Roads, N. C. Hle was discharged July 1, 1865, at Jackson, Mich., with an excellent record for patriotic and faithful service during those long and trying years in which he was in the army. After his experience of military life, MIr. Randall returned to Burlington and the following eight years he was engaged as a wagon-maker. The careful religious training that lie had received in his childhood had left an indelible impression on his mind and made him earnestly desire to enter I the ministry of his beloved church that he might work more zealously in the Master's vineyard. Accordingly in 1875 he was licensed to preach by the Calhoun and North Branch Quarterly Meeting of the Free Will Baptists, and in 1876 was ordained by the Rev. Lewis Jones, the Rev. It. Linbocker and the Rev. John Ashley. His first charge was at Penn, Cass County, whence he went to Leslie, Ingham County, Mich., and at the same time had charge of the church at Litchfield, and from the latter place he was called to take charge of the Cook's Prairie Church in April, 1881, and he still continues his pastorate here in this, one of the oldest churches of the Free Will Baptist faith in Michigan. He has been very active in establishing other churches, organizing and building those at Clarendon and Eckford. IIe has faithfully devoted Ihis life to the work and during his ten years or more in the ministry there have been but three Sundays when he llas not been in the pulpit at this place. IIe is one of the bright lights of his church and his name is connected with various movements for the advancement of the faith. Ile was one of the incorporators of the St. Joseph's Valley Yearly Meetiing in 1887, was made President then and has held that otiice in connection with it ever since. He is also Vice President of the Michigan Association of Free Baptists, which is not yet incorporated. Ile is one of the prime movers in the formation of this association which held its first meeting at Jackson in January, 1889, and its second meeting at Lansing in November, 1890. The Rev. Mr. Randall has been twice married. He was first wedded in 1866 to Melissa S. Downs, a native of Carroll County, Ohio, and a daughter of Harrison and Rebecca (Miller) Downs. Hier parents were born and reared in Ohio and settled in Michigan during the war. Mrs. Randall died October 11, 1873, leaving one son, Hazen C., who is a teacher in the common schools. The second marriage of Mr. Randall was with Mary 0. Smith, October 15, 1874. She was a daughter of Horace J. and HIannah (Osborn) Smith. January 11, 1889, death again invaded the home of our subject and took from him his wife and companion. Our subject uses his influence to promote the PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHI~CAL~ ALBUM. 891 _~~~~~OTATADBIGAHCLABM 9 highest interests of his native county and is an earnest champion of all worthy reforms. He is pleasant and entertaining, possessing those social qualities that readily win esteem and respect, and lie is greatly liked l)y all who know him. NDREW DEAN, a resident of Marshall, is one of the leading veterinary surgeons of this county, and is regarded as one of the ablest and most skillful men of his calling in Southern Michigan, his reputation for skill il the treatment of horses extending over beyond the boundaries of the State. Our subject was born in Canada ()ctober 7, 1854, and is the youngest of the ten children of John and Sallie I)ean. His mother who was a native of Batavia, N. Y., died when he was only three months old and he was reared by a friend of the family. lie remained in his native country until lie was eighteen years old and then came to Michigan in 1872 where he hoped to become more successful than he could in his old home. IIe took up his abode at Girard, Mich., and was there engaged as a blacksmith eleven years. Iuring that time he made a careful study of the horse, paying particular attention to the anatomy of his feet, and making many discoveriess as to the cause of lameness. IIe thus laid a solid foundation for llis after know!edge as a veterinary surgeon. At the expiration of his eleven years residence in Girard, le began to prepare himself for his future calling, becoming a student of the Chicago Veterinary College and pursued a thorough course in that institution that amply qualified him for his chosen vocation. After leaving college Mr. Dean returned to Michigan in 1885 an(l established himself at his profession in Marshall. IHe erected suitable buildings that are well fitted up and conveniently arranged for the accommodation of sick horses, and in the years that have followed has made his mark in his profession and has control of a large business, not only in the city of Marshall, but throughout Calhoun and adjoining counties, and has even been called to Chicago in consultation, so able is he con sidered. lHe uses in his practice all of the most modern appliances and the latest and best remedies, all his medicines being compounded by himself; has made a specialty of the treatment of horses' feet and is famous for the number of successful operations that he has performed, known as neurotomy, which relieves a lameness to which horses are subject, and which has been considered by many surgeons as incurable, and no other veterinary surgeon in Calloun County performs the operation. Mr. Dean has a home that is replete with comfort and coziness, and for his pleasant surroundings in this regalrd lie is much indebted to the lady who provides over it, to whom he was married in March 1878. Mrs. Dean was formerly Miss Loretta Milllard, and was a native or Branch County, her wedding being celebrated at White Pigeon, the home of her parents, Willard and Sarah (Lake) Millard. MrI. and Mrs. 1)ean have two children, whom they have named Oliver AY. and Iota I. Through his business relations Mr. Iean has a wide acquaintance by whom he is well regarded, as he is an intelligent, straightforward man whose dealings are fair and honorable. Our subject belongs to tlle |Malsonic order and is a member of Washington Lo.dge, No. 7, Tekonsha, Calhoun County, Mich. ILLIAM IIAMILTON a well known and respected farmer of Eckford Township, occupies an honorable place among the pioneers of this county. lie was born November 29, 1813, in Catskill, Greene County, N. Y., and was there partly reared. His father, A. J. Ilamilton, who was of Scotch blood, was a veteran of the War of 1812. I-e married and reared three children, George W., William and Ruth. Our subject's early education was somewhat limited, as the pioneer schools of his day did not offer many advantages. lie grew to a stalwart, active mahllood, a(nd in 1834 came to this State. lie first engaged as a farm laborer for Joseph and Isaac Otis, remaining in tleir employ about six months, when he entered the service of George W. Iryer, as a sawyer, remaining with him in that capacity 892 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. until 1838. During that time he cut the first timber that is known to have been felled on the banks of the Kalamazoo River. After he severed his connection with Mr. Dryer, he located forty acres of land on section 24, Marengo Township. The following spring he bid off eighty acres of land on section 24, at an administrator's sale. After securing his land Mr. Hamilton finished a log house, fenced forty acres of his land, and made other improvements. In 1844 he bought the farm on section 12, Eckford Township, upon which he is now living. He purchased it of George Christian, but owing to some misunderstanding in regard to the title, the deed was given him by Henry W. Taylor. Our subject occupied the log house until 1868, when he built his present comfortable residence, and he has since erected a neat basement barn, 31x46 feet in dimensions, and has other suitable outbuildings and a windmill and tank. His fields are well cultivated and yield fine harvests and everything about his farm is in good shape and shows careful management. Mr. Hamilton was first married to Miss Betsey Bunn in the fall of 1835. Their married life was of brief duration, as she died in 1841. December 1st of the same year our subject was married to Betsey D. Sanders, who has been of great assistance to him in the building up of a home. Mrs. Hamilton was born in Erie County, N. Y., and came to Michigan in 1840 with her father, who settled on section 11, Eckford Township, where he engaged' in farming. Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton are the parents of ten children, of whom these five are deceased: Leroy, Catherine, Benjamin, Flora B., and Thomas C. The names of those living are Charles L., William B., Ada, Frank, and Flora Belle. Charles, the eldest son, is successfully engaged in farming, being the proprietor of a farm in Marengo Township; William B. owns a farm in Eckford Township, which he is managing with fine success; Ada married Charles Wilson, a teamster at Kalamazoo; Frank is a farmer and resides at home; Flora Belle, the youngest child, is a very successful teacher in. the district schools. Mr. Hamilton cast his first Presidential vote for Martin Van Buren, and he is an unswerving adherent of the Democratic party. He is a prominent member of the Baptist Church and has been a Church Trustee for three years. He has held the office of Pathmaster, and has contributed in various ways to advance the welfare of his township. He is a man of sound integrity, of sterling habits, and is regarded with great esteem by all who know him. As one of the pioneers of Calhoun County, who has not only been a witness of its development but has had a hand in it, his name will ever be associated with its history. J ASON S. PRITCHARD, a native-born citizen of this county, is numbered among the bright and enterprising young farmers and stockmen of Clarendon Township, his birthplace, and he has already won an honorable place among the leading men of his calling in this vicinity. He is a son of James and Eliza (Saunders) Pritchard, of whom a biography appears on another page of this volume. He was born in the pioneer home of his parents November 1, 1857. His first schooling was obtained in district No. 4, Clarendon Township, where he laid the foundation of a good education, which he afterward completed by an attendance of four terms at Albion College. Our subject remained on the old homestead where he was born until he was twenty-four years of age, and thus had the advantage of a careful training in the calling that he was to adopt as his life work, while at the same time affording his father valuable assistance in the labors of the farm. HIe took possession of the farm that he now owns and occupies on section 29, Clarendon Township, immediately after his marriage, and in the decade that has followed he has wrought a wonderful improvement. His fields are well fenced and under admirable tillage, the most of the eighty acres comprising his homestead being under cultivation, and he has provided it with a fine set of conveniently-arranged farm buildings. He has erected a substantial and roomy two-story frame house, the main part of which is 16x24 feet in dimensions and the L 16x16 feet in size. His barn, which is one of NlX`: it \: 0:::: 0:f:; t~nta~dSC;0:XI:Xti I::; I~~n 0 n,V -XY - 1% *11 895 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. the finest in the county, is 35x50 feet in dimensions. Mr. Pritchard makes a specialty of raising sheep, and he has sixty-five fine American-Merinos, from which he obtains a high grade of wool, which finds a very ready market. He also has some wellbred horses and his farm is stocked to its full capacity. Mr. Pritchard and Miss Lettie Billings were married December 29, 1880, and their pleasant househlold circle is completed by the birth of their two little daughters. Their daughter Bessie is now attending school in the same schoolhouse where her father obtained his early education when a boy. Floy is a bright little girl too young to attend school. Mrs. Plitchard is a native of Niagara County, N. Y., and was born March l1, 1863. She is the second daughter of Darius and Saral (Gifford) Billings, who were natives of New York. They came to Michigan in 1869 when Mrs. Pritchar(l was six years odl, and took up their residence in Clarendon Township. Our subject interests himself in politics and takes his stand with the Republicans. I-e is an excellent business man, understands well how to carry on his work to the best advantage and has a promising career before him in his vocation. He possesses many pleasant social qualities and is well regarded throughout his native county. -RANK B. WRIGHT. This aged citizen of Fredonia Township has been located on l - section 14 since the year 1845. At that time the tract of land which he occupies was devoid of improvement and was in the condition in which it had been left by its aboriginal occupants. It is now marked with a complete line of farm buildings, substantial structures well fitted for their various purposes, and the entire one hundred and twenty acres are under cultivation or devoted to the comfort and convenience of the household. General farming is carried on by Mr. Wright, who at an advanced age still directs and oversees the busi1ness. Chester Wright, father of our subject, was born August 6, 1785, in Washington County, N. Y.. near Whitehall, and in the neighboring town was married to Parthena Barber. This lady was born and reared in Bridgeport, Vt., and adopted the occupation of a school-teacher. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Wright settled on a farm which had previously belonged to Grandfather Wright and there the wife died in 1835. The father survived until 1865, reaching the age of seventy-nine years. The good couple were the parents of four daughters and ten sons, named respectively: Frank B., Marshall, Simeon, Julius, Enoch, Grove, Allen, Myron, Danford, Edwin, Lucy, Harriet, Mary and Julia. All are living but Simeon, Enoch, Danford and Mary. The birth of the first, whose life it is our purpose to delineate, took place October 5, 1810, his birtlplace and the home of his youth being the farm whereon his father had been reared. When old enough to attend school he was sent to Whitehall to pursue his studies. EIe remained with his parents until 1835, when lie came to this State. Mr. Wright hired out as a teamster, working by the month for merchants, running between Detroit and Marshall. He remained in the latter place about nine years, during which time he bought the arm that is now his home. During that period also he was successful in his wooing of Miss Amanda A. Blodgett, to whom he was married in Marshall, March 23, 1845. The bride was born in Genesee County, N. Y., was left motherless when very young and was taken by an older sister to Ohio when seven years of age. About 1837 she came to this State with her sister and here made the acquaintance of the gentleman to whom she gave her hand. To Mr. and Mrs. Wright three sons and two dlaughters have been born, all of whom havegrown to years of maturity and left the parental roof for I homes of their own. Eva is the wife of E. Shepherd and their home is in Minnesota; Francis married Miss Eva F. Knapp, an(d makes his home in Jackson, this State; H. Edgar married Miss Lena A. Low in Kansas and resides in Colorado; Ervin F., who won Adie Salter for his wife, lives in Eckford, this county; Julia, formerly the wife of H. Friedenburgll. died in 1889. Mr. Wriglit has been School Director and Sclool 896 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICALt AL13UM. 896I P T I AN Trustee, and in each capacity has demonstrated his deep interest in the cause of education and the progress of the rising generation. Politically he is and has been for many years a stanch Republican. He and his wife are identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church and he is now serving as Trustee. Both endeavor to make their religion a matter of everyday life and experience, and to let their light shine before those with whom they associate. They gain the respect of all who know them and have many sincere friends throughout the community. The attention of the reader is invited to the lithographic portrait of Mr. Wright on another page of this volume. — ^ ---+ --- --- f NDREW DOOLITTLE. This gentleman was a youth in his teens when his father's family -came to this county, and he has passed through all the experiences which attend the development of raw land, the clearing of heavy forests, and the accumulation of property without means with which to begin the life work. When the family came here wolves, deer, bears and other wild animals roamed through the forests, and the Indians were still numerous, although seldom manifesting any sign of hostility. The most enjoyable feature of those early years to our subject were the hunting excursions which be made, sometimes spending a week in the woods, perhaps his sole companion being his trusty rifle. The Doolittle family, which our subject represents, is an old one in Connecticut. In Cheslire County, of that State, the father of our subject, Joel Doolittle, was born in 1800. When a lad twelve years old he left his home, to which he never returned. He learned the trade of a tanner and became foreman of a tannery in New Jersey. In that State he married Barbara Apker. About fifteen years after their marriage Mr. ard Mrs. Doolittle removed to New York, but after a short sojourn returned to New Jersey, remaining there until 1837. They then came to this county and Mr. Doolittle bought one hundred and sixty-six acres of Government land on section 17, Sheridan Town. ship. There was not a settler within two miles of his location, and his land was covered with trees. He put up a log shanty and he and his two sons, Isaac and Andrew, began to clear off the farm. When he left New Jersey Mr. Doolittle had about $1,000, but the journey hither was an expensive one, and after paying for his land he had but little money left. It was therefore necessary for the family to work hard and deny thenselves many of the comforts they had enjoyed in the East. The most of the work done for a time was managed without a team, but during the summer the father bought a wild yoke of oxen. Before his death Mr. Doolittle had nearly all the farm improved, had put up a good house and barn and was in quite good circumstances. During the later years of his life he turned his attention to basketmaking, and peddled the products about the country. Both lie and his wife had thorough educations, and they were industrious, thrifty and God fearing. They united with the Universalist Church, and Mr. Doolittle often officiated as a preacher in his own neighborhood and others not far distant. He took an active interest in educational affairs but had little to do with politics save to vote a Democratic ticket. He died in 1861, some two years after his wife had passed away, the date of her demise having been November, 1859. They were the parents of six children, three of whom are now living, viz: Andrew the subject of this notice; Margaret E., now tile widow of Wesley Smith; and Mary Jane, wife of Sylvester Abbott. The natal day of our subject was December 5, 1821, and his birthplace Essex, N. J. He had a little schooling and worked in the tannery when he was quite small. After the removal to this State he was still obliged to work hard, and he developed the habits of industry and prudence that have been effectual in making his personal work successful. He was an inmate of his parents' household until he was twenty-four years of age, when he married and settled where he is now living, on section 17, Sheridan Township. He had bought eighty acres of partly improved land, on which there was a log house with no roof, and after further improving that tract he added sixty acres, the most of which is well developed. All the build PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 897 ings, fences, and other signs of prosperity and good judgment that now mark the farm have been placed here by the present owner. The lady who for a number of years presided over the home of Mr. Doolittle bore the maiden name of Louisa Snyder. She was born February 18, 1825, in New York, and was a daughter of George and Ursula (Clay) Snyder. Her parents were natives of Holland and New York respectively, were married in the Empire State and resided there until 1843. They then came West and settled in Clarence Township, this county, on the west side of Duck Lake. Mr. Snyder was a man of considerable note in this locality and was an ardent Democrat. He died in 1855, and his widow survived him until 1863. They were the larents of seven children, three of whom are now living: Mrs. Ezra Milliman, Mrs. Doolittle and a son, William. Mrs. Louisa Doolittle was called from time to eternity September 17, 1882, and some time later Mr. Doolittle was married to Mrs. Charity Snyder, widow of Joseph M. Snyder, and a sister of the first wife. She was born in New York about fiftyfive years since, and is one of those noble women whose children "rise up and call her blessed," and to whom home and family are dearer than all else, but do not preclude kindly association with and interest in the community at large. She lias given tile greatest care to the training of her children and rejoices greatly in the fact that they never play cards or indulge in demoralizing pastimes, but find their recreation in that which exercises their intellectual and moral powers. The first union of Mr. Doolittle was blessed by the birth of five children, two of whom are now living, namely: Mrs. Benjamin Wheat and Mrs. David Fish. Joel, the eldest son, enlisted in Company E, Sixth Michigan Infantry, and died from disease March 19, 1864. The present Mrs. Doolittle had five children by her first husband, and of these two survive-Philip and Libby. Philip has a fine education, obtained largely at the Institute for the Blind, in Flint, and Miss Libby is well qualified for her profession, that of a teacher. She also taught in the Sunday-school. Mrs. Doolittle belongs to the Protestant Methodist Church, I I I with which she has been identified for more than a quarter of a century. Her first husband, Joseph M. Snyder, served three years and nine months during the late war, as a member of Company D, First Michigan Light Artillery. He was a brave soldier and was always found ready for duty when the call to arms sounded, or when the more tedious duties of camp life fell to his lot. He took part in all the battles under Gen. Grant and fortunately escaped wounds but passed through a siege of smallpox. Mr. Doolittle has been a member of the School Board for many years, and has advanced the interests of the traveling public in the capacity of Road Overseer. -He is not in sympathy with secret societies, and finds other channels in which to manifest his social qualities and benevolent spirit. In politics lie is quite interested, and while belonging to the Democratic party votes for the man. in all local elections. He is a firm believer in temperance, and is numbered among the respected members of society. ARTIN C. GARFIELD. Convis Township is the home of many enterprising agriculL turists, who are prospering in their own affairs and adding to the wealth of the county by the improvements they have made and the way in which they have developed its resources. One of this number is the gentleman %hove named, whose'fine farm consists of one hundred and forty acres on section 9. When he first took possession of this place it was bare of improvement, and that which now makes it so valuable and attractive has been placed upon it by his own good judgment. The dwelling is a fine specimen of the farm house, anti adequate barns, granaries and other buildings show that care is taken of the stock, crops and machinery, while orchards and groves add beauty as well as comfort to the scene. The father of our subject was Asa Garfield, a native of Massachusetts and an own cousin of James A. Garfield. He was a millwright and put up and operated a sawmill at Ktene, N. II. lie subse 898 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. quently removed to New York. and in 1830 established himself in Le Roy, Genesee County, where he died nine days later. His widow carried on a sawmill for a while after his decease, but in the fall of 1838 came with her children to Michigan and made a location in Lee Township, this county. Her eldest son, Frederick, was soon able to attend to the business affairs and at Alcott Mills they engaged in milling. There Mrs. Garfield died, her last hours being cheered by Christian faith and hope, sle being a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. She had borne the maiden name of Annis Calkins, was a native of Connecticut and the dauglhter of Capt. Martin Calkins, of the United States Navy. Capt. Calkins was a sailor until his health failed, and traversed many seas and visited every important port known to the commercial world at that time. During the Revolution he had given his services to his country and had the same rank that he held in the merchant service. Upon leaving the sea he settled in Chelsea, Conn., where he breathed his last. The subject of this biographical notice was the youngest of eight children and born in Vermont, August 13, 1826. lie was but four years old when his parents removed to Genesee County, N. Y., and there as lie grew older he attended school and began to help in the sawmill. Not long after lie entered his teens he made the journey to this State, tile family crossing the lake on the "Great Western" and having a stormy voyage. At Detroit they took a team and so complete(l their journey to their new home. Young Garfield at once began to work in the sawmll and to do teaming with oxen, and remained at the mill until 1848. I-e then came to his present location settling on one hundred and eighty acres, which he improved for his brother until 1851, when he himself purchased it. At that time there were still Indians in this part of the county and deer and other game were abundant. Mr. Garfield raises various grains, but wheat is his principal crop. He keeps Jersey cattle, Merino and Shropshire sheep, Poland-China hogs and a good grade of draft horses. Ile has won the blue ribbon on colts, and the various articles that he markets demand a good price. At the bride's home in Marshall Township, March 30, 1851, Mr. Garfield was united in marriage with Miss Lydia Jeanette Campbell. This lady is a daughter of the Rev. Hiram Campbell, who was born in the Empire State, and in 1837 located in Marshall. HIe was a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and while pastor over a charge in Marshall he preached in rog houses and schoolhouses. Ie finally located on a farm near the city, but did not abandon his ministerial labors as long as he had strength to preach the Gospel. Hle possessed great mechanical skill and helped to build the first depot and court-house in Marshall. He, was of Scotch descent, his father, Henry Campbell, having been born in the land of Bruce and Wallace. The Rev. Mr. Campbell was an ardent Republican after the organization of that party, and was always an Abolitionist, preaching that doctrine fiom the pulpit. lie departed this life in 1865. The mother of Mrs. Garfield bore the maiden name of Watty Jourden and was a dnughter of Job and PermeliaJourden, the former of whom died in New York and the latter in this county. Mrs. Campbell was born in the Empire State and died in Marshall in August, 1856, when but forty-two years old. She was the mother of nine daughters and four sons, Mrs. Garfield being the seventh on the roll. She was born in Utica, N. Y., August 16, 1834, and when a child of three years was brought to this county. The family, then consisting of tlhe parents and nine children, came all tile way with an ox-team. Mrs. Garfield was reared on the farm and pursued her studies in Marshall, developing the powers of her mind and, under the guidance of her good parents, growing to a noble womanhood. When a child she was very delicate, and she was not able to walk until five years old. To her and her husband two children lhave come-Annis and Frank A. The daughter died March 25, 1878, at the early age of twenty-six years; she was the wife of II. Dilno and left two children-Frederick H. and Charles F. The son, while discharging his duty as head brakesman at Climax, January 31, 1887, received injuries which resulted in his death three days later. He left a widow, formerly Minnie Coriell, and a son Albert. He was thirty-one years of age. Mr. Garfield has borne his part in the official PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 899 ------- I work of the vicinity and has in every instance been a faithful officer. HIe was Constable several years, served as Pathmiaster, and was elected ''ownship Drainage Commissioner but would not qualify for the place. As School Iirector he labored for the cause of education several years. He belongs to the Patrons of Industry. In politics lhe is a Republican. Mrs. Garfield belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church at Bellevue andl is a member of the Ladies' Union. Both are respected far and near, and there are many who, thoroughly appreciating their good qualities, are glad to be numbered among their friends. AMIES SAYER was for many years numbered among the sturdy, practical, prosperous farmers of this county, and by his death on his homestead in Eckford Township, his fellow-citizens were deprived of a useful assistant in pushing forward tlhe interests of this section, and his community lost a good citizen, his neigh)bors a kind friend and his family a good husband and father. Mr. Sayer was born in Somersetshire, England in 1816. In the year 1840 when lie was in the opening years of a vigorous manhood lie emigrated to this country and at first settled at West Hills, N. Y., where he worked out by the month. A year later lie beganI his independent career as a farmer, having purchase(i fifteen acres of land at Elbridge, in Onondaga County, N Y. He stayed there four years and then disposing of his property in that place, lie came to this county in 1846 and cast in his lot with the pioneers who had preceeded him. lie bought eighty acres of land on the shore of Lake Lyon in Frelonia Township. Only twenty acres of the land were cleared afid the only building on the place was a schoolhouse in which he and his family lived until he sold out about three years later. Ile then bought another farm in the same townshil comprising one hundred and twenty acres of land, purchasing it of Charles Shepherd. This was an improved farm and was supplied with good buildings. He lived on that farm from 1849 until I 1870, and then sold that and bought one hundred and twenty acres on section 19, Eckford Township. The land was cleared but the improvements upon it were of a very poor order. The fences were bad and the lo( house and barns were small and inefficient for their uses. Mr. Sayer entered actively upon the business of improving the place and had made various plans for rebuilding the buildings and in time making tlhe farm one of the most desirable in the township, when lie was taken sick with typhloid fever and his life was brought to a close by his death October 17, 1871, after an illness of four weeks. Thus he passed away from the scenes of his usefulness ere yet old age had come upon him, an(d he was greatly missed by all around him who held him in great respect for his many kindly virtues and excellent traits of character. He was a sincere Christian and a member of the Church of England and his life was guided by upright principles. In his political views he was an unswerving adherent of the Republican party. Our subject was married in 1841 on the 12th of August to Miss Emma Radford at Skaneateles, N. Y. Mrs. Sayer was the fifth of the nine children of her parents, Janies and Sarah (Cook) Radford, natives of England. She was also born in that country, the town of Barnwell, Somersetshire, being the place of her birth and July 29, 1823, the date thereof. She came to the Ulnited States with her parents in 1837. They settled at Skaneateles, N. Y.,and lived there until they came to Michigan in 1846. They took up their abode in the city of Marshall where the father died May 4, 1873. The mother afterward lived witli Mrs. Sayer until her death in 1875, at the venerable age of eighty-three years. After her husband's death Mrs. Sayer built a large and fine residence on the homestead, a large barn and other suitable outbuildings that have greatly increased the value of the farm. Since Mr. Sayer died she has rented the farm and lives in the house with her daughter. She is a devoted member of the Church of England, and is in all respects a womanly woman, who is held in great esteem by all who know her. Five children were born of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Sayer, two sons and three daughters, as follQws: Mary E. who married J. -Swartout, as 900 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. apiarist at Union City, and died July 26, 1890, at the age of forty-five years; Rosella A. is living at home with her mother; Clara A. married John R. Simmons, a contractor and builder at Union City; George A. died in New York in infancy; and Charles E., who died in infancy in the home of his parents on Lyon Lake Farm, this county. OHN G. WAY. This venerable gentleman came to Michigan fifty-five years ago, and purchased a quarter of a section of land in Convis Townslip, and the work of develop. ing it into a good farm entitles him to an honorable position among the pioneers of this county. He has given away a part of his land to his children, but still retains sixty-five acres of his homestead which is pleasantly located on sections 3 and 10 and here he and his good wife are quietly and serenely passing the closing years of a life that has been usefully spent, having retired from active business. The paternal grandfather of our subject, whose name was George Way, was born of one of the pioneer families of New York, and in early manhood was a farmer in Dutchess County. He afterward removed to the wilds of Rensselaer County where he resided until his death. His son, Daniel, the father of our subject, was born in Dutchess County and later in life became a farmer in Rensselaer County. He was a very successful man and acquired wealth on his farm which was beautifully located four miles from the city of Troy. He was one of the prominent citizens in that vicinity, and there his life was brought to a close at a ripe age. " The maiden name of his wife, the mother of our subject was Lucy Wilson. She was born in Connecticut and died in New York on the old homestead. IHe of whom this biography is written was born near Brunswick, N. Y., April 16, 1812. Ile received a practical training as a farmer on his father's farm, and in the flush of early manhood, in the year 1835, set out from his old home to find what life held for him in the Territory of Michigan, of which = he had heard much as to the richness of its virgin soil and the facilities offered to a wide-awake, capable young farmer to make a competency. After his arrival in Detroit he made his way through the forests by team to Marshall and on the 1st of January, 1836, he arrived in this county and located on his present homestead which then comprised one hundred and sixty acres of land lying in the primeval forests. There were no improvements of any kind upon it and his first work was to build a log house for shelter. He had to commence from the very beginning to hew out a farm from the wilderness, but by hard and unceasing toil he cleared his land, placed it under good cultivation and made a comfortable home for himself and fanily. Our subject was by no means unaided in his laborious task, as he had the assistance of a capable energetic wife, to whom he was married in Lansingburg, N. Y., in 1834. Mrs. Way, who bore the maiden name of Hannah Van Derwerken, was born January 2. 1815, in Saratoga County, N. Y., and lived there until her marriage with our subject. Her parents, Henry and Margaret (Chambers) Van Derwerken, were also natives of that county. Her father was of Holland ancestry and her mother was of Irish descent, she being a daughter of David Chambers, who was born in Ireland. David Chamberscame to this country in early life and was thereafter a resident of Saratoga County, and he was a patriotic soldier in the Revolutionary War. Mrs. Way's mother died in Rensselaer County, N. Y. Mrs. Way is actively connected with the Seventh Day Advent Church, of which she is one of the original members. Her marriage with our subject has been exceedingly blessed by the birth of nine children, eight of whom are living: Charles, a farmer, whose sketch is on another page of this work; Daniel H., a resident of Marshall; Edward L., who lives in Kansas; Lucy, a resident of Convis Township, who is the widow of C. Mooney; Adeale who married William T. Feesler, and they reside on the home farm; Caroline, who married George Knowles, of Battle Creek; Sarah A., who married Wilbur Cavalry, of Charlotte, and John a farmer in Nebraska. Mr. Way is a strong Democrat. He has wit AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 901 PORTRAIT nessed all the changes that have been the hand of man in making this one of and most prosperous counties in the St igan, and it may well be his pride that tributed his quota toward its upbuildir to endure all the privations and hardshi pioneer life and many were the sacril and his good wife were obliged to r early years of their settlement in th When they came here to locate Mic Territory, Indians were still living h rounding country was but sparsely roads were few and in a rough conditio of the pioneer were generally rude lot and there were but few indications of The early settlers had to content themsel few comforts and many things that a sidered almost indispensable were u However, the pioneers, who were a sti cheerful people, endured uncomplainin that they had to undergo in the buildi homes, and after all had many pleas which are denied to their descendant, Calhoun County owes, a great debt and too much honor to such of them as ai among us. _,.o -( _ wrought by maiden name was Barsheba Davis, was born in the richest Massachusetts. She and the father of our subject;ate of Mich- were married in New York September 30, 1807, and he has con- passed the early years of their wedded life in that ig. He had State. In 1839 they removed to Michigan, coming ips subject to hither with a three horse team. They located on ices that he Cook's Prairie, where Mr. Prior bought a quarternake in the section of land. Two log houses stood on the e wilderness. place and he and his family entered actively upon higan was a its further improvement, and in time had a valuaere, the sur- ble farm. The father rounded out a busy life at settled, the the age of sixty-six years. The mother, who surn, the houses vived him, spent her last days at Marshall and g structures, died at the venerable age of past ninety-six years. civilization. They were the parents of nine children, named: Ives with but Chauncy, Harriet, Alma, Martha, John, Mary, tre now con- Lucinda, Edgar and Jane. inobtainable. The subject of this biographical review is the urdy, hardy, second son and fifth child of the family. He gly the trials obtained his schooling in his native place and was ng up of new well drilled in farming by his father, with whom lures in life he remained until he attained his majority. March s. To them 6, 1838, he took a step that had an important bearIcannot give ing on his after life, as by his marriage on that re still living date with Lucy L. Sweet, he obtained a helpful wife. Mrs. Prior is a native of Canada, but was reared near Clarence Hollow, in Clarence Townsship, N. Y. She is a sister of Harlow Sweet, whose biography will be found on another page of this volume. Seven children have been born to our neers of this subject and his wife, of whom the following are nes that they deceased: Phillip, Benjamin, Mary and Herbert. a wilderness Three children are living, as follows: Barsheba, r subject is who married J. Knickerbocker of Clarendon TownL ALBUM. He ship; Andrew, who is successfully engaged in farmmndon Town- ing in Tekonsha Township on the farm that his ood with no father bought for him; anl Loretta, who married brain, and a Doan Shed, a farmer of Tekonsha Townshilp. of life, and Mr. Prior is a fine example of our self-made lo-do men of men, as he was very poor when he came to Michiars amid the gan, having but $5 in money. But a man of his farm on sec- energy and force of character was not to lie hampered by such unfavorable circumstances, and he esee County, actively set to work to better his condition. He y 13, 1817. located on the land which he has since improved Iself and was into a valuable farm that has been his home for lther, whose more than half a century. A small log houses 16 - J OHN PRIOR. Among the pio county, still living amid the see have aided to transform from to a fine farming country, ou worthy of mention in this BIOGRAPHICAl was one of the early settlers of Clare ship, whither he came in early manh other capital than strong hands, a clear sturdy determination to make the best he is now one of the substantial, well-i the community, and is passing his ye comforts of his pleasant home on his tion 26. A native of the town of Elba, Gen N. Y., our subject was born Januar His father bore the same name as him a native of Connecticut. His mo 902 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. x18 feet in size stood on the place, and a little spot cleared for a garden were the only improvements. The country round about was wild and the slumbers of the pioneers were often disturbed by the howls of the wolves, while bears occasionally made depredations on the sheep fold or calf pen, and deer and other wild game were plentiful and often furnished delicious food for the early settlers. Our subject's pioneer labors have been richly rewarded, as he is now in good circumstances and has a substantial farm of one hundred and ninety acres of choice land, of which one hundred and ten acres are under cultivation. The improvements upon the place are the work of his own hands and include a commodious dwelling and good barns. Ie has devoted himself to general farming and ha3 his place well-stocked, and among other animals has eight fine horses. HIe gave his son a good start in life, buying for him a well improved farm for which he paid $6,333. Mr. Prior is a stalwart advocate of the Republican party. lie has taken part in the public life of his township and has been especially active in the interests of education, doing much work to increase the facilities of the district schools for which he has never charged a cent. He has been School Director for many years, has been Township Assessor and Moderator and for three years was Constable of the township. Ile has generously aided all plans that would in any way advance the well-being of his community and is well known for his public spirit. ARVEY MI'TCHELL. One of the most beautiful building spots in Tekonslia Township is occupied by the residence of the gentleman above named. It is an elevation on section 16, from which a view is obtained; of a large extent of tile surrounding country, while the house is plainly visible to travelers some distance away. The building is convenient and tasteful and its construction first-class. It is surrounded by Sixty acres of well-tilled land, upon which stand te various outbuildings that are necessary in order I II J to properly cariy on the work of the estate. Among them is a l:irge windmill which furnishes a supply of water for the house and barn. The reader will notice a view of this fine estate on another page. George W. Mitchell, father of our subject, was born in Canada, but was of New England parentage. While he was small his father, Zalmon Mitchell removed to New York, where George grew to manhood. He married Margaret Cable, who was born and reared in Pennsylvania, but who at the time of her marriage lived in Erie County, N. Y. In that county the newly-wedded couple took up their residence and from it they. came to Michigan in 1855. They located in Clarendon Township, this county, but after a sojourn of three years removed to the place now occupied by tleir son Harvey. Mr. Mitchell died here in 1868 and his widow in 1883. Their family consisted of six sons and three daughters, named respectively, Edward, Zalmon, Mary, Harvey, Jonathan, George, Emeline, Margaret and Henry. All are living but Margaret. The natal day of Harvey Mitchell was September 9, 1841, and his birthplace Royalton, Niagara County, N. Y. His first schooling was obtained in lhis native place. IIe.had just entered his teens when his parents came West and here he continued to improve his mind and to learn useful lessons regarding home duties and business management. He remained with his parents, assisting his father to carry on the farm and after his death watching over his mother until she too passed away. In 1882 he was united in marriage with Miss Louisa Seiler who was born in Germany in 1862, and when but a child came to America with her parents. She is the oldest of five children and is herself the mother of two sons-Arthur and Henry, who are now attending school. She is a capable housekeeper, and her beautiful residence is the scene of a happy and contented home life. Mr. Mitchell is a first-class carpenter and has built many houses and barns in the township, among them the beautiful residence of Mrs. Faurot, whose sketch is included in this ALBUM. He planned and executed his own dwelling, which is a two-story frame of ten rooms, the main part being 16x24 feet and the two L's, 14x24 and 11x24 respectively. Mr. Mitchell is a firm believer in the worth RESIDENCE OF C;HARLES H. tAILEtYtL SE. 1.LUFIHIE IrN CALHUUIN '.;UMItL;H. RESIDENCE OF HAF Y MITCHELL, SEC. IG."EKOUSHA TR CALHOUN CO. MICH....................... -....,.........",",, -,- I... -,- - i:::.:-, '. -.,,,, I II,,,_,' -.~::.-'.......:::.. I r I ~~~ m.7 - ~~~, -, " ~~~~ ~~. ~~.,',..t:'- -., Z -.~.-: - t-;-,:,w -31-; ~~-~;; -~~ ~: L~.~:. ).I 1~;.~:1:: '~:~ ~ ii'r -L~-. 'I::~::.i; - ~~-, i:~:-. —~~ C;: i;~7~:;~~ — -:~.1-c;-r;'::.'::;r.:~~.;~:::: ':~:1.~8r::-""";91-~~::'~ ~~;r~;~ RESIDENCE OF. WILLIAM CRUSE,SEC.30. FREDONIA TP. CALHOUN CO.MICH, L PORTRAIT AND BIOG of Republican principles and never fails to support them by his ballot. He belongs to the social order of Patrons of Industry. HIe and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church in the village of Tekonsha, by whose members, as well as by the community in general, they are highly respected. V ILLTAM1 CRUSE occupies a worthy place among the farmers of Fredonia Township of which he has been a resident for many years. In the meantime he has helped his fellowcitizens to develop the agricultural resources of this section, and while so doing has reclaimed a good farm from its primitive wildness. lie rents the most of his land and is spending his declining years free from the hard labors that beset his early manhood, in the comfortable home that is the work of his own hands. The principal buildings and rural surroundings on his estate arc shown in a view elsewhere in this volume. Mr. Cruse is a native of Philadelphia, Pa., born July 5, 1827. His father, Alexander Cruse, was also a native of that city. He became a printer and a shoemaker in his youth, working at the former callingr during the day, and at the latter in the evening. lIe was employed in the office of Poulston's Gazette. He was married in his native city to Sophia Lavis, who was born in Birmingham, England, and came to America with her parents when she was a small child. After their marriage the parents of our subject continued to live in the Quaker City several years, but finally took up their residence in West Branch Valley, Lycoming County, where the father died in 1848. The mother died at West Branch, Pa., in 1888 at the venerable age of ninety-five years. These worthy people were the parents of six children, four sons and two daughters, named as follows: William, David, Joseph, Jessie, Mary and Maria. All are deceased excepting William and Joseph. Our subject who was the eldest child in the family, gained his education in the city schools at Philadelphia, and at the youthful age of fourteen rRAPHICAL ALBUM. 905 years began the battle of life on his own account. For three and one-half years he worked on a farm for his board and clothes, and at the expiration of that time began to receive wages and was given $8 a month. He was employed by another man for four years and during a part of the time that he worked out he had $10 a month, which was the most that he ever received for a month's work. April 8, 1850, Mr. Cruse took an important step in life and was then united in marriage with Miss Sarah K. Garnhart, their wedding being celebrated at Muncie, Pa. By this union he secured a wifel who was to him a true helpmate and a great blessing. Mrs. Cruse was a native of Northumberland County, Pa., and was born November 23, 1816. For forty years she was the faithful companion of our subject, devoted to his interests and to their children. Her death April 14, 1890, was a sad bereavement to her family who hold her memory in sacred affection. By her marriage with our subject three children were born, two daughters and one son, as follows: Mary E., who died November 17, 1874; Clara W., born October 14, 1856, who now presides over her fatler's home and looks carefully after his comfort; and James H., who was born September 6, 1858, and is now engaged as a carpenter at Albion. After his marriage Mr. Cruse took up his resi(ence on a farm in Wolf Township, Lycoming County, Pa. IIe finally decided to try farming on the rich soil of Michigan and leaving his old Pennsylvania home he came hither by team in 1853. His first location was in Newton Township, on the old Eastman farm. He moved to his present farm in 1854. It was then in a state of nature, and his first work was to cut the logs and build a house for the shelter of his family. He lived in that humble abode fourteen years, and during that time was constantly making improvements, clearing and fencing his land, and putting up necessary buildings, until now it compares favorably in every respect with the best in the township. A neat story and a half frame house has replaced the log house of pioneer days, while a good barn and other outbuildings have been erected. He is quietly passing his declining days in his home in which he and his daughter are living alone,; i 906 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ' --- —- --— L — I Mr. Cruse bears a high reputation among his fellow-citizens for the rugged honesty and unswerving integrity of his character and for his kindly disposition. HIe is a Christian in word and deed and is a valued member of the Evangelical Church. Socially, he is a member of Lodge No. 333, A. F. & A. M., at Burlington. Politically, he is a decided Democrat, voting for the man whom he considers best qualified for the office regardless of his political affiliations, except in national politics when he votes the straight Democratic ticket. He Ts Justice of the Peace for his township and discharges the duties of his office with characteristic fidelity and fairness. J OHN I. SANDERS. After years of busy life, a score of which have been spent in Marshall in various lines of trade, Mr. Sanders has retired from active life on account of failing health. He is a native of New York, born in Cayuga County, May 1i, 1834, and is of English ancestry in the paternal line. His groindfather, lJoln E. Sanders, was a Revolutionary soldier. His father, Joel D. Sanders, was born in Connecticut in 1802 and married Klmira Gallt, datghter of Ralph Gallt, and a native of Cherry Valley, N. Y. The marriage of the parents was solemnized in the Empire State, where they made their home until tie death of the wife in 1856. The bereaved husband subsequently came to this State and died in Van Burcn County, October 10, 1890. In his early life he was a carpenter and joiner, but in later years gave his attention to farming. He was married three times and was the father of eight children, John H. being the eldest son and second child of the second marriage. The boyhood of the gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs, was spent in Cayuga County, N. Y., and in the intervals of school life he worked on a farm. As soon as he could handle tools he began to try to learn carpentry, and in his youth he became proficient at his father's trade. He worked at the bench until twenty-one years old in his native State, then drifted West to Kansas, I I~~~~ where he spent a short time, next stopping at Battle Creek, this State, where he worked at his trade one winter. He next went to Ceresco in which place he remained about two years, after which he established himself in Fredonia. lHe made that his home about eleven years, during which time he worked at his trade and built many dwellings and barns in Fredonia and Newton Townships. He became the possessor of two farms in those townships, from the rental of which he derived a very satisfactory income. The health of Mr. Sanders being somewhat impaired, he made a trip to California for the purpose of recuperation and spent twelve months at Sacramento, whence he returned to his former home in this county. In 1868 he removed to Marshall, where he has since resided and where he first gave his attention to contracting and building. He was then associated with J. A. Davis, under the firm name of Davis & Sanders, and dealt in lumber four years, when both partners sold out to George C. Murray. Mr. Sanders then formed a connection with the Hon. William F. Hewitt for the handling of produce. The firm of Hewitt & Sanders was dissolved after three years of business life, as the failing health of the junior partner decided him to dispose of his interest. We next find Mr. Sanders opening a store in which glass, paints and oils, sash, doors and blinds were sold three years, when the entire stock was disposed of and the proprietor retired to private life. In 1857 Mr. Sanders secured one of the chief blessings of life-a good wife-marrying Miss Mary E. Davis, at that time a resident of Fredonia, but a native of New York. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Sanders consists of four children, named respectively: John HI., Jr., Cara A., Della M. and Minnie. The oldest is now in Chicago, where he is occupied in mechanical labor. Mr. and Mrs. Sanders being themselves intelligent, have been much interested in giving their offspring the best advantages possible, and they are capable of acting well their part in life. Mr. Sanders was School Inspector several years and was also Township Treasurer, and since he became a resident of Marshall he has served six years as Supervisor. He is a member of St. Albans ND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 907 90I PORTRl'AIT X Lodge, No. 20, F. & A. M., Lafayette Chapter, No. 4, R. A. M., and Marshall Commandery, No. 17, K. T. He has been actively identified with the Democratic party since he became a voter and proudly recalls the fact that from the time of James Buchanan to that of Grover Cleveland, no Presidential candidate of his party has failed to receive his suffrage. AMUEL F. DOBBINS, a well-known business man of Marshall, was born at PlyJ m mouth, this State, November 4, 1856. Iie is the youngest of the four living children of Charles M. and Lucy A. (Smith) Dobbins, both of whom were born in the Empire State. His father breathed his last in 1889, but his mother still lives, making her home with him and is now seventy-four years old. The paternal grandfather was Charles Dobbins, for many years a well-known resident in Victor, N. Y. The father of our subject resided in Canada for a time and there his marriage occurred. I-e came to this State in 1841 and located at Plymouth, where lie worked as a blacksmith and wagon-maker. Later in life he turned his attention to general farming. The early education of him of whom we write was acquired in the schools of Plymouth, this State, and was added to by a course in the High School at Buffalo, N. Y., and business training inl Bryant & Stratton's Business College. After his preparation for the affairs of life he returned to this State and became a book-keeper for J. L. Dobbins in Marshall, where he remained five years. In 1881 he embarked in business on his own account in partnership with.E. H. Grant, a connection which continued seven years, when Mr. Dobbins bought his partner's interest. The business was that of the manufacture and sale of hot air furnaces, which is still carried on by Mr. Dobbins, who also deals in mantels and tiles. His trade extends into Ohio, Indiana and North Carolina, and he has three men constantly on the road. A pleasant dwelling on High Street is the abiding place of Mr. Dobbins and his interesting fam ily, whlich consists of a wife and three bright boys. The latter are named respectively Dale M., Charles W. and S. Fremont. The wife was known in her maidenhood as Miss Marie L. Mitchell, and was, February 14, 1883, when her marriage rites were solemnized, residing in Owosso, this State. Her father, William Mitchell, was a merchant there. She is a native of Brooklyn, N. Y., has an intelligent and cultured mind, and the pleasing manners and domestic skill which are necessary to make a happy home. Mr. Dobbins represented the First Ward in the City Council three years, having been elected on the Republican ticket. lie belongs to St. Albans Lodge, No. 20, F. & A. M., and also to the Chapter and Commandery. His business career is proving successful, and demonstrates his ability to carry on an enterprise of considerable extent, and his good judlgment in catering to the tastes and needs of the community. Like all good business men he is interested in the growth of the town and in the public improvements which make it attractive as a home. ILLIAM BOYD. Sheridan Townslip has no resident more prominent in many ways than William Boyd, who has been closely connected with the agricultural work of the vicinity for some years, has served his fellow-citizens in positions of public responsibility, and has done much to advance the cause of Christianity. His home is on section 13, and his real estate consists of two hundred and thirty nine acres of land, two hundred of which is under cultivation and bears all necessary outbuildings. Mr. Boyd carries on general farming and stock-raising, keeping fine Short-horn cattle, as well as draft horses, sheep and hogs. Before noting the chief incidents in the life of Mr. Boyd, it may be well to make some mention of his ancestors. His father, Samuel Boyd, was born in County Antrim, Ireland, June 4, 1786, and was the son of Samuel and Belle (Parson) Boyd. His uncle, David Boyd, was in the British navy and fought under Lord Nelson. Samuel Boyd married 908 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Jane Kyle, who was born in the same county as himself, and wlose parents, John and Elizabeth (Adams) Kyle, were also born there. Both the Kyle and the Boyd families emigrated from Scotland to Ireland about the time of Oliver Cromwell, when religious troubles drove so many of the old Scotch families to seek a refuge in the Emerald Isle. In the fall of 1851 Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Boyd emigrated to America, and after landing at New York established their home in Livingston County. After a sojourn of two years they came to Lenawee County, this State, settling on a farm near Tecumseh and remaining there until 1867. They then came to this county to become inmates of the home of our subject. The father died here July 18, 1879, and the mother January 20, 1881. They were the parents of eight children of whom those now living are John, David, William and Margaret, the last named being the wife of William Hastings. The father united with the Presbyterian Church in his youth and always held to his faith. The subject of this biographical notice was born May 30, 1839, in County Antrim, Ireland, and came with his patents to America when twelve years of age. He attended the National schools in the old country and the district schools in New York and Michigan, acquiring a thorough knowledge of the ordinary branches of an English education and taking up some other studies at home and in private. The family were in limited circumstances and all worked in common until William was about twenty years of age, when the oldest son married and the property was divided. Our subject's share was $400 and he took forty acres of land in Lenawee County, valued at $8,000, paying the other heirs therefor. In order to complete his payments he was obliged to work out by the month, day or job, as he found opportunity. He took full care of his parents, continuing to supply their wants until their death, a period of some sixteen years. He added eighty acres of adjoining land to his property, improving it from a raw condition. The marriage of Mr. Boyd and Miss Margaret T. Boyd was solemnized in Lenawee County, this State, December 2, 1865, The bride was born in County Antrim, Ireland, of which her parents William and Elizabeth (Taylor) Boyd were also natives. They lived on a farm which was occupied by three generations of the family. Both died in the Emerald Isle, Mr. Boyd February, 1870, and Mrs. Boyd February 26, 1876. They were the parents of ten children, seven of whom are now living. The natal day of the wife of our subject was May 1, 1842, and she was eighteen years of age when she came to America, landing in Boston, Mass. She went thence to Livingston County, N. Y., and two years later came to this State, arriving in Lenawee County in the spring of 1863. She received a common-school education in the national schools of Ireland, was carefully instructed in the principles of right living, and is a most excellent woman, affectionate and wise in all home affairs, and showing great kindliness to all in need of comfort or assistance. If there is one thing more than another which attaches her husband to her, it is the loving kindness which ever marked her association with his aged parents. The grandparents of Mrs. Boyd were Thomas and Molly (Gregg) Boyd, and William and Elizabeth (Downey) Taylor. After his marriage Mr. Boyd rented a farm in Lenawee County two years, then moved to this county, settling on section 14, Sheridan Township. In 1873 he built his present residence on section 13, the cozy structure costing $3,000. It is supplied with the many conveniences of modern farm life and made attractive by the happy home circle gathered there. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd have seven clildren, whose record is as follows: Samuel K. was born April 11, 1867; Alceus T., November 24, 1869; Evander H., November 18, 1871; John L., September 15, 1875; Edith Maude, December 12, 1877; William E., November 5, 1881; David L., April 18,1887. Samuelis a student in the Agricultural College in Lansing, which Evander attended one term. The latter now purposes to take the commercial course at Albion College. Alceus studied in the High School at Albion and completed the business course in the Commercial College there. All are being given educational privileges suited to their years and tastes. Mr. and Mrs. Boyd hold membership in, the PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 909 --— ' ---II I —- --- —- --- —- II --- —"- ---- ------- ----— " ---- --- Presbyterian Church at Albion and Mr. Boyd has been an Elder about fifteen years and is also Trustee. He teaches the Bible Class, and has been Snperintendent of the Sunday-school in the neighborhood of his home. He belongs to the Ancient Order of United Workmen, being identified with a prosperous lodge itl Albion. He is now School Director in District No. 2, and has held the office many years. I-e served as Supervisor of Sheridan Township three terms and has been Justice of the Peace eight years. His first vote was for Abraham Lincoln and he llas always been a stanch Republican. So careful has he been to fulfill every obligation and keep every promise, that his word in any transaction is considered as good as a bond. He is very careful in his judgments, candid in his opinions and treatment of his friends, and, although ready at all times to serve his fellow-citizens at their call, never pushes himself forward, but prefers a retired life. ' OBERT B. SHIPMAN. This prominent resident of Sheridan Township has won from Dame Fortune the guerdon of one of the most elegant farms in tils county, or indeed in the State. It consists of one hundred and twenty acres on sections 22 and 24, in a high state of cultivation, and furnished with every needful and convenient structure in the way of farm buildings. A noticeable feature is a stone wall more than two miles in length, and inquiry elicits the information that it was built by Mr. Shipman with stones once lying upon his land. IIis present residence was put up in 1866 at a cost of about $2,300 and presents an appearance of homelikeness highly attractive to the p)asscr-by. The latest acquisition in the way of farm buildings is a barn 36x56 feet, and twenty feet in height, above a ninefoot basement. Mr. Shipman feels a just pride in the fact that his land has never been mortgaged, and he rejoices in the bodily vigor that enables him to continue its management, althougl he has been for some years traveling down the hill of time. The Shipman family, which is scattered along the Connecticut Valley for two hundred miles, and has its representatives in various parts of the Union, is traced back to tllree brothers who emigrated from Scotland to America in 1639, and settled at or near Saybrook. The father of our subject was Luman Shipman, who was born in Connecticut September 10, 1789, and married Fanny Burr, who was born in Green County, N. Y., April. 22, 1803. The marriage was solemnized in Jefferson County, N. Y., April 22, 1820, at a place called Burrville in honor of the bride's father. The young couple resided there two years, then removed to Pcrrinton, Monroe County, making their permanent home upon a farm. The wife died Septem ber 7, 1829, and the father subsequently married Emily R. Burr, a younger sister of his first wife. The maternal grandparents of Mr. Shipman were Robert and Elizabeth (Dodge) Burr, the latter of whom came to Michigan in 1840 and made her home with her grandson some twenty years, afterwards living with her son, Rufus D. Burr, in Albion, where she died March 8, 1862. She was of advanced age, having been born September 11, 1782. The father of our subject served in the War of 1812 and was Paymaster at Sackett's Harbor. The excitement caused by the death of Morgan in New York made him a strenuous opponent of Masonry. IIis first marriage resulted in the birth of three children: Robert B., Joseph D. and Francis L., the last of whom died December 1, 1829. By his second marriage Luman Shipman became the father of two children: Frances B., now Mrs. C. C. Lane, of Albion, and Mary E., who is unmarried. The father breathed his last October 5, 1836, leaving his family in poor circumstances and making it necessary for his son Robert to assume the responsibilities of manhood, although but fifteen years old. The natal day of Robert S. Shipman was January 6, 1821, and his birthplace Burrville, N. Y. In his boyhood he acquired a common-school education and later attended the High School at Pennfield for a short time, paying his own expenses. He walked two miles to school and back each day, the distance not deterring him from striving to obtain knowledge. When he was leaving the institution 910 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. his teacher gave him a certificate testifying to his capability and fitness for teaching. After his father's death he found employment as a farm hand, beginning his work at $6.50 per month. His wages.were subsequently raised to $9 and the third summer he received $10 per month. His father had visited Michigan in 1835 and located three forties of land with the intention of bringing his family hither. In the spring of 1839 young Shipman came West, located upon a claim and began working out by the month, doing some work upon the home place at intervals. He succeeded in breaking three and one-half acres and during the winter hauled lumber and put up a small plank house, 16x22 feet. He lacked lumber with which to complete the edifice, so left the north gable open, and sleeping in the loft, found an inch of snow over his bed on many a morning. Mr. Shipman had not the means with which to bring the other members of the family here when he came, but in 1840 they were able to make the journey. They arrived at Plymouth, this State, where the young man expected to meet them. lie had spoken for one of the two spans of horses in this locality, but the owner disappointed him and ho set out for Plymouth on foot, covering the distance-seventy-six miles-in two days. The family was taken to Ann Arbor by a relative and Mr. Shipman hired a team to bring them to his home, paying $16 for it. They took possession of the little plank house, which was frequently visited by the Indians and around which wild animals, such as deer, bear and wolves, were not infrequently seen or heard. Neighbors were few and remote, and Albion, or the site which it now occupies, was called Forks of the Kalamazoo. In 1841 Mr. Shipman began teaching school in a log house in the present district, but not one of his original pupils is now here. He improved the farm as fast as possible, working it the first four years without a team. He helped harvest fifty-seven acres, receiving sufficient for his services to pay for a yoke of steers, and felt himself quite well fitted for pioneer work when he had these animals to drive. He has passed through some trying experiences and borne many hardships, but has the satisfaction of knowing that he not only made a good home for his loved ones, but that he has been a factor in the present advanced development of the county. For more than forty years Mr. Shipman enjoyed the companionship of a loving woman, who sympathized with and encouraged him in all his trials and anxieties, and who prudently looked after the household affairs and carefully managed their expenditures. She bore the maiden name of Fanny Pierce, which she changed for that of Mrs. Shipman February 19, 1845. She was born in Mt. Morris, N. Y., September 19, 1816, had a good education and was for years an able and well-beloved schoolteacher. Her parents were Amos B. and Lucinda (Weldon) Pierce, who removed from Genesee County, N. Y., to this State many years ago and are numbered among the pioneers in Lenawee County. They finally came to this county, after spending some time at Jonesville. Mrs. Shipman exchanged the cares of earth for the joys of eternity August 19, 1888. She was the mother of eight children, two of whom are now living, viz: Ida May, born August 3, 1855, and Ora H.. born May 13, 1858. The young ladies have been well educated in the Albion High School and are quite proficient in music. Mr. Shipman belongs to the Presbyterian Church at Albion, with which his wife is also identified. He has been a Trustee in the organization for over twenty years and is now an Elder. In former years he taught in the Sunday-school and he was instrumental in having the new church erected. He has taken an active interest in school affairs and been a liberal contributor to educational projects, as well as a working member of the School Board in his district. He was Supervisor of Sheridan Township for several years; was also Highway Commissioner, and for a long period Justice of the Peace. Mr. Shipman has held office in the Farmers' Mutual Insurance Company, has been an active Granger and has recently identified himself with the Farmers' Alliance. He believes it the duty of every American citizen to understand the political issues of the time and thinks that everyone upon whom the right of suffrage is conferred should exercise that right. He has never missed a vote since PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 911 he became of age, and from being an old-line Whig has became a thorough-going Republican. That he is highly respected by all who enjoy his acquaintance it is scarcely necessary to add, as his intelligence and sturdiness of character naturally makes him a leader among men. 'ILLIA W WLLIAMS. This county is not alone deserving of notice on account of tle evidences of material prosperity that bespeak the industry and thrift of its settlers, but because of the interest taken by them in the better things of life, the culture of the mind and ennobling of the character. The refined and intellectual circles are not confined to the towns, but are scattered throughout the rural districts as well. Among the families identified with the progressive and elevating movements, is that of W. W. Williams, whose home is on section 3, Sheridan Township. William WN. Williams, father of our subject, was born in Shelby, Orleans County, N. Y., and in his native State was married to Juliana Allen, a lady who was born in Maine. She died in 1830, leaving two sons, Lewis C. and W. W. The older child lived to mature years and died in 1850, near Ft. Laramie, while crossing the plains on his way to California. After the death of the mother, the father removed to Ohio, making his home eighteen miles southwest of Cleveland, until lie too was called hence in 1835. During the greater part of his mature life he was a farmer, but at the time of his decease he was engaged in the manufacture of pearlash. The subject of this biographical notice, was born October 29, 1829, in Orleans County, N. Y., and lost his mother when about six months old. IIe was a child of five years when his father died, and from that time until he was eleven lie was cared for by an uncle. He then began working by the month, attending school during the winter season, and living in this way until he was about seventeen. Being by that time fitted for teaching in the common schools, he devoted himself to that work dur ing the winter, and during the summer attended a higher schools for three years. In 1849 he went to Galena, Ill., where he remained six months, after which he returned East and for a short time was employed as a clerk in the store of Bentley Bros. in Waterport, N. Y. Thence he went to Albion, where for a twelvemonth lie was engaged in clerking, then left the State and journeyed to Kingston, Jamaica. The year following he voyaged to Mobile, Ala., and then to New Orleans, and a few months later was again located in Galena, Ill. After spending a summer there, he returned to his native State and resumed teaching as an expedient to replenish his depleted exchequer. The ensuing spring Mr. Williams went to Western Missouri, where he remained until fall looking after two hundred and four acres of wild land he owned there. Finding a purchaser for the property he returned to Galena, and thence once more to his native State where he again took up the duties of a pedagogue. On the opening of another spring he turned his face westward, and reaching Galena, went into the business of buying stock, shipping to Minnesota. After a few months he went into partnership with James Powers in the sale of merchandise and general produce at Apple River,Ill., where he was located until February, 1856, at which time he sold out and went back to New York. On the 2d day of that month Mr. Williams was married to Marietta Williams, daughter of Chester and Margaret (Teachout) Williams, and bringing his bride to Scales Mound, Ill., he resumed his former occupation of shipping stock into Minnesota. The following fall he bought out a stock of goods, and operated a general store, building a brick block in which to carry on his enterprise. A year after the building wes put up lie traded it for a piece of land, and selling out his goods, took up his residence in the country and began to improve his farm. In the fall of 1866 he visited his native State, spending a year there, and after his return, selling his farm, he removed to that he now occupies. This consists of one hundred and sixty acres of well-improved land which is supplied with a good line of farm buildings, and yields a satisfactory income from both stock and crops raised thereon. In March, 1872, a fire swept off all the rJI 912 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. improvements, and all that had been invested in building, was lost. Mr. and Mrs. Williams went back to their native State in April, and remained there some four years, since which time they have remained permanently on their farm, which has been supplied with new and substantial buildings in place of those destroyed. The parents of Mrs. Williams were born, reared and married in the Empire State, and settled upon a farm in the Holland Purchase within a mile of Waterport. Mr. Williams chopped down the trees to build a log house, and reclaimed the land from its primitive condition to one of high cultivation and advanced improvement. IHe added to his acreage until he held the title to more than three hundred acres, and continued his work until a splendid set of buildings with all the modern improvements marked the estate. For nearly sixty-five years he lived on that tract of land. He had nine children, three of whom are now living, namely: Mrs. L. R. Mead, whose home is in Grand Rapids, this State; Mrs. Williams, wife of our subject; and a son, Cassius M., who occupies the old homestead. The mother died in 1874, and the father, September 30, 1889, he having reached the venerable age of eighty-six years. He married for his second wife Mrs. Arabell Gilmore, who still lives in the Empire State. Both the parents of Mrs. Williams belonged to the Free Methodist Church, and her father was a prominent member, conspicuous for the interest he took in religious matters and the aid he gave the cause. His influence extended beyond the bounds of the church, and he was a participant in every commendable enterprise instituted in the vicinity, giving of his substance freely, and showing a high degree of public spirit. His original political adherence was with the Wtlig party, and he was later a Republican. Hie had always been a strong Abolitionist, and a very temperate man, abounding in energy and zeal in whatever he took in hand. Having a fine practical education, he saw that his children were equally well equipped for the duties of mature years. The daughter who became the wife of our subject, was born on the homestead, September 9, 1834, and remained with her honored father until her marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Williams of this sketch are tihe parents of seven children, who owe much to the loving care of an intelligent and devoted mother, as well as to their father's guidance. They were given good opportunities to cultivate their mental powers, and were encouraged to make the most of the talents nature had bestowed on them, while into their hearts were instilled firm principles. The eldest child, Lewis C., married Norah E. Wilcox, and lives in Lee Township; William W., Jr., married Arlone Slayton, and lives in Clarence Township; Annette is the wife of Charles Hall, their home being in Sheridan Township; Ida M. is a teacher at Los Angeles, Cal.; Minnie is the wife of Albert Yost, and lives in Lee Township; Emma D. and Maude still remain with their parents. There are seven grandchildren, William W. having one child; Annette four; and Minnie two. The older son, after completing the studies in the High School at Albion, took a course of training in the State Normal School at Ypsilanti, and has had some experience in teaching. Ida was also graduated from the State Normal. Mr. and Mrs. Williams interest themselves in the literary society of this neighborhood, and often participate in the exercises and entertainments. Mr. Williams has been a member of the local School Board, doing good service for the cause of education, and Mrs. Williams, who is an ardent advocate of temperance, wields quite an influence in that direction. Mr. Williams keeps himself well-informed regarding the topics of the day, particularly the political issues, and is a firm Republican. A man of good habits, intelligent, law-abiding and social, he is duly respected by his associates, and his wife shares with him in their esteem. -EORGE COLLINS, JR. This gentleman is the proprietor of a well-known meat market in Marshall, doing a large business, and in addition to selling fresh meats, packing for the local trade. In addition to his town residence, he has a farm of twenty-three acres a short distance from the city. Mr. Collins has been engaged in ,4,,~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -:~ 40Z~e PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 915 = his present business and at his present stand since 1872, prior to which time he had for several years occupied a small wooden building directly opposite. George Collins, Sr., father of our subject, was born in England in 1805, and there grew to maturity and married Mary Ann Thompson. Soon after husband and wife emigrated to the United States, landing at New York and coming direct to Marshall, where Mr. Collins opened a meat market, which was one of the first here. Ile continued in the business until 1864, when he gave up active life. 1Ie is still living and now in his eighty-sixth year. The wife who accompanied him to this country died in 1856, and Mr. Collins some years later mariied Mrs. Henderson, a native of England, but at that time a resident of Marshall. The first marriage resulted in the birth of three daughters and six sons, the subject of this notice being the fourth on the family roll. Of the entire number five are now living. The eyes of our subject opened to the light in Marshall, April 28, 1843, and his education was obtained in the public school. At the age of eleven years he began to assist his father in the butchershop, learning to cut meat, and continuing to work there until he was eighteen years old. lie then entered the service of his country, becoming a member of Company E, Sixth Michigan Infantry, in 1861, and serving three years, when lie was transferred to the Heavy Artillery, in which he acted one year. The regiment in which he first enlisted was under the command of Col. Curtinus, of Kalamazoo. The gallant young man took part in the battle of Baton Rouge, passed forty-seven (lays in besieging Port Iudson, was present at the siege of Vicksburg also, and fought in twentyseven heavy engagements. HIe was so fortunate as to escape wounds but had his clothing torn by bullets and narrowly escaped being captured by the enemy. He received an honorable discharge, September 21, 1865, and returning to his home was soon occupying his former position in the meat market. In 1866 he began business on his own account, with the result of working up a flourishing trade. The home of Mr. Collins is made pleasant and I attractive by the ability and good taste of his wife, formerly Miss Helen M. Spaulding. This lady was born in Washtenaw County, near Ypsilanti, and is a daughter of Harmon L. and Maria Spaulding, who were natives of New York and early settlers in this State. At the time of her marriage, December 26, 1865, her home was in Marshall. She has borne her husband three children, named restpectively: William IT., Irene M. and Frank S. They have been well instructed and their parents are doing all in their power to fit them for good work on life's battlefield. Mr. Collins is a Mason, belonging to St. Albans Lodge, No. 20, F. & A. M., and he is also identified with the Knights of Honor and Knights of the Maccabees. Politically he is conservative. He is an enterprising business man, who has gained the confidence of business men and of the patrons of his establishment, and as a citizen he is reliable and law-abiding.,,_____ -- *;0--7T" ARTIN METCALF, whose name introduces these paragraphs and whose portrait appears on the opposite page, occupies a prominent position in the political, social and business circles of the several communities where he has resided. Always known as a man of varied reading, knowledge and intelligence, he has naturally taken a lively interest in the progress of invention and all those scientific inquiries and experiments that have been calculated to contribute toward the general good, without particular reference to self-interest or personal advancement. For many years he was a constant correspondent of the late Prof. A. Winchell, of the State University, taking a front rank with him in the institution of those scientific investigations leading up to the discovery and development of salt industries of Michigan, and to Martin Metcalf, more than to the efforts of any single citizen, is due, doubtless, whatever of good resulted from the act of the Legislature offering a bounty, per bushel, on the first salt manufactured in the State. For more than forty years of a busy life the 916 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. subject of this sketch has been engaged more or Parry. He afterward became a member of that less in the preparation of papers and acting as firm with which he was connected as a partner Solicitor of Patents, and has had to do with, as from 1857 to 1865, the business being conducted solicitor, counsel or acting attorney, several of the under the name of Foster, Martin & Co., and later most important litigations, both in the Patent as Foster & Metcalf. Office and in the courts of law, that have arisen of In the winter of 1869-70 our subject again took late years. up his residence in Battle Creek and there became Where Mr. Metcalf has acted as sole solicitor engaged in general hardware business, which he and counsel, uniform success has won for him a continued for three years. Next we find him emrecord for him in the Department at Washington, barking in business as a real-estate and pension as unique in respect to the number of claims filed, agent and patent attorney. On April 24, 1862, and so in pension cases, when found upon investi- he was appointed Consul to Mexico by President gation to be worthy, his well-known '"bull-dog' Lincoln. While a resident of Grand Rapids he pertinacity, to borrow the trite expression of a held several positions of trust, among which was government official when speaking of him, is an the office of Justice of the Peace, and discharged assurance of success. Unworthy claimants have to the duties thus devolving upon him without seek other counsel, and the records of the Depart- fear or favor. Politically he usually votes the ment show a far greater proportion of "allowances" Democratic ticket. Socially he has been a member than against the name of any other practitioner. of the Masonic order, and is well and favorably His close application to business, honorable meth- known in the city where so much of his active life ods and fair dealing with all have led to his success has been passed. IIe is the genealogist of the Metin the vocation to which lie devotes his principal calf family, and in this connection has spent much time and attention. of his time for several years. A native of Utica, N. Y., Mr. Metcalf was born By his marriage with Miss Julia A. Arms, of December 12, 1823, and is the son of David and Kalamazoo, Mr. Metcalf secured one of life's richest Mabel Ball (Tolles) Metcalf. His father was a blessings-a good wife. Their wedded life has native of Massachusetts, born on " Northfield brought them three children, whom they have Farms," in the town of Orange, Franklin County, named Foster M., Albert B. and Fannie M. Mrs. Mass. The old homestead still remains in the Metcalf was born in Brockport, N. Y., and is the possession of a descendant, in the person of the Hon. daughter of the Hon. Albert Arms, of Kalamazoo, Thomas Metcalf. In 1816 he settled among the who is still living at the advanced age of eightypioneers of Utica, N. Y. Tile home of our subject five years. Mrs. Metcalf is a member of the Preswas in his native town during his boyhood, while byterian Church, and both she and her husband are his education was gained in different places. When highly respected by all who have the pleasure of lie was seventeen years old he entered upon a sue- their acquaintance. Their children were born at cessful mercantile career in the hardware business, Grand Rapids, and still living, "with children's selling principally through peddlers who traveled children," also all living. through the State. In 1845 he came to Battle Creek to establish himself in the same line, still continuing to send teams out into the surrounding. - --- country. He was burned out June 9, 1849, at the time the old Michigan Liberty Press was destroyed by fire, and he then went to Detroit, where lie ILLIAM 0. WOOD is anative-born citizen resided for several years. While there he workedl \A of this county, son of one of its honored at his trade as a coppersmith for E. Shephard & Co., pioneers, and he is now performing his and subsequently went to Grand Rapids, where he part in sustaining and extending the great agriwas employed in the same calling by Foster & cultural interests of this region. He is one of the PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 917 - --- -- ------ -- I --- —— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ prosperous farmers of Lee Township, where he has a well-appointed farm, pleasantly located on section 4. Daniel P. Wood, the father of our subject, who was in his (lay a prominent and influential citizen of these parts, was born in a pioneer home in the town of Geneva, Jennings County, Ind., February 27, 1819. His father whose given name was Elias, was born in Massachusetts. In early life he be came a carpenter and joiner. He settled in Wyoming County, N. Y., for a short time and then went to Indiana to look over the country, and while there carried on his trade, but soon returned to New York. He served in tile War of 1812, and his father was a soldier il the Revolution. About 1850 lie came to Michigan and lived with his children in Lee Township until his death at the venerable age of eighty-one years. The father of our subject, born during the residence of his parents in Indiana, was reared in tlhe State of New York. In 1842 in tle opening years of manhood hle came to Michigan and ambitious to better his education, he being of a studious nature and fond of books, he entered Albion College the first term that it was open, and slent several terms there in hard study. With a inind thus well trained, he entered upon his career as a farmer, locating on land on this section where his son now lives, and in the busy years that followed, lie became very prosperous. He had a large farm of over three hundred acres of choice land. Mr. Wood was married to Mariette Paine, a native of Orleans County, N. Y., and a daughter of Potter Paine who was a very early settler of this county and died at Albion. The fatiher of our subject closed his eyes in death in 1882 and his removal from the scenes of his usefulness was a deep loss to his community for which he had done much not only materially, but in helping forward all good causes that would in any way tend to promote its educational, social or religious standing. He was a conspicuous figure in public life and a member of the County Board of Supervisors in which office he zealously looked after the interests of his township. lie was also Justice of the Peace. He was one of tlhe most prominent members of thle Methodist Episcopal Church, was very aftive in securing its organization, being one of the charter members of the church, and was Class-Leader during his life. lIe was the father of the following six children: Celia and Daniel died when young; William O.; Mary, Mrs. Williams, died at the age of nineteen years; Effie, Mrs. M. Dedrick, of Lee Center; and Charles L., head book-keeper in the First National Bank at Northfield, Minn. William O. Wood, the subject of this biographical sketch was born at Lee Center, June 20, 1851, arnd was reared here on the old homestead of his parents. In his boyhood he attended the district school in the winter seasons, and was early madeuseful on the farm in driving oxen, and he drove a breaking team in tlhe pioneer work of developing his father's farmr. When he was eighteen years old he rented the old homestead of three hundred acres, and managed it until his father's death. In 1875 he visited Minnesota, and was in Northfield at the time of the great excitement concerning the bank robbery at that place. Hie returned to Michigan and resumed farming and h.is ever since paid strict attention to improving his farm and stockraising. Mr. Wood has a farm of one hundred and twenty-five acres of fine farming land, all of which is under cultivation, with the exception of twenty acres of timber, which constitutes a valuable sugar orchard. Tlhe land is neatly fenced into fields that are well tilled, and the place has all the latest irnprovements, including a modern residence, good barns, and is also supplied with the best of farming machinery. The farm is in a fine location eleven miles from Marshall and was formerly a part of his father's property. The town lhouse is located upon it, hlis fatler having given the land to the town for tlat purpose. Besides raising wheat very profitably, our subject conducts a good stockraising business. His cattle are of the Short-horn and 1)urham breeds; and his sheep of which lie las fromn fifty to one hundred. are fine specimens of the Merino breed. Hie has also good horses of the Norman grade. Our subject was married in his native township April 27, 1878, to Miss Esther Rundle. The felicity of their wedded life has been much enhanced by the four children born to them whom they have named Mariette E., Louis D., Ioward D., and Mabel 918 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. E. Mrs. Wood is a native of this county, born at Athens, August 27, 1852. Her father, Peter Rundie, was born in the State of New York, and was a pioneer farmer of this county. He died in Newton Township, when she was a small child. Her mother whose maiden name was Charlotte Root, was a native of tie State of New York, and was a daughter of Elijah Root, who was a farmer in that State until he became an early settler of Newton Township, where he died. After the father's death Mrs. Wood's mother reared the family. She married a second time, becoming the wife of Mr. Braugwin, and she now resides at Brookfield. Our subject is a leading spirit among the Democrats of this section and has been a delegate to county conventions. -le has served on the jury one term and has been School Director for six years. The public spirit that was so characteristic of his father seems to have descended to him and what ever will in any way enhance the interests of his township or promote its progress is sure.to find in him an earnest and liberal supporter. He brings to his work a keen, cool judgment, a practical knowledge of the best methods of farming and is making a success of his calling. His wife, who shares with him the esteem in which lie is held, is a devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. =: and millwright, and was also a contractor and builder. He early settled in Ohio, and was employed in boat building in the ship yards at the mouth of the Maumee River. He became a builder of mills in Ohio, taking up his residence at Birmingham. When the War of 1812 broke out he entered the army and did good service as a soldier. After hostilities ceased he returned to Ohio, subsequently came to this State with our subject, and died here at the venerable age of eighty-one years. Religiously he was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Politically he was a Democrat, and in all things lie was a worthy man and a good citizen. The maiden name of the mother of our subject was Annie Carpenter, and she was born in Massachusetts. She passed her last days in this township in the home of her son, our subject, who cared tenderly for his mother and father in their declining years. The maternal grandfather of our subject was Caleb Carpenter, and he was of Irish birth. He came to America and was a pioneer of Ohio, where he died. Eight children were born to the parents of our subject, seven sons and one daughter, and two of these sons and the daughter are still living. The names of the children are as follows: Truman; Angeline, Mrs. Turner, a resident of Mason County, Mich.; John, who was a soldier in the late war, and was killed at Little Rock; George, who was killed at Richmond, Va.; Charles, a resident of Lee Township, who took part in the war, and was wounded in the leg in one of RUMAN PLINEY WALKER is one of the the battles; Joshua, a soldier in the late war, who oldest settlers now living within the bord- was killed at Little Rock; Aaron, who served in a ers of Lee Township, and is classed among Wisconsin regiment in the late Civil War, and was its most successful and well-to-do farmers. He killed at the battle of Chattanooga; and Russell, came here many years ago with other members of who died in Olivet from the effects of a cut on his the family, and settled in the forest primeval that foot by an ax. The family, as may be seen by then covered his now highly improved farm on this brief record, was well represented in the war sections 10, 11 and 22, and has contributed his and the first four sons mentioned as soldiers, were quota towards the development of the agricultural members of Merrill's Cavalry Company. Our subresources of this county. ject desired to enter the army when the war broke Mr. Walker is a native of Ohio, born in Vermil- out, but was dissuaded from doing so by the earnlion, February 3, 1830. His father, also named est entreaties of his wife. Truman Walker, was born in Rutland County, Vt. The first twenty years of the life of our subject The grandfather of our subject was of Scotch de- were passed in his native State in the towns of Verscent, and his last years were passed in the Green million and Birmingham. In his youth he learned Mountain State. The father became a carpenter the sawyer's trade, and operated a sawmill when he PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 919 _. --- I was quite young. His schbol advantages were exceedingly limited, and what education he did receive was conducted in a rude log house, furnished with log slabs for seats. He gave his father much assistance in his labors, and in the fall of 1850 they came together to this county, making the entire journey from their old home in Ohio with a wagon, being some three weeks on the way, camping out at nightfall and cooking their meals on the wayside. Our subject had been here the fall before and purchased the land, he and his father and brother Russell buying a quarter-section together. There were no houses in this part of the township, and they settled in the woods in a log house that they put up to shelter the family. They busily engaged in clearing the land, broke it with oxen, and in time had a fine farm here. A few years later our subject bought the rest of his land, and now has two hundred and sixty acres of as good farming land as can be found in all Lee Township one hundred and sixty acres located on section 10, eighty acres on section 1 1, and twenty acres on section 22. Twenty acres of his land is a fine tract of valuable timber. He has his farm well fenced, its soil is under the highest cultivation, and the place is amply supplied with neat and conveniently ar. ranged buildings including a pleasant, well furnished dwelling, three good barns and other necessary outbuildings. An orchard of ten acres of choice fruit trees adds to the attractions of the place as well as to its value. The farm is admirably situated with regard to convenience to markets, and is twelve miles from the city of Marshall. Our subject engages in mixed husbandry raising wheat and other cereals and devoting much time to the care of his fine stock. Hie has a flock of graded sheep, from one hundred and fifty to three hundred in number; a herd of Short-horn cattle, and two teams of good horses to work his farm. Mr. Walker was married in Olivet Township in 1857 to Miss Caroline Smitl. She was like himself a native of Vermillion, Ohio. Her father, I. Smith, was a pioneer farmer of Lee Township. After a brief but happy wedded life of five years' duration, Mrs. Walker was taken from her husband and family by death, while she was yet in early womanhood. She possessed many amiable qualities that i endeared her to all around her, was a true home maker, and her memory is still cherished tenderly in the hearts of those who loved her. She was the mother of four children, of whom one, a little girl baby, died at the age of five weeks. Those living are: Artemus, a farmer in Lee Township; James II., a farmer who is helping to carry on the home farm; and Frank, who lives at home with his father. Mr. Walker has experienced much pioneer life since he settled here, as even then the country was in a wild condition, though more than fifteen years had elapsed since the pioneers had first begun to come in here. Wild game was quite plentiful, and the first winter after his arrival lie hunted much, and with the aid of his rifle furnished many a luscious meal for the family. The second winter that he was here he killed ninety deer besides much other wild game. IHe may take pride in the fact that he has been an agent in bringing about the great change that has been wrought by the hand of man within the forty years that he has lived here, which makes this section one of the richest and most flourishing counties of Southern Miclhigan. Politically he is a firm believer in the doctrines of the Democratic party. He has always interested himself in whatever concerned the well-being of his adopted township, and has contributed to all enterprises that he thought would in any way enhance its prosperity. I-e has served on both the grand and petit juries, and has never neglected the duties of citizenship. C HARLES H. BAILEY, a native-born citizen of Fredonia Township, occupies a favorable location on section 15, where he owns one hundred and thirty-eight broad and fertile acres. His entire estate is under cultivation and as a general farmer he is prosperous, securing a good maintenance and being able to make some provision for his declining years. He handles about eighty head of sheep per year and other stock in 920 PORTRAITL AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.II~ proportion, the cattle ranging from ten to fifteen and for all neighborly duties. Her family consists head, and the horses from six to eight. of two daughters and a son, named respectively, Mr. Bailey irade his appearance on the stage of Merrill, Florence and Flona. action August 23, 1845, and is the second of six The principles laid down in the platform of the children born to Oliver and Ruth A. (Butterfield) Democratic party find an earnest supporter in Mr. Bailey. His surviving brother and sisters are Bailey. His intelligence, interest in the welfare of FredericklA., Emma J. and Mary A., and the de- the community, and energy of nature, have made ceased are William F. and an infant. The father him a popular candidate for public positions, and was born and reared in the Empire State and came he has been Township Clerk four years, Assessor to Michigan in 1842. The following year he went six years, School Inspector two terms and School to Ohio where his marriage was solemnized, im- Director. A worthy citizen, a good farmer, with mediately after which he brought his bride to this an upright character and pleasant, cordial manners, county and located on section 15, Fredonia Town- he is held in excellent repute over an extended ship. Mrs. Bailey was born in Maine and was territory. about six years old when her parents went to Ohio, Elsewhere in this volume the reader will notice where she grew to womanhood. Her wedded life a lithographic view of the pleasant homestead of and the years of her widowhood were spent in this Mr. Bailey. county, and her mortal remains were deposited by the side of her husband in Lyon Lake Cemetery. She passed away in 1888, some years after her hus. band had been called home, the date of his demise 1JGUJSTUS LUSK is a representative of a being 1875. He had improved a good tract of (j fine old pioneer family of this county, land, clearing many acres, building fences and whose name will ever be associated with its erecting buildings, making it a pleasant and re- (- early agricultural development and tile munrerative piece of property. prosperity of its later years. For many years he The gentleman whose life and works form the sub- has been identified with the farmers and stockject of this sketch, acquired a practical education growers of Eckford Township, and tie farm that in the schools of the vicinity and on the home farm he has developed here, pleasantly located on seclearned the details of farm labor and management. tion 11, is one of the finest in this part of the He began his personal career when he had reached county. his majority, becoming a farm hand and working The birth of our subject took place July 24, by the month. After a time he returned to the 1809, in the town of Victor, Ontario County, N. Y. homestead to assist his father until the death of the His father, John Lusk, was born in Stockbridge, latter, and afterward to become the owner of the Mass. When he was a small boy he removed with farm. his parents to Victor, N. Y., of which they thus In 1883 Mr. Bailey led to the hymeneal altar became pioneers. After attaining manhood he beMrs. Rose (Butterfield) Wright, who was born in came quite prominent in his community. In 1812 Ohio in September, 1859. She had by her first he answered the call to arms when the Americans marriage one daughter, Ida M., who resides with were about to renew the struggle with the British, her mother. Her parents, Eben A. and Hannah and he entered the ranks of the American army. (Hunt) Butterfield, came to this State in 1870 and In the year 1814 he was promoted to be the Colonel located on a farm in Eaton County, where the of his regiment on account of his gallant conduct. mother died in 1886. The father is still living on He was taken prisoner at Black Rock, and was sent the homestead. Mrs. Bailey is the fourth of ten to Montreal with other prisoners of war. He was children, all still living except one. She is a cap- held three months and was then exchanged. able, energetic woman, whose early training was After he was released from captivity Col. Lusk suich as to fit her for the position she now occupies, returned to Ontario County, N. Y., and resumed PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - - -- - -- =,, = = _ = _ 921 _ _ - _- -- _ _ _ his occupation as a farmer. He remained there until the spring of 1836, when he and his son John, Jr., came to this county to purchase land with a view of building up a new home here in the forest wilds. He bought one hundred and sixty acres on section 11, Eckford Township, the same number of acres on section 1, that township, and a quarter-section in Marengo Township. He built himself a house on the land in the latter place and, returning to his native State, brought his family back with him in the fall of 1836, making the journey over the rough roads and through, the intervening forests in a wagon, four weeks being consumed in the trip. Some time afterwards he sold his place in Marengo and moved on to the quarter section of land that he owned on section 1, Eckford Township. Afterward he dis posed of that also, selling it to Gregory Hill, and bought two hundred acres of land near the village of Marengo, and tlere made his home until his death, January 10, 1873. This county was then deprived of a pioneer who, by his energy, enterprise and capability had been of great assistance in developing its resources, and his name will ever be honored as that of one of the most useful of its early settlers. Colonel Lusk was married three times. He was wedded to his first wife, Pruella Brooks, in Victor, N. Y., October 10, 1808. Six boys were the fruit of that marriage, of whom our subject is the youngest. The mother died in Victor, N. Y., March 13, 1833. The second marriage of the Colonel, which took place July 6, 1833, was to Mrs. Dinall Brooks, widow of Zera Brooks, of Victor, N. Y. Five children resulted from that marriage, two daunghters and three sons. Their mother died May 21, 1856. The third marriage of the Colonel, which took place November 1, 1856, at Royalton, Ohio, was with Mrs. Caroline Lusk, widow of his brother, Ira Lusk. She survived him until September 21, 1883, when she too passed away. When our subject first came to the county it was in a very wild condition, with but few indications of its present development and prosperity. Wild game was very plentiful and he has seen deer in great herds roaming over the prairies or through the forests where are now beautiful farms. He used to hunt occasionally, but he never killed more -- I I - — I" --- — - - I- - - ---I II --- than two deer. One day he shot a big buck, breaking one of his hind legs. His dog caught him by the nose and threw him. Mr. Lusk jumped on the head of the animal to cut his throat, but he had a hard fight with the infuriated beast before he could accomplish his purpose. Wolves were also very plentiful and often used to keep the pioneers awake at night with their howling. Mr. Lusk worked with his father until he attained his majority and then went out to work by the month on a farm until 1834, when he rented a farm in his native town and operated it until the fall of 1836. In that year he accompanied his parents to this county and became one of its pioneers. He and his brother John bought of their father the one hundred and sixty acres of land that he had purchased on section 11, Eckford Township. Our subject broke and improved fifty-six acres, and in the summer of 1857 built a house on his half of the quarter. Some years later he bought his brother's interest in the land and now owns one hundred and sixty acres of as fine farming land as can be found in the township, which he has improved into a choice farm that is supplied with excellent buildings and good machinery for cultivating its fertile fields and carrying on farming operations in general. As a practical, skillful farmer, who has met with marked success in his calling, Mr. Lusk has been no unimportant factor in bringing about the great change that makes Eckford Township a prosperous farming community. In his work Mr. Lusk has been greatly aided by his devoted wife, who has been to him all that a true helpmate can be. They were married in June, 1851, and to them have been born three children, one son and two daughters, namely: Frederick S., a farmer in Pulaski Township, Jackson County; Florence A., wife of Robert Woodley, a farmer of Eckford Township; and Nellie May, who died January 2, 1889. She was the wife of William Moshcr, who is managing our subject's farm. At her death she left a little girl four years of age. Mrs. Lusk was, prior to her marriage, Mary J. Shaw. Her father, William Shaw, was a native of Glasgow, Scotland, and was a weaver by trade. He came to America and settled in Rochester, N. Y., where he married, lie was drowned while yet in 922 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -— T = life's prime, 'while' he was rafting some lumber down the Genesee River. Mrs. Lusk, who was the elder of the two children born to her parents, was very young at the time of her father's death. Our subject has been twice married. Iis first marriage, which took place in 1833, was to Miss Ann Force. She died January 24, 1849, after a happy wedded life of nearly sixteen years. By that marriage our subject became the father of four children, one son and three daughters, as follows: Pruella, the wife of John Vroman, of Marshall, of whom see sketch elsewhere in this work; Henry 1.; Fannie F., who married Judson Rundel, a farmer, and died August 8, 1883; and Ellen A., who died in infancy. The career of our subject throughout a long and useful life, has been honorable to himself and useful to his community, where he has passed so many years. He is well known and is looked upon with veneration and esteem by his fellow-citizens, as in every relation he has shown himself to be a strictly upright man in thought and deed, and he is a worthy example of the true Christian. He is one of the foremost members of the Baptist Church at Marshall, of which he has been Deacon for many years. His wife, who is held in the same kindly regard as himself, is also an active member of that church. Mr. Lusk is a Democrat in politics. He cast his first Presidential vote for Andrew Jackson in 1822, though his vote was challenged. He has held local offices with credit, has been Assessor one year and has been School Trustee. _^ - > 5 elf31~\~~~=~ - I I I ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ -- In his paternal line Mr. Cummings is of English ancestry and the family has been connected with the history of Connecticut for many years. His grandfather, Oliver Cummings, was born in that State, and so was his father, Asher Cummings, whose birth took place in 1800. The latter was a farmer by occupation. He married Permelia Wil. lett, who was born in Greenwich, Washington County, N. Y., and was a daughter of James Willett, a native of the same county as herself. Mrs. Cummings died in 1854, in Onondaga County, N. Y., leaving three sons and one daughter: Lydia, who died in Kalamazoo, this State; George G., whose home is in Battle Creek; James R.; and Willard T., a resident of Kalamazoo. The father came to this State in 1861, first making his home in Cass County and thence to Kalamazoo County, and finally settling in Calhoun County, where he breathed his last in 1875. The subject of this biographical notice was born in the town of Onondaga, N. Y., March 10, 1830. After acquiring a fundamental education in the common schools he attended the Onondaga Valley High School, from which lie graduated in due time. He remained with his father until he was twenty-one years old, then began the battle of life for himself. In 1856 he came to this State, and worked for a period of six years for the Michigan Central at Dowagiac, as weighmaster and baggageman, then located on a farm in Kalamazoo County, near Augusta. He subsequently removed to Convis Township, this county, where he was engaged in general farming and stock-raising until the fall of 1887. He then removed to Marshall and two years later embarked in his present enterprise. His farm comprises two hundred acres of choice land, which has been well developed and supplied with a complete line of good buildings. In the prosecution of his worldly affairs Mr. Cummings has been energetic and prudent, and the success with which he has met is no more than his just deserts. The lady who presides in the home of Mr. Cummings became his wife April 16, 1867, prior to which time she was known as Miss Harriet E. Christie. Her parents were James and Ann Christie, and she was born in Caledonia, Livingston Connty, N. Y. One daughter, a bright school-girl AMES R. CUMMINGS. Among the flourishing business establishments of Marshall may be mentioned the flour and feed store of the gentleman above named. It has been the aim of the proprietor since he began business to keep reliable brands and to insure to his patrons goods upon which they could depend, and this fact, backed by his personal reputation, has in a short time given the establishment a secured standing. In addition to the articles mentioned Mr. Cummings deals in farm and garden seeds of all kinds. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 923 --------------------— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~I -— `-~~~ I named Mabel C., is the sole heiress of Mr. and.Mrs. Cummings. His wife is an excellent housekeeper, a woman of more than ordinary intelligence, and one whose character commends her to all who make her acquaintance. While living in Kalamazoo County Mr. Cummings was Township Clerk four years, and after his removal to Convis Township, this county, he was elected Supervisor and served in that capacity ten years, resigning to remove to Marshall. He was elected Secretary of the Calhoun Agricultural Society in 1888, and is still the incumbent of the office. IHe belongs to St. Albans Lodge No. 20, F.& A. M. In politics he is an active worker, has frequently served as a delegate to county, State and Congressional conventions, and stanchly supports Democratic principles. As a citizen he ranks high, his sterling character and strict integrity being valued as they should be. NDREW WOODEN, a prosperous farmer, ^^4I\ has passed much of his life in Emmet Al' Township, was reared here under pioneer influences, and has done much hard pioneer labor in improving the homestead that he owns and occupies on section 15, which his father bought of the patentee in the'early days of the settlement of this county. The subject of this sketch was born in Ontario County, N. Y., April 10, 1835. His father, Daniel Wooden, was also born in the State of New York, 1804 being the year of his birth. His father's name was John Wooden, and lie is also thought to have been a native of the Empire State, where he carried on farming for many years. He owned four hundred acres of land near Geneva and was one of the most prosperous farmers of that region. His life was lengthened out to the age of eightythree years. He and his wife had a family of three sons and four daughters. Daniel Wooden received a thorough practical training in all branches of farming on his father's farm. He was yet a young man when he came to Michigan in 1836 and joined his fortunes with the pioneers of this county. He bought the land on ---- _ -- - ------------------------ sections 15 and 22, Emmet Township, which is now in the possession of our subject, and actively commenced the hard work of developing a farm. The rough pioneer life, with its attendant hardships and privations, broke down his health, and at the end of four years he returned to his native State with his constitution hopelessly ruined and while yet in the prime of life he died at the age of thirty-eight years. He was a man of much intelligence and in regard to his political views was a firm believer in the Democratic party. [le married Frances Palmer, who was born in the State of New York in 1810. Of the four children born to them all grew to maturity, but our subject is now the sole survivor. The others were Alma (Mrs. Beckett), Caroline, and Harriet (Mrs. Lee). The mother of our subject is still living and though eighty years of age she retains to a remarkable degree her physical powers and even now can walk three or four miles at a time with ease. After the death of her husband she returned here in 1 843 with her children, and worked hard to keep the little family together, enduring many hardships and sacrificing much for tier offspring. For what she did and suffered in those days she is receiving compensation in the filial love and tender care of her only son and she will never lack for any comfort that he can provide. When she was left a widow she had no means and she strove in every way to provide for her family. During the construction of the Michigan Central Railroad through here in 1845-46-47-48, she kept boarders and in other ways procured the means of sustenance. Our subject was but three years old when his parents brought him to Michigan, the journey thither being made with three yoke of oxen and the family came through Canada by the way of Detroit. They were only a week in coming from the latter city to this point, a distance of one hundred and fifteen miles through the wilderness, which was quite rapid traveling for those days considering the means of locomotion. We have mentioned the return of the family to New York after the father's health had failed and their second coming to this State in 1843 after his death, which occurred February 14, 1842. This time they made the trip by the Erie Canal to Buffalo, thence by lake to 6$/ PORTRZAIT AND -BIOGRAPHICAL ALBU~M. Detroit, from that city to Jackson, where a team well cultivated land as can be found in this neighwas hired to bring them to Emmet Township. borhood, which he devotes to raising grain and This locality was still a pioneer settlement and stock. His success is attributable to the fact that wild animals were seen in abundance, (eer, wolves he knows how to work to good advantage, pays and bears being plentiful and at night the howls of strict attention to his business and is a capable the wolves around the cabins wouldl often rouse manager. Politically, he is with the Democrats. the pioneers from their slumbers. There were but Hle has a kindly, sympathetic nature and his record few roads laid out here and not many evidences of as a son, as a husband, father, and neighbor is one progress and civilization were to be seen in any which does credit to him and to his community. direction. Some of the Indians of the tribes that formerly possessed these lands still lingered around the home of their ancestors, and would frequently call at the cabin in which the Woodens were living to beg for something to eat. At that time the set- AMES SARGENT BARRY. The farmers tlers did their trading at Battle Creek in which of this county are as a class, men who bethere was then but one store. stow much thought upon the details of their Andrew Wooden being the only boy of the famn- work, wiho make a study of soil and climatic ily, though he was very young when his father influences, and employ the most approved modern died had to help support his mother and sisters. agencies in cultivating and developing their farms. lie was educated in the stone schoolhouse in Dis One of this body is he whose life will be given in trict No. I which was built in 1845, and was fur- brief in these paragraphs. Ile owns a fine tract of nished with rude slab benches. The school was land on section 17, Sheridan Township, consisting conducted by rate bill and each scholar had to fur- of one hundred and thirty-six acres, eighty-three nish half a cord of wood for heating purposes. of which are under the plow. It was improved Andrew spent most of his time in clearing the oll when he took possession, but he has added to the homestead and in farming and thus early became buildings upon it two barns and a substantial resian expert farmer. lie finally took a job of (istrib- dence and has likewise strengthened the productiveuting mud sills on the Michigan Central Railroad for ness of the land. twelve and one-half cents a day, as he was anxious The father of our subject was Archibald Barry, to do anything whereby he could earn an honest who was born in Orleans County, N. Y., May 20, penny and help his mother. 1805. Ile took up the pursuit of farming which he Mr. Wooden was married January 28, 1863, to made his life work. H-e was a soldier in the War Nancy Kane. Sne is a native of this county and of 1812 and was a Captain in the New York was born September 23, 1841. Her parents, Militia. In 1853 he came with his family to this George and Nancy (Stiles) Kane were natives of State and selecting Marengo Township, this county, New York and were among the earliest pioneers of as his place of residence, bought a partially-imthis county, coming here in 1833. Our subject proved farm, to the value of which he added by and his wife are happy in their domestic relations, other improvements, remaining upon it until 1866. which have been blessed to them by four children, He then came to that now occupied by our subject, all of whom are living, namely: Fannic (Mrs. John. this also being but partially improved when he son), Lillian (Mrs. Kerner), Rena and Mark. took possession. lie lived here but a short time, Mr. Wooden built his present neat and attractive being called from time to eternity April 12, 1868. frame house in 1863 at a cost, all told, of $1.000. Mr. Barry had but a common-school education, He built two large frame barns, one in the year but possessed fine natural ability, was a fluent 1862 and the other in 1872, at a cost of $1,800 for speaker, and was not only greatly interested in that them both and has them neatly painted. He has which would tend to the higher culture of the one hundred and thirty-four acres of as choice and people, but was able to exert strong influence in' p PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 925 ~~'-~~^ —~~~-`- ~~~ —`~~I- - - - -~~~~~ ~~~ — x~~~'-~~- ~ ~ — ~~~ --- —-`- I-~~~~~ ~~ ----~~~-`-~~ ~~ —~~ ----~~~ that direction. In school affairs he was especially interested and always championed the cause of the teacher, advocating a higher standard of ability and the retention of one who did well. I-e was a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he held the positions of Steward, Trustee and Class-Leader, and he also took an active part in Sunday-school work and served as Superintendent. He was a ipember of the School Board. Believing in temperance in all things, he used tobacco moderately, and frequently gave up the habit entirely for a time. He had the love of all who knew him and was affectionately spoken of as "Uncle Arch." The mother of him of whom we write bore the maiden name of Clarissa Sargent. She was born in New Hampshire, December 25, 1807, being a daughter of Reuben Sargent, a prominent farmer of the Granite State. She was first married to James Eastman, a native of the same State as herself, who died in 1831, leaving her with one child, Frances, who is totally blind and makes her home with our subject. In Orleans County, N. Y., May 6, 1832, Mrs. Eastman was married to Archibald Barry, to whom she bore nine children. James is the second of those now living, the others being Phebe, wife of L. B. Agard, whose home is in Litchfield, this State; Alfred M., resides in Albion; Mary C., wife of George Welsh, resides in Tekonsha. Mrs. Agard is a graduate of Albion College and has had considerable experience as a teacher both in the ward and High School at Albion. She is one of the foremost members of the Literary Society of the town in which she resides. The mother of this family entered into rest February 27, 1888, strong in the faith of the Methodist Church. James S. Barry was born July 5, 1845, in Orleans County, N. Y. He acquired a good practical education in the district schools and pursued the higher branches in Albion College a year. IIe gave his attention to farming, for which he has a natural aptitude and toward which his early associations and training also tended. IHe is a student of his work, applies thereto his practical knowledge, and makes of it both an art and a science. He divides his attention between the usual farm products and stock, and is improving his grades of domestic animals. He was twenty-three years old when his father died, after which he and his brother Alfred carried on a farm together until 1878, it being in their joint possession. Since that date our subject has been the sole owner and manager. The lady who presides over the home of Mr. Barry became his wife August 17, 1874, prior to which time she bore tile name of Emma Young. She is a daughter of George and Emily (Sherman) Young, natives of Vermont and New York respectively, who were married in the latter State and have always resided there, their present home being a farm in Cattaraugus County. Mr. Young is now eighty-three and his wife seventy-three years old. They are the parents of eight children, seven now living, and Mrs. Barry is the fourth in order of birth. She opened her eyes to the light November 19, 1847, received her elementary education in the district schools of the Empire State anad subsequently attended the Forestville Academy and the Normal School at Fredonia. Her intellectual powers were still further developed and her knowledge advanced by one year's study in Albion College. At the early age of sixteen years Mrs. Barry began her professional work as a teacher in the district schools of her native State. IHer experience extended over a period of eight years, (luring which she became known as an able instructor and one whose interest in those under her charge was not confined to the branches on the curriculum, but extended to their manners and morals. She possesses the amiable disposition that endears her to those who know her, and the culture of mind and perfect courtesy which make her one of the most prominent members of society in this section. These good qualities are crowned by piety and Christian deportment. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Barry consists of five children-James Eugene, born June 19, 1875; Emma Amanda. July 3, 1877; George Archibald, June 3, 1879; Frank Young, July 17, 1881; Alfred Glenn, April 29, 1888. The parents are deeply interested in the mental development and progress of their children and all are well advanced for their respective ages. James will be qualified to enter Albion College in another year and will then be but sixteen years old. All the children except the 0 926 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.I baby belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church at him on the subject of secret societies, and began Marengo, having of their own free will made their by asking if he were not a member of a certain confession of faith and received the ordinance of organization. He was greatly rejoiced to find that baptism. The parents are identified with the same Mr. Barry had withdrawn. lie, although occupyreligious society and Mr. Barry has been Steward ing a pulpit, had been in the habit of chewing and Class-Leader for years. He has taken a most tobacco and Mr. Barry retaliated by questioning active part in Sunday-school work, has officiated as him in regard to the habit. The minister answered Superintendent for eighteen years and holds the that le had broken it off after a terrible struggle. same position in the local Sunday-school, which is Another minister, to whom Mr. Barry spoke in held in the church at Marengo during the summer reference to smoking, who had lit his cigar and said season. "perhaps smoking is offensive to some of you" When it was first suggested to Mr. Barry to ac- wlen Mr. Barry replied that the smoke was not as cept the Superintendency he felt his inability to offensive as it was to see a Methodist minister carry on the work, but said that if God could use smoke, took offense at what he considered interfero~ humble an instrument as himself, he was willing ence and asserted that he paid for his cigars with to be used and placed himself in the Lord's hands. his own money, thus indicating that his friend had The results have justified his course, and he has been no right to speak of his habits. instrumental in building up and fostering the In politics Mr. Barry was formerly a Republican, school, which has grown in numbers and gained in but for the past six years he has been an ardent the intensity of interest shown by both old and Prohibitionist. He has been a member of the young. Since Mr. Barry began this work there School Board and paid frequent visits to the schoolhave been but three instances in which another was room, his best record in that line being made durelected Superintendent and in each case he has been ing the year in which his present wife was teaching. called upon to fill out the year. No self interest or Both husband and wife belong to the local Literpersonal pride actuates him in his work, but an in- ary Society. All are much interested in intellectual tense desire to see Zion built up and young and old exercises and recreations, and Eugene once gave up brought within the pale of the church. During the use of coffee in order that he might buy a one of the elections the man who was first chosen season ticket to a course of lectures at Albion Colrefused to serve, and again and again the vote was lege. taken, each successful nominee refusing the office to which they were elected in a sportive mood. At - --- ' the third failure Mr. Barry, who was conducting the balloting, proposed to the congregation to seek divine aid in their choice. While pouring out his AMES BALL, who resides on Warren Street, heart in prayer he felt a positive assurance that the at Marshall, is one of the most extensive and next ballot would be for the man chosen of God successful breeders of fancy poultry in this for the work. He announced his conviction to the f section of the county. He is the son of one school and he, himself, being the unanimous choice of the early pioneer families of Michigan and was at the next ballot, felt that he must obey the call. born here in territorial days July 14, 1833. His Mrs. Barry has been a very successful Sunday- father, Charles C. Ball, was a native of Vermont, school teacher and is equally interested with her and a sterling representative of the New England husband in the work. people, who came here in the early days of the setMr. Barry takes much interest in the Farmers' tlement of Michigan, to found new homes. He was Alliance movement, but is opposed to the old secret a son of Joseph and Jane Ball, who removed to the societies. He once united with one, but soon with- State of New York when he was young. Mr. Ball drew. Shortly afterward he was met by a minis- grew to a stalwart manhood and early settled in terial friend who desired a little conversation with life, taking as his wife and-helpmate Miss Miranda I II I I 0 p I I II I I I II I I k PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 927 A. Wilcox, a native of the State of New York and a daughter of Theron Wilcox. In 1828 Mr. Ball came to the wilds of Washtenaw County, this State, he being at that time an unmarried man. When the Black Hawk War broke out he enlisted and took part in the contest with the Indians. After marriage he settled near Ann Arbor, whence he subsequently removed to Cass County, and in 1851 took up his residence in Eckford Township. He actively engaged in farming there until death put an end to his busy career in 1857. His wife had preceded him to the land beyond the river in 1848. She was the mother of six children, three sons and three daughters, of whom four survive. The names of the children are as follows: James, who is the oldest of the family; Mary J., Louisa, Helen, Wesley and Orin. Our subject was reared by his worthy parents to a useful manhood under the influence of pioneer surroundings, and his education was obtained in the primitive schools that were in vogue during his boyhood and youth. He early became conversant in the labors of caring for a farm, and when he attained the age of twenty-one, he left the parental home to begin an independent life as a farmer in Eckford Township. In 1871 he removed to Marshall, where he has much of the time since resided. He then entered the Rice Creek mills as miller, and operated then in partnership with A. E. Watson, for three years. At the expiration of that time Mr. Ball sold his interest in time Rice Creek mills and removed to Tekonsha, where he helped to carry on the planing mills for three years in partnership with his brother Orin. He then returned to Marshall and established himself in his present business as a breeder and dealer in fancy poultry Hle has a well fitted up hennery wherein he keeps as many as thirteen different varieties of chickens, as well as the Pekin and Rowen breed of ducks which he sells and ships by pairs or in larger numbers as the trade demands, besides selling a great amount of eggs. He has built up a good business and is doing well from a financial point of view, and his name is well known in the various markets where fancy poultry is a specialty. James Ball was married in 1857 to Miss Jane Richfield of Eckford. She was born in Canada, though her people'originated in New Jersey. Her parents, John and Charlotte (Towsley) Richfield, moved from the Dominion to this State and settled in Coldwater. Six years later they moved to Eckford where Mrs. Ball grew to womanhood and was married. She has made our subject a most excellent wife who closely identifies herself with his interests and is in every sense a helpmate. Mr. Ball has placed himself in comfortable circumstances by his industry and the careful management of his affairs and he and his wife are well thought of by the people amongwhom they make their home. Both are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church and he has long been one of its prominent'officials as Trustee and Steward. ^T t\ H. McWETHY is one who makes of farming a profitable business, and from a tract of land of moderate size reaps crops that )well repay his efforts. He also raises stock of good grades, including the ordinary domestic animals and draft horses. His farm is a choice tract of seventy-four acres on section 36, Lee Township, where good buildings of various kinds have been erected and orderly arrangements made for the prosecution of the farm and home economy. Among the conspicuous features is a large windmill and tank, and various machines are in use during the proper season. Mr. McWethy is a grandson of Reuben McWethy, who was a carpenter and farmer in Cayuga County, N. Y. until 1842. He then came to this State, took up his residence in White Lake, Oakland County, and lived in retirement, eventually dying at the home of his son William, father of our subject. The ancestors of the family were Scotch. William McWethy was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., and in his native State married Mary A. Smith, whose father was a farmer there, but whose birthplace was Colnecticut. In 1839 the worthy couple removed to Oakland County, this State, where a farm of one hundred and twenty acres was improved and a home made several years. They then 928 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ I I ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ---- l- --- changed their residence to Clinton County, and few years later bought property in Ingham County which was their home during the remainder of thei lives. They belonged to the Protestant Methodis Church, and while in New York Mr. McWethy ha( been active in church work as a Class-Leader, etc In politics he was originally a Democrat, but ii later life a Republican. The parents of our subject reared seven children R. H. being the second in age. IIe was born ir White Lake, Oakland County, this State, March 9 1840, and when three years old became a dwellei in Springfield Township, where he remained until after the breaking out of the Civil War. The section of country in which he grew to manhood was supplied with log schoolhouses in which instruction was given principally in the winter, and under the rate bill system. He took advantage of the opportunities afforded, and like other farmers' sons, early began to take his part in the work carried on at home. He became thoroughly conversant with agricultural details, and so qualified to successfully operate a farm of his own. We would do great injustice to Mr. McWetly, did we not speak of his war record. In August, 1862, he was enrolled in Company B, Fifth Michigan Cavalry, and being mustered in at Detroit, was sent to Washington. After a round of camp duties and more or less skirmishing, the command was engaged in the battle of Gettysburg, soon after which event our subject was taken sick. He was not able to rejoin his comrades for duty until March, 1864. He subsequently fought in the Wilderness, at Chancellorsville, Spottsylvania, North Ann River and Cold Harbor, all well remembered and important conflicts. Mr. McWethy was under the command of Gen. Grant until May 27, 1864, when he was wounded by a piece of shell, which struck him in the left side above the hip, making a contusion which kept him in the hospital several weeks. The injury was received in a battle near Hall's shop, and the sufferer managed to get to the rear, whence he was taken to the hospital. When able to rejoin the command again, he found the regiment about to engage in the Shenandoah campaign under Gen. Sheridan, and the more immediate guidance of Gen. ' —!:;!;::1;..-::.:~; a Custer. With that brave cavalryman Mr. McWethy rode many a mile up and down the valley, r ready as all Custer's brigade were, to follow his t flashing sword and waving hair at all times and un1 der all circumstances. In January, 1865, Mr. McWethy cut his foot so severely that he was unable to ride, and was again obliged to take his place in the hospital. He was mustered out in May of that year, received an honorable discharge, and returned to his home to resume the duties of civil life. The, previous year he had been promoted to the rank of Corporal. I A short time after his return from the South, Mr. MeWethy took charge of the homestead, which 3 he carried on a year, at the expiration of which time lie bought in Clinton County. Ils farm consisted of seventy acres in Olivet Township, upon which he made clearing and put improvements, bringing it under good cultivation. He made that place his home until 1880, then sold it and bought the property he now resides upon, eight and a half miles from Marshall. Here also he has had' considerable clearing to (o, and many improvements to make. The womanly intelligence and virtue of Miss Emeline Pierson, of Davisburg, Oakland County, impressed Mr. McWethy with a sense of her worth, and he won her for his wife, their marriage being consummated at her home in 1866. The bride was born in Jefferson County, N. Y., received an excellent education, and devoted herself to the profession of teaching, for which her tact as well as her knowledge fitted her. Her father, Leonard Pierson, a native of the Empire State, was a shoemaker in Oakland. The happy marriage has been blest by the birth of three children-Cora M., Francis L. and Louie C. The oldest has attended Albion College, and the second is now studying there. The parents being themselves more than ordinarily intelligent and having g a high appreciation of mental culture, are determined that their children shall be well schooled, and encourage them in every effort to improve their talents. While living in Clinton County, Mr. McWethy tilled various township offices, and gained the reputation of an efficient and faithful public servant. He belongs to the Grand Army Post at Partello, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL; ALBUM. 929 PORTRAIT~ AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.929 and greatly enjoys talking over the scenes of the past with comrades and friends. Notwithstanding the sufferings he endured, there is much of a pleasing nature in his remembrances, and his patriotism gives thrilling interest to the dangerous side of army life. In 1889, when the Michigan Soldiers' Monument was dedicated on the battlefield of Gettysburg, he visited the ground whereon he had fought. He has been a member of the Patrons of Industry, and is connected with the Farmers' Alliance at Rice Creek. He votes a Republican ticket. He is now Trustee of the Protestant Methodist Church, and has been Steward and Class-Leader. I-e is highly regarded by his associate members, and has the respect of all with whom he comes in contact in business or social relations. al AMUEL L. PRITCIARD lias won an honorable record as a farmer and stock-raiser in Clarendon Township, where he has been prosperously engaged in his vocation for many years. Lie was born in Gloucestershire, England, near the old town of Sudbury, January 11. 1835. His parents were Isaac and Elizabeth (Lockstone) Pritchard, of whom mention is made in tile sketch of James Pritchard, the brother of our subject. Samuel is the sixth child and second son of tle parental family, and in his boyhood days lie attended school and assisted his father until he was sixteen years old. He then, in the year 1851, set out from his old home to seek fortune's favors in the New World. After a long and tedious voyage he landed at New York, and from there made his way to Four Mills, south of Clyde in New York State, where for two years he was employed in working on a farm. In 1853 he came to Michigan and for eight months was engaged as a farm hand in Eckford Township. After that he came to Clarendon Township, where he worked for William Rosecrantz, remaining with him for five years. By that time our subject had obtained a good start in life and was enabled to marry and make a home, and his marriage with Miss Julia Riggs took place in Clarendon Township, December 23, 1859. Mrs. Pritchard is a native of this county, and was born May 2, 1850, in Homer Township, in the pioneer home of her parents, Victor and Jane (Wilkins) Riggs, she being the youngest of their four children, two sons and two daughters. IHer parents, who were natives of New York, came to Michigan in 1835 and were among the early settlers of Homer Township. The father built a log house in which he lived until about twenty years ago. They improved a good farm and finally their useful lives were closed in death, the father dying in 1882, and the mother in 1842. Mrs. Pritchard was well trained in all that goes to make a good housewife, and has contributed materially to her husband's prosperity. Their marriage has brought them five children, three daughters and two sons. Their second child, Cora, who was the wife of John Jackson, died November 29, 1890, leaving a little child in the care of her parents. Jennie, the eldest cllild of our subject and his wife, died at the age of four years. They have three remaining children, all of whom make their home with them, namely: Emory, Nellie, an6 Luther. Mr. Pritchard is unswerving in his allegiance to the Republican party. He possesses those traits of character that mark a good man and a true citizen, and he is loyal to his adopted country. EIe and his good wifeare eminently deserving of the respect accorded to them, as they are people of sterling worth. nHOMAS W. PRITCHARD is a son of a wellknown farmer and stock-raiser of Clarendon Township, and is himself a member of that class that is so potent in maintaining the prosperity of this county. He has already won a reputation for skill and practical ability in his calling, and his farm on section 29, of the township mentioned is in every way a valuable piece of property. Mlr. Pritchard was born September 29, 1851, and the town of Tyre, Wayne County, N. Y., is the place of his birth. He is the oldest son of James and Eliza (Saunders) Pritchard, whose biography is on another page in this volume. He was two years 930 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. old when the family removed to Michigan and in were away they visited Scotland, Ireland and the district school No. 4 he obtained the prelimi- Wales, and during their seven months' absence had naries of a liberal education. He afterward went a very enjoyable time. Our subject is loyal to the to school at Tekonsha, and subsequently attended citizenship of his own country and is in every rethe Michigan University at Ann Arbor one year. spect one of the most trustworthy citizens of his After leaving college he visited the home of his township. He is well known in social circles as a ancestors in England in 1875, and that year was member of Lodge No. 127. A. O. U. W., at Tekonalso made eventful to him by his marriage while in sha; and is a member of Lodge No. 148, K. 0. T. M. the old country to Elizabeth Stinchcomb. Mrs. at Homer. His political sentiments nre in accord Pritchard was born at Horton, Gloucestershire, with those expressed by the majority of the DemoEngland, in 1850, and is the sixth child in a family cratic party of which he is an ardent supporter. of eleven children. After marriage our subject returned with his bride to America and took up his residence on I l-xhis present farm of one hundred and sixty acres. He has since assiduously devoted himself to farming with unbounded success, and his farm under DGAR H. GRANT. The city of Marshall his able management has become one of the choic- is the seat of a new but promising industry, est in the neighborhood. Lie has now eighty acres j in which the gentleman above named is a3 -of land that is under the best of cultivation and tively interested. It is the manufacture of the from its well-tilled fields he reaps rich harvests. Combination Folding Bath Tub, and was instituted The buildings upon his homestead are of modern in the fall of 1889. Already the company enjoys construction and are all first class. Ile Las one a good local trade, and- has begun to ship goods large barn 40x70 feet in dimensions besides other from Maine to California. The manufactory is commodious outbuildings. Hle has one hundred located south of the Michigan Central depot, near and fifty head of sheep, some of which are full- the banks of the Kalamazoo River, where suitable blooded, and he has other good stock, as he does a buildings were put up, and quite a force is emgeneral farming business. ployed. The bath tub occupies but a small space A home of coziness and comfort is that of our in a house, and being simple as well as useful, is subject and his wife. Their's has been a pleasant bound to be widely demanded. wedded life and to them have been born two chil- The parents of Mr. Grant were Lachlen and dren-Fitz T. and Frederick. Their greatest sor- Sophia (McPerson) Grant, both of whom were narow has been in the death of their son Fitz, who tives of Scotland, and who emigrated to America was born in 1877, and died at the age of eleven after their marriage. They came to Marengo Townyears. Their son Frederick, who was born in 1885 ship, this county, in 1834, and among the early setis now attending school in the same schoolhouse tlers lived and labored, improving and cultivating where his father used to go when a boy. Mrs. a farm which the husband operated during his acPritchard is a daughter of Thomas and Martha tive life. He died in 1882 in his sixty-eighth year. (May) Stinchcomb, natives of England. Her The mother passed away in 1852. mother is dead. Her father, who is a farmer by Our subject was born on the parental farm in this occupation, still resides in Gloucestershire, Eng- county, in July, 1855, and is the youngest in a land. All of her brothers and sisters are living, family of six children. He attended the district and she has two brothers in the State of Washing- school until he was sixteen years old, when he conton, one in Kansas, one in Michigan and the rest tinued to improve his mind by self effort, spending are in England. every leisure moment in reading and study. He In 1885 Mr. Pritchard made another trip to learned the tinner's trade with William H. Wells, England, accompanied by his wife and while they after which he was in the employ of J. L. Dobbins ~I:: ~::;: ::I::; i::::j -a:-:: ~,~ ~rc-: r:::S~-3Ler;~ ~-~-r;;~~~,.~;LilB;,:~l~z,s- if,,,; e:: PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 933 ------— ~~~~~~~~ -1-" --- —-- 1~~~~~~~~ — 1 ~ ~ ~ - - -'~~~~~` -` --- —--— ~~~~~~ for eleven years, who was in tile manufacture and sale of hot-air furnaces. He then embarked in the furnace business. for himself, which he carried on for seven years. At that time having completed the invention of a combined folding blath-tub nnd heater, he closed out his interest in the furnace business and commenced the manufacture of his bath-tubs, in which he is engaged at the present time. In November, 1877, Mr. Grant led to the hymeneal altar Miss Mary Jane Fleming, daughter of John and Nancy Fleming, residents of Rome Township, Lenawee County. This lady was born in Lenawee County, was carefully reared, and is wellread and intelligent. She has borne her husband two sons, bright lads, named Roy and Glenn. Mr. Grant has given his attention mainly to his personal affairs, but served one term as Alderman from the Fourth Ward. lie belongs to St. Albans Lodge, No. 20, F. & A. M., and is also enrolle(d in the Chapter and Commandery. lie exercises the right of suffrage in behalf of the candidates who are pledged to support the Democratic platform, as he fully believes that by so doing he is helping Allegany County, N. Y. The mother breathed her last in Springport, Jackson County, Mich., in June, 1866. taving lost his father when but five years old Albert B. Calkins came West with an uncle, Bela Cooper, their objective point being this State, but they tarried at Ashtabula, Ohio, until spring, when they continued their journey, arriving at Spring Arbor the very day that our subject was six years old. The country to which they came was wild, and the log cabins of the few settlers being remote from each other. The gentlemen with whom the lad came built a log house on the south side of Lime Lakes, not far from the hamlet, and in this building eleven persons spent the summer. The structure had no floor but mother earth, and but one window, that being nine inches wide and covered with oiled paper in lieu of glass. The bedsteads were made of poles and the other articles used were equally rude and simple. Milling was done at Adrian, a week being consumed in making the trip to and fro with oxen, and the settlers subsisted principally on cornbread or johnny cake, baked before an open fire. the nation in its onward march. There were no schools in the vicinity of his home, but when he was ten years old young Calkins went to old Spring Arbor, where he learned ~ " i" --- ~ -— 3,~c~L~^y =,-_~B his a, b, c's from a Miss Fitzgerald who afterward married a Mr. Pike. When fourteen years old the lad started out for himself, coming to Smithfield LBERT B. CALKINS. Among the re- where he secured work on a farm and whence he tired men now living in Albion is num- hauled goods with an ox-team from Jackson to bered Albert B. Calkins, who was born Albion. lie spent the winters in attending school near Utica, N. Y., March 25, 1830. His until he was seventeen years old, when he concluded parents were Joshua and Fanny (Cooper) Calkins, to learn the blacksmith trade and entered the shop both natives of Connecticut. Their family com- of P. K. Conklin, of Old Spring Arbor. After pr:sed eight children, the subject of this notice more than a twelvemonth devoted to his trade the being the seventh in order of birth. Cornelius is young man determined to visit his mother who was now living in Lushton, Neb.; Maria married Ches in Allegany County, N.Y., and after the conclusion ter Kellogg and botl she and her husband died in of his visit lie returned to Michigan. His health the Empire State; Mary A. married William Oyer being poor lie was advised to give up his trade and and after his demise Thomas Wellington, and later so turned his attention to educating himself for a died at Springport, Mich.; David died at Lusliton, teacher. He took charge of the class in outline Neb.; Lois is the wife of John W. Clark, of geography in the college and taught during the Maynard, Iowa; Samuel died when six years -old; evenings in the different school districts, while Wallace is living in Springfield, Ill. The father, making his way through the Michigan Central Colwho was a blacksmith, died in 1835 in Angelica, lege at Old Spring Arbor. 934 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. The first district school taught by Mr. Calkins was at Landon's Corners, Springport. He received $10 per month for his services with the understanding that the school would number about twenty-one. Pupils came from other districts however, parents paying for their board, and at the close of the term the roll-call was for sixty-one; thus showing that his work was appreciated and satisfactory. This was in the summer of 1849. Mr. Calkins was next employed by Samuel Graham at a Mormon settlement on Big Beaver Island where he remained two terms. Lie spent the ensuing summer in farm work and taught during the winter il Indiana, but not being very economical was short of funds when spring opened. His brother wanting some sheep driven to a Mr. Payne, Albert agreed to take them. On reaching his destination between Shelbyville and La Porte, Ind., he was met by the purchaser who told him to drive the animals into the yard and then get his dinner. He was much taken aback when the door was opened by a half-breed, Mr. Payne's wife, and being requested by her to go to the back door and get his dinner in the kitchen, he would not enter, telling her that he was not accustomed to going into back doors. The boy who accompanied him secured a good meal, and our subject, becoming very hungry on his way home, repented of his stubbornness and concluded to make some provision for a rainy day, and be ready to supply his wants in the future. During the same season, the spring of 1852, Mr. Calkins went to Holmesville, Ind., where he had heard that the Lake Shore & Michigan Railroad wanted wood cut. He and William Marcy took a contract to supply one thousand cords, the conditions being that if the wood was on the track by the 1st of July they would receive $1.25 per cord, but if not the price would be $1. Although his partner left him in June Mr. Calkins, by hiring extra help, was able to complete the job on the last day of June, and after paying off his indebtedness had $265 in gold, but hard work had unlermined his health and for nearly a year he was comparatively an invalid. In 1854 he returned to Spring Arbor. then went to New York after his mother, and on his return to Michigan began work for Stephen H. Sears. He boarded with his uncle, i I I ~ ~ ~ - and in the intervals of farm work, studied, mastering Thompson's higher arithmetic and the elements of algebra without a teacher. In the fall he acquired the title to a piece of land in Shiawassee County, receiving from its former owner a written statement that the ninety acres bordered on a public road and was surrounded by cultivated farms. He trustfully put all his money into the purchase, but on looking up the papers found a tax title which brought him into debt. Even this misfortune did not discourage Mr. Calkins, but he continued his efforts to win a name and a place in the world, and ere long was engaged with his uncle, Marvin Kellogg, in the grocery business in Flint. After a few months he sold out, took the position of clerk and was placed in charge of a branch at East Thetford. In a short time he received the appointment of Postmaster, being the first to fill that position in the town. He was also appointed Town Clerk, and had charge of the examination of teachers. After some months his employer being desirous of closing out, he disposed of the stock and returned to Springport, buying of his uncle the old homestead where they had located upon first coming to this State. In April, 1856, he settled upon it with his father-in-law, but in March ensuing sold out and removed back to Springport, where he was appointed Postmaster. In addition to the duties of that office he engaged in the sale of groceries and manufacturing boots and shoes, putting up a good building and carrying on a satisfactory trade. In 1861 he added a stock of dry goods. In 1862 he disposed of his stock to John Oyer, taking in exchange one hundred and twenty acres in Clarence Township, which he developed and upon which he erected suitable buildings. In 1864 Mr. Calkinsenlisted in the Sixth New York Heavy Artillery, Company E, and being mustered into service at Elmira, N. Y., was sent to Harper's Ferry to join Sheridan. From that time until tie 19th of October he was taking part in the raids of the noted cavalryman. He was present at the battle of Cedar Creek, and saw the brave leader on his famous ride "from Winchester twenty miles away" and during the rally at Cedar Creek. Mr. Calkins was wounded in the hand, causing the loss PORTRAIT AND BIC of his thumb, and was sent to Saterlee Hospital, West Philadelphia, which at one time contained more than eleven thousand men, being one of the largest in the world. In the ensuing January Mr. Calkins was transferred to the Veteran Reserve Corps and was appointed Pass Inspector, which position he held until his discharge, December 2, 1865. From his return home until 1867 Mr. Calkins was engaged in farming. He then concluded to try an easier way of making money, and attending the State Fair, secured an agency for the Warrior Mower Company. The first year he made nothing and concluded to buy the machines outrilght. After two years of this way of working he was employed as General Agent for the State of Michigan and continued in the employ of the firm until 1883, when his health failed. In the spring of 1882 lie liad removed to Albion and here he spent 1883 and 1884 in recuperating his strength. In the fall of 1884 he resumed his work and a year later closed up the business for tile firm. In 1888 he. bought tan interest in the Union Windmill Manufacturing Company of Albion and was elected General Agent, Manager and Collector. In December, 1889, lie sold his stock and permanently retired from business life. The wife of Mr. Calkins was known in her maidenhood as Miss Mary M. Hartson. She is a daughter of Joseph and Caroline (Allen) Hartson, natives of the Empire State, and became Mrs. Calkins February 25, 1855. The union has been I)lest by the birth of seven children, one of whom died in infancy and Cora when two years olL. The survivors are Eva, wife of F. M. Orrison, of this county; Warren HI., a painter and decorator located at No. 495 W. Madison Street, Chicago, Ill.; Lucy, whose home is in Denver, Col.; Irwin, who resides in Jackson aId( is in the employ of the Michigan Central Railroad; and Vinton who.lives in Trinidad, Col. Mr. Calkins is Past Adjutant of E. W. Ilollingsworth Post, No. 210, G. A. R., and is Past Grand in the Odd Fellows lodge. In his youth he was an advocate of the Whig principles, but when he became of age took his stand with the Douglas Democrats. While living in Clarence Township he was Justice of the Peace for many years and after DGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 935 coming to Albion he was elected to the same office which he now holds. The attention of the reader is invited to a lithographic portrait of Mr. Calkins, presented on another page of this volume. ) —I ----I i^g~^ --- —-- P- LA-V EL S. HAMILTON. This enterprising gentleman is a member of the firm of Hamilton & Rogers, dealing in grain and agricultural implements in Eckford. He has been identified with the interests of this county for more than a quarter of a century, much of the time as a tiller of the soil, but later as a business man in the village that is now his home. IHe formed his present co-partnership in 1887, and neither member of the firm has just cause to be dissatisfied with the business, as they are working up an excellent trade, being located in an agricultural district that is well developed and prosperous. Mr. Hamilton is a native of the Green Mountain State, born November 3, 1823. Mention of his parents and facts in their history will be found in the biographical sketch of his brother, P. P. Hamilton, on another page in this ALBUM. When very young he went with his parents to the Empire State, where most of his time was spent until he became a resident of this county in the spring of.1856. Hle attended the district schools until he was twelve years old, after which he was privileged to go but two winters. In youth he began working out by the month and so occupied himself until his twenty-first year. He then crossed the Alleghany Mountains to Brookville, Pa., to look up &ome land, but not being satisfied returned to the Empire State, and in the fall of the same year started to Indiana. He traveled by canal to Rochester, thence by boat to Buffalo. At this place lie took the steamer "United States" for Toledo, and had a very rough voyage, the vessel coming near foundering. On the Wabash Canal he reached Ft. Walyne and thence camne to Sturgis, Mich. After a few days spent here he returned to Ft. Wayne, thence went to Logansport, and from there to Rochester, Pulaski County, Ind. Going into the country twelve milhs Mr. Hamil 0 - 936 PORTRAIT A~ND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 93 PRTAI NDBIGRPICL LBM ton took up eighty acres of Government land and began its improvement, but being taken with chills and fever, and reaching a condition that threatened a fatal termination of the disease, he sold out and returned to New York. As soon as his strength would permit he rented a farm which he operated five years, after which he bought property in the town of Springwater, Livingston County, N. Y. His estate consisted of one hundred and fifteen acres, on which was a sawmill which he bought two years later. In the fall of 1855 Mr. Hamilton sold his interests in the Empire State and made his preparations to come West again, this time selecting Michigan as the seat of his future labors. Coming hither in the spring he bought one hundred and twenty acres on section 10, Eckford Township, which was a tract of somewhat improved land, having upon it a house, barns and an orchard. After a time he sold the property and bought forty acres on section 12, removed thither and remained there until the spring of 1868. He then rented the Gillett farm and bought eighty acres on sections 10 and 15, working the entire property until 1885. At that time he moved to the village of Eckford, where he built a tasteful residence and started a lumber yard. Mr. Hamilton has been twice married, first in Springwater, Livingston County, N. Y., in December, 1853, to Miss Martha Wicks. This lady was a daughter of James Wicks, who was a farmer born iu the Empire State. She died in the spring of 1871, leaving two children: Emerson, who is now married and working his father's farm; and Emma, who married Frederick Lusk, a farmer in Eckford Township. Mr. Hamilton won for his second wife Mrs. Sophia Gillett, to whom he was wedded in the fall of 1871. She had a son, Vernie Gillett, who is now pursuing his studies at Terre Haute, Ind., and will be graduated in June, 1891. Mr. Hamilton is a respected member of the Methodist Church, in which he has been ClassLeader ten years and Steward eighteen years. His business enterprises are conducted according to the most honorable methods, and in social life he is agreeable and courteous. In politics he is a Republican. His first Presidential ballot was cast for James K. Polk, in the fall of 1844, the election being held on the anniversary of his birth. Mr. Hamilton has been Justice of the Peace two years. The great-grandfather of Dudley Hamilton was born in Scotland, and was banished from his native country and came to the United States and landed in Philadelphia, Pa., in Colonial days. ICHAEL W. WISELOGEL. This county, like other portions of the United States, is indebted to citizens of foreign birth for aid in the development of her agricultural resources, promotion of the cause of education and other movements for the public weal and for examples of good citizenship. The German Empire is the fatherland of the subject of this sketch, who has won an ample competence and an honored name since he first tried his fortune on American soil. He is a conspicuous figure in enterprises connected with the growth in civilization and prosperity of Sheridan Township, and has especial prominence among those of his own nationality. The Duchy of Baden was the birthplace and early home of Michael and Mary (Gilge) Wiselogel, parents of our subject, who were born in 1792 and 1790 respectively. Both were well educated under the school system of their native land and Mr. Wiselogel had a position under the Government to keel) the Rhine River within its boundaries. This worthy couple emigrated to America in 1836, landing at Quebec and continuing their journey to Stark County, Ohio, where they took possession of a partially improved farm. They made that their home until 1853, then came to this State and bought land on section 3, Sheridan Township, this county. This tract had some improvements, to which Mr. Wiselogel added, continuing its development and bringing it to a high state of productiveness. He died here in 1875, and his good wife survived him ten years. Their family consists of four sons and daughters, all living. The natal day of the subject of this biographical sketch was December 7, 1818, and his birthplace the ancestral home in the Duchy of Baden, Ger PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 937 many. He received a good German the schools of his native land and b3 fort has acquired a knowledge of the gauge. He was eighteen years old v ily emigrated and a year later he beg of life for himself, without monetary armed with determination, physica mental energy. He learned the trad moulder, at which he worked for f years, but which he abandoned upoi this State in the fall of 1853. He hi to save a little filthy lucre, and sele( of land in this county, he bought foi began to clear and improve it. The cated on section 2, Sheridan Towns been increased to the extent of eighty rod of which shows the power of M hand. It is in a high state of cull duces abundant and first-class crops good stock is raised thereon. Mr. some fine cattle of mixed Durham and His present residence was built in 1884 he added a large modern barn buildings which he had erected. The labors and cares, as well as t pleasures, of Mr. Wiselogel have beet 1839 by an estimable and efficient bore the maiden name of Elizabeth daughter of George M. and Ame Snyder and was born August 10, Kingdom of Bavaria. Her parents c. ica in 1831 and were pioneers in S Ohio, where they remained until dea Mr. Snyder was a wagon-maker by t: called from time to eternity in 187; after his wife had breathed her la~ died in 1853. They were the par( children, three of whom are now Wiselogel, who was the third in orde had a good common-school educa partly in this country. She is a Christian, a wise and d(evoted moths the housewifely capability which bel of her race. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Wise of six living children and one decea educated in the district school, were education in structed by their parents in the principles that y his own ef- should animate their lives, and are so conducting English lan- themselves as to give their parents great reason for vhen the fam- pride. We note the following facts in their lives. ran the labors Frederick -., who married Annie Haney, lives in r capital, but Indianapolis, Ind., and has three children. He is l vigor and General Superintendent of the United States Ferle of an iron- tilizing Company, of New York City, and is the a number of inventor of a fertilizing dryer, for each one of n coming to which sold the United States he receives $500 royad been able alty. He is a prominent Mason, having taken the sting a tract thirty-third degree of the Scottish rites. William F. rty acres and married Meda Dyer and operates a planing-mill in e farm is lo- Muskegon, this State; he holds the second posiship, and has tion in the Odd Fellows order in this State, r acres, every being Commander of the Second Regiment. Louis r. Wiselogel's C. married Elizabeth Markham, has four children tivation, pro- and lives in Florida where lie carries on a fruit of grain, and farm and does something at his trade of a blackWiselogel has smith. Charles H., born July 20, 1853, was killed Jersey blood. by the bursting of a fly-wheel in a rolling-mill in 1862, and in South Chicago, Ill., on January 20, 1884. His to the other wife, Addie Wiselogel, was born in Clyde, Wayne County, N. Y., December 1, 1858, and died July,he hopes and 10, 1885, at Sheridan, Mich. Their children were: i shared since Nellie, born in Sheridan June 28, 1879; Harry, wom:an. She born in South Chicago June 15. 1882; Irene, born Snyder, is a in South Chicago December 15, 1883; and Palmer.lia (Snyder) F., born in Sheridan, Calhoun County, Mich., Feb1822, in tie ruary 11 th, 1885. Carrie, wife of William H. ame to Amer- Ford, living in Albion, has two children. Chris Itark County, I). married Hattie Brownell and has one child; Lth took them. their home is in Albion and he is Superintendent rade. He was of the Gale Manufacturing Company. Emily mar5, many years ried Alvin Bryant and has two children: their st, she having home is in Indianapolis, Ind., and Mr. Bryant is ents of seven Superintendent of the fertilizing works at Denver, living. Mrs. Colo. r of birth, has Mr. and Mrs. Wiselogel belong to the Presbytion, received terian Church at Albion, and their children while conscientious at home took active part in the Sunday-school er, and has all work. In Ohio Mr. Wiselogel was a church trustee. ong to women He is a Mason, belonging to the Blue Lodge and Chapter at Albion, is a prominent member of -logel consists North Sheridan Farmers' Alliance and rarely fails ised. All were to address the meeting when he is present. For i carefully in- fifteeen years he has held the position of $Schol 938 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Director and he has always shown great interest in intellectual improvement. He formerly took a very active part in the local Literary Society and was instrumental in organizing and holding debating schools. tie has been Road Overseer, and for twenty-five consecutive years was Justice of the Peace, this long period of official life proving conclusively that his neighbors and associates believed him well fitted for the position. In politics he takes the interest that every true citizen should manifest and has often been a delegate to conventions. From 1840 until the birth of the Republican party he was a Whig, and has since been one of the most earnest and influential Republicans in this part of the State. The advice given by him to his sons is applicable to all who desire to act well their part on life's battle-field, and has characterized his own life. It was, to be honest and true, courageous, industrious and economical, and to keep up their credit as business men and citizens. AVID WALKINSHAW. The front rank among the agriculturists of Convis Township is accorded by general consent to the subject of this sketch, who owns and occupies a fine farm on section 22. His landed estate amounts to three hundred and sixty-five acres and his wife holds the title to two hundred on the same section. thus making the entire body five hundred and sixty-five acres, which is under the control of the husband. Five or six span of horses are employed in carrying on the farm work, and all the modern improvements in the way of machinery by which the labor is simplified to humanity, are used here. Among them is a grinder and sheller, operated by horse power. The land is fenced into fields of from ten to fifteen acres in extent, and has two good sets of farm buildings upon it, together with orchards and groves, one of the former being twenty acres in size. Mr. Walkinshaw was born in the city of Marshall March 7, 1843, and is a son of the Hon. James and Janet (Henderson) Walkinshaw. On another page in this volume will be found a history of his father's life ahd connection with the interests of this counly. When David was about a year old his parents removed lo Convis Township, where Iie grew to manhood surrounded by the usual accompaniments of farm life, early taking his place among the workers. When but eight or nine years old he drove oxen, using three or four yoke to break ground. His schooling was obtained principally during the winter seasons, and lie recalls the log schoolhouse with its primitive furnishing, so different from that in which his own children have mounted up the hill of knowledge. lie continned to make his home under the parental roof until after he had attained to his majority, when he entered the Union army, enlisting August 1, 1864, in the Second Missouri Cavalry, known as the Merrill Horse. He was mustered into Company M, at Jackson, and joined the regiment at St. Louis. Merrill Horse was an independent regiment, whose duty consisted in raiding for forage and opposing the guerrillas. The winter was spent in St. Louis and in early spring the regiment started for Atlanta, having numerous skirmishes with guerrilla bands in Tennessee, Georgia, South Carolina and Alabama. Lookout Mountain was crossed by the party three times and they were in camp at Chattanooga when orders were received to go at once to Nashville and be mustered out, that event taking place in June, 1865. The aid given the Union cause by the work of the gallant men who made up Merrill's Horse is a matter of historical record and needs not to be mentioned at length in these paragraphs. Suffice it to say that young Walkinshaw was not behind his comrades in enthusiastic patriotism or gallantry of conduct, and won a meritorious record in the ranks of his country's defenders, spending some of his best days amid the smoke of battle and the hardships of campaigning. A short time after his return homre Mr. Walkinshaw took a companion in life and established his home on the Van Fleet farm of two hundred acres, which was the seat of his agricultural work for five years. He then bought eighty acres on section 26, where he lived three years, after which he traded with the former owner of the place for ninety-seven acres on section 23. The latter tract PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 939 - --- — 1- -— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- --— ~~~~~~ he improved and occupied some three years, after which he traded for two hundred and eighty-four acres of that he now occupies. On this improved land he established himself and has since remained, adding to its extent and keeping up the improvements in first-class style. The home farm has three barns, which are not found to be too many when the extent of the labors of the owner is taken into consideration. Mr. Walkinshaw pays considerable attention to stock-raising, all his animals being full-blooded or of high grade. He has seventy head of Durham cattle, two hundred of fine wool-growing sheep and a goodly drove of PolandChina swine. He deals quite extensively in sheep and cattle, and is one of the heaviest grain producers in the township. He has taken a fair share of the blue ribbons at the fairs, winning them on hogs. The wife of Mr. Walkinshaw bore the maiden name of Sarah M. Van Fleet, was born in Convis Township and is a daughter of James Van Fleet, one of the earlv settlers who came hither from the Empire State. The marriage rites between her and our subject were solemnized at the home of her parents September 26, 1865, and have brought mutual happiness in their train. A son and a daughter have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Walkinshaw, bearing the names respectively of James E. and May. The son is married and resides on the home farm; he pursued his higher studies in the Advent College in Battle Creek. The daughter is now attending the High School in Marshall. The mother is an affectionate and sympathetic matron, in whom the heart of her husband can safely trust and has proved her devotion to her children many a time and oft. She is a kindly neighbor, ready to aid and comfort all who are in need of sympathy or help, and is interested in the social affairs of the neighborhood. Since 1884 Mr. Walkinshaw has been Treasurer of the Calhoun County Agricultural Society and prior to that elate was a member of the Executive Board. In a Democratic township, though himself a Republican, he was elected Supervisor in 1888, running on the ticket of his own party. He is still retained in the position and in the general work of the Board hlas been on the Committee of Equaliza tion and Claims. He has been a school office since the war. He has aided in advancing the interests of his party by acting as a member of the County Central Committee and a delegate to county and State conventions. He is Commander of C. C. Colegrove Post, No. 166, G. A. R., in Marshall, and attended the Encampments in San Francisco and Boston; he has also been present at every State Encampment since the organization was perfected. He is a member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen in Marshall, and is now Deputy Sheriff of this county. In addition to the large amount of farm land owned by Mr. Walkinshaw he owns other real estate, consisting of a residence and lots in Marshall. He is conspicuous by his interest in all public enterprises anal by his earnest efforts in behalf of his township. In fact he has taken the place of his father in the community and shows the bent of a practical mind in every matter to which he gives his attention. He is well known throughout the county, and possessing as he does fine social qualities and a deep fund of information on all the leading topics of the day, he is a very popular man. He is a good conversationalist, and those who associate with him can always gain something of instruction as well as interest from his words. For his loyalty, his painstaking efforts to build up his fortune, and the good principles which have governed his life, lie is justly respected by all who know him. * _-aI -— ^ D E DMAN W. WEBSTER. The great commonwealth of Michigan is tile home of many self-made men, but none whose lives afford a better example of untiring industry, faithfulness to the interest of an employer, and zeal in personal affairs than can be found in the person of the gentleman above named. He owns and occupies a farm on section 2, Sheridan Township, consisting of eighty-three broad and fertile acres, nearly all of which was cleared and brought under cultivation by himself. He has erected thereon a comfortable and substantial dwelling, good barns and other out. 940 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - -— --- — ----— buildings, is successfully carrying on mixed farming and is likewise interested in good trotting stock. Heiand his faithful wife have done much hard work and their home is a merited result of labor upon which they look back with mingled feelings of sorrow and joy. They rejoice in their ability to do, and notwithstanding the arduousness of their tasks recall many happy hours which were brightened by their faith and hope. Mr. Webster is of English birth and lineage, Lincolnshire having been the early home of himself and his parents. His father, Joseph Webster, was born in 1799, and his mother, Jane (Jackson) Webster, in 1804. That good couple after their marriage, continued to live in the mother country until 1835, when they crossed the broad Atlantic, landing at New York City June 4. They came at once to this State and established themselves on a wild farm in Washtenaw County. They were in fair circumstances and, although numbered among the pioneers, did not llave to suffer all the privations that befell some of their associates. Mr. Webster improved his tract of oak openings, bringing it up to a good state of cultivation prior to the spring of 1848, when he removed to this county and settled where the son, our subject, is now living. He had scarcely taken possession of this new home ere he was called from time to eternity. His wife survived until the spring of 1856, when she too was borne to the tomb. Mrs. Webster held membership in the Episcopal Church, under whose teachings her three children grew to maturity. Mr. Webster was a man of decided natural ability and devoted himself with all the powers of his nature to the affairs of his farm and family. The natal day of Edman W. Webster was November 21, 1831, and he was a little lad four years of age when the voyage across the Atlantic took place. His schooling was obtained mostly during the winter seasons in the district school of Washtenaw County, and has been added to by the better education which is only to be gained by personal observation, study, and contact with humanity. He began the labors of life for himself when sixteen years old, leaving home empty-handed, but dowered with an abundant share of the sturdy determination so characteristic of the Englishman, and resolved to conquer adverse circumstances. Ile obtained work as a farm laborer and was soon receiving extra wages on account of his faithfulness, skill and physical strength. His wages were from $10 to $12 per month and he was prudent in his expenditures, keeping ever before him his desire to secure a place among tie landowners of the country. In 1854 Mr. Webster crossed the plains to California, accompanying Dr. Tuttle and driving cat. tle. The little party was en route six months, lacking seven days and, although not subjected to the dangers that surrounded the "'49ers," had some experiences more interesting in the recital than in their actuality. Mr. Webster remained in the Golden State nearly sixteen years, during ten of which he worked in the mines. LIe was subsequently employed on a ranch, and on bridges and other work for the Central Pacific Railroad. In 1870 he returned to this State, and within a few months was permanently settled at his present location. His career since that time has been conparatively uneventful, marked only by the usual events of life. The lady whom Mr. Webster won for his wife was Eliza White, daughter of Edward and Eliza (Morehouse) White, natives and life-long residents of Ireland. She was born in the Emerald Isle in November, 1844, grew to womanhood on a farm, and gained the knowledge of domestic economy and books which is usual under similar circumstances. She possesses the quick intelligence and perceptive faculty that are characteristic of the natives of the Emerald Isle, and has a ready reply whenever addressed. She is a member of the Episcopal Church and has the sympathy of her husband in her religious faith and practice, although he is not a communicant of the Church. Mrs. Webster came to this country in 1867 and direct to this county. Her happy union has been llest by the birth of three sons: William W., Joseph E., and John E., who are being given practical educations and good home training. Mr. Webster is a member of the North Sheridan Farmers' Alliance and of the Patrons of Industry, being now a member of the Finance Committee of the latter and taking ani active share in.its work. 943 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. IHe is serving his third term as Director of his school district. Ie takes an intelligent interest in political affairs, and though in local elections voting for the man rather than the party, he is and always has been an active Republican and votes with his party at National elections. In principle and practice he is strictly temperate, and in all that goes to make up the man has those characteristics that are duly recognized by good standing in the community. B>ENJAMIN W. WHEAT. Too much credit can scarcely be given to the man who, heginning his career without capital save his native energy and industrious habits, llas, by dint of hard labor, prudent management and careful investment, become the owner of a good home. Particularly must credit be given those who, while accomplishing this purpose, have developed a character which wins the respect of all to whom they are known and gains for them the warm friendship of their intimate associltes. Members of this class are to be found scattered throughout the State, but none who have manifested greater enterprise and zeal than the subject of this biographical notice, who is numbered among tile farmers of Sheridan Township. The Wheat family is first known in America in the Empire State and Benjamin Wheat, grandfather of our subject, was a native of Albany County. He was a carpenter by trade and lived to an advanced age. His son Hiram, direct progenitor of our subject, was born in Ohio in 1805, and after reaching manhood gave his attention to farm work. In Cayuga County, N. Y., he was married to Lavina Gardner, a native of the Em. pire State, and in that county they remained until 1842. Some years before Mr. Wheat had been West and had located one hundred and sixty acres of timber and marsh land in Clarence Township, this county. During the year mentioned he removed hither, built a log house and began making clearings. He had no team and his circumstances were such that it was necessary for the family to deny themselves of many comforts and make every effort to advance their financial interests. At the time of their arrival Indians still lingered throughout this section and settlers were so few that there was but one house between their's and Abbott's Tavern, a distance of four and a half miles. By hard work and continuous effort Mr. Wheat placed his farm under good improvement, after which he sold it. He is now deceased, dying February 16, 1891, at the venerable age of eighty-five years. The mother of our subject died in 1848, at her old home in New York, whither she had been taken to close her eyes amid cheerful scenes. In the same county Mr. Wheat was again married, his bride being Miss Laura Bailey. After living in the Empire State a year or two they came West and settled upon his farm, where she died in 1860. Of the first union our subject was the only issue. The second union resulted in the birth of four children, two of whom are now living-Mrs. Ella Starr and Charles. The subject of this biographical notice was probably the first white child born in Clarence Townslhil thle date of his birth being May 26, 1844. Ile was left motherless when but four years old and for a time was cared for in tile family of David H. Miller, now deceased. After the second marriage of-his father he was taken hlome and remained until he was sixteen years old. Ile had been obliged to work hard through his boyhood and had but meager opportunities to gain an education, owing to the wildness of the neighborhood in which his early days were spent. When sixteen years old he began for himself, working by the month for Sylvester Abbott until the breaking out of the Civil War. Young Wheat then enlisted in the Ninth Michigan Infantry, but as he was below the legal age, his father took him from the regiment. He finally succeeded in becoming a soldier, being mustered into the Sixth Michigan Heavy Artillery in the spring of 1864, when twenty years old. He joined Company I at Port Hudson, La., and remained at that point three months, after which he was at different places along the Mississippi River. The command embarked for Little Rock, Ark., and while en route the steamer was fired at by rebel 944 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHI-IICAL ALBtUM. 9 PA GL batteries and sunk. A solid shot struck a post and a large splinter fractured the leg of Mr. Wheat below the knee.. Ile was put on board a gunboat, and when able to walk was sent to New Orleans and later to Ft. Gaines, La., where he resumed duty. Still later he accompanied his comrades to Greenville where they remained until mustered out in December, 1865. After returning to the North Mr. Wheat bought thirty-three acres of land near Mud Lake, Sheridan Township, which is a part of his present estate. The land was covered with timber, which he began to cut, hewing out for himself a home. He built a log house, and beginning in a small way, has in the course of twenty five years surrounded himself with the conveniences and comforts his course in life so well merits. HIe now has one hundred and seven acres of tillable land nearly all under the plough and all cleared by himself. IIe divides his attention between the cultivation of grain and the raising of stock. Three years ago lie built a commodions barn and a few months since put up modern residence. A horse and harness was the extent of his equipment when he began the development of this property; he now has ample machinery and as many liorses and other domestic animals as his needs require. The presiding genius in the home of Mr.'Wheat is the lady who became his wife in 1865, and who prior to that time was known as Miss Iydia l)oolittle. She is the dauglhter of Andrew Doolittle whose sketch will be found on another page of this volume. Mr. and Mrs. Wheat have two children-Williatm, now nbout twenty four years old; and Flora, a young lady of seventeen years. Both are well versed in the ordinary branches of an English education and Miss Flora is quite proficient in music. She has played for church and Sundayschool and is a Sunday-sch6ol teacher, the entire family attending and taking an active part in the same. Mr. Wheat has been called upon by his fellowcitizens to act for them in the capacity of Rc ad Overseer and Justice of the Peace, and is now serving in the latter office. He is interested in the advancement of the cause of education and in the various movementw which promise to in. crease the prosperity and elevate the characters of the people. lie has been a Director in School District No. 5. He belongs to Lodge No. 36, A. O. U. W., and to Post No. 210, G. A. R., in Albion. At local elections he votes for the man rather than the party, but in national issues he is found with the Democrats. HIe is a man of temperate habits, hearty and whole-souled, and is held in good repute by neighbors and acquaintances. J EORGE II. SANDERS, the son of a wellI known and honored pioneer of this county, |Au( who was prominently connected with the rise and growth of Eckford Township during his life, is one of the most progressive and prosperous farmers and stock growers of this region. His farm on section 11, of the township mentioned, is one of the best appointed and most highly improved estates in this vicinity. Our subject is a native-born citizen of this county, his birth occurring in Marengo Township, November 28, 1840. Iis father, Benjamin Sanders, was born in Rhode Island in 1790, where he was reared to the life of a farmer. His father was a native of England, who came to the United States prior to the Revolutionary War, and took part with the Colonists in that conflict. After the war he lived on his farm in Erie County, N. Y., until his removal to tile West in the fall of 1840. Ile traveled with a team all the way, and when he arrived at Chicago camped there two days. He could then have bought the present site of that city for asmall sum of money. He did not like Illinois, and so retraced his steps until he came to Marengo Township, in this county. As his capital to start life here he had three span of horses and three wagons, and had his money all in gold in a two-quart water pitcher. He remained in Marengo Township two years and then went to Albion, where he resided three years. At the expiration of that time Mr. Sanders came to Eckford Township and bought one hundred and sixty acres of land from a speculator. It was located on section 11, and was entirely in a wild 9 "I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 945 state, being very stony and grubby. He built a log house which his son Horton afterward occupied. Iln 1846 he erected a frame house, into which his family moved, and he immediately entered upon the pioneer task of breaking the land, building fences. barns, etc., and in time had it all finely iiproved. He used two breaking-up teams, with eight yoke of oxen to a plow, and besides breaking his own land broke a good share of other land in the township. He lived here until his death, July 17, 1859, when one of the most useful and valued pioneers of the county passed to his rest. The maiden name of the mother of our subject was Keziah Bunn, and she was born in Vermont, July 13, 1800. Her father was an old Revolutionary soldier, serving patriotically throughout the entire war, and he was also in the War of 1812. Hie was of Welsh descent, his father having been a native of Wales. He was a farmer in Vermont, and came from that State to New York in 1835, and was one of the early settlers of Marengo. He took up a tract of wild Government land, which he improved and made his home until death called him hence. His wife died in Lee Township, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Abigail Thomas. The mother of our subject died May 5, 1881. George H-. Sanders was the youngest in a family of fourteen children, six sons and eight daughters, of whom two sons and four daughters are still living, and all but two of the children lived to become men and women. Our subject staid with his father on the farm until the death of the latter, when he left home and went to California in the spring of 1860. He remained there four years, and was engaged in the dairy business most of the time at Sacramento and San Francisco. In the fall of 1863 he came back to Eckford. His brother-inlaw, George Raymond, was then living on the homestead, and our subject began buying out the interests of the other heirs in the estate until he finally obtained possession of the whole property, and has made his home here ever since. Mr. Sanders has a very fine farm, comprising a quarter section of land as fertile as can be found in the county. It is under the best of cultivation, and its improvements are of a high order. In 1880 our subject erected a large frame residence, of a modern style of architecture, at a cost of $3,000. It is tastefully arranged, is heated by a furnace, and has all the modern conveniences. Mr. Sanders has a fine set of farm buildings, including a large barn, hog pen, corn crib, etc., which cost him about $2,000. lie has a windmill, and a tank holding thirty-four barrels of water, and a large reservoir at the barn whllich has a capacity of-five hundred barrels of water. He has all the best farming machliiery, and carries on his agricultural operations after the most approved methods. He devotes his time to general farming and stock raising. He pays some attention to raising the Hambletonian and Wilkes breeds of horses, has a fine flock of fifty-one Shropshire sheep, and other valuable stock. Mr. Sanders and Miss Adelia Weller were united in wedlock December 31, 1868. Mrs. Sanders is a daughlter of Linus and Margaret (Rapp) Weller, her father having been a well-known farmer of Branch County, MNicl. EIe was born in Albany, N. Y., being of German origin. In 1840 lie came to Clarendon and settled on a farm in that locality, and thence removed to Butler, in Branch County, in 1851. lie owned a farm there which he subse. quently sold on account of his failing health and went to live in Hillsdale, where le (lied February 24, 1872. His wife died in Butler Township, Branch County, October 1, 1885. They were the parents of eight children, four sons and four daughters, of whom Mrs. Sanders was the youngest daughter. She was born in Clarendon, June 25, 1848. Her married life with our subject has been pleasant and has been blessed to them by the birth of four children, three sons and one daughter, of whom the following is recorded: Riley E., born December 10, 1869, is pursuing an academic course in the Methodist Episcopal College at Albion; Fred L., born October 16, 1871, is living at home with his parents; Luella May, born July 11, 1873, is attending school at Albion; George E., born November 22, 1880, is attending the local district school. Mr. and Mrs. Sanders are people of high standing in their community, and none know them but to respect them. They are genial, pleasant and hospitable, and are very charitable, true friends to the suffering and needy. They are people of earnest Christian character; he is not a member of 946 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. any religious society, but she is identified with the Methodist Church. Mr. Sanders cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln in 1864, and has always been true to the Republican party. ON. CHARLES DICKEY, deceased. Among the citizens of Calhoun County none were more prominently or favorably known than the lion. Charles Dickey, formerly Judge of Probate of the county. He was descended from the sterling stock of the Scotch colony that went from Argyleshire to the North of Ireland in 1612, and possessed the same traits of sturdy manliness and integrity that distinguished his forefathers. Ilis father, John Dickey, was a direct descendant of one of the Colonists of Londonderry, N. Il., who emigrated thither in 1719 from the city of the same name in Ireland. In his New England home John Dickey followed the business of a merclant, and was also the agent of the Londonderry linen manufacturers, who for several years continued their work in the Granite State. He married Rhoda Varnum, a native of Dracut, (now Lowell,) Mass., and to them was born a son, April 3, 1813, and christened Charles. Wheii Charles Dickey was about four years old his parents removed to Livingston County, N. Y., where he resided until he was seventeen, attending the district school in the winter seasons and working on the farm the remainder of the year. During the last three winters lie attended Moscow Academy, his chief instructor being the Rev. John Walker, and when graduated lie received the first prize on essays, "Hawes' Lectures to Young Men," valued at about a dime. Upon leaving school he engaged as salesman with Messrs. Patterson & Dickey, manufacturers of fanning mills, and remained in the county until 1832, when with his brother he engaged in the manufacture of the same machines in Vienna, Ontario County. He continued the business until 1836, during the last year being located in Penn Yan, Yates County. March, 1836, Mr. Dickey bade farewell to his friends and turned his steps toward Marshall, Mich., where tie arrived March 27. He at once made arrangements, as he said, "to raise the wind by the manufacture of the same line of implements-fanning mills," in which business he continued until 186 1, doing an extensive and widely scattered trade throughout Southern Michigan. He became a wool-buyer for Eastern parties and in 1838 bought the first of that staple ever sold for money in Cal. houn, Branch, Kalamazoo, Jackson, Eaton and Barry Counties. His purchases were carted on wagons to Marshall, and were less than for several years past has been marketed in several towns in either of those counties in a single day. During the same period Mr. Dickey was also engaged in farming. In October, 1836, Mr. Dickey was commissioned by Gov. Stevens as Captain of militia, and charged with the enrollment of all persons subject to military duty under the existing laws of the State; and in perfecting the military organization of the county and district was commissioned LieutenantColonel under Col. Maynard. He was afterward appointed Governor's Aid, with the rank of Colonel, by Gov. J. Wright Gordon. In his youth Col. Dickey was a stanch Whig and for years lie was the standing candidate of his party for the office of Sheriff. In 1840 he was beaten by a majority of three votes and by tricks peculiar to crafty politicians. Four years later lie was elected, although1 there was a heavy Dlemocratic majority for the other county offices. Hle was the first Whig ever elected to a county office here. In 1846 lie was re-elected by an increased majority. From 1849 to 1853 Col. Dickey servdd in the State Senate of Michigan during four regular and one special session, the latter being called to adapt the laws of the State to the new cpnstitution of 1850. In 1857 he was elected to the Lower House of the State Legislature and during the session of 1 859 acted as Speaker protem for several weeks, during the illness of Speaker Shaw. He was also Chairman of the Committee of Ways and Means. In April, 1861, lie was appointed United States Marshal for the district of Michigan by President Lincoln, and during his term the State was divided into two districts, Calhoun County afterwards becoming a portion of the eastern one. At the close PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 947 I of his first term-four years —he was re-appointed by President Lincoln, but was subsequently removed by President Johnson, with whom he failed to "swing around the circle." In 1873 Col. Dickey was appointed by Gov. Bagley, Probate Judge of Calhoun County, to fill the vacancy caused by the death of the Hon. E. F. Henderson, and in November, 1876, the people selected him as his own successor for a term of four years. He was re-elected to the same position, but died the 14th of January, 1881, following. In 1867 Col. Dickey was interested with Messrs. Frink, Brewer & Ingersoll in the erection of Eagle Block, one of the finest brick buildings in the city. He was one of the originators of the County and State Agricultural Societies, one of the first Presidents of the County Association, and a member of the Executive Committee of the State Society since its organization in 1845, to the time of his death, and acting President of the same in 1858-59. At President Lincoln's inaugurations Col. Dickey was one of the President's body guard of Marshals, and at the dedication of the Soldiers' Cemetery at Gettysburg, he was in charge of that division in the procession of the Governors of the different States. He loved to linger over that occasion when he heard the President utter the most famous speech of his life-one whicll for conciseness and comprehensiveness has never been equaled by an American statesman. September 6, 1836, Judge Dickey was united in marriage with Mary Ann, daughter of Joseph and Sylvia Wakeman, who was born in Columbia County, N. Y. She died in Marshall of consumption December 26, 1852, leaving four sons and one daughter. The children who still survive are Charles T., a resident of Marshall, Mich.; Franklin W., represented elsewhere in this volume; and Harrison N., whose home is in Chicago, Ill. Gilbert A. was killed while in command of his company in the Twenty-fourth Michigan Infantry at the battle of Gettysburg. In March, 1854, Judge Dickey married Mary Elizabeth Moss, widow of Chester Moss, formerly a prominent merchant and banker of Albion. She lived but one year. In May, 1857, Judge Dickey married Mary Jane Pratt, a native of Orleans County, N. Y. This lady at the time of her marriage resigned the position of Assistant Principal of the Phipps Union Female Seminary at Albion, N. Y., where she had charge of the French, German and graduating classes. A little more than eight years of domestic happiness, and death again invaded the Judge's home and called hence Mrs. Dickey, in July, 1864. She left three daughters —Mary E., Helen L. and Jenny C. Again Judge Dickey married after a few years of mourning, winning for his wife Mrs. Angeline G. Moore, a native of Greenwich, R. I., and widow of the Rev. LymanH.IMoore, late of Marshall. This union has been blest by the birth of one son, Ross Wilkins. Judge Dickey's parents were Scotch Presbyterians and tie was taulght the tenets of their faith but he never united with the church. He took the line of a good life for his rule of action, but his wife and three daughters belong to the Presbyterian Church in Marshall. \FUFITS A. CULVER, County Superintendent of schools, is pre-eminently worthy of nodA\ tice in this ALBUM, as the work in which lie is engaged is one that has an important bearing upon the future of society. The man who knows the needs of the young, can encourage them in t!ie pursuit of knowledge and stimulate their moral energies, and at the same time recognize the arduous nature of the work done by the teachers, aid them to better plans, and secure for them the approval of the parents by demonstrating the worth of their labors, has done more to ennoble the nation than any politician or demagogue dreams of in his best moments. Mr. Culver was born in Quincy, Branch County, September 5, 1851, and is the elder son and child of Allen and Almira (Scripter) Culver. His brother Fred now lives in Manistee, and owns a summer resort at "Onekema." Their father was born near Palmyra, N. Y., and now resides in Manistee, this State. He is a carpenter and joiner by trade, but was at one time connected with the newspaper business. 'Their mother was born in Buffalo, N. Y., 948 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. and came to Michigan with her parents when fourteen years old. She celebrated her marriage in Branch County, and there she died in June, 1889. The early years of Rufus A. Culver were spent in his native place, and there he finished the course of study in the public schools. At its conclusion he studied medicine with a local physician for a few years, then entered the medical department of the State University at Ann Arbor. On account of illness he was compelled to abandon his work, and he turned his attention to pedagogy, a profession for which he was abundantly qualified by his mental training and acquirements. For a number of years he taught in the ungraded schools of Branch County and in other localities, being constantly employed seventeen years. His professional labors began when he was but nineteen years old, and include altogether some forty terms of school, the last in Homer, this county. Believing the words of Holy Writ-"It is not good for man to live alone"-Mr. Culver won the consent of an educated, refined and Christian lady to share his lot in life. This was Miss Nettie Jane Strong, who was born in 'ekonsha Township, February 27, 1857, and.reared here by her honored parents, C. R. and Sarah Jane (H-oward) Stronlg. Mutual happiness has followed the union, and the family fireside is brightened by the presence of six children: Claire, born June 4, 1876; Winifred, December 11, 1877; Max, December 27, 1881; Bell, September 27, 1885; Bruce, January 14, 1887; and Josephine, October 11, 1890. The grandfather of Mrs. Culver was Charles Strong, who was born in Connecticut and who married Lorinda Fisher, a native of New York. They came to this county in 1853, and (lied on section 19, Tekonsha Township, in 1868, and 1886 respectively. Their son C. R. was born in Ontario County, N. Y., near Bloomfield, November 29, 1825, and came hither in 1849. He bought a tract of land on section 20, built a house and made other improvements for his father. In 1853 he married Miss Sarah Howard, who was born in Sweden, N. Y., September 2, 1835, and accompanied her parents hither when six years old. After their marriage they located on section 19, where they are still living, honored and respected. Mr. Strong is a sturdy Republican. He was Township Clerk about twelve years and is now School Director. He and his wife belong to the Presbyterian Church, and lie has been Deacon and Elder, and a prominent worker in the Sunday-school, and is now Assistant Superintendent. The tract of land he bought for his father is now occupied by his daughter and son-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Culver. Mr. Culver is a Democrat but somewhat inclined to let the personal qualifications of the candidate outweigh his party affiliations. Hlis first Presidential ballot was for Horace Greeley. He has been Justice of the Peace, Township School Inspector here and Township School Superintendent in Branch County, and was School Director four years. As County School Superintendent he has served faithfully and capably several years, and the educational progress of the county is perceptible. Among the teachers whose work has been done under his oversight he has made stanch friends and lie has a large following among the pupils and patrons. He belongs to the Baptist Church and his wife is a 1Presbyterian. Both wear their religion as an every-day garment, bringing the principles of the Gospel to bear upon every duty andl honoring their profession by their lives. Cm HARLES A. GARDANIER. The livery, feed and sale stable of this gentleman is one of the thriving establishments of Marshall. A full line of buggies, carriages and other livery equipments may be seen there, and twenty good horses supply tie general need of a first-class patronage. Mr. Gardanier runs a hack line and a baggage transfer in connection with the ordinary livery business. He has been occupied in this way since the fall of 1872, when lie traded the farm which he had been operating for the livery stock of Adams Bros., and succeeded to their business. Mr. Gardanier is of German ancestry in the paternal line and through his mother has Irish blood in his veins. Iis grandfather, Adam Gardanier, was a soldier in the War of 1812. Jacob Gatdanier, father of our subject, was born in Montgomery PORTRAIT AND BI( County, N. Y., in 1813, came to this State in 1832, and stopped at Whitcford, now Lucas County,Ohio, a strip on the south of Michigan, at that time. He married Mary Dixon, daughter of David and Lucinda (Kellogg) Dixon, who was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., in 1819. Mr. Gardanier took some part in the troubles arising over the disputed line between Ohio and this State, and was commissioned Lieutenant in the force which was called out during the excitement. Not long after his marriage lie cane to this county and bought a farm north of Marengo Village, which lie occupied and operated about forty years. lie tlen removed to&Marshall, but finally returned to the farm, where he died May 3, 1879. His widow is still living, her present home being Ontario, Cal. Besides our subject she has three children-Lucy J., wife of D. L. Adams, now living in Marengo; Chauncy B., a resident of Fremont, Neb.; and Calvin J., a farmer in Marengo Townshi p. Mr. Gardanier is a native of this county, born January 25, 1839, and is the oldest member of his father's family. lie attended the district school during his boyhood, and on the parental acres learned various matters connected with farm life which were useful to him in later years. When eighteen years old he entered Olivet College, Eaton County, where lie pursued higher branches a year. On his return home he resumed the work of a farmer, remaining with his parents until lie had passed his twenty-third birthday. He then established a home of hlis own in Marengo Township, and devoted himself with earnestness to general farming until the time before mentioned, at which lie traded for his present business establishment. The lady whom Mr. Gardanier won for his wife was Miss Arvilla E. Adams, daughter of Charles and Charity Adams, at tlat time residing in this county. She is, however, a native of the Empire State. She is well-informed. devoted to the interests of ler husband and children, and possesses tile social qualities which win and retain friendship. Mr. and Mrs. Gardanier have two children living -Burt L., clerk in the post-office in Marshall, and Mattie, who is still attending school. Mr. Gardanier is much interested in Masonry and is identified with St. Alban's Lodge, No. 20, )GRAPHICAL ALBUM. 949 F. & A. M.; Lafayette Cllapter, No. 4, R. A. M.; and Marshall Commandery, No. 17, K. T. Lie has had some connection with municipal affairs, having been Alderman from the First Ward two years, and during tliat time Chairman of the Street Committee, and City Marshal three years. He has a good reputation in business circles and is social and whole-souied in his intercourse with those about him. I OHN McCOMBS is an honored resident of Albion, and as one of the early pioneer set. tlers of this county it gives us pleasure to 0' represent him in this BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I-e was born in Jefferson County, N. Y., May 25, 1818. His fathter, John McCombs, Sr., a soldier in the War of 1812, was born at Great German Flatt August 13, 1772. I-e married Miss Magdalena Frank who was born November 19,1776. Her father, Johln Frank, was a Revolutionary soldier, and Frankfort, of which he was one of the first settlers, was named in his honor. Ile was a prominent farmer of that place and was elected Judge. The father of our subject was of Scotch descent and at the time lie came to the States lie had been left an orphan. HIe settled among the Germans, learned their language and could both read and write it. He was a Whig in politics and a great admirer of Henry Clay and Daniel Webster. As before mentioned, lie fought in the War of 1812 and took part in the battle of Sackett's Harbor when Gray was killed. HIe and his wife died in Jefferson County, N. Y. They were stanch members of the Lutheran Church, in which they were reared. Fourteen children were born to the parents of our s.ubject, of whom ten lived to be heads of families. Betsey Ann was born June 11, 1795. She married Lewis Phillips and they settled in Jefferson County, N. Y., where they died. They reared a family of children. John McCombs was born November 4, 1796, and died twenty-six days later. 'Richard was born March 9, 1799, and died in 1800. One son was born March 10, 1801, and diecin infancy. Andrew was born January 31, 1802, and died in his native county in 1887. He 161 950 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. had married in early life Emily Dickey and was the father of two childrert: Catherine was born February 23, 1804. She married Curtis P. Gould and died in 1864, leaving two children. Her husband is still living in Jefferson County. Polly, who was born March 1, 1806, married Ervine Calkins, who died in Jefferson County, where she is still living. She is the mother of ten children, two of whom she gave up to her country during the late war. Sally, born February 28, 1808, married John Phillips, of Jefferson County. They became the parents of twelve children,all of whom lived to have families. One of the sons was in the army during the war and lost a leg in the service. William, born May 21, 1810, died in 1864. In early life he married Harriet Dickey, and they settled in Jefferson County where they reared a family of six children. George was born March 16, 1812, and died in Jefferson County. The maiden name of his first wife was Lucinda Farr and they had two children. His second marriage was to Jane Eseltine and they have five children. Hannah, born February 12, 1814, married Hiram Webb who died about June, 1866, and lives in Jefferson County where their six children have been reared. The subject of our sketch obtained his education in the district schools. His parents were poor and he was early set to work to help support the family. The first pair of boots that he had he earned by chopping wood when eleven years of age, his feet being protected from the snow by cloths which his mother had wrapped around them. When fourteen years old his father allowed him to go out and work by the month, as he promised that if he would let him do so he would buy a piece of land to make a home for his parents. He worked by the month for a Welshman who was to give him $8 a mouth. But the man proved dishonest and unreliable, so he took the *28 which he had saved and left him. Our subject's brother George told him of land which could be had for $2.50 an acre and after looking at it he decided to buy one hundred acres. He then went work for Lewis Webb at $9 a month and used his wages to pay for his land. He also worked for his brother and in time secured afull title to his land. He built a log cabin on it, I 22x28 feet in dimensions, working on it at night when the moon shone. When it was finished he presented it to his parents and that was the first home they ever owned. January 15, 1839, he was married to Miss Thankful Hubbard who was born in Jefferson County, N. Y., February 21, 1821, and was the daughter of Isaac Hubbard who was drowned at Chaumont. An unusually long wedded life of more than half a century was vouchsafed to our subject and his beloved wife, but they were called upon to part at her death May 15, 1890. Mrs. McCombs was a woman of kindly thought and feeling and a sincere Christian whose many pleasant attributes gained her a warm place in the hearts of those about her. She was for many years a consistent member of the Methodist Episcopal Church until death called her hence. To Mr. and Mrs. McCombs were born seven children, one of whom died in infancy. The other grew to maturity, and of them is recorded: James was born December 7, 1839; Sophia, May 19, 1842; John F., October 8, 1844; Emily, June 4, 1848; Eugene, September 9, 1850; Theodore, April 26, 1855. William, the child who died in infancy, was born September 21, 1851. James was a volunteer in the late war, enlisting in a New York regiment and serving throughout the contest. He was at one tine a prisoner at Andersonville where lie suffered all the trials of hunger and was so enfeebled, not only in body but in mind, that when be was released lie did not know his own name. He married Elizabeth Henry, of Jefferson County, N. Y. Sophia is the wife of Martin M. Barney, agent of a lumber house at Chicago, Ill. John Frederic was also a soldier in the late war, enlisting in the Twelfth New York Infantry and serving until after the close of the Rebellion, having vetcranized during the war. Ile was at Cedar Creek under Gen. Sheridan and was a witness of that general's famous ride on his black horse. He married Adeline Cummings who is now living in Jefferson County, N. Y. Lie died May 17, 1873. Emily married William Snyder and died February 28, 1873, leaving these four children-Carrie, Bertha, Collins and Edith. Eugene, a resident of Muskegan, married Emma Hall and they have one child -Clifford. Theodore, now a resident of Yates If ::i i=:i:.i.:~:i~;~-";n;~ "::" 1:; I 9 r 1;~ -~ r ~~~~~B k~~~~~~~~~~-~~~~~~~~-U~~~~~~~~~~,~~1 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 953 --- - - County, N. Y., married Flora A. Furner and they have one child-Glennis. After his marriage our subject lived in Jefferson County for awhile. In 1847 he migrated to Dodge County, Wis., but not liking the country, he left there after a short stay and returned to Jefferson County, N. Y. He remained a resident of his native county thereafter until 1864, when he again came westward and settled on the west side of Prairie Lake, in this county. He then purchased one hundred and fifteen acres of wild land which lie improved, and upon which he dwelt until 1884. In that year he came to Albion and has since resided here. Mr. McCombs was married again April 22, 1891, to Mrs. Luceba Dunn, of Clarendon, Calhoun County, where they will reside hereafter. He is known by his fellow-citizens to be a man of strict integrity and of great worth, and is well regarded by them. In antebellum times he was a stanch Abolitionist. He later became a Republican and has since remained true to his party. i ETH LEWIS. The Marshall Statesman, of which this gentleman was tile founder IQ and editor, is one of the oldest newspapers in Southern Michigan and has been influential in the development of this part of the State. At present it is under the editorial charge of Will R. Lewis, the son of Seth Lewis, and in his hanls sustains its reputation as a clean, broad, and newsy journal. Through its large subscription list, its influence is extended, and in treating of political issues it favors the principles of the Republican party, but speaks fearlessly and frankly regarding candidates and policy. Seth Lewis, whose portrait is l)resented on tile opposite page, was born in Wells, Rutland County, Vt., February 11, 1814, and was a son of Dr. Reuben and Deborah (Potter) Lewis. When he was three years old his father removed to Strykersville, N. Y., and there he attended school until he was fifteen years of age. Commencing the battle of life for himself at that early age, he left home and worked upon a farm during the summer months, spending the winter seasons in school until he was seventeen, When he became an apprentice in the office of the Wyoming County Sentinel, published at Warsaw, N. Y. There he became a practical printer, and thoroughly acquainted himself with the various departments of newspaper work, and there he labored principally until May, 1838, when he came to Michigan. It was his intention to make the West his home, but not realizing his expectations he returned East. The next May he came West again, this time not expecting to stay; but his cousin, John Potter, then a resident of Marengo, induced him to visit several places in this part of the State. Finally in August he purchased what was left of the plant of the Marshall Republican (that paper having suspended publication six months before, and in the meantime the type, etc., had been open to the "inspection" of the children attending a select school held in the same building where the "office" was), and, after the usual vexations and delays incident to those early days, on September 12, 1839, issued the first number of the Western States;aan. Ie continued to publish this sheet until October 12, 1843, when the name was changed to the Marshall Statesman, which it has since retained. He published the paper until January, 1866, when he disposed of his business to Messrs. Bissell & Burgess. Mr. Bissell was succeeded January 1, 1869, by Will R. Lewis and the new firm, Burgess & Lewis, was replaced by the original owner in April, 1872. Nearly a year later Mr. Lewis again sold out, but in August, 1877, once more became owner of the plant, remaining such to the time of his death. Mr. Lewis was a stanch Whig of the anti-slavery type, so long as the party had an existence. He favored the calling of the convention in July, 1854, which resulted in the disorganization of that party, and was present "under the oaks" at Jackson when the Republican party was organized, counseling and aiding in the movement. From that time onward lie was a consistent, arduous and vehement advocate of the principles of the Rt publican party and his influence therefor was decidedly felt in this county and extended beyond the confines of the State. He was a radical opposer of the ena: An; - 0 9o4 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. croachments of the slave power and to be called an Abolitionist in no wise offended his manhood. As publisher of a partisan paper he made politics his study, and seemed at times possessed of prophetic wisdom, so thoroughly did he understand the situation and canvass the results of an election before it took place. In 1855 Mr. Lewis was elected Village Recorder, which office he held for one year. He was appointed Postmaster of Marshall by President Lincoln May 21, 1861, and held the office until October 16, 1866, when he was removed by Andrew Johnson, because he would not advocate a policy in which he disbelieved. During two sessions of the Legislature, in 1869 and 1871, he was Postmaster of that body. He was Superintendent of the Poor for his county for six years, having been elected in 1855 and re-elected in 1858. At that time the law referring to the indigent poor was more vague and uncertain than at present and he had many sharp contests to prevent the county from being charged with the expense of supporting paupers who belonged elsewhere. Though at all times regarding the claims of humanity and exercising Christian charity and sympathy for the individual poor, he was compelled to act upon the defensive in order to rid the people of the burden that other communities endeavored to thrust upon them. Mr. Lewis served as Secretary of Calhoun County Agricultural Society for several successive years. He was a member of Peninsular Lodge, No. 5, I. 0. O. F., having joined about the time of its organization, and was for some time Secretary and later held all the Chairs. For many years prior to his decease he was a member of the Grand Lodge and was also identified with Marshall Encampment, No. 2. He was one of the charter meml)ers of and held various official positions in Marshall Division, No. 18, S. of T., which was organized in May, 1847. After the lodge ceased to hold regular meetings, Mr. Lewis was one of the petitioners for a charter for the Independent Order of Good Ternplars and was one of the first officers of the lodge organized here in January, 1855, and subsequently served as Chief Templar. He was one of the principal movers in the reorganization, in 1859, of a lodge of the Sons of Temperance, known as Marshall Division No. 7, and remained an active and influential member during its existence. When about twenty years of age Mr. Lewis joined the Presbyterian Church, and was one of the organizers of a society of that denomination in Marshall and a member of the choir when their first church was dedicated. In the civic societies and in the church he walked consistently and worthily, and in his domestic and social relations he was kind and indulgent as a husband and father, agreeable and instructive as a companion, andobliging and constant as a friend. He departed this life August 8, 1879, at the age of sixty-five years. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Celina Church, is still living at a ripe old age. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Lewis. Will R. and Edwin S. still reside in Marshall, and one son died in infancy. The birth of Will R. Lewis took place in Marshall July 23, 1847, and here he pursued his studies until after lie had entered his teens, when he went into the office of the Statesman. IHe served an apprenticeship of three and a half years and had charge of the office for four months while his father was Postmaster. Hle spent the winter of 1865-66 in Eastman's Business College, at Poughkeepsie, N. Y., then returned home and became Assistant Postmaster under his father. Witli his father's removal he also lost his position. In 1867 le again entered the post-office as assistant to Samuel S. Lacey, but in January, 1869, resigned his position to become a partner in the Statesman with F. II. Burgess. When Mr. Lewis' father repurchased- the paper the son remained in the office, but in September, 1873, lie once more became Assistant Postmaster and continued to fill the position until January, 1884. He then succeeded Samuel J. Burpee, his former superior, as Postmaster and held the office until September, 1885, when he was retired by the Cleveland administration. He next assumed personal charge of the Statesman, which he has continued to edit. He is a forcible writer, an honorable man, and has made many friends notwithstanding his position. which lays him open to criticism as few callings do. i PORTRAIT AND BIO( I The marriage of Will R. Lewis and Helen A. Reed was solemnized October 26, 1869, and has been blest to them by the birth of four children: Arthur R., Charles W., Isabella M., and William L. Mrs. Lewis was born in Grand Haven, this State, anti is a daughter of the late Grosvenor Reed, one of the early settlers of Ottawa County and its first Prosecuting Attorney. Mrs. Lewis finished her education in Marshall, and her culture and refinement win for her warm and lasting friends wherever she goes. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis and their two eldest sons are members of the Presbyterian Church. E ZRA GRINNELL is one of the oldest seti tlers of Convis Township and long years of meritorious conduct have won for him a reputation which is the choicest heritage he can leave to posterity when called from time to eternity. He is tile owner and occupant of two hundred acres of land on sections 4, 5 and 9, and is one of those who make of agriculture both an art and a science. His farm borders on Mud Lake, is fertilized by a creek, and is well adapted for mixed crops and for the care of stock. It is three miles from the town of Bellevue, where the family has spent several years at different times. There are two houses on the estate, one occupied by his son who carries it on, Mr. Grinnell having abandoned the more arduous labors of life and devoted his attention to the oversight of his affairs and the enjoyment of the comforts his former industry has secured. The Grinnell family is of English origin and former generations lived in Rhode Island. There Nathaniel Grinnell, grandfather of our subject, and liis son John were born. The former was a soldier itI the Revolutionary War. The father of Ezra Grinnell went from his native State to New York, making the journey with a team and locating in Ontario County, which was then sparsely settled and practically undeveloped. IIe afterwards purclhased three hundred acres of land at Farmington, on the Holland Purchase, and died there in 1828. GRAPHICAL ALBUM. 955 He fought in the War of 1812. His wife, Rhoda Dennins, a native of Connecticut, died in Ontario County in 1861. She was a devout member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The only member of the family of John and Rhoda Grinnell now living is the subject of this biographical notice, although the sons and daughters numbered thirteen. He was born In the Empire State March 27, 1817, and reared amid such surroundings as were common to farmers' families at that time. His school privileges were but meager, the schools being kept up by a rate bill and there being much time each year in which they were not open. Besides, the lad was early set to work and in his boyhood learned the meaning of life and its labors. He remained on the farm after the death of his father until he was sixteen years old, when he became an Apprentice to a tailor in Canandaigua. Ile served four years, then began journey work, but in tie spring of 1838 determined to change his location, believing that he would find a better opportunity to advance his interests in Michigan. Traveling on the canal to Buffalo, thence on a steamer to Detroit and by stage to Marengo, this county, Mr. Grinnell put up a shop and worked at his trade two years. IIe then traded his town lots for eighty acres in Convis Township and forty acres in Lee Townshil). He continued to work at his trade, however, letting the land lie idle until the spring of 1841, when he returned to his native State and worked on a farm. Two years later he brought his bride to Adrian, this State, near which place he farmed until the fall of 1845, when he located on his own property. He put up a log shanty with a shake roof, and from time to time made such improvements as his cilcumstances would warrant, also adding to the extent of his landed estate. He did considerable work at his trade, thus materially aiding his progress towaids a solid financial stan;ding. His home is one where comfort abounds and any man might well be proud to be its possessor. The principal grain crop raised is wheat, and the usual stock is kept. The sheep are Merinoes and the horses include some fine specimens of Percheron and Abdallal stock. Orchards and groves lend their pleasing shade to e tu ----~ —`b WL'IA~~~J YV: ~: 956 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. the adornment of the farm, and a goodly supply of fruit is secured to the family. In Farmington, N. Y., in May, 1843, Mr. Grinnell was married to Miss Charlotte Murray, a native ofithat place. Five children were born of this union, but James, who now lives on the home farm, is the only one surviving. Virginia and Euphemia D. died in Adrian, Josephine in this c&unty, and Adah, formerly wife of Richard Stevens, in Barry County. In 1850 Mr. Grinnell was married to Miss Lydia Murray, sister of his former wife, who died in Bellevue. She left four children: Joseph, a clerk in West Bay City; John, who lives in Assyria Township, Barry County; Ida, who is at home; and Leonora, now of West Bay City. In the township in which he is now living, September 22, 1881 Mr. Grinnell contracted a third matrimonial alliance, wedding Mrs. Caroline (Garfield) Allen. This lady was born in Vermont, April 28, 1822, and is a daughter of Asa Garfield, of whom further mention is made in the sketch of Martin C. Garfield, found elsewhere in this volume. When nine years old the little lass was taken to Batavia, Genesee County, N. Y., and in 1838 accompanied her parents to this county, living in Lee Township until her marriage to Rodney Allen in March, 1840. Her first husband was born in Springfield, Mass., and came to Marshall, this State, as early as 1836. He was a shoemaker by trade, but followed farming principally. He made his home in Walton Township, Eaton County, for seven years, then sold his property and bought in Lee Township, this county, but operated his farm here only a few years. Owing to ill health he sold and removed to Olivet, where he died in 1873. By that marriage Mrs. Grinnell had three children: Asa W., who died at the age of three years; Louis W., who lives in California; and Frances, who died at Olivet. The political allegiance of Mr. Grinnell is given to the Republican party. He has been School Director for twelve years, but is not otherwise connected with public affairs. He is liberal and helpful towards all good enterprises and is one of the pillars of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Bellevue, with which he has been identified for years and in which he has been Trustee and Class I = Leader and Superintendent of the Sunday-school. He was instrumental in organizing a class in Convis Township, but it was so small,that it was found best to unite with the Bellevue church. Shrewd and observant, Mr. Grinnell has been ready to take advantage of every turn in the tide, hence his success in his business affairs. His present wife has lived in this county long enough to witness its change from a sparsely settled region to a populous district and to note a wonderful advancement in the arts and sciences. Both husband and wife have made many friends and their names are well known to all of the old and many of the young people of the county. rC — V7 ----*.t — ~A^ * E MERSON CORTRIGHT, owner of one of the large farms of Clarence Township, began his personal career under adverse circumstances, but by persistent industry and close economy laid the foundation for his present financial standing. His home is on section 14, and he now owns two hundred and eight acres, which by his personal efforts was reclaimed from its primitive wildness and made into a comfortable home. It bears a full line of improvements, is stocked with standard domestic animals, and furnished with modern machinery. The father of our subject was Simeon Cortright, who was born in New York in 1799, and whose parents were natives of Holland. In his native State he married Margaret Haynes, who was also born within its borders, and who was bound out when a child, her parents being poor. In 1844, the enterprising couple came to this State, having traded their little property in the East for eighty acres of wild land in this county. It was on section 15, Clarence Township, and here all who were old enough worked together to build up the family fortune. The family was a large one and their journey to the new home exhausted the resources of the father, who was obliged to leave their goods at Detroit until he could get money to pay for their further carriage. A log house was put up by Simeon Cortright PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 957 and as soon as the family was settled he began the work of clearing. His property was oak openings and the timber was very heavy, so that much hard work had to be done in felling trees, removing stumps and breaking up the ground. Little by little the work was accomplished, and although the owner did not live to see the highest improvement in this region, he did witness a great change before his eyes closed in death in 1859. His widow survived him twenty years. Mr. Cortriglit always voted the Democratic ticket. He was Highway Commissioner for many years. Mrs. Cortright held membership in the Methodist Efiscopal Church. The parental family consisted of ten children who grew to maturity, but two of whom have since crossed the river of death. Those now living are Phebe, Emerson, Jeanette, Leonard, James A., Sevilla, Isaiah and Elizabeth. The oldest is the widow of Thomas S. Starks and has two children; Jeanette is now Mrs. Fitzgerald; and Elizabeth Mrs. James Caiicutt; Sevilla is the wife of N. S. Barnes and the mother of five children. The subject of this biographical notice is the second child and eldest son of his parents, and was born September 7, 1823, in Wayne County, N. Y. lHe attended the district school, which was kept up by subscription and which afforded him but meager opportunity to cultivate his mind. Good habits, temperate principles and sympathy with the aspirations of others, became a part of his being and took the place of extended book knowledge. He was twenty years old when the family came to this State and here he helped to get the homestead into shape and place his father's affairs on a firm foundation. He remained at home until he was twenty-three years old, then learned the cooper's trade of Thomas S. Starks and afterward followed that business during the winter seasons, in the summer working out by the month for several years. lie also occasionally worked in a sawmill. Miss Mary M. Barber, daughter of Orson and Mary (Foster) Barber, was not deterred from accepting his heart and hand by the fact that Mr. Cortright had no wealth to offer her, but was willing to aid him in building up a good home. They were married June 7, 1848, and began their wedded life on a rented farm, whose furnishings were I --- valued at less than $50, for a part of this, even, the husband going in debt. He had bought one hundred and twenty acres of wild land on time and made strenuous efforts to meet his payments and so secure a home of his own. In 1854 he built a frame house which stood on blocks and had no cellar. Into this he removed and here he may still be said to live, as it forms a part of the present commodious and convenient dwelling. Beginning by felling timber, Mr. Cortright has gone through the entire round of imprmvement, making rails and enclosing his land, then getting out the stumps and picking up the stones, of which large piles have been gathered. Every improvement upon the place has resulted from his industry and thrift, aided by the careful management of a prudent wife. He has eighty-two acres under the plow and the balance devoted to timber, pasture, and the various minor uses of a well-regulated estate. The parents of Mrs. Cortright were born in the Empire State and came hither about 1840, first settling in Clarence Township. After living here a number of years they removed to Spring Arbor, then to Sheridan Township and later returned to Clarence Township. They subsequently went to Convis Township and then to Ingham County, where Mr. Barber is now living, aged seventy-eight years. HIe has been twice married, his first wife having died in 1834. Mrs. Cortright was the only child by the first marriage, was born April 15, 1834, in Washington County, N. Y., and was six years old when she came to this county. She received a district school education and careful home instruction and has done all that was possible to fit her own children for life's duties. She has borne her husband nine sons aind daughters, four of whom are now living, their record being as follows: Altson B., born February 28, 1855, lives at Springport; Andy J., born January 20, 1862, married Libby Taylor, "has two children and lives in Clarence Township; Fred, born October 16, 1867, also lives on section 14; William B., born December 20, 1876, is at home. The oldest child spent two seasons in studying at the Agricultural College in Lansing, and has taught four terms of school. The others have good common-school educations. 958 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - -~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ As Highway Commissioner and Township Treasurer Mr. Cortright gave his best efforts to his constituents, and as Road Overseer he has advanced the interest of the traveling public for many years. In politics he has always been interested and when the issues of the day changed, he was not afraid to give his allegiance to a new party. Ile was a Democrat until 1876, when the money question assumed the prime importance, and he became a member of the Greenback party, and he now votes a Union Labor ticket. Though both Mr. and Mrs. Cortright have worked very hard, they retain their vigor, enjoy good health, and know how to make life pleasant. ETER STARKS. The man who has risen f rom poverty to competence by his unaided efforts, beginning the battle of life with bodily vigor, a common-school education and a determined spirit as his sole equipment, is deserving of more than passing notice. It is therefore with pleasure that we present to our readers the main facts in the life of Peter Staiks, an agriculturist of Clarence Township. The parents of our subject were Benjamin and Hannah (Fuller) Starks, both natives of the Empire State, in which they always resided. They reared three children but he of whom we write is now the sole representative of the family. He was horn March 21, 1827, in Cayuga County, N.Y., and was left motherless when but a year and a half old. He became an inmate of the home of his grandfather, Henry Fuller, in Washington County, and remained there until he was twelve years of age. Ile then returned to Cayuga County, still making his home with his grandmother, who removed after the death of her husband. He received a common-school education, and at the age of sixteen years began life for himself, his first occupation being on a farm. Young Starks worked out as a farm hand some four years, then went to Sheboygan County, Wis., and settled upon eighty acres of Government land. The tract was covered with timber and was in its primitive condition, no white man ever having attempted its improvement. Indians and wild animals were round about, but white settlers were not in close proximity to the log shanty put up by Mr. Starks. Although he had been economical, he had but little means and life was something of a struggle during the three years which lie spent in clearing and improving his land. In 1849 be sold out for $800 and coming to this State and county, settled in Clarence Township, rellting land for the first three years. lie then went to work for the Crowell Company at tile 1)uck Lake settlement and continued with the firtn until 1859. At that time he bought eighty acres on section 10, where he is now living, and which he had brought from a raw timber tract to a state of cultivation and productiveness highly commendable. He now owns one hundred and twenty-nine acres, over eighty of which are under the plow. All the ilnlrovements have been made by himself, the house he now occupies having been built in 1861. Mr. Starks was naturally handy with tools and he entered the blacksmith shop of the Crowell Com-pany when all kinds of custom work was done there. His brother Thomas, who was a practical blacksmith, advised him to take the shop, and said that if at any time he got a job that was too much for him help would be given him. The advice was taken, and so well did Mr. Starks use his opportunities to learn every part of the business that lie found it necessary to call upon his brother lut a few times. Until two years ago he worked constantly at tie trade and at the same time kept his farm going. Realizing the value of a capable woman at the head of his household affairs and the increased happiness that would be secured by the companionship of a whole-souled woman, Mr. Starks wooed and won Miss Samantha Peek, who became his wife in 1846. She is a daughter of Thomas and Abigail (Bardon) Peek, natives of the Empire State, who came hither at an early day. Tile marriage was solemnized in New York, whither Mrs. Starks had gone some time before. Four children have come to bless the happy union and three are yet living. Frank A. married Jenny Baum, has a son Fay and lives at Partello; Charles L., whose home is in PORTRAIT AND BIOG R~APHICAL ALBUM. 959 Clarence Township, married Miss Sarah McNeal; March 2. 1822. His father, Parley Dean, was born Hattie married Ansel Wise and has two children, and reared in the same county and from his early Zoe and Nettie, and lives with her parents; Henry, life engagedin farming. Hemarried PhebeBrown, the eldest, married Olive C. Brown; there is one whose native State was Vermont, and who had child of this union living, Peter II., who has male gone to New York after she had reached womanhis home witl his grandparents since one year old. hood. The home of the Deans was in the Empire HIenry Starks died in 1871. State until 1835, when they determined to seek an During the Civil War Mr. Starks enlisted but abiding-place in the Territory of Michigan. They was rejected by the examining surgeon at Jackson. journeyed in the primitive fashion, with a team, IIe served as Postmaster of D)uck Lake Post-office and finally reached this county and selected land for one and a half years and has at various times on section 16, Tekonsha Township. There a log held each of the township offices, in every instance house was built, and various improvements made discharging his duties in an acceptable manner. As as the years passed by, bringing with thettl an Justice of the Peace he officiated sixteen years. He increase in the number of settlers and the convenhas taken much interest in educational matters and iences of life. Like all who came here at that advanced the cause while holding school offices. early (ay the Deans endured hardships and privaClarence Township has a public library of three tions, but all were cheerfully borne and in after hundred volumes, which has been in charge of Mr. years looked back upon without regret. Mr. Dean Starks for four years. He hlas taken an active part lived to tle age of eighty-eight years, breathing in local political work and has always been a Dem- his last March 28, 1880. His wife had departed ocrat. Although very temperate in his own habits this life May 31, 1878, at the age of eighty six. he believes in non-interference with those who (iffer They lost one child in infancy and reared five, from him. While doing an immense amount of named Eliza, Nelson, Leonard, Chester and Jane. business, Mr. Starks has never sued nor been sued, Eliza is now Mrs. McCrary, Jane, Mrs. Dickinson but has lived in peace witl all mankind. and Nelson is deceased. The gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs began the pursuit of knowledge in his native place, in which he sojourned until he had entered his teens. He then went to live with EiONARD DEAN. Few more beautiful an uncle, remaining with him until he had attained sights greet the eyes of a tr.veler than a to his majority. HIis first work for himself was J -)] well-developed and finely-improved farm, running a threshing machine and he (lid some work such as are to be seen throughout Southern Michi- on a farm. In 1854 lie came to this State and gan. The country is sufficiently rolling to relieve engaged in farming, at which he has continued to the scene of monotony and the forest growtlhs have busy himself. Soon after his marriage he located not been entirely removed except where replaced on the section whereon he still lives, moving into by even more attractive fruit trees. A farm there- a log house that was his dwelling five years. He fore in this part of the United States is not a bare then changed to his present location, where he has and unlovely expanse, but an acreage that displays made many first-class improvements, including a the beauty of utility, while retaining much of its fine two-story house of good design and substantial primeval picturesqueness. In 'ekonsha Township construction. His home farm consists of one hunlie many farms, the sight of which- would lead to dred and sixty acres and he owns one hundred and these reflections, and none perhaps more quickly forty acres east of Tekonsha Village, all being as than that on section 16, which is the home of good soil as can be found in the township. Leonard Dean. An interesting event transpired June 3, 1856, it The birthplace of the gentleman of whom we being the marriage of Leonard Dean and Elizabeth write was Yates County, N. Y., and his natal day Snyder. The bride was born in Orleans County, 960 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. N. Y., October 12, 1835, and was the third in a family of seven children. She came hither with her parents in 1855. In the schools of her native State ' she learned, useful habits, acquired a fair share of book knowledge, and strengthened her character, thus becoming fitted for the duties that have devolved upon her in mature years. Her marriage has been blest by the birth of two children-a son and daughter. Eliza is the wife of R. E. Waldo and they occupy the farm east of Tekonsha that is owned by Mr. Dean and is known as the old Burley farm; Frank resides with his parents. Prosperity has resulted from the industrious efforts of Mr. Dean, and notwithstanding the fact that he has done much hard work and is advancing in years, he is still a busy man, carrying on extensive agricultural work. Politically, he is a Democrat. He has not cared for public honors, the only offices whichi he has held being those of Highway Commissioner and School Director, which his interest in education led him to accept. Having lived in this township for a number of years, lie has become widely known and what is better, is well liked throughout the county and contiguous territory. E RASTUS A. MACK. A pleasant location on section 21, Sheridan Township, is occupied by the home of this gentleman, who has excellent standing among tlie agriculturists of the county. His estate includes one hundred and twenty acres of naturally good land, which has been thoroughly cultivated and is year by year made to produce abundantly of the crops best adapted to its soil and the climate of this region. Ninety-five acres are under the plow and the balance is in pasture and timber land, or given up to the minor purposes of farm and home economy. AMr. Mack raises Short-horn cattle and such other domestic animals as are commonly kept. Aside from the dwelling the most noticeable building on the place is a barn 30x90 feet, which was built in 1883, and to which the owner proposes to add within a few months. Both Mr. and Mrs. Mack represent families that are numbered among the early settlers in this part of the State, having come hither from Pennsylvania and New York respectively. The father of our subject was Theodore Mack, born in the Keystone State in 1815, who learned the trade of a wheelwright, carried on business as a merchant, and after coming West became a tiller of the soil. In Northampton County of his native State he was married to Sarah Anna Emery, who was borh there April 30, 1817. Some years after their marriage the couple removed to Susquehanna County and in 1852 came hither, settling on section 29, Sheridan Township. The farm which they bought consisted of eighty-seven acres, only eight of which had been improved. Mr. Mack placed the remainder under cultivation, building thereon a good house, barn and other necessary structures and making it his permanent home. He was well educated for his day and well qualified to take part in the public affairs of the neighborhood, a fact that was recognized by his being elected Treasurer of Sheridan Township, Road Commissioner and a member of the School Board. He was quite active in local political matters, voting the Democratic ticket, Both Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Mack belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church, and the husband was always ready to take part in the work necessary to build up the congregation. In November, 1888, they celebrated their golden wedding, and strong in hope and faith, he passed away August 20, 1889. The widowed mother of our subject survives, still living on the old homestead. Of the six children born to her five are now livingErastus being the eldest; Hanford resides near Homer; Emily is the wife of Charles H. Rogers (see sketch); James W. lives in Albion; and Gilbert F. is in Aberdeen, Wash. All except our subject were privileged to attend Albion College, but he being the eldest, felt the brunt of the home duties which were incidental to their early residence in this State. The birth of Erastus Mack took place in Northampton County, Pa., February 24, 1840, and he had not yet entered his teens when the family came to this State. He pursued his studies in the district school in his native State and later in this PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 961 ----~~~- ~ --- — -- --- I I county, devoting the intervals of study to work on the homestead, doing much of the clearing and breaking of the soil. His labor, until he was of age, was for the benefit of his parents, and lie then worked out by the month until his marriage. lie then rented farm land, continuing to operate as a renter until 1871, when he bought forty acres which is a part of his present farm. Here he has continued to make his home, adding to his realty as his circumstances warranted, and surrounding himself with more and more of comfort and beauty as years passed by. The wife of Mr. Mack bore the maiden name of Deborah Ann Davis and is the second of four clildren born to Gardner and Mary (Reed) Davis. Her older sister, Delia, is the wife of E. Lamb and lives in Luther, this State. HIer brother, Charles S., resides in Sheridan Township, and William P. is a citizen of Albion. Mr. Davis was born in Franklin County, N. Y., April 6, 1805, while the mother of Mrs. Mack opened her eyes to the light March 1, 1809. The couple were married July 21, 1835, and lived in the Empire State until about 1854. They then came West and settled on a part of the land now by Mr. Mack. It was secured from the Government and was covered with the primeval forest, which was the haunt of wild animals, such as deer, wolves and bears, while Indians still roved about the country. Mr; Davis built a log house and returned East for his family, finding when he had brought them hither that his rude cabin had been destroyed by fire during his absence. He at once put up another and established his home under more favorable circumstances than many pioneers, as he was much better off. He cleared forty acres of his land and had it quite well improved before being called hence. He lived until June 21, 1860, being fifty-five years old when death took him. His wife preceded him to the tomb, breathing her last February 14, 1851, at the age of forty-two years. Mr. Davis was first a Whig and later a Republican. He belonged to the Christian Church, held a prominent place among its members and his wife was also a faithful be"liever. After the death of his first wife Mr. Davis married Eliza Peabody, who still survives. This union resulted in the birth of three children, one of whom is deceased. The survivors are Mary, wife of H. Wakelin, and Gardner, who is a resident of Sherilan Township. Mrs. Mack was born on the farm which is still her home, April 11, 1841; she was a student at Albion College and is not only a woman of more than ordinary intelligence, but one whose character commends her to the respect and love of young and old. Shle has had two children-Sarah A. and an infant, both deceased. Mr. Mack has been a school officer, and both as an official and in his private capacity is deeply interested in the advance of the schools. He has always been rather conservative in his political views; he is a Democrat, but in local affairs pays much greater regard to the character of the candidate than to the party he represents. He belongs to the Ancient Order of United Workmen and to the Farmers' Alliance. Both Mr. and Mrs. Mack participate in the work of the Riverside Literary Society, as they (lo in other enterprises which promise to elevate the status of society or increase the prosperity of this section. Honorable in his business dealings, temperate in his habits and corcdial in his intercourse, Mr. Mack has made scores of friends and stands very high in the community. QUIRE AARON B. GORDON. The Gordon Stock Farm is a fine piece of property located on section 35, Clarence Township, and consisting of eighty acres of land with a substantial dwelling, neat fences, ample barns and other outbuildings, and tie usual adornments in the way of shrubs and trees that a man of good taste employs about his home. The owner of this property carries on mixed farming, but gives his principal attention to horse-raising, to which his love for fine horses led him some nine years since. He had at that time one brood mare, which has produced ten colts. He now has three brood mares and two stallions, at the head of the stud being "Big Thorn," whose pedigree will be given below. Mr. Gordon was born in Seneca Falls, N. Y., on the 20th of April, 1824, soon after his father, 962 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. Josiah Gordon, bad removed to that county. Both parents died over sixty years ago, and the son, when but five years old, was given to a family named Rose, and was reared on a farm. He received a common school education, and at the age of eighteen years began his career in life empty handed. He found work as a farm hand, and was employed thus until 1847, in the spring of which year he came to Michigan. He located in Jackson and befgan work at the carpenter's trade, but about eighteen months later went to work upon the Michigan Central Railroad. After three years on the road lie kept a boarding hous. upon the line a few years, then built a residence in Parma, and again worked for the railroad company. Later he went into tile butchering business, which he carried on aliogether eight years, the greater part of which was spent in Albion. In 1864 he settled upoti his present estate, which was then but partly improved and to whlic.h he has made such additions in the way of buildings, and increased productiveness as to add largely to its value. "Big Thorn," the fine horse before mentioned, is a dark brown, fifteen and a half hands high, handsonmely proportioned and very stylish in appearance. He was foaled in June, 1886, his dam being the noted brood mare "Nanie Thorn," standing seventh best among the brood mares of the United States. She is the dam of "Thornless," whose record is 2:16~, and "Little Thorn," 2:23, as shown in the 2:18 trial in 1888. "Big Thorn" was broken in February, 1889, and is very much faster than either of his brothers at the same age. IIe was sired by "Venture," No. 1973, for whom McRoberts, of Dixon, Ill., paid $6,500 at four years of age, and W. H. Wilson, of Kentucky, offered $3,500 for a half-interest two years ago. 'Venture" is a dark brown, sixteen hands high, and has great speed, as demonstrated last fall (1890) when, without formal preparation, and never having been regularly trained, he trotted over a half-mile track at the rate of 2:27-. "Venture" is by "Aristos" No. 771, whose record is 2:27-. That animal is also the sire of "H. B. Winship," record 2:204, and 2:06 with a" running mate, which is the fastest mile ever trotted. "Aristos" is also the sire of eight others in the 2:30 list. I-e was by "Daniel Lambert," sire also of "Billy D," record 2:141, "Comma" 2:191 and thirty-three others in thle 2:30 list. "Daniel Lambert" commanded $500 by the season in 1884. He was by "Ethan Allen," who also commanded $500 per season. The dam of "Venture" was by ''Abraham," No. 353, who was the sire also of "Brightwood" and "Frank," whose records were 2:19~ and 2:191 respectively, "Frank" making 2:08( with a running mate. "Abraham" was the sire of six otthrs in the 2:30 list, and was himself by "Dauiel Lambert." It will thus be seen that the speed lines are prominent in the blood of "Big Thorn's" sire. rThe dam of "Big Thorn" is by "Hamlet," sire of "Loretta F," record 2:18 —, and seven others in the 2:30 list, and also sire of the dam of "Blue Grass Harnbletonian," who made a record of 2:204 at five years, and of nine other producing dams. "Hamlet" is by '"Volunteer," sire of the noted "St. Julian," whose record is 2:114, and twenty-six others in the 2:30 list. "Volunteer" is by "Rysdyk's IHamlbletonian," sire also of "Dexter," wlose record is 2:174, and of "George Wilkes," record 2:22 and forty others in the 2:30 list. "Nannie V," own sister to "Big Thorn," sold in the spring of 1889 for $1,000, she being then four years old and hardly broken. "Nannie Thorn's" dam was by Seeley's American Star, No. 14, wlo was the sire of six in tile 2:30 list, and of the dams of "Guy," record 210, "Rort r 2:10, Robert MGreor," 2:17 and forty-three others in the 2:30 list. From every blood line for five generations back, "Big Thorn" inherits extreme speed, and the blood comprises Hambletonian 10, American Star 14 and Morgan. As no first-class breeder to-day but recognizes the value of these lines in the last generation, the pedigree of "Big Thorn" is of great value. Ie was bred by McRoberts, the well-known horseman of Dixon, Ill., and is registered as No. 10375. Mr. Gordon owns "Bonivard," a rich mahogany bay, standing sixteen hands hirgh and weighing twelve hundred pounds, with black points and not a white hair to be found in his glossy coat. This beautiful animal was foaled in 1880, and has sired a number of colts out of common mares that haveshown close to 2:30. He was sired by "Commander," who made a record of 2:35, and a trial test 'c'0RTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL; AL-BUM. 963 I of 2:29. "Commander," was by "Volunteer," No. 55, sire of "Gloster" and "Alley," whose records were 2:17 and 2:19 respectively, of the famous "St. Julian" and many others. "Commander's" dam was by imported "Trustee," and her dam was a daughter of imported "Messenger." "Volunteer" is by "'Hambletonian 10," and his dam, "Lady Patriot," was by "Young Patriot" and her dam by the Lewis Hulse mare. "Hambletonian 10" was by "Abdallah 1," which was the sire of four.in the 2:30 list, and i"Iambletonian's" dam was the Charles Kent's mare. "Bonivard's" dam, "Nellie Chappel," was by "Vermont Hero," No. 141, who was the sire of "Lady M," record 2:30, and of the dams of "Gean Smith," record 2:15A, "Badger Boy," 2:29, and '"Brown Dick," 2:291. "Nellie Chappel's" dam is the daughter of Green's '"Bashaw," No. 50, who is the sire of seventeen in the 2:30 class. "Vermont Hero" was by "Black Hawk," No. 142, who was the sire of "Prince," record 2:24j, "Jake O," 2:30, and three dams of 2:30 performers. His dam was by "'Iambletonian 2," the sire of "'1-ero," record 2:20-, and three others in the 2:30 list, and of the dams of six in the same list. The marriage of Mr. Gordon and Miss Sarah M. Clark was solemnized at the bride's home October his judgment regarding their value, and his ability in handling them, is quite remarkable for one of his years, as he is a young man, born August 30, 1867. As a member of the local School Board and as highway Commissioner, Squire Gordon has done much to benefit the people of this vicinity. At present he is efficiently discharging the duties of Justice of the Peace. Although not a politician in the usual sense, he never neglects voting. His first ballot was cast in the interest of the Whig party, lhe afterward became a Republican, and still later a Democrat. In 1852 he voted for the Maine Law. lie is a member of the Masonic order, and has been Chaplain. Both he and his wife hold membership in the Methodist Episcopal Church at Springport, where for sixteen years he has been Trustee and Steward. At present he is District Steward. IIe is well-known as a man of fine character, much intelligence and energy, and among horsemen he has rapidly gained repute. Mrs. Gordon is an estimable woman who has made many friends by her gracious manner, bright mind and kindly acts. " I I.'9 - — L.4.. 22, 1844. Mrs. Gordon County, N. Y., June 19, 18' of Stephen and Annis (-IT tives of New York. The fa in 1846, resided in Jackson i on section 26, Clarence T There Mr. Clark breathed h and Mrs. Clark, March 29 consisted of ten sons and do are now living. Mr. and 1 one child, Della M., who is dall, a sketch of whom app volume. Squire Gordon is ably ass ing interests by Frank T. C Gordon, who has been in years. He has a large expe the race track, and has been playing the speed of the ani His knowledge of the go was born in Oswego AVID B. MOSES, who occupies a pleasant 24, and is a daughter home on the corner of Warren and ayden) Clark, both na- V Maple Streets in the city of Marshall, has Lmily came to this State played no unimportant part in the upa year, and then settled building of this town as a skillful carpenter. He is ownship, this county. also connected with the farming interests in this is last. March 11, 1862, county, as he owns a small and well developed,1876. Their family farm in Marengo Township. Our subject was aughters, five of whom born in the town of Grove, Allegany County, UIrs. Gordon have but N. Y., April 2, 1824. His father, Samuel Moses, the wife of I-I. L. Ken- was a native of Vermont, and was a shoemaker by )ears elsewhere in this trade. The mother of our subject, who was Sarah Booth in her maiden days, was a native of Massaisted in his horse breed- chusetts, and a daughter of Wicker Booth, who was ]lark, nephew of Mrs. of Scotch descent as is also the Moses family. Her i the' business for five last days were spent in Allegany County, N. Y., irience as a driver on where she and her husband have reared a family of very successful in dis- nine children, five sons and four daughters. imals under his charge. David B. is the next to the youngest of his parod points of trotters, ents' children and is the only survivor of the fam 964 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. ily. He passed his school days in Monroe County where he attended the common schools.. He conmmenced to learn the trade of a carpenter in his youth and has followed that vocation a greater part of the time for the past forty years. He soon became an expert mechanic and his services were greatly souglt after in his township. Shrewdly thinking that in a more newly settled country he could carry on his trade more profitably, he came to this county in 1858, and since then has been closely identified with the building interests of Marshall, and has helped to erect many of the substantial buildings of tie city. He has also paid some attention to farming, and owns a choice little farm of thirty acres il Marengo Township. Mr. Moses was married in 1849 to Miss Sarah Tiempleton of Monroe County, N. Y., and a daughlter of James Templeton. Their tranquil married life was brought to a close after nearly twenty years of wedded bliss by the death of the wife July 5, 1867. She left three children, as follows: Anna C., the wife of Charles R. Bentley; James M. resides in Marshall and is the editor and proprietor of the Chronicle; and Inay, wife of E. II. Holland, of Marshall. In 1877 Mr. Moses was married to his present estimable wife, Miss Delight M. Stockwell, of New York, born in Allegany County. Mrs. Moses is a daughter of Abner and Cynthia (Conger) Stockwell, who were of Scotch descent. Her paternal grandparents were Asa and Sallie (Tuttle) Stockwell. Her maternal grandparents were Joseph and Phoebe (Egleston) Conger. Mrs. Moses is a bright and intelligent woman of fine character, and none know her but to accord to her the highest respect and esteem. She fills in a perfect measure the position of wife, mother and friend, and her marriage with our subject has been one of true happiness which has brought to them one daughter, Florence, who is now attending school. Mr. Moses has acquired a comfortable property as a result of his work and has a well appointed residence, with pleasant surroundings, making a very cozy home. He has ever taken an intelligent interest in politics since he cast his first Presidential vote for Zachary Taylor and has been true to the Republican party ever since its formation, giv ing loyal support to Benjamin Harrison, during the last Presidential campaign. He and his amiable wife are influences for good in their community and they are among the leading members of the Presbyterian Church in which he was ordained as Elder in the spring of 1890. - ~ OCKWELL J. HAZEN. The labors that ] l have been performed by this gentleman \ since he took his place among the workers ) of the world, have enabled him to retire from active life, ensured against want and to enjoy the comforts befitting his years. His residence is at Clarendon Station, in and about which place he is well and favorably known-his acquaintance in fact extending throughout the county and beyond its limits. Althougll not engaged in any particular business, Mr. Iazen is by no means idle, being one of those whose motto has always been work, anti who could not be content to do nothing. IHe is a fine mechanic, and within the last few years he has made eleven violins, one having been completed two weeks before his seventy-second. birthday. The instruments are excellent, having a mellow and sweet tone, and Mr. lHazen takes great delight in showing the one he retains, and playing the Arkansas Traveler and other old-fashioned pieces upon it. Every part of the instruments except the strings are his workmanship, and lie has shown his musical ability in their manufacture as well as in their use. Jabin Hazen, father of our subject, was born and reared in Massachusetts, and was a fifer in the War of 1812. He went to New York, and in Genesee County married Permelia Stedley, a native of the Empire State. After a time the couple removed to Ohio, whence they came to Michigan in 1836, traveling with an ox-team. They located in Eckford Township, this county, buying unimproved land and setting up their home in a thinly settled district where wild animals abounded. In 1842 they removed to Branch County, cleared and improved a second farm, and made it their permanent residence. Mr. Hazen lived to the age of PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 965 ----— ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ eighty-two years, and Mrs. Hazen to that of seventy-eight. He of whom we write is their firstborn, and the other members of their family are Jarvis, Laura, Franklin, Earl, Marion and Jane. The birth of Rockwell Hazen occurred in Genesee County, N. Y., in the town of Byron, June 11, 1818. His first educational privileges were enjoyed in his native place, and he continued his studies in Ohio. At the age of fifteen years he began to learn the blacksmith's trade in Berlin, Huron County, Ohio, working three years, and then going to Mishlawaka, Ind., where he worked at his trade, for a blast furnace company. Early in May, 1836, he came to Homer, Mich., followed his trade by the day some six months, and then built a shop at Eckford, and went into business for himself. After his marriage he made his home in a log house that he had himself built, remaining until 1841, when he removed to Sherwood, Branch County. IHe bought forty acres of land in the timber, and did some work upon it, but after a time built a shop in Colon, which was the second frame building in the town, and worked at his trade there six years. At the expiration of that period Mr. Hazen returned to Eckford, made that his home until 1853, and then opened a shop in Homer, running an establishment with four fires until 1859. The next year he went to California, traveling from New York via Panama to San Francisco by water. From the California metropolis lie went to San Jose, wnere lie worked at his trade a year. He set up the first threshing machine engine in California, and ran it four months. Mr. IHazen returned to the States, as lie had gone, and in the fall of 1863, located where lie now resides. He bought an interest in a sawmill and furnished timber for the Air Line Railroad, and after its completion received the agency at Clarendon Station without having applied therefor. He acted as agent seven years and two months, then gave up the position. Mr. Hazen kept a record of the distance he traveled on his California trip, and finds that from San Francisco by water and rail to Albion was six thousand and sixty-nine miles. The lady who for half a century has been the cherished companion of Mr. Hazen bore the maiden name of Freelove Rodgers. She was norn in the same town as her husband, her natal day being July 3, 1824. She is the eldest daughter in a family of seven children, and was nine years old when she came to Michigan with her parents.`"She has been a devoted wife and mother, the kindest of neighbors, and one who at all times is considerate and obliging, and whose friendship is highly valued. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hazen was solemnized July 4, 1839, and to them have been born a son and daughter. Myrtis, who was born in 1849, married Henry Lusk, and their home is on a farm in Eckford Township; Marion, who was born in 1852, lived to be but twenty dlays old. The first Presidential vote cast by Mr. Hazen was for William Henry Harrison, and he was proud of the privilege of casting a ballot for Benjamin F. Harrison in 1888. IIe held the office of Highway Commissioner six years, and did much to insure better roads and bridges. He is identified with the social order of Masonry, and has held various offices in Humanity Lodge; No. 29, at Homer, on the roster of which he is enrolled. With good natural ability he has kept himself well-informed, has added a fund of observation from which to draw useful lessons and interesting incidents, and is a companionable man, in association with whom the younger generation can derive profit and find pleasure. His character is honorable, and his standing among his acquaintances enviable... - -+_ — ANIEL HUTCIIISON is a worthy representative of the sons of the pioneers of this county who are carrying on the work so nobly begun by their sires in sustaining and extending the great agricultural resources of this region. His farm, which is pleasantly located on the old Homer and Tekonsha road, is well known as the old homestead which his father purchased from the Government in the very early early days of the settlement of this portion of Michigan. Our subject is the son of David L. Hutchison, who was one of the very first settlers of Clarendon Township and was identified with its farmers for 966 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAIJ ALBUM. many years. He was born in Massachusetts, November 13, 1807, and was reared in the State of New York. In the month of October, 1832, he came to this State from the town of Sullivan, Madison County. He at first located on one hundred and seven acres of Government land in Clarendon Township, which he subsequently sold in June, 1833. He then purchased the southwest quarter of section 10, Clarendon Township, upon which he erected a log cabin and then proceeded to make the various improvements that in time constituted his homestead one of the best farms in its vicinity. He made his home here until his death in 1887 at a venerable age. He left behind him a good record as an honest man, a loyal citizen and a hard-working pioneer. His marriage with Miss Huldah Maria Bennett, April 9, 1837, in Tekonsha Township, was one of the first celebrated in that locality. It was fruitful of six children, two daughters and four sons, namely: Joseph, who lives in Clarendon Township; Mrs. Olive L. Allen who resides in Portland, Mich., where her husband is engaged in the livery business; Henry who died June 10, 1888; Sirel who died September 7, 1850; Daniel J., and Mrs. Laura J. (gden who resides at Burlington. The mother of these children came to Michigan in an early day with her parents who were among the earliest pioneers of this county. New York was her native State and she was born February 16, 1818. She departed this life in 1880 and she now lies in the Baptist Cemetery in Clarendon Township by the side of her husband. Daniel Hutchison is the fourth son and fifth child of the parental family and was born on the old homestead which is still his home, November 25, 1852. His boyhood days were spent in attending school at District No. 4, and in helping his father in the farm work, thus obtaining a good knowledge of the calling that he was afterwards to adopt as his life work. Ile remained at home until his mother (lied and then went to Grand Rapids where he was employed in the manufacture of shingles for some five years. At the expiration of that time he returned to his native place, and after his father's death bought out the interest of the other heirs in the old farm. He has here seventy-two acres of land of exceeding fertility, which he keeps up to a high state of cultivation and has it well improved with good buildings and supplied with all the necessary modern machinery for carrying on agriculture. He conducts a general farming business that brings him in a good income. Mr. Hutchison was married, January 28, 1881, to Miss Emma -I. Gill. She was born March 15, 1856, at Arcade, N. Y., and is the only child of John J., and Sallie (Cooper) Gill, natives of New York. Her mother (lied in that State in 1862, and in 1863 her father came to Grand Rapids, Mich. IIe is now a resident of Walker Township, Kent County, this State. Our subject's political associations are with the Republicans, though he is by no means bound by party ties, but always votes for the men whom he thinks best qualified for the office. He is well and favorably known throughout this his native county and is a credit in every way to its citizenship as he is a man of sound understanding, possesses those manly traits of character that win confidence, and in all his dealings is honorable and just.,EWMAN ENOS. There is probably no citizen of Clarendon Township better known or more highly esteemed than this pioneer of Calhoun County. His experiences during the early days of the settlement of this section of the country are thrilling and would fill a volume, were they published for the perusal of coming generations. He has written for the Athens Times and other papers of the county, articles concerning life in pioneer times and entitled, "As Times Were Sixty Years Ago," and "Additions to Gleanings of What has been Written of Michigan." These have been widely read and furnish interesting reading not only for the few survivors of that remote day, but also for the present generation who are reaping the reward of the unceasing toil of the brave pioneers. Onr subject comes of a worthy ancestry and is the son of Joseph Enos, a farmer and a native of Onondaga County, N. Y., and Chloe (Burleigh) Enos, a native of Hampden County, Mass. The PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 967 father served in the War of 1812, but was not in resident of Clarendon Tovinship; Harriet -E., who any active engagement. His marriage was solemn- was born in 1846, died at the age of four years; ized in Massachusetts and soon after that important Henry J., the youngest son, was born in 1849 and event he and his young wife removed t Onondaga resides on the old homestead; one died in infancy County, N. Y., settling near Skaneateles. There unnamed. Henry was united in marriage in 1873 the gentleman of whom we write was born Septem- with Elizabeth Schull, a native of Clarendon Townber 22, 1812. His parents had a family of five ship, and they have two children, Ada B., afnd children, three sons and two daughters, of whom Vernie D. our subject was the fourth in order of birth and is The second marriage of Mr. Enos was celebrated now the only survivor. The others were, Polly, in November, 1872, when Eliza A. Ilarper, the Erastus B., Phebe M. and Joseph. The father died widow of C. Harper, became his wife. This estimain 1854 and the mother in 1843. Botll were sin- ble lady passed from earth February 12, 1888. cere Christians, generous and kind-hearted, and After her death, Henry J. Enos, who had for ten were held in high esteem by those who knew them. years been residing on section 29, Clarendon TownThe educational advantages which were afforded ship, moved back to the old home, and now assists our subject were meager, consisting mostly of an in the farm work. He was never out of the State attendance at the district school,and three months in but once, but is well known throughout the county, the school at Skaneateles. His time was employed an(d has served with efficiency in several public in farm work, and he remained with his l)arents offices. Ile was Treasurer of Clarendon Townuntil twenty-one years of age. lie then started ship for four years, Constable for four years, and out in life for himself, working by the month at Drainage Commissioner two years, filling these $10 per month, and threshing wheat with a flail. varied positions with credit to himself and to After being employed nearly two years in tlis way the satisfaction of tile people. Politically he lie came to Michigan in 1834, walking a portion of casts his vote witll the Republican party, and the way and coming to Detroit via Lake Erie. socially is a Patron of Industry and a member of From Detroit lie came on foot to what is now the Knights of the Maccabees. Clarendon Township, Calhoun County, but then an Mr. Enos removed to his present place in Febunbroken tract of land, incluled among the Terri- ruary, 1849, and has devoted the succeeding years tories, and not then admitted as a State. For some to its improvement. He now has one hundred time lie worked by the month, carefully hoarding acres of finely improved land, upon which the his savings until he had a sufficient amount laid by various buildings have been placed which are necwith which to purchase one hundred and sixty essary to the farmer of the present day. In politiacres of Government land, on section 18, Claren- cal affiliations Mr. Enos is a Republican, using his don Township. This land comprised the east half influence for the candidates pledged to support the of the southwest quarter of section 18, and the east principles of that party. He is numbered among half of the northwest quarter of the same section, the honored pioneers of Calhoun County and we and the deed signed by Martin Van Buren, is still give below in his own words a few of his reminisin the possession of Mr. Enos. cences of pioneer days: A few years after coming to this State Mr. Enos " In 1834 flour was sold here at $23 per bbl., was united in marriage, December 13, 1837, with pork $50 per bbl., salt $14 per bbl., coarse boots Miss Margaret Blaslifield, a native of Cortland $7.50 per pair, potatoes, oats and corn $2 per bushel, County, N. Y. Six children were born of this butter fifty cents per lb., and everything else in union, namely: Laura Jane, born in 1838, is the proportion, excepting sugar and honey, these artiwife of Benjamin P. Hess, a resident of Clarendon cles being very cheap. The poor settlers were Township; AIary Ann, born in 1840, married Josiah obliged to pay the above prices and work for fifty Phelps, and they reside in Fredonia Township, this cents per day to pay for them. The majority of county; Joseph W., who was born in 1843, is a the first settlers were poor. As soon as they began 1 68 it; PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. to raise. enough produce to supply the needful etc. A person could not go a great distance, e'spewants of inhabitants, instead of receiving the above cially in the timber land, without seeing some of prices they could get only forty cents per bushel these wild animals and sometimes come in contact for wheat, oats fifteen cents, potatoes twelve to with them, I have seen thirty-six deer in one eighteen cents, pork $1.50 per cwt., corn fifteen to drove, and frequently from ten to twenty. Wild twenty cents, butter seven to fifteen cents, but turkeys were very numerous. Sometimes the bears cloth, groceries, etc., retained nearly the same high were quite bold. There were hundreds of acres, prices for a number of years. and I might say thousands, in this part of the 'b I can witness to the above statements and can country now in a good state of cultivation, that it further say that when I commenced keeping house was then impossible for a team to pass over, yet I had not even a bedstead or set of chairs. I cut the people were obliged to turn their cattle out to suitable poles and made me a bedstead, peeled get their living, and frequently they would get some bark, twisted it and made a bed-cord. For mired and sometimes die before they could be chairs I took a slab, sawed it in pieces about eight- found. They also had to mow the marshes with a een inches long and made some stools to sit on. scythe, rake the hay with a hand rake, carry it toFor lights we used candles, for candlesticks we gether with hay poles, to keep their stock through would have a potato or block of wood, and in ab- the winter." sence of the candles they would melt tallow and sew a rag to a button in such a way as to keep the rag in its place and this was another mode of illum-. _. inating. Notwithstanding all the hardships we had to pass through, the old pioneers were industrious, ILTON MOZART MARBLE, PH. D., kind and obliging. No aristocratic feelings existed Professor in Chemistry and Physics in the among them, but brotherly love was manifested by I/ Hillhouse Iigh School, New Haven Conn., nearly all. They found no fault with hard times, is a gentleman of rare scholarship and atbut strove to make each other happy, wise and tainments, who has been trained in our leading good. They organized churches of different denomn- universities an.1 has already won a high reputation inations, Sabbath-schools, district schools, and all as an educator. Mr. Marble is the son of Capt. were supported and sustained promptly. Ephraim Marble, whose biography appears in this "The reader can form some idea of what kind of volume. LHe is a native of this county, born in tools the farmers had to work with. They cut their Clarence Township, September 1, 1856. He was grain with a sickle, threshed it with horses, cattle, reared, however, mostly in Marengo Township and or with a flail, and cleaned it up with a hand fan laid the foundation of his education in its district for that purpose. In those days there were no schools. In his boyhood, when not attending to threshing machines, no reapers. Mowers, binders, his books, he helped his father on his farm. He cultivators, fanning mills, horse rakes, and many early showed marked ability in his studies and was other tools have been invented about or since that given every advantage in the way of schooling. lie time, too numerous to mention. They made their was graduated from the Marshall tigh School wheq own clothing out of flax, tow and wool. No cot- about eighteen years of age, and then went to Ann ton was manufactured into clothing in those days Arbor and was subsequently graduated from the and but little silk. Their wool was carded with High School of that place. He afterward entered hand cards; likewise their flax and tow, spun and the University of Michigan in that town, where he wove by hand labor. The cloth that was made in continued his studies until his health became imthose days was of a coarse material, but far more paired. He went to Dyersville, Iowa, to recuperate, durable than what is made at the present day. and was superintendent and principal of the schools "The 'wild beasts were very numerous, such as there for two years. bears, wolves, panthers, lynx, deer, elk, wildcats, Returning to Michigan, our subject attended the -~~~~~~~i3~~~~~~~~~~o.j. -Ip-"" ~ ~ ' rb1~yI:, i ~ I " ~ I.,.... '' I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 971 State Agricultural College at Lansing for two years. After that he taught at New Buffalo, in this State, until he entered the Normal School at Ypsilanti, from which he was graduated in 1883. The next three years he was Principal of the Lansing High School and the following year was at the head of the High School at Muskegon. IHe is very fond of the study of natural history, philosophy, chemistry and geology, and though in the beginning of his college career he devoted his attention to classics, later he made a special study of the sciences and has read some very interesting papers before different associations. Wishing to further perfect himself in his studies, he entered Harvard College after he severed his connection with the Muskegon Iigh School and was a student in the leading American university for two years, and at the expiration of that time was graduated in 1889 with honors. IIe soon thereafter accepted his present position as instructor in chemistry and physics at the celebrated lIillhouse Highr School at New Haven, Conn. Socially, he is a member of the Greek letter fraternity. Politically, lie is a Republican. Mr. Marble was married at New Buffalo, Mich., to Miss Dema Goit, a native of Heston, Ind. Their pleasant wedded life has brought them two children, whom they have named Enid and Bryant. W WILLIAM H. PORTER, A. B., A. M. The profession of the law in which this gentleman has earned prominence was one for which he manifested his fitness in very early life. Iis ardent love for his work has not diminished with the lapse of years, but on the contrary he retains all his youthful energy and studiousness and has a higher ambition even than when he set his mark and began to climb the ladder of fame. Mr. Porter is a native of this county, born in Marengo Township September 27, 1839. His father, Robert B. Porter, M. D., was born in the Empire State and was of Irish extraction. He caine to this county in 1836 Annd after practicing his profession i i i i I t- -- - until 1880 retired, and now lives with his son-inlaw in the town of Marengo. Although in his seventy-ninth year he is still in fair health and enjoys life better than many a younger man. His wife, formerly Mary Northup Bull, was born in Washington County, N. Y., near the Vermont line. She was the daughter of Henry Bull, a prominent business man and local politician. She breathed her last in 1864, leaving three sons and three daughters. The subject of this biographical notice is the eldest of his parents' children. His boyhood was passed at home in Marengo Township, and his first schooling was obtained in the district school. W.hen fifteen years old he entered Kalamazoo College, where he completed a four years' course and was graduated in 1859. After one year of release from mental labor he entered the law department of the Michigan University at Ann Arbor, from which he received the degree of Bachelor of Laws in 1862. Ex-Governor Felch was one of the examining committee on his admission to the bar. A few months after receiving his license he came to Marshall and entered the office of II. A. & L. G. Noyes, and on the death of the latter, in April, 1865, he formed a partnership with the former. The connection continued until 1877, when Judge Noyes retired on account of ill health and their business fell entirely into the hands of Mr. Porter. He is entitled to practice in all of the courts and has a fine business, to which lie gives himself with untiring zeal, bringing all the powers of his mind to bear upon the cases for which he is retained. In 1866 Mr. Porter was married to Miss Frances E. Reed, of Jackson, who lived but six months after marriage. In 1869 he led to the hymeneal altar Miss Jessie Cheeseborough, a native of Connecticut, and at the time of her marriage a teacher in the grammar school in Marshall. Thle powers of her mind have been developed by study and strengthened by use, and it is her constant aim to keep her faculties from rusting and not fall behind the times in knowledge. She understands the art of making her home attractive, and the evidences of her refined taste are manifest on every hand. Mr. and Mrs. Porter have had four children, two niow living, named Jessie C. and Anna B. Robert 972 PORTRAIT AND BIOG:RAPLHICAL ALBUM. 9IO P Burnham passed from earth at the age of seventeen years, and George W. died when but six months old. Mr. Porter has borne his part in municipal affairs, having been City Attorney four terms, and also holding the office of Mayor during four terms, to which position he was again re-elected April 6, 1891. In 1884 he was Prosecuting Attorney and for twelve years and upwards has been a member of the Board of Education of the city of Marshall, and is now and has been for several years the President of the same. He has always acted with the Democratic party. Socially, he belongs to St. Albans Lodge, No. 20 F. & A. M., of which he was Master two years, Lafayette Chapter No. 4, R. A. M., and Marshall Commandery No. 20, K. T. For the past two years he has been High Priest. The oraatorical ability which was conspicuous in his early years is still his and his conversational powers are pleasing and graceful. He and his wife are popular and highly respected. The portrait of Mr. Porter, presented on another page of this volume, will be welcomed not only by his associates in the practice of the law, but by all who enjoy his acquaintance. this county; Clara E., whose home is in New York; Lucia M., who lives in Massachusetts; Ward A. and Dwight H., who are residents of New York; Seymour W., who died in the late war, being a member of the Sixth Michigan Infantry; J. Harlan, who lives in Branch County, this State; John Edward, whose home is in New York; and one deceased. The mother died in 1846 and the father passed away ten years later. In Cazenovia Township, Madison County, N.Y., September 15, 1839, William H. Davis opened his eyes to the light. His early education was obtained in the district school and was sufficient to give him a practical understanding of the most important branches in an English course. He began the work of life for himself when seventeen years old, and from that time until he was twentytwo worked by the month on a farm. Tile warcloud had burst over the nation and he laid aside his agricultural implements, donned the army blue and shouldered his musket to hazard his life in defense of the old flag. Young Davis became a member of Company G, One Hundred and Forty-ninth New York Infantry. He bore a gallant part in the battles of Chancellorsville, Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, Reseca, Dalton, Kenesaw Mountain, Marietta and Atlanta. He went with Sherman to the sea and returned through South Carolina to Washington where he took part in the Grand Review May 3, 1863. At the battle of Chancellorsville Mr. Davis was taken prisoner, and being removed to Libby Prison, spent two months in that noted stronghold. lie was then paroled and exchanged, and rejoined his comrades, with whom he continued to act until he was mustered out in Washington after the cessation of hostilities. He received his discharge at Syracuse, N. Y., June 28, 1865, and soon afterward went to Onondaga County. At the bride's home there, in March, 1867, Mr. Davis led to the hymeneal altar Miss Esther Smith, daughter of Daniel G. and Narcissa M. (Humphrey) Smith. Her parents were born in Rens. selear County and she in Onondaga County, the date of her birth being December 2, 1844. Her father died in August, 1887, but her mother is still living. Immediately after marriage Mr. Davis LfEmE- - - -,L ILLIAM H. DAVIS is numbered among those who are gaining a good maintenance through their efforts in tilling the soil. He owns a valuable farm on sections 20 and 21, Tekonsha Township, consisting of one hundred and twenty acres, ninety of which are under the plow. Here he has lived more than a score of years, during which period he has brought the place to its present condition, making many of the improvements upon it and surrounding himself with the various appurtenances of a well-regulated estate. Joseph and Mary (Adams) Davis, parents of our subject, were born and reared in Massachusetts. There they united their lives and fortunes, afterward locating in Madison County, N. Y. They reared a family of eleven children, William being the eighth in order of birth. The others are Charles F. and Francis W., who live in Marshall, PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 973 ------ — --- — -------- ---- ----— — I — --- —--— came with his bride to this county and in 1868 located where he is now living. He carries on general farming and stock-raising. The political affiliation of Mr. Davis is with the Republicans and he is always ready to visit the polls on election day. His army life, which was one which reflects credit on his patriotism and valor, is commemorated through his membership with the Grand Army. Iie also belongs to the Patrons of Industry. He has been Highway Commissioner and made an acceptable public officer. Iie belongs to the Presbyterian Church and endeavors to carry out in his daily life the grand principles that underlie Christianity. Iis only child is George W. who was born August 4, 1871, and is now a junior in the State Agricultural College in Lansing. He is fitting himself for a useful career and gives promise of adding to the lustre of the name lie bears. ~.z~Asm____ ___.. ---I _7 SA W. REED. The fine farm of this gentleman forms a pait of Sheridan Township and comprises three hundred and fifty acres of land, every part of which is capable of l)rod(ucing good crops, and which has been thorouglhly improved, supplied with every needful farm structure and made the seat of a thriving business. There are two residences upon the farm, that occupied by our subject being a home-like and substantial structure on section 12. Like everytlhing else about the place, its appearance indicates the prosperity and thrift of the occupants, and the good judgment which leads them to surround themselves with every reasonable enjoyment. The paternal family is an old one in Connecticut, in which State Ephraim Reed, the father of our sulbject, was born. He was a soldier in the War of 1812, and participated in the battle of Plattsburg. lie removed his family to Franklin County, N. Y., for a few years and in 1839 came to this county, settling on what was known as the Emory Farm in Sheridan township. There was at that time but one store in Albion, no railroad through this section and but few settlers; produce was hauled lby teams to Detroit. After a year's residence the family settled on section 12, taking possession of raw land-timbered openings-which the father and sons began to clear. They built a log house, hiring men to help raise it, and in their forest home not only labored and denied themselves many of those things now believed to be necessary for comfort but enjoyed much that is unknown to the pampered children of a higher state of civilization. The mother of our subject was Sarah (Iayes) Reed, who was born in New Jersey and married in New York. Her father, Asa Hayes, served in both the Revolution and the War of 1812. She died in 1846, but her husband survived until 1867, living to the venerable age of ninety-five years and nine months. The latter had been temperate in all his habits and both parents belonged to the Christian Church. They had eleven children, five of whom are now living. The one whose history now claims our attention was born in Franklin County, N. Y., February 5, 1825, and in the district schools of his native State acquired a knowledge of the common school branches. Ile was fourteen years old when he came to this State and he subsequently attended a boarding school in Jackson County. -He made his home with his parents until their death, helping to clear off the farm on which he has continued to reside, completing its improvement after becomning its owner. The wife of Mr. Reed belongs to one of the pioneer families of this county. She bore the maiden name of Fidelia Gay, was born in Livingston County, N. Y., November 19, 1828, and was seven years old when the family came to this county. The parents were in limited circumstances and during her youth she learned the thrifty ways which prudence enjoined upon them and developed the strength of character for which she has since become known and esteemed in her neighborhood. Her parents, John and Lodicia (Pierce) Gay, were natives of the Empire State and began their married life there. In 1835 they came to this State, making their home in Lenawee County two years, in Hillsdale County two years and then locating permanently in this county. Here they entered into rest, the wife in 1887 and the husband the yeari following. They had six children, four of whom 974 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. are now living. Mr. Gay was a man of considerable missioner, Justice of the Peace and served in other prominence in Sheridan Township, serving as Jus- official capacities, always winning a good report as tice of the Peace, Commissioner and in other public a servant of the public. His father was a Jackonoffices. He and his wife were consistent members ian Democrat and he affiliates with the Democratic of the Methodist Episcopal Church. party, has frequently been a delegate to the conThe paternal grandparents of Mrs. Reed were ventions and always attends to his duty as a voter. William and Sally (Bonesteel) Gay, the latter a His personal character is unimpeachable, and he and native of Germany. They removed from New his wife enjoy the high regard of their neighbors York to Ohio, where the husband died. The widow and associates. subsequently came to Hillsdale County, this State, where she breathed her last many years later. The maternal grandparents of Mrs. Reed were Amos B. and Lorinda Emily (Weldon) Pierce, natives of New Hampshire and Connecticut respectively. USTIN W. ALVORD, M. D. is a prominent They came to this State in 1837, first making a member of the medical profession of this home in Lenawee County and later coming to this State, practicing at Battle Creek. He is county, where they were gathered to their fathers. recognized as one of the leading surgeons The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Reed took place of this part of the country, and his reputation as a April 19, 1848, and tle young husband brought physician of learning and ability is of the highest. his bride at once to the farm which is still their As an officer in the army during the late war when home. They have become the parents of eleven he laid aside his medical studies to offer his services children, two of whom have preceded them to the to the Government in the hlour of its greatest need silent land. The living are: Mary Lodicia, wife of he won all honorable military record. Abram Hoag and mother of one child and living Our subject comes of old New England stock and in Jackson County; Frank, who married Charlotte is himself a native of that part of the country, born A. Haney; Ira, who married Inez Smith and has in the town of Chester, Mass., February 3, 1838. one child; Alfred who married Alma Shipman and His parents were the Rev. Alanson and Adeline has two children; Julian whose present wife is (Barrows) Alvord. His father was a native of Agnes High and who by a former marriage has one Massachusetts, born in the town of Granby in daughter-Blanche May; Milton, a widower with 1803, and was a resident of that State nearly all his one child-Asa S., who lives in Montana; Willard life, which was brought to a close by his death in who married Maude O'Hara; Lewis whose wife 1862. He was a minister of the Congregational was formerly Ona Davis, and Alice, a stenogra- Church, and was a man of scholarly tastes, and of pher in Chicago. Lodicia and Milton were gradu- a pure and noble character. He was educated for ated from Albion College, and Willard and Alice his sacred calling at Yale College and at the New from the Albion High School. York Theological Seminary. He devoted his whole The farm of Mr. Reed is devoted to the cultiva- attention to the ministry, the most of his active life tion of the cereals and to the raising of stock. It as a clergyman being passed in New England. All is now operated by the sons who are living in this worthy reforms found in him an earnest champion. township with the exception of Milton. Frank is Especially was he interested in the cause of the poor now Clerk of Sheridan Township and has been for slave and was one of the early abolitionists, and several years. Not one of the sons uses either a co-worker with such men as Giddings, Garliquor or tobacco and all are so conducting them- rison and Smith, who honored him with their friendselves as to give their parents reason for pride in ship. The mother of our subject was also a native their progeny. All are much interested in the cause of the old Bay State, born in the town of Brimfield of education and the father has been School Direcr in 1812. She died in 1849 while yet in early womantor for many years. He has been Highway Corn- hood, leaving a family of three children, as follows: PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 975 Mrs. Maria Vrooman, who died while a missionary in China; Mrs. Ada Esterbrook, now a resident of Minneapolis; and our subject. By a third marriage to Miss Frances Little, the father of our subject had one daughter, now Mrs. Laura A. Warner, of Duluth, Minn. Dr. Alvord was prepared for college at Chester, Vt., and after pursuing a course of study at Oberlin, Ohio, he entered the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor in the junior class. During his senior year he left college to engage in teaching in Owego, N. Y., and it was while thus employed that he entered the service of the Government to aid in the defense of the Union, and went to Southern battlefields as Captain of Company H, One Hundred and Ninth New York Infantry, enlisting August 15, 1862. He remained with his regiment until January, 1864, being connected with the Army of the Potomac during that time, and he was then transferred to the Quartermaster's department, becoming Quartermaster of the department of the South, on the staff of Gen. Foster. A few weeks later he was transferred from that position to the Medical Department, with which he was connected throughout that year as surgeon. This was an invaluable experience for him, but his devotion to his work seriously impaired his health, and he was disclharged in the latter part of 1864 by order of the Secretary of War, as disabled for further service, with his vitality so exhausted that it was thought that he would not live very long. After his return home to his wife in Ann Arbor, he soon rallied under the influences of change of air and scene and the care of friends, and was enabled to complete his course in the medical department of the university in 1865. In the spring of that year the Doctor entered upon the practice of his profession at Clinton and after three years' practice he took a review course of lectures at Ann Arbor, for the purpose of perfecting his practice, and after seven years, spent a winter between New York and Philadelphia attending lectures for the same purpose. In May, 1882, he came to Battle Creek whither his reputation as a physician and surgeon had preceded him and he at once took his place among the foremost of his profession in the city. He gives especial attention to surgery, has had constant practice in that branch since the war either privately or in consultation with other physicians, and he has justly become noted for his skill and success in difficult operations. Dr. Alvord was first married July 26, 1861, to Miss Eliza Barnes, of Ann Arbor. She died in 1877 leaving two children, Grace, a teacher in the public schools of Battle Creek, and William Roy, the latter of whom is a student at Olivet College. The marriage of our subject with Miss Fannie Little, of Grinnell, Iowa, was solemnized January 30, 1878. To them have been born two children, Louise and Max Barrows. The Doctor and his amiable wife are members of the First Presbyterian Church. Ile is well-known in the medical world as a man who keeps abreast of his profession and is actively identified with various societies of physicians. He is a member of city, county and State medical societies, and also of the American Medical Association, the American Public Health Association, etc. The Doctor was sent as delegate to the International Medical Congress held at Washington, and he was also appointed delegate to the International Medical Congress held at Berlin in 1890, but owing to unavoidable causes he was unable to be away from home for the length of time that it would have required to attend. [ ENRY H. MILLER. Michigan sent its quota of brave and loyal men to the front. during the late war who won imperishable laurels on many a hard fought battle field, and did their slare in the great work, whereby to-day the beloved Stars and Stripes are waving over a free and undivided country. Henry H. Miller was one of those to whom all honor is due for his devotion to the cause of the Union in the hour of his country's greatest need, and as one of those noble veterans to whom this Republic owes so much, we are pleased to represent him in this BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. He is an intelligent, practical farmer of Eckford Township, with whose highest interests, socially, morally and educationally, his 976 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. name has been closely associated for many years, Nenmorow a as well as with its civic life in various important and his comr: official capacities. Mississippi a Mr. Miller is a native of Middleport, Niagara did great ex< County, N. Y., where his birth occurred December Vicksburg. 24, 1836. His father, Etheny E. Miller, was a unharmed th, native of Connecticut, was born July 12, 1795, and fire from th was a stone mason by trade. Ite removed from his shot through early home in his native State to Crown Point, N. ball passed tl Y., where he lived for some time prior to taking approach hin up his abode at Middleport. In 1838 he came from him the met the latter place to Wayne County, Mich., and locat- called him to ing near Ypsilanti, worked at his trade there for time he serve several years. In his old age he went to spend his courage and last days with his daughter at Lawton, Mich., and promotion th died there February 14, 1856. His wife whose tion of Lieute maiden name was Nancy C. Smith, was a native of to tlie Fourtl Crown Point, New York, and was born about 1820. Columbus, K She died in Wayne County when her son of whom was away he we write was two years of age. valuable serx Thus early deprived of the loving care of a Rock, Ark., mother, our subject was taken by his aunt, HIulda record of wl L. Robbins, of Niagara County, N. Y., and was proud. reared by her. I-e was given excellent educational After his e advantages, first attending the district school, then fields our su studying in the Lockport Union School, and he engaged in a subsequently took the teachers' course at the Nor- then turned l mal School at Ypsilanti in this State, of which he farm in Cass was a pupil one year. Thus finely equipped for comprising ei the profession of a teacher, he took up that work acres were in at Lawton in 1858 and continued there thus stood on the engaged till 1861, winning a high position among and then sole the educators of Southern Michigan. He has also county. He taught school in Eckford Township, having charge ed land, nine of a school here for four winters after the close of Township. ' the Rebellion. house and a f After the war broke out our subject abandoned the ensuing t his profession and entered upon his career as a sol- bought his pr dier, enlisting in Company C., Third Michigan Cav- which ten are airy, in September, 1861. His regiment was mus- 15, Eckford tered in at Grand Rapids, and in the trying years improved, an that followed did brilliant service on many battle on it. HIe ha fields. He fought bravely at New Madrid, Ft. the homestear Donelson and Island No. 10, was present at Iuka, improved. [ and took an active part in the terrible battle at thus greatly i Corinth, Holly Springs, Oxford, Coffeeville, Gren. is in excellent ada, Ripley, Brownsville, Miss.; Jackson, Tenn., I and best culti nd other engagements. Our subject ades were with Gen. Grant through Ls members of Grierson's Cavalry, and ecution throughout the campaign of Mr. Miller almost miraculously escaped ough in the thick of many a heavy e enemy, at one time a hole was i his canteen, and at another time a hrough his boot leg, so near did death. Ills superior officers perceived in al of a true soldier, and promptly responsible positions. Thus at one Md as clerk to Gen. Grierson. His gallantry in battle won him merited trough the various grades to the posienant. July 1, 1864, he was transferred 1 United States Artillery stationed at Ly., and as the captain of the company acted as captain for a year, and did rice till he was discharged at Little in February, 1866, with a military hich he and his have reason to be Experiences of life on Southern battle lbject returned to Lawton, and was general store there for one year. lie his attention to farming, purchasing a County, nine miles south of Lawton, ighty acres of land, of which forty nproved, and a log house and barn place. He lived there sixteen months i it advantageously and came to this purchased forty-eight acres of improvmiles south of Marshall in Tekonsha This place was supplied with a log frame barn, and he made it his honme hiree years. In 1872 he sold that and resent farm, comprising sixty acres, of e on section 10, and fifty on section Township. This was nearly all d a house and barn had been erected is since added thirty acres of land to d, lying on section 10, which was well He has made further improvements ncreasing the value of the farm, which t order, and is one of the most fertile vated farms in this locality. He has PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 977 -— ~~~~~-~~ — --- ---- 1-~~~~~~~~~~~~~ —11-~~~~~~-~~~ rebuilt the barn, has put up a windmill and neatly fenced tile land into convenient fields. To the amiable woman who presides over his pleasant home our subject was united in marriage in the month of March, 1867. Mrs. Miller was formerly Sarah E. Kennedy, and was born in County Tipperary, Ireland, October 22, 1836. She is a lineal descendant of Baron Kennedy of Kilbarron, Ireland. Her father, John Kennedy, died and was buried in Ireland. Her mother, whose maiden name was Julia Flynn, came to the United States with her children when Mrs. Miller was seven years of age. When Mrs. Miller was twelve years old, the family settled at Marshall, and there the mother died in 1851. The wife of our subject is the fourth child il a family of three sons and two daughters, of whom two sons and two daughters are now living. Mr. Miller is one of six children, four sons and two daughters, he being the fifth in order of birth, and he and two of his sisters are the only survivors of the family. He and his wife have been blessed in their happy wedded life by the birth of two children, a son and a daughter. Their son, George H. was born October 9, 1872. He was educated in the Marshall schools, and was graduated from the High School in that city in 1888. He is now pursuing the scientific course at Ann Arbor and will graduate from the University in the spring of 1892. Mr. and Mrs. Miller have also given their daughter, whose name is Winnie B., a good education. She was born in the month of December, 1873. She is a graduate of the Marshall High School, in which she won honors for superior scholarship, and is now one of the corps of teachers of that institution, she being the only one of the graduates to secure a position which she has held with marked success two years. Mr. Miller is a man of a fine mind and well trained intellect, who is known and honored of all for the probity of his character and for his loyal citizenship. We find him interested in all things that will tend in any way to enhance the welfare of his community or better the condition of his fellow-men. He is a leader in local politics and his fellow-citizens are proud of his record as a true Republican. He cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln in 1860, has been a delegate to county conventions several times, and has stanchly stood by his party through its triumphs and defeats. The cause of education has had for him a peculiar interest and lhe has served it well as Township Superintendent of Schools and as School Inspector. He holds the important office of Township Clerk, of which lie has been an incumbent for the past ten years. He is a devoted member of the Presbyterian Church, of which he is Trustee -and Elder, and he is closely identified with its Sundayschool of which lie was Superintendent for one year, and is now teacher of the Bible Class. His children are also members of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Miller, who is likewise held in great esteem by her neighbors and many other friends is a consistent member of the Christian Church at Marshall... RTHUR J. 'PHILLIPS owns and occupies a goodly tract of land in Lee Township, Iwhere various arrangements have been (U made for the comfort of the family, the proper care of stock and the storage of such farm products as are not disposed of immediately after their gathering. Worldly prosperity has come to Mr. Phillips as the legitimate result of enterprise, wise economy and general thrift. He is deserving of representation in this volume, not only on account of these qualities and his manly character, but because lie is a hero of the late war, to which lie gave some years of his youth, fighting as bravely and obeying orders as cheerfully as any of his older comrades. Mr. Phillips is an Englishman by birth but an American by education and principle. He was born at Adstock, Buckinghamshire, June 2, 1845, and at the same place his father, John Phillips, began his career. The latter came to America in 1854 and when he reached Bridgeport, Conn., had one shilling in money. He had been a farm laborer in the mother country, but after locating in the town he found employment in a watch factory, where he remained nine months. IHe then came to Jackson County, this State, and for a year was emploved in hauling wood to the prison,.He then 978 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 978 PORTRAIT AND1- BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. located near Napoleon, working on a farm, and while there was joined by his family. A year later he bought eighty acres which he began to improve; but within a few years he was located in Marengo Township, this county. He rented land in Lee Township, where he was engaged in farming during the war, finally buying one hundred and twenty acres on section 2, in Marengo Township. This is all improved and forms a remunerative piece of property. Mr. Phillips is now seventy-six years of age and may live many years to come, as his father reached the age of one hundred and four. IHe is a Republican and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Chnrch. His wife was formerly Sarah Smith and was born in England, being a daughter of William Smith, a butcher. Our subject is the only surviving child of his parents, and his name is second on the roll of eight. When but eight years old he began working on farms, getting up before day and walking two miles, carrying his dinner with him and returning at nightfall. He received two shillings and sixpence per week. In the spring of 1857 he crossed the Atlantic and recalls with interest the journey which widened his outlook and brought him opportunities unknown to his boyhood. He left Liverpool on the sailing-vessel "Emerald Isle," which encountered severe storms off Newfoundland but reached New York in safety after a voyage of five weeks. The family traveled by rail to Cleveland, Ohio, and continuing the journey by boat and rail to Jackson, this State,where Arthur began to help his father on the farm. He attended school two winter terms and made good use of the opportunities to increase his knowledge. Early in June, 1862, young Phillips went to Jackson and enrolled himself in Company K, Seventeenth Michigan Infantry, and was mustered into the service at Detroit. In August the command went to Washington, acting as escort to 0. B. Wilcox, who had just been exchanged from Libby Prison. The night after reaching the capital the boys left for Southern battlefields, being placed in the First Brigade, First Division, Nintli Army Corps, with Gen. W. H. Withington as their Brigade Commander. A long list of engagements was the fortune of young Phillips who was finally discharged and mustered out at Tennallytown, D.C., June 3, 1865, when but one day twenty years old. He then held the rank of Corporal. During his army life he was never off duty and received no serious wounds. At Campbell Station buckshot entered his right hand and knocked off a piece of bone but he fought on unheeding. Among the most important battles inl which he took part were South Mountain, Antietam, Fredericksbnrg, Vicksburg, Jackson, the Wilderness, Spottsylvania, Cold Harbor, Petersburg, Hatphie's Run, and Ft. Steadman; many of less historical note but of equal inportance to the participants might be added to this list. At Petersburg the young hero captured from a rebel a dagger inlaid with silver, which is a cherished memento of his army experience. After receiving his discharge young Phillips again engaged in farm work. lIe spent one winter in the lumber camps on the Muskegon River. Having wooed and won an estimable young lady he married and settled upon the home farm which he carried on until 1873. He then located where he is now living, having cleared this tract of choice land which consists of one hundred and twenty acres on sections 14 and 23. He has placed every improvement upon it, adding largely to its original value by this means as well as by its careful cultivation and fertilization. The dwelling is commodious and of attractive design, and prominent among the outbuildings are a bank barn 32x46 feet and a large windmill and tank. Mr. Phillips divides his time between grain and stock and markets large crops of the cereals adapted to this soil and climate, together with full-blooded Short-horn cattle, Poland-China hogs and Merino sheep in considerable numbers. I-Ie raises a few draft horses of good grade. The wife of Mr. Phillips was known in her maidenhood as Miss Melissa Murray. She was born in Marengo, January 15, 1844, but reared in Lee Township from the age of five weeks. She is a daughter of A. H. Murray, who is represented elsewhere in this volume. Her happy marriage was solemnized October 1, 1868, in the city of Marshall. Mrs. Phillips is a notable housekeeper, an excellent neighbor and sympathizes fully with her husband in his tastes and desires, which she is al I I e I I 11 i I I PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 979 _. -. - - - - -----.._~~~~~-. _.- -~~~~~~~~~. — ~~~~~~ ~~~ --- —- -~ --- —- ------ -----— ~ --- —— ~- -- -- -- - ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ -- ------ --- -- -—: - - -, - - ways ready to advance by her own efforts. She belongs with him to the Patrons of Industry and is President of the Woman's Relief Corps auxiliary to George A. Walker Post, No. 56, in Partello, with which he is identified. Mr. Phillips is a stanch Republican and has been a delegate to the county convention. IHe was Township Treasurer in 1889 and is now holding the office of School Moderator. IIe belongs to the Odd Fellows lodge in Marshall and a Masonic lodge in Olivet. Ie is now acting as Commander of the Grand Army Post, this being the third year that he has held the office, and it will be lard to find al old soldier who is more actively interested in the order or who does more for its good than Commander Phillips. ^^ ----.o^~-@^><^o-<0o.. ---<3^. ILIIAM CONNOR. The city of Marshlall / has been the home of this gentleman but a V comparatively short time, yet already lie has become well and favorably known and in fact is generally conceded to be the most l)opiular man in town. This was conclusively lemonstrated at a bazaar lleld by tlle Catholic Church in February, 1889, when a fine gold-headed cane was awarded to the party securing the most votes. The lion. N. J. Frink, Mayor of the city, and Mr. Connor were the persons whose names were announced as contestants. The latter was absent from the city and was not aware of the work being (lone by his friends until the contest was decided by a majority of one hundred and eleven. In returning his thanks for the compliment Mr. Connor gave some indication of the reasons of his popularity, his words being well chosen and felicitous. Mr. Connor was born in Yorkshire, England, October 13, 1830, being a son of Timotly and Ellen (Wardman) Connor. His father was a manufacturer of brushes of all kinds at Wakefield. He died in his home in the year 1868, his wife following him five years later. Of the seven children comprising the parental family two sons are living, William being the third. His sclool days were passed in Queen Elizabeth Grammar School at Wakefield, an institution that was under the care of the Rev. Dr. Carter. On leaving school the lad was apprenticed to J. N. Phillips & Co., merchants, in accordance with the English custom. He subsequently became a clerk and remained with the firm twenty-nine years. In 1879 Mr. Connor sailed for the United States for the purpose of visiting his brother Timothy, wlo was then and is now in the employ of the firm of McUllar & Parker in Boston, Mass. He remained witl his brother six months theb returned to his native land and disposed of his effects, having decided to make his future home in America. Again crossing the Atlantic he came west to Chicago and entered the employ of Clement & Saycrs, wholesale clothing merchants, as traveling salesman. IIe remained with the firm three years, then enterel the employ of Michael Kolb & Son, wholesale clothiers of Rochester, N. Y., for whom he is still traveling, having charge of the entire State of Michigan. His success on the road is undoubtedly due to his frankness and honor, and the fact that his word can be relied upon. IMa:rsllall was one of the first cities to which Mr. Connor came when he became a commercial traveler and here lie made the acquaintance of Miss Marinda Ann Ward, a member of one of the most honorable families of the county. She is a cultured and refined lady, with thle personal traits that make her a charming companion, and Mr. Connor realizing this fact wooed her for his wife. They were married in 1883, since which time the husband has identified himself thoroughly with the interests of his adopted city. IHe displays the true public spirit, showing an anxiety to build up the city in such a way as to draw hither the honest working man and give him more of the comforts of life and at the same time add to the appearance of the town by good public buildings, streets, etc. He has served as Alderman from the Second Ward and been elected on the Democratic ticket. He is a member of the Episcopal Church and one of its vestrymen. Liberal-minded, he contributes to all good causes and every charitable object, irrespective of the sect which originates it. In February, 1891, he introduced a motion in the council to take the sense of the citizens at the local election to bond the city of Marshall for the sum of $100,000 II 980 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -- for business enterprise, and although some of the old settlers ridiculed the idea and said it would take but a short time to count the votes, yet the motion was carried by the large majority of three hundred and eighty-eight. The parents of Mrs. Connor were Edward and Lavina (Atkinson) Ward,who are numbered among the early settlers of this county, in which the daughter was born. Her father died in 1886, but her mother is still- living. The latter was born in England, July 11, 1624, her parents being Henry and Anna (Walkington) Atkinson. She came to America with them when eleven years old, via Quebec to Detroit and thence across the country by wagon, arriving in this county in July, 1835. Her marriage to Edward Ward took place a few years later, in October, 1842, and her home from that day has been in Marshall Township. ' _3- ' ^ -- EONARD ELLIOTT owns and occulpies a well-developed and productive farm on secJ-J tion 21, Sheridan Township. The comfortable estate comprises sixty fertile acres, one-third of which was cleared by our subject who also first turned the virgin sod. He erected the dwelling tliat now shelters the happy household and the barn that is so necessary an adjunct to the work of a careful and intelligent farmer. Mr. Elliott raises grain and stock in due proportion and his labor is repaid by a comfortable income. Before giving the principal facts in the life of Leonard Elliott it may be well to say a few words regarding the family to which he belongs. Both his paternal and maternal' ancestors lived in the Empire State and there his father, Norman Elliott, was born in 1805. This gentleman had a brother Ira who participated in the War of 1812. Mr. Elliott married Cynthia Barnett who was born in Cattaraugus County, N. Y., in 1816, and to their happy union were born six children: Savira, Mrs. William Davis; Julia, Mrs. N. Darling; Frank; Leonard; Sophronia, Mrs. Charles Davis; Saloma, wife of Casper Reed. The last two named are twins. The marriage of the parents was solemnized in the Buckeye State and they lived in Summit County until 1851, when they came hither and set up their home on section 21, Sheridan Township. The land which they bought was but slightly improved and Mr. Elliott built a comfortable house, refitted the barn and placed the land under good cultivation. H-e laid aside the cares of life in August, 1884. The widowed mother survives and still occupies the homestead. Leonard Elliott opened his eyes to the light of day in Summit County, Ohio, March 28, 1844, and received his education in the district schools ofthis county, to which he was brought in early boyhood. lie took up the battle of life for himself when nineteen years old, learning brick-making, which he and his brother Frank carried on four or five years. At the expiration of that period they closed out the business and Leonard returned to his father's roof and took up the work of the farm. He carried on the homestead fifteen years, during which time his relations with his father were of the most harmonious nature, not a breath of trouble arising between them regarding the management of the work in which they were both interested. To his mother Mr. Elliott was a devoted son, looking carefully after her comfort. When he finally left the homestead Mr. Elliott bought the property which he now occupies and brought his family hither. Tile presiding genius in the home of Mr. Elliott is the lady who became his wife in 1870, and who was known in her maidenhood as Miss Caroline Lamont. Her parents, Isaac and Susan (Powers) Lamont, are old settlers in Sheridan Township, and here she was born August 10, 1848. She received a good common-school education and the careful home instruction which fitted her for the duties of wifehood and motherhood and have given her a prominent place in the society of this locality. Three children have come to bless her happy union, Alton being now nineteen years old, Milly nine and Nettie seven. The little girls attend the district school and carry home good reports regarding their progress, while Alton is completing his studies in Albion College. Mr. Elliott belongs to the Patrons of Industry and the Ancient Order of United Workmen, and PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 981 ------------- ------- - ----------- has held the position of Vice President in the former. He has been Treasurer of Sheridan Township and is now a member of the School Board. He takes an intelligent interest in politics and always votes the Democratic ticket. His habits are such as to secure for him the respect of his acquaintances, and his kind-heartedness is demonstrated by his interest in the welfare of those about him. Neither he nor his wife belong to any religious organization, although they have been workers in the Sunday-school and Mrs. Elliott has been a teacher. *, \^. SXT/ ^ ^ l- 3 LMIER C. FORD. The Ford estate, consisting of one hundred acres on section 12, Convis Township, is carried or, by Elmer (. and L. Levant Ford, whose business affairs are transacted under the name of Ford Bros. The property is pleasantly located on the banks of Garfield Lake, and consists of choice land upon which the best of buildings have been erected. Being but three miles from Olivet, it is of convenient access, and has excellent marketing facilities. It is devoted to the purposes of mixed farming, the principal animals raised being good grades of cattle and horses. Our subject owns forty acres on section 7, adjoining the homestead, the tract being one of the first that was settled in the county, and the site of the old Alcott mill on Indian Creek. The paternal grandfather of Mr. Ford rejoiced in the name of Almon, and was a soldier in the War of 1812. tIe was born in New York, and in his early manhood settled in the woods of Newstead Township, Erie County, and there cleared a farm. Upon that estate his son Alvin, father of our subject, was born and reared. The latter was married in his native county, and continued to make it his home until 1851 when, accompanied by his father, lie came to Michigan. They spent the winter in Marshall, then located in Lee Township. Grandfather Ford finally sold his property and spent his last years with his son. While living in Marshall, Alvin Ford helped put in the "T" rails on the Michigan Central Railroad. He selected a fortyacre tract on section 6, Lee Township, and made it his home until 1866, in the meantime placing upon it adequate and substantial improvements. In 1859 he bought the property now occupied by the sons, and began its improvement and cultivation, although he did not remove thereto for several years. He lived to the age of sixty-nine, breathing his last in December 11, 1886. He belonged to the Republican party, and was an earnest member of the Christian Church. The marriage of Alvin Ford and Orvilla Pratt was solemnized February 14, 1840, and the union was blest by the birth of eight children. Two of these gave up tleir lives in defense of the Union. Volney enlisted in July, 1861, in Company B, First Michigan Infantry, and served in the Army of the Potomac, taking part in all the battles of his regiment until Gettysburg. On that far-famed field he received his death wound, being shot through the lungs July 2, 1863. He was sent to the Harrisburg IIospital, where his father joined him, but love and care could not save his life, and he died August 12. His remains were brought North and interred near his home. Allen M. belonged to Company L. Fourth Michigan Cavalry, in which he was enrolled in November, 1863. During a skirmish witll Wheeler's Cavalry, near Big Shanty Station, Ga., he was shot dead. He was buried near the spot where he fell. The living children of the parental family are Elna A., Mrs. Perkins, who resides in Newton Township, this county; Elmer C. and L. Levant, who operate the homestead; Alice F., Mrs. Crow, who lives at the old home; she has one son, Layton Eugene, who is attending school at Olivet, and makes his home with our subject; he is the only grandchild of the Ford family; E. Lincoln, a photographer in Olivet; Julia A., next older than E. Lincoln, died when eleven months old. The mother was born in Newstead, N. Y., July 31, 1821, and is still living on the homestead. Her father, Silas Pratt, a native of Vermont, was one of the early settlers in Erie County, N. Y., and became one of its well to-do farmers. Elmer C. Ford is a native of Erie County, N. Y., and was four years of age when brought hither. He was reared in Lee Township, having the advantages of the common schools until he was twenty years old, when he entered Olivet College 9822 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. and pursued his studies there a year. The ensuing two winters he devoted to pedagogical labors, and the summers he worked upon the farm. His inclination and association kept him at home, and since his father's death he and his brother have carried on the estate and have kept with them their beloved mother and sister. Mr. Ford was School Inspector one term, and is now School Moderator. Ile is an ardent Prohibitionist and has done what he could to advance the interest of the cause in his private capacity, and as a delegate to county and State conventions. He is a consistent member of the Christian Church, and a useful member of the community. Since his school days he has been given to reading, and he is found to Be well-informed on general topics, acquainted with good literature, and capable of expressing himself clearly and well. His manners are courteous and affable, and le is an agreeable companion. L. Levant Ford was born in Erie County, N. Y., December 30, 1849. He had equal school advantages with his older brother, and has made good use of his privileges, and so fitted himself for business and social duties. He has held the office of School Assessor, but devotes himself almost entirely to his personal affairs. Ile is Treasurer of the lodge of the Patrons of Industry in North Convis Center. ancestral history before proceeding to give the principal items in that of our subject. The lineage is traced back to Revolutionary times, when the great-grandfather laid down his life for the cause of freedom. He left two sons: Richard, aged seven, and a brother aged twelve years, who were separated, the elder going to New York City and being lost track of by the younger. Although the line cannot be traced by record, there is no reasonable doubt that the family is the same as that of the renowned Cardinal Woolsey. Richard Woolsey, who was orphaned during the Revolution, acquired a good education, entered the ministry, and for forty-two years was pastor of a Baptist Church in Delaware County, N. Y. After this long oversight of a single congregation he removed to Seneca County, locating on a farm, but continuing to give the greater part of his time to ministerial labor. In the family of the Rev. Richard Woolsey was a son, )aniel, who was born in Delaware County, N. Y., March 5, 1808, and who was in his twentyfirst year when he accompanied his father to Seneca County. There he was engaged in farming until 1835, when lie came to this State and entered Government land in this county. In the fall of the next year he brought his family hither. His goods were shipped to Detroit, from which place he started across the country with horses, but finding those animals less able to get through the mud and marshes than oxen would have been he made a trade and completed his journey with an ox team. He took possession of his land and built a log house on section 8, Marshall Township, and by degrees brought his one hundred and sixty acres of land to a high state of cultivation. He was prospered in his financial affairs and was a useful and highly respected member of society. In 1861 he was elected Township Supervisor and held the office for eight successive years. He was Treasurer of the bounty fund during the Civil War. In politics he was first a Whig and then a Republican. At the age of twenty-two years lie united with the Baptist Church and was thenceforward an active and zealous member. For many years prior to his death he officiated as Deacon and was one of the main pillars of the Church. He died June 27, 1887. EORGE S. WOOLSEY. The intelligence and enterprising nature of this gentleman have been manifested in various public capacities as well as in his personal affairs, and have resulted in an enviable reputation and such a measure of worldly prosperity as enables him to gratify every reasonable taste. He resides on section 13, Marshall Township, where he has a welldeveloped estate of one hundred and eighty-five acres, which has been brought from a condition of almost primitive wildness to one of high cultivation and improvement. He is the owner of other properties and is extensively engaged in farming and stock-raising. It will not be amids to note some facts in the PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 983 The wife of Daniel Woolsey was Julana Shaffer, who was born in Colchesttr, N. Y., and was an early associate of the gentleman to whom she afterwards gave her hand. Their union resulted in the birth of six children, of whom the subject of this sketch is the fourth. Mrs. Woolsey was possessed of unusual business acumen, and gave her husband much aid by her counsel and caieful'control of those mutual interests which fell to her management. She was of German ancestry, and daughter of Ienry Shaffer, an extensive landowner on the Delaware River, and a prominent lumberman and merchant. Mr. Shaffer also owned land in Michigan. Mrs. Woolsey was called from time to eternity September 2, 1862. The gentleman whose name introduces these paragraphs was born in Marshall Township, this county, February 29, 1840, and recalls many incidents showing the trials to which the earlier settlers were subjected. Reared on a farm, his early education was obtained in the district school, and he also enjoyed the privilege of pursuing his studies for a time in Tenney's Select School in Marshall, and when sixteen years old entered Olivet Institute, as it was then called. A twelvemonth later he was obliged to discontinue his studies on account of failing eyesiglit and for three years he was not able to read newspaper print. Being the youngest son he remained on his father's farm until 1870. In 1869 he purchased the land lie now occupies, which had very few improvements. In addition to this tract, which he has so well improved, supplying it with a fine house, barns and other outbuildings, lie has other property lying in Calhoun County. These farms are well improved, and together make up an estate of which any reasonable man might be proud to be the owner. In Convis Township, in 1867, Mr. Woolsey was married to Miss Martha Lamphier, daughter of Marcus and Susan Lamphier.* She was born in Bloomfield, N. Y., accompanied her parents to this county in 1857, and lived near Albion until her marriage. Her father started for California in 1859 and died soon after arriving. Mrs. Martha Woolsey entered into rest February 15, 1890. She had become the mother of eight children, of whom we note the following- Marcus D. is engaged in school-teaching; Freddie died at the age of eighteen months; Edgar L. is attending commercial college at Battle Creek; Mary is a student in the'Marshall IHigh School; Mabel, Charles R. and Edna are attending the district school'; Ruth died in August, 1889, at the age of three years. A second matrimonial alliance was contracted by Mr. Woolsey October 7, 1890, his bride on this occasion being Mrs. Phebe Dunham, nee Hanchlett. This lady is a daughter of Caleb and Esther (Miller) fanchett, who are numbered among the old settlers of this county; her mother is deceased, but her father is living a retired life in Marshall. Mrs. Woolsey was born in Marengo Township in 1840, and there she was married to Henry E. Dunham, an artist, who was a native of Rutland County, Vt. The union resulted in the birlh of four children: Edwin C., whose home is in Chicago, and who is an engineer on the Chicago & Alton Railroad; Lillian A., wife of Dr. I. W. Houston, of Marshall; Charles S., who is an employee of a railroad company in Chicago; Montgomery H., who lives in Marshall. The father of these childre~ died in 1882, and after several years of widowhood their mother became Mrs. Wooisey. Mr. Woolsey has been Secretary of the Calhoun County Agricultural Society for five years and has at various times been a member of the Executive Committee, Treasurer or Director. In the fall of 1882 he was elected County Treasurer and reelected in 1884. He was Township Supervisor from 1880 until 1882 and prior to his incumbency of that office had been Township Clerk and Townsllip Treasurer two terms each. He has been connected with the school offices since he was of age, and has held the office of Secretary of the Citizens' Mutual Fire Insurance Company, of Calhoun County, for four years. In politics he is an earnest Republican and has served as a delegate to county and State conventions. His religious membership is in the Baptist Church and for many years he has been Deacon and member of the Board of Trustees. His reputation is that of an honest, earnest and intelligent farmer and citizen. And now as he enters the shady side of life (being fifty-one years old) he feels that industry and economy have given him a comfortable reward for the balance of his life, 984 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. and he will live out his allotted time at peace with all men, with the best wishes for everybody, and in the Master's own time go to live in those " mansions not made with hands, eternal in the heavens," and leave these accumulations of years of toil and blessings to the children whom he has reared in love in his quiet, happy home.. "*^-y~- T^'1s a De salesman Michigan with a team of horses, and his name is ned to his connected withithelhistory of this county as the )., in New second settler of Fredonia Township, where he los been the cated on section 9. The surrounding country was a te of Mich- wilderness and waslbut veryCsparsely inhabited. goods and He built a frame house, of which a part still stands on the old place, and then he actively entered upon hter of F. the hard labor of clearing his land and placing it [ugh. She under cultivation. He proved to be a useful pioy and died neer and in his death October 17, 1869, the I, Thomas, township, where so many of his years had been n Chicago. passed, lost one of its most worthy citizens. His redginto by widow survived him until April, 1885, when she too is bride on died, she being then seventy-two years of age. nsend, nee They were the parents of twelve children, of whom Ipire State. eleven are living. The names of the children are member of John, Sophia, Charles, Sarah, Susan, Joel, Anna, a member Mary, Ellen, Manley, Laura and Walker. iall. The subject of this biographical review is the Republican tenth child and fourth son of the family. his t given to life has been passed amid the pleasant scenes of the ber of the place of his birth and he gained a practical educaH. He is tion in the local schools, the schoolhouse in which with a will many of his boyhood days were spent being the )ys the do- same in which his children are now gaining their )le to spend education. He had still further educational advantages, as he attended school at Marshall and was a member of the Junior Class at Olivet College, when his father's untimely death compelled him to leave college and take charge of the business and carry on the farm. igricultural He managed the homestead and conducted the irtly in the farm until his marriage, December 23, 1875. to Eva rn citizens, E. daughter of Charles and Nancy (Young) Holmes. intelligent, Mrs. Houston is also a native of this country, was stockmen. born in Albion Township, September 8, 1852, and nestead on was there ieared to true womanhood. She is the l-appointed eighth child in the family of eleven children belongn was born ing to her parents. Her father and mother came to this country in 1834 and were among the first ive of New settlers of Albion Township, where the mother died inover, the in 1885. The father is still living there on his ed Hannah homestead, and is now seventy-two years of age. where they After his marriage Mr. Houston located on the esidence at old homestead that had belonged to his father, and in business carried on farming there until he removed to his is family to present place. He has here two hundred acres of as M ANLEY A. HOUSTON. The interests of this county are ps / hands of some of its native bo who have been trained to be shrewd and enterprising farmers and Our subject is one of these and his hot section 9, Fredonia Township, is a wel and finely managed farm... Houstol in this township March 26, 1849. His father, John Houston was a nat Hampshire, born near the town of Ha seat of Dartmouth College. He marri Whitney, a native of Stillwater, N. Y., were wedded. They took up their ra Rochester, N. Y., where he was engaged as a contractor. In 1833 he brought hi 1018 PORT~RAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 11 PA BC AU. fine farming land as can be found in Fredonia Township, one hundred and seventy acres of which are under good cultivation, and he is devoting himself very successfully to general farming, having his farm well-stocked with cattle, horses, etc. of fine grades. He is constantly making improvements and has a neat, well-ordered place, comparing with the best in its vicinity. Mr. and Mrs. Houston are the happy parents of four daughters, to whom they have given the following names: Minnie W., Jessie B., Clara L. and Zella. They are being carefully trained and well educated. Our subject and his wife are well known in their community as social, hospitable people who are always ready to do another a kindness and are charitably disposed towards all. Mr. Houston is a member in high standing of Lodge No. 45. A. 0. U. W., at Marshall. In his politics he strongly advocates the policy of the Republican party. * t & i. s E DGAR G. BREWER. This young gentleman is a member of the firm of C. D. & E. G. Brewer, successors to Chauncey M. Brewer, and one of the prominent dealers of the city of Marshall. The base of the business operations of tie firm is a store 24x100 feet, which is literally filled with dry-goods, groceries, boots and shoes and notions. Long acquaintance with the trade of the city has given to the managers of this establishment a peculiar aptness in making selections,and succeeding as they did to one who had been well established, they were unusually fortunate in beginning their mercantile career, and have shown finan. cial ability of a high order in keeping up and increasing the business. The subject of this biographical notice is a native of Marshall and the third in a family of four living children born to Chauncey M. and Emily L. (Butler) Brewer, see sketch. His natal day was July 1, 1853. He began his course of study in the public school and continued until he had become versed in the higher branches. At the age of seventeen he began his mercantile experience by entering his father's store as a clerk. He continued to act in that capacity until 1873 when, with his brother Charles D., he succeeded to the business. The same year Mr. Brewer was married to Miss Donna Hulett, the wedding ceremony taking place at the bride's home in Albion. She is a daughter of the late Samuel Hulett, an early settler of this county who died in 1855. She was born within the limits of "old Calhoun" and received a liberal education in the schools at Albion. Her gracious manners and cultured mind make her a charming companion and her qualities of heart abundantly qualify her for the duties of wifehood and motherhood. The marriage has been blessed by the birth of four children-Isabel, Augusta, Samuel and Rutll. The chief attention of Mr. Brewer is given to those topics which relate to the career he has adopted, but he by no means neglects matters of general interest. The political situation has been the subject of considerable study and he supports Democratic principles. He is a regular attendant at the Presbyterian Church and is one of its Trustees. Ils financial interests are quite extensive, his property, including two good farms, well stocked, a handsome home on Mansion Street and other valuable real estate, besides the share in the fittings and goods in the store. In financial circles he is regarded as a worthy successor of his father, and throughout the community his reputation for honorable dealing, courtesy and intelligence is an enviable one. f ON. STEPflEN Fi. SNYDER, now Postmaster of Marshall, has held various public positions in the county and has been prominently identified with its business interests for quite an extended period. Mr. Snyder was born in Cayuga County, N. Y., December 27, 1829, and is a son of Benjamin and Elizabeth (Fiero) Snyder. His father was born in.1793 in the Empire State, and his father in turn was a native of the same. The latter, Elias Snyder, was captured by the Indians and taken to Canada where he was held a prisoner two years and five months. The maternal grandfather of our subject was Stephen PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 1019 Fiero, a native of New York and of Ge scent, as were the Snyders. The family jamin Snyder and his good wife consistt children, Stephen F. being the fourth in birth. Three of the fraternal band are no In the district school of his native cou] whom we write acquired a knowledge of cipal branches and on the home farm h industrious habits and good principles. had reached his majority he began farmin own account, and in the spring of 1866 adieu to the Empire State and came to i He selected a farm in Homer Township, thi and here he industriously carried on the in which he had previously been employ intelligence and ability were recognized about him, who called upon him to serve ship Supervisor five years. In the fall ten years after his arrival in the count elected Registrar of Deeds and assumed t of the office the following January. The office was two years and he was twice r thus serving six years. In the fall of 1882 Mr. Snyder was c the legislature on the Republican ticket. did good work for his constituents. He c:,me interested in the lumber busines northern part of the State. So well satis the people with the legislative work of Mr. Snyder that he was elected for a seco and again he manifested his interest in tl weal and labored earnestly for those who I him their representative. When he was allowed to retire to private life Mr. Snyd ested himself actively in the lumber busi in 1887 sold his property and goodwill. ] 1890, he received the appointment of Pc and May 7 took charge of the office. A pleasant residence surrounded by grounds and located in a desirable part or affords a resting place to Mr. Snyder a scene of a happy home life. Tie lady i fined taste is manifest in its appointm known in her maidenhood as Miss Mary N ren and became Mrs. Snyder in 1853. native of Cayuga County, N. Y., and dai Robert and Ann Van Keuren. The only,rman de- Mr. and Mrs. Snyder is a son, Frank B., who is a of Ben- furniture dealer and undertaker in this city. The ed of five family attend the Presbyterian Church and support order of with their influence various worthy enterprises, iw living..contributing to them alsosubstantial aid. nty he of the prine learned After he ig on his ^ EORGE W. BRIGGS, a retired farmer, livhe bade ( ing at Marshall, is tie son of a pioneer of Michigan. j k this county, and is well known as he has is county, long been connected with its agricultural interests vocation and still owns one of its many valuable farms. He 'ed. His is a native of the State of New. York, born in the by those town of Milo, Yates County, January 8, 1819. as Town- Thomas 'P. and Hannah Moore Briggs were his of 1876, parents. HisEfather was born in Rhode Island in y, he was 1789 and his mother was born in Westmoreland;he duties County, Pa., in 1794. She was of English determ of scent. e-elected, The father of our subject was a son of John Briggs, who was a native of Rhode Island, his anelected to cestors coming from England to this country in and there Colonial times. He was taken by his parents to then be- Yates County, N. Y., when two years of age. He Is in the was married in Yates County, N. Y., and in 1837 3fied were came with his family to Michigan to make a new the Hon. home in the wilderness of Calhoun County. He )nd term, settled on a tract of land six miles from Marshall lie public in what is now Fredonia Township and during the had made years of toil that followed developed a good farm, at length and there death closed his earthly career in 1865, ler inter- in his seventy-sixth year. His wife passed away iness, but in 1856. They were the parents of five children, In April, four sons and one daughter, as follows: Joseph, )stmaster, who was a physician and is now deceased: John W., a physician at Schoolcraft, Mich.; George W., well-kept our subject, and his twin brother, Thomas J.; and f the city, Hester Ann, who is deceased. nd is the George W. Briggs, who is the subject of this whose re- biographical review, received excellent educational ents was advantages and profited by them, as he was an apt Tan Keu. scholar. His education was principally gained in She is a the West Dresden Academy at Dresden, N. Y. ughter of He likewise gained a substantial knowledge of v child of farming under his father's instruction, and was of 1020 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. great assistance to him in carrying on his farming operations. He was eighteen years old when he came with his parents to Michigan and he remained with them until he was twenty-one. He then went back to his native State and farmed there four years. At the expiration of that time lie returned to Michigan and from that time until his retirement was actively engaged in general farming and stockraising, which lie carried on very profitably and in course of years, by shrewd management, accumulated a handsome property. He still owns three hundred and twenty acres of choice land which is under a high state of tillage, and is amply provided with necessary buildings which are well built and conveniently arranged for the purposes for which they are designed. He has a handsome brick residence in Marshall that was erected at a cost of $6,000. Since 1887 he has lived at Marshall where he is very pleasantly situated. In early manhood Mr. Briggs and Miss Phebe A. Blue were united in marriage, January 19,1846, and to her cheerful co-operation is attributable a share of the prosperity that has followed their united labors. Mrs. Briggs was a native of Yates County, N. Y., but she was brought to this county in her younger days by her parents in 1836. Her parents, Ezekiel and Mary (Briggs) Blue, were natives of Pennsylvania and New York respectively, and her paternal grandfather was a native of New Jersey. Mr. and Mrs. Briggs have had two children only one of whom is living: Mary E., the wife of Myron Westfall, now of Wilson, Kan.; where Mr.,Westfall is engaged as a banker. They have three children, viz: Alice L., Grace and Nettie B. A great sorrow came to our subject and his wife in the death of their son, Edward C. Briggs, at the age of twenty-two years, at Denver, Col. Mr. Briggs, though ever aloyal and law-abiding citizen, who has faithfully fulfilled the duties of citizenship, has declined all offices with the exception of those of Highway Commissioner and Justice of the Peace, though le has been solicited to take other public positions by his friends who well know the value of a man of his calibre and standing in public life. HIe has always been a strong advocate of the Democratic party and during the war was a Union man from beginning to end. Mr. I I - Briggs commenced life on his own account with limited means and he is a good example of what can be accomplished by energetic and persistent labor, which is directed by sound common sense and excellent judgment, but to the aid of his good wife a great measure of his success is due. He has always maintained good credit, as he has made it a point in all his dealings to treat others with honesty and fairness. 7 OHN CARPENTER operates one hundred and sixty acres of his father's land on section 10, Lee Township, and though a young man Q( has already an assured position among the farmers of this, his native county. He is a son of Z. J. Carpenter, who has lived in this county many years and is one of its well-known citizens. The father of our subject was born in Avon, Loraine County, Ohio, June 27, 1827. His father, whose given name was James, was a native of Long Island. Hle was a carpenter and joiner, and during some period of his early life removed from his native State to Prescott, Canada, where he remained three years. He then returned to the States and became a pioneer of Loraine County, Ohio, where he was at first engaged as a ship builder. He later turned his attention to farming. In 1850 he came to Michigan and located on section 9, Lee Township, where he carried on farming and where death closed his life in 1856. The father of our subject passed his early years in his native State, where he became a farmer, which occupation he followed until 1850, when he came to Michigan and settled on section 10, Lee Township, coming all the way in a wagon drawn by oxen. He bought a new piece of land and struck the first blow in felling the trees of the primeval forest that covered it. He built a log house and then entered upon the toil of a pioneer's life in developing.his farm. He was quite well prospered in his work, and became the owner of two hundred and sixty acres of land on section 10. In 1877 he removed to Marshall and bought forty acres of y 10-21 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. land adjacent to the city, where he erected a dwelling, in which he still makes his home, and is farming. He is a cool, close calculator, and by thrift and industry has placed himself in comfortable circumstances. He has studied law somewhat, and was at one time the pettifogger of Lee Township. In his political views he is a Democrat. Our subject's paternal grandmother was Betsey Wainwright, and she was born in Genesee County, N. Y. HEer father, William Wainwright, was born in Yorkshire, England. When he was nineteen years old he was pressed on board a man-of-war and sent to fight the Americans in the Revolution. When off the coast of Rhode Island he deserted the vessel, jumping overboard and swimming ashore He subsequently settled among the early pioneers of Loraine County, Ohio, where he carried on farming until his death. The mother of our subject, Thankful S. (Emerson) Carpenter, was born in Athens, Somerset County, Me., September 3, 1829. Her father, Solomon Emerson, was born in Waterville, that State. I-e was a farmer there until his removal to the wilds of Loraine County, Ohio. In 1850 he came to Lee Township and died here. His father, Daniel R. Emerson, was born in Haverhill, Mass., and died in Loraine County, Ohio. His father was a native of England. The maternal grandmother of our subject was Thankful Boyenton, and she was born in the town of Bath, Me. TIer father, Capt. Joshua Boyenton, was a famous Seven children complete their pleasant home circle, who are named Benton, Fred, Gracie, Clyde, Earl, Claude and Lewis A. Mrs. Carpenter was born in Springfield, Ill., October 2, 1860. She is a daughter of J. F. Herrington, who was born in New York State, and was the son of parents who were among the early settlers of Sangamon County, Ill., where they located when he was two years old. After he attained manhood he engaged in farming in that part of the country until 1861, when he came to Michigan and located in Lee Township. He continued to follow farming here until his removal to Olivet where he is still living. He was originally a carpenter by trade. His wife, whose maiden name was Lucy Stutts, is also living. She is a faithful Christian and a member of the Congregational Church. Our subject is well thought of in his community, and his career as a farmer and citizen reflects credit on his native township. IeI is quite l)rominent socially and religiously. Both he and his wife ate members of the Patrons of Industry, and he belongs to the Knights of Labor at Olivet. He is identified with the Methodist Episcopal Church at Lee Center as one of its most useful members, and is now serving as Steward. Politically, he is a I)emocrat. r- seaman in his day, and made fifty-two trips across DWARD A. ISMON owns and occupies one the Atlantic as the master of a vessel. He died in hundred and ten acres of land on section 33, Loraine County, Ohio. / Sheridan Township. Here he carries on John Carpenter, to whom this sketch principally general farming and stock-raising, giving considerrefers, was the sixth child in a family of ten chil- able attention to breeding fine sheep. The entire dren, and was born on his father's homestead in estate has been placed under cultivation and such Lee Township, April 20, 1857. He was reared and improvements have been made as render it a fit educated on the farm, and since his marriage has habitation. The property has been the home of its been engaged in farming on the homestead, having present proprietor since his childhood and he hns one hundred and sixty acres of land of exceeding devoted himself to farming since he was twenty fertility under his charge. He is doing very well years of age, at which time he took formal possesat his calling and makes it quite profitable. sion of the homestead. September 16, 1877, was the date of an impor- The parents of our subject were Aaron and tant event in the life of our subject whereby he Susan L. (Cobb) Ismon. The father was of Engsecured the companionship and assistance of a lish ancestry and himself a native of Essex County, capable wife, by his marriage at that time in N. Y. IIe was an aid-de-camp to Gen. Ross durLee Township, with Miss Mary L. Herrington. ing the War of 1812, and Grandfather Ismon par 1022 PTORTRAIT AND BIOG RnAPHICAL ~ALBUM.M 1022 --- —----------------— ~~~~~~~ PORTRAIT-~ AND-~ BIOGRAPHICAL:~ ALBUM. ticipated in the Revolutionary War as Captain in the New York Militia.WThe'"mother was born in Woodstock, Vt., and comes of an old New England family. She is still living, making her home with our subject, and is now eighty-two years of age. She was the second wife of her husband and bore him six children, three of whom are now living. His first marriage had been blest by the birth of six sons and daughters and five of these survive. The parents of Edward Ismon were joined in holy wedlock in the Empire State and resided there until 1843, when they came to Michigan, settling on the farm now owned by their mother. It consisted of eighty acres of wild land of the variety known as oak openings and Mr. Ismon improved twenty acres and operated it five or six years. On account of failing health he then returned to New York, where he died in 1851. The gentleman whose life history claims our attention was born in the Empire State June 14, 1841, and was the fourth in the parental family. He was two years old when his parents removed to this State, and when of sufficient age he attended the district schools, later pursuing his studies during two terms in Albion College. He has a better education than some of our farmers and is not behind others in his use of newspapers and journals and his knowledge of current events. Mr. Ismon has the companionship in his home of a lady who has been finely educated, possesses refinement of manner and a most estimable character. She became his wife February 13, 1871, prior to which time she was known as Miss Mary Porter. She was born in Marengo Township, this county, in 1845, and after her preliminary studies attended the Baptist College at Kalamazoo for a number of years. She is an earnest member of the Baptist Church.. Her father, Dr. R. B. Porter, now lives in Marengo and is retired from the activities of life; her mother has been deceased for many years. Mr. and Mrs. Ismon are the parents of three children-Horace S., Mary P. and Hazel. The firstnamed has received a diploma from the Albion High School. Mr. Ismon has always been greatly interested in local educational matters and has served for a dozen years on the School Board. He has acted in other public capacities, having been Highway Commissioner six years, Township Supervisor two years and Justice of the Peace three years. He belongs to the Farmers' Alliance and is President of the local organization known as Oak Grove Alliance. With the Masonic order he is also allied and has been Master of the Blue Lodge and High Priest of the Chapter at Albion, and now holds the office of Principal Sojourner in the Chapter; he also belongs to the Commandery of Knights Templar at Marshall. In politics Mr. Ismon has always been a Democrat and is to-day an absolute free-trader. He is one of the active members of the party and besides being a frequent delegate to conventions, exerts the, influence of personal argument on all proper occasions. Perhaps the most conspicuous feature of his faith is his belief in the "single tax" theories of Henry George, and for the promulgation of these he gives time and energy, making the matter a subject of special thought and investigation, and arming himself with indisputable arguments in their favor. WV ILLIAM V. OLNEY. Among the many who are gaining a good maintenance by tilling a portion of the soil of Calhoun County, is William Olney, whose home is on section 22, Clarendon Township. He has here a wellregulated farm, consisting of one hundred and sixty acres of fertile land, with all the necessary farm buildings, and the adornments of trees and shrubs that add to its beauty as well as value. The place has been developed to a large degree by Mr. Olney, who took possession of it when but twenty acres had been bereft of the original forest grgwths. The work he has accomplished has been one that took time and strength, but he is well repaid for his exertions by the result. The parents of our subject were Stephen and Jane (Vely) Olney, who were born, reared and married in New York. They made their first home in Saratoga County near the springs of that name and there their son, William V., was born June 28, 1838. In 1850 they made a removal to Michigan 1023 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. -I — = and settled on a farm in Branch County, which was improved under their hands. They subsequently went to Shiawassa County, where they died in 1888 and 1889 respectively, and lie side by side in their last resting place. Their family consisted of two daughters. and five sons, our subject being the fourth child and second son. The names of his brothers and sisters are John, Martha, Mary A., Thomas, Daniel and Maria. The subject of this biographical notice began his studies in his native place, continuing them there until he was twelve years old when with his parents he came West. At the new home he resumed the pursuit of knowledge, attending the district school until he had completed the course of study. Ice remained with his parents until he was twenty t Mrs. Anna Clark, Mrs. Elizabeth Fredenburg, and Mrs. Laura Wilby. The intelligence, good judgment and enterprising nature of Mr. Olney have made his acquaintances believe that he would he an efficient public officer, and they have strongly desired to bestow honors upon him, but he would never serve. He prefers the quiet of home life, enlivened by social intercourse with his neighbors, to the anxiety and excitement of office. He always votes a Republican ticket and keeps himself well informed regarding political issues. three years old, aiding his father in operating the UTHER ROGERS. The village of Eckford homestead and becoming proficient in all that per- owes its existence to this gentleman, who tains to farm life. After his marriage he estab- L1_ has been its most prominent business man lished his own home in Girard Township, Branch and is still located here. He is engaged in grain County, on land to which he held the title. Thence dealing and the sale of agricultural implements, as he went to Girard Center and later came to his a member of the firm of Hamilton & Rogers, and present location. has been Postmaster for the past five years. He has January 1, 1862, the rites of wedlock were a good business, the village being surrounded by solemnized between William V. Olney and Julia a flourishing agricultural region, and owns a fine Born. The bride was a native of the township property not far distant that is under the personal in which she is now living, but was reared management of his son. His farm contains one in Tekonsha Township, where she obtained a hundred and two acres located on section 14, and good education. She is one of those noble char- has been made attractive as well as remunerative acters which make the name of woman revered by industry and good taste. A well-built dwelling, wherever it is uttered, and it has been her constant a basement barn 30x70 feet, good tool house and aim to discharge well her-duties as wife and mother, hog pen, a windmill and tank, and the granaries although ready at all times to bear such a part in and sheds that are usually to be seen on a wellsocial affairs as was consistent with her prime obli- improved farm, mark it as one of the most comgations. The children born to her are four in fortable places in the neighborhood. Improved number-two living and two dead. Willis A. was farm machinery of all kinds is used here and every born August 6, 1863, and died March 13, 1866; effort made to keep up with the times both in farm Alford, born April 13, 1865, died March 12, 1866; and home economy. Norris G. was born February 15, 1868, and Herbert Mr. Rogers traces his genealogy directly back to December 13, 1873. John Rogers, who was burned at the stake in MassThe natal day of Mrs. Olney was August 13, achusetts by those who differed from him in faith. 1836, and she is the seventh child of Linard and His grandfather, Nathan Rogers, and his father, Elizabeth (Failing) Born. That worthy couple Calvin Rogers, were born in the Empire State, the came to Michigan in an early day, 1833, and died latter in 1798. The mother of our subject was Philhere, the one in 1858 and the other in 1867. Of ena, (laughter of Anthony Rogers, she being a their eleven children, those now living besides Mrs. a cousin of her husband. The parents came to Olney, are George, Henry, John, Mrs. Nancy Blue, Michigan in 1833, and established their homc in 1024 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I this county, taking up land on Cook's Prairie. The deed, which is now in the possession of their son Luther, was signed by Andrew Jackson, and gave them possession of sixty acres. Mr. Rogers built a log house and set about clearing his property and otherwise fitting it for cultivation. He afterward added eighty acres to the tract and partly cleared this piece, which was covered with heavy forests of beech, maple and walnut. He hauled the trees to mill, trading the timber for furniture, which was somewhat scarce. He finally traded the farm for another of the same extent in Eckford Township, this property consisting of one hundred acres of improved land and forty acres of timber. The removal was made in 1851, and Mr. Rogers died about two years later. His wife survived him three years, entering into rest in 1856. Their family consisted of five daughters and three sons, he of whom we write being the fifth child. Luther Rogers was born in Orleans County, N. Y.. May 15, 1831, and was scarcely more than an infant when brought to this State. In his early years he hunted a good deal, deer and turkeys being plentiful and he suffered from "buck fever." He never attended any but district schools, but laid a solid foundation in practical understanding of the most necessary branches. He decided to follow his father's footsteps as a tiller of the soil and gave his attention to agricultural pursuits until during the '80s. In 1884 he bought thirty-two acres of land on section 23, and platted the present village of Eckford. At that time there was not a resident on the land platted, but the village now contains about eighty-five inhabitants, has a grain elevator, a general store and postoffice, and a number of cozy residences. Mr. Rogers led Miss Harriet A. Kingsman to the hymeneal altar October 1, 1856, and from that time has enjoyed the comforts of a happy home. He has two children-Herbert, who is now operating the farm, and Myrtie M., who also gladdens her parents by her continued presence under their roof. The father of Mrs. Rogers was George Kingsman, an Englishman, whose early home was in London. Mr. Rogers cast his first Presidential vote for Gen. Winfield Scott in 1852, and believing that Republican principles follow in the line of his first political faith, is and has been for years identified with the Republican party. He has been Township Treasurer and Town Clerk, serving in the latter capacity one year and in the former six years. He belongs to the Free-Will Baptist Church, and so conducts himself in his business and social relations as to gain the respect of all with whom he associates. ESLEY H. HAMMOND is industrious and enterprising, and is a worthy member of the farming community of Convis Township, who is deserving of representation in this BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. He is a son of Edson Hammond, a native of New York, and he in turn was a son of Jonathan Hammond, who was born in Vermont, and became an early settler of Allegany County, N. Y., where he followed farming until death rounded out his life. He settled in the woods and cleared the land around him for cultivation and improvement. The father of our subject inherited his father's occupation but besides operating a farm of some four hundred acres of land, he was a lumber-dealer cutting ship timber from his estate and rafting it down the Genesee Valley thence taking it by canal in cribs to Troy, N. Y. He made money in that business and became one of the well-to-do men of his community. He was a stalwart among the Republicans, was prominent in public office, holding the position of Supervisor and other offices for years. In the spring of 1873 he sold his property in New York, and coming to Michigan with his family, located at Convis, where he bought three hundred and sixty acres of land. He followed farming thereon until he retired to private life in 1880. He has attained the venerable age of seventyseven years, and is greatly respected by all who know him. The mother of our subject was in her maiden days Mary A. Meacham, and she was born in New York; her father's name was Gilford Meacham, and he was born in Livingston County, and was a life PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 1025 I long resident of the State of New York. The mother of our subject is sixty-three years of age and is a woman who is thoroughly esteemed by all about her. The father of our sulject was twice married and by his first marriage there were three children. The following are the children born of his last marriage: Edson, a resident of Allegany County, N. Y.; Frederick, living on the old homestead; Wesley H., Mary, Mrs. Weaver, of Lee Township; Mabel, Mrs. Rudduck, of Penfield Township; Nora, Mrs. Rudduck, of Marshall. Wesley H. Hammond, who forms the subject of this brief biographical sketch, was born at Hume, Allegany County, N. Y., April 26, 1854. He was given good school advantages and also had the benefit of a careful home training. He remained on his father's farm until he was fifteen years old and then went to the village of Hlume to attend school. In the spring of 1872 he came with his parents to Michigan, traveling by rail to Marshall. He engaged in farming after locating here and carried on the home farm until he was twenty-six years old, having taken charge of it at the age of twenty-one years. February 23, 1880, our subject was wedded at Marshall to Miss Hattie Starks, a native of Lee Township, and a daughter of Alford Starks, a native of New York. Her father came to this township in early manhood and soon located in Lee Township, where he improved a good farm. In 1863 he laid aside his work to enlist in defence of his country in Company K, First Michigan Engineer and Mechanics Corps. He was sent South with his regiment, and he died of disease contracted on the battlefield, his death occurring May 24, 1864, at Chattanooga. He thus gave up his life for the sake of the old flag. The maiden name of Mrs. Hammond's mother was Eliza J. Leach, and she was born in Cattaraugus County, N. Y., a daughter of Martin H. Leach, who was also-a native of the Empire State. He had a lumber and shingle mill in Allegany County, which he managed prosperously until he came to Michigan in 1833. He was among the earliest pioneers of Southern Michigan, locating first in Jackson County, and later in Calhoun County, where he died. The mother came here when she was but five years old. = She married a second time and is still residing here. Mrs. Hammond is the only child of her mother's second marriage. Our subject became possessed of one hundred and twenty acres of land upon which he has made the neat and substantial improvements that adorn the place, and thirty acres of this land is covered with valuable timber. This homestead has a good orchard, a windmill and tank, and a substantial set of buildings adorn the place, which was first settled by J. Monk, in 1833. It is finely located five miles from Marshall, and has two good barns 30x40 feet in dimensions, and two well made sheds, and all other necessary buildings. Our subject has graded Short horn cattle, has sheep of high grade, and his stock compares favorably with any in the vicinity. He has several fine horses and uses two teams in operating his farm. Mr. Hammond learned the trade of a carpenter in his youth and has found it very useful in his work. He is at present School Assessor, serving his second term, and is a factor in advancing the educational interests of his neighborhood. He is one of the leading members of the Patrons of Industry, holding the position of Secretary. He is a true Republican in his political views. AVID PATTERSON was a noble type of the pioneers of this county who laid the solid foundation of its material prosperity and were influential in elevating its moral, social and educational standing. For many years a prominent farmer and stock-raiser of Eckford Township, he was widely known and honored by a large circle of friends and acquaintances. Mr. Patterson was born in Allegany County, N. Y., March 1, 1813. He was the second child and only son of a family of four children, of whom the only survivor is Mrs. Lucinda Bryant, of Marengo. His parents were natives of New Hampshire and his paternal grandparents were from Scotland. When he was a boy the family removed to Ontario County, N. Y., where he was reared on 1026 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. e a farm. He worked for his father until the age of eighteen when he purchased his time and was employed by the month or day on various farms and in sawmills until he was twenty-one years of age. In the fall of 1834, the year that he attained his majority, he set out in the world to seek his fortune in what was then the Far West, this State being his destination. He walked from his home to Buffalo, N. Y., a distance of over one hundred miles, and there embarked on a steamer for Cleveland. He walked from the latter city to Toledo, thence to Jonesville, Homer, and Grand Rapids, in this State. He returned to Albion in the same fall. He was then unable to locate land before navigation closed, so he walked to Detroit and took the last steamer to Buffalo and returned to his old home where he remained during the winter. Our subject was married in the spring of the ensuing year, taking unto himself a wife in the person of Miss Harriet Waite, April 29, 1835. Ten days after their marriage he left his bride and came back to Michigan to locate his first land, a tract of eighty acres in Albion Township. In order to purchase it from the Government he went to Kalamazoo, where the land office was located, and was compelled to wait in that town two weeks for his turn to enter his land, such a crowd had preceded him. When he went to pay for it he found that he had not enough money by $2.50, and had to borrow that amount before completing the purchase. Our subject thus became a pioneer of this county, and immediately entered upon the hard task before him of evolving a farm from the wilderness. He built a log house in which to shelter his family, and after breaking about four acres of his land sold it at a good advance in the summer of 1836, obtaining $800 for it. He returned to New York in the fall of 1835 for his wife, having prepared a home for her. His father-in-law conveyed them to Buffalo in a wagon, whence they went by steamer to Detroit; there they provided themselves with a yoke of oxen, a team of horses and a wagon and started on their journey through tie forest to Albion. The roads were in a very bad condition, there being many deep mud holes in which the wheels sank to the hubs many times, and they hd hard work in getting along, being -- - ------------------- compelled to hitch two teams to get out of the mud, but finally arrived safely at their destination. After selling his property in Albion Township Mr. Patterson took up two hundred acres more of Government land lying partly in Eckford and partly in Albion Townships. When the road was built through the township there was a tract of eighty acres of land between it and his homestead. This he bought and added to his original purchase. At the time of his death he owned three hundred and twenty acres of land in the townships mentioned and a valuable lot of forty acres of timber in Clarendon Township. When he bought it it was all in a wild condition and was very stony and grubby. In the years that followed he made it -one of the best cultivated and most desirable farms in this part of the county. In 1837 he erected a log house on his land in Eckford, soon afterward put up a log stable, and in 1840 built a frame barn. When Mr. Patterson first came to Michigan he earned a yoke of oxen by holding a breaking outfit, and in time had a fine outfit of his own, consisting of eight yoke of oxen and a plow, with which he broke up his own land and a great deal of his neighbors. He also in 1835 put in and earned enough wheat to last him till his own little crop was ready for the harvest. Some years after purchasing his last tract of land he erected a large and comfortable frame house, built commodious barns and fenced his farm into convenient fields. Though game was very plentiful, especially deer and turkeys, he did not care much for hunting. One day he killed a bear with the assistance of his neighbor, E. T. Chase, and a lad who ran for guns to help kill the "bar," as the men were not looking for Bruin. Mr. Patterson was eminently happy in his domestic life, as Mrs. Patterson cheerfully co.operated with him in his work and was an invaluable aid in all that he undertook, and to her he owed much of the comfort and coziness of his pleasant home. She survives him and is quietly passing her declining years surrounded by the affection and loving care of her children. Mrs. Patterson was the fourth child of fifteen children, ten daughters and five ons, She comes of a long-lived race, PORTRAIT AND BIC Her grandmother Waite lived to be ninety-six years old, and many other members of the family lived to venerable ages. Her parents. Green and Lydia (MIoon) Waite, were of English descent. Her father was born in Rhode Island, but went to New York at an early day, and was a farmer in Livingston County for many years, finally dying in Michigan, where he had moved, at a ripe old age. Several of the Waites were in the War of the Revolution, and her father took part in the War of 1812. He was an officer of his regiment and was stationed at Sackett's Harbor, N. Y., at the time of the battle. Coming of such substantial and thrifty ancestry, it is not surprising that Mrs. Patterson possesses those traits which enabled her to aid her husband to attain prosperity. Mr. Patterson purchasing a few sheep, she would spin the wool, weave the cloth, color and cut it, and make up the cloth for the family who were warmly clothed throughout the winter. The sons sometimes thought their homespun suits were hardly so nice as they had seen, but the plucky mother would reply, "Well, my son, if you grow to be a good and smart man, nobody will ask you what kind of clothes you wore when a little boy." In those times the people were more social than at present; often they would hitch up the ox-team, put tie children in the bottom of the sleigh or wagon box and drive four or five miles to visit in the evening and remain until perhaps 1 o'clock in the morning. The hostess would make some shortcake with sour milk and saleratus, and if they had spare rib she would hang it before the fire to roast. Thus many happy hours were passed. The following five children, four sons and one daughter, were born to our subject and his wife: Electa, the childless widow of Levi French; John C., of the firm of Brown & Patterson, lawyers at Marshall; Philo D., an eminent physician at Charlotte; Louis K., who is managing the homestead farm, and with whom his mother makes her home; and Seward G., who died when but four years of age. Mrs. Patterson has five grandchildren who brighten her declining years; Frank D., a graduate of Cornell University, and at present a medical student at Ann Arbor; and Leo, a senior in Mar )GRAPHICAL ALBUM. 1027 shall High School, are sons of the Hon. J. C. Patterson; Mabel, a student in Hillsdale College, and Louise are the daughters of Pnilo D. Patterson, M. D.; Vera brightens the home of L. K. Patterson. Mrs. Electa French is a prominent worker in the Free Baptist Church, having for seven years held the position of President of the W. M. S. of the Yearly Meeting; she is also Secretary and Treasurer of the W. M. S. of the Michigan Association of Free Baptists. The family, who are all active church workers, are members of the Free Baptist Church. Mr. Patterson was a man of more than ordinary strength of character and with fine mental endowments that placed him among our foremost citizens, and making him a leader in many things that tended to promote the welfare of the county. He was prominent in politics, being originally a Whig, and later one of the men who assisted in organizing the Republican party in his county. He was a member of the first District Convention and had the honor of calling it to order. He was also a member of the first Republican County Convention and a member of the nominating committee. During the trouble concerning the boundary question between Michigan and Ohio he took a decided stand against accepting the terms offered by Congress. He was a rabid antislavery man and part of the time voted the Abolition ticket. Mr. Patterson's early educational advantages were somewhat limited, but his intellect was such as to overcome the deficiences of his schooling, and as a great reader, fond of the best literature, and a deep thinker, in time be became as well read as many a college bred man. He possessed an acute and logical mind, and much oratorical power, and was brilliant in argument either in politics or religion, or any other topic of general interest. He was determined that his children should receive a first-class education and gave them the advantages afforded by Hillsdale College. In the distribution of his property he left a bequest to Hillsdale College, also a bequest to Stover College, Iarper's Ferry, W. Va., a college for the freedmen and all. Our subject was also a man of deeply religious nature and held the doctrines of the Christian I:::::::-~:: r 1028 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - Church. There being no Isocietyof that denomination in the neighborhood he identified.himself witl the Free-WillBaptists andhelped to organize the church on Cook's Prairie in March, 1836. Ile continued to live on his farm for many years, beloved and honored by all who'knew him, until death called him hence June 29, 1888. Without disease his life ebbed away until the veil was so thin between hin and the sweet rest awaiting him that he longed to see it drawn aside and enter in. On the afternoon of a fine sunny Sabbath, tenderly was laid to rest in the graveyard among the ripening fields all that earth could claim of him whose rich existence went out like that golden day among the already ripening harvests of his earlier hopes. MA" ILTON BARNEY, the sixth child of Na/~ /t thaniel and Phebe (Ingram) Barney, was F born March 24, 1819, in Chautauqua County, N. Y. Thence, in February, 1833, he accompanied his parents to Michigan, then an unimproved waste of land. The father, immediately after his arrival, began the arduous task of reclaiming the ground from its primeval condition and built a log cabin which was used as a tavern and enlarged as business increased. He also brought the first mail carried on wheels and ran the first stage west of Marshall, from which place it had previously been conveyed once a month on horseback. Our subject, then a lad of fourteen, made daily trips to Marshall and return, continuing in this way for three years. although the hotel was conducted until the ensuing year. The father then sold his farm of two hundred and fifty acres. To the mother belongs the honor of getting up the first old-fashioned celebration ever held in Calhoun County. This was a grand affair, the entire county being there and the oration of the day being delivered by Elder Adams, of the Baptist Church. After the address a number of toasts were proposed, one of which our subject gives verbatim. It will be remembered that this is the time of the warfre between ichigan and Ohio over the bo warfare between Michigan and Ohio over the boun dary line, when it was thought that Michigan was too poor and weak to make a successful fight. The toast mentioned above was given by Moses Hall, father of the Hon. Henry Hall, of Battle Creek, and was this: "Bob Lucas and the boundary line; may you ever find the Wolverine standing to the rack, fodder or no fodder." This was received with tremendous applause, for at that time the Black Hawk War had wrought up the people to a great pitch. After dinner had been served to the whites, the father and mother seated at the table over a hundred Indians who had assembled and were curiously watching the proceedings. These they gave a good hearty meal and treated with consideration. This incident occurred in 1834. At another time our subject and a few companions improvised the first big gun ever fired in Battle Creek. It was a two-inch augur hole in a large white oak tree and made such a report as to attract all the Indians and whites for miles around. A reminiscence and personal experience of Mr. Barney must not be omitted, and this we give in his own words: " It was in September of this year that Mr. Woodruff, of Detroit, who had the mail contract from the Governor and from whom father was a sub-contractor, came through in a coach, arriving in Battle Creek in the evening and called for a change of horses to go right on his way from Detroit to Chicago without a lay-over under any circumstances, as he was arranging important business along the line. To this my father objected, saying that the roads were bad and the night would be dark, with prospects of rain. But it was no use. He called for four horses and the best driver. The horses were hitched, two lanterns with tallow c indles hung in front, when father gave to me, a lad of fifteen years, the lines and the word to go. " Mr. Woodruff-objected to this and wanted to know if a more experienced and older driver could not be furnished. Father said he could furnish such an one, but that he would rather trust me, as I had been the most successful. My memory is that I was a careless driver, but always had good luck. Others had their upsets, breaks, etc., but I had always got through all right. With this im1\. I 1029 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBI Mr. Woodruff was satisfied, and the started with its load of thirteen, inclui a wealthy Detroit banker who was vei two younger ladies. The others we We proceeded six miles without any it then grew pitch (lark. In passing brushed off one of the lanterns an relight it a switch of the horse's tai the other, leaving us, before the matches, in utter darkness. It was to Battle Creek and eight miles to G no houses between, the woods exce the night intensely dark and the thickets close by. The road was going around every fallen tree and a the stage a scream from the nervoe be heard. Two men groped their w and I followed by their calling or b their whistling. This occurred at since known as the Guideboard on t "Just as the day was breaking, aft night's toil, we arrived at the brii at what is now Augusta, but wher lived. The creek had to be forded, a short time for daylight to come fording less difficult and dangerous. lady before mentioned remarked tt through the intervention of Divii that we were not all killed and eat( gry wolves that had howled around Mr. Woodruff remarked that he thou give the boy who had done such driving a part of the credit. Actin she took me under her special care ing for my breakfast at Kalamazoo ever came to Detroit by all means (I should have said before this that were halted by obstructions in the n give a terrific scream and say, '0, de all be killed and eaten by those hungi when morning came Mr. Woodruff s are all alive and safe and it is coi This called out the remark above n< After being successfully establish more than four years, the route v the Territorial road running thr Prairie. Our subject drove the sl coach and four and carried the mail on horseback in the winter as ding the wife of long as the line lasted. Thus passed his boyhood. ry nervous, and He had few opportunities for attending school, ere gentlemen. and it is doubtful if a school existed within a hundifficulty, and dred miles at that early day. About 1835 he a tree a limb attended a school in Battle Creek, conducted in a id in trying to log house with split basswood logs for seats and il extinguished pins for the legs, while a board around the wall invention of served for a writing desk. Light was furnished six miles back through three windows, the roof was made of oak Talesburg, with shakes and the floor of sawed boards. For about eedingly thick, three winters he attended this school, and this, wolves in the together with the education he acquired in New very winding, York, furnished what was then considered a fair at every tip of education. However, he has never ceased to is lady would lament that he had not a better education and vay in advance made amends as far as possible by giving his )y the sound of children each good opportunities for gaining what was long knowledge. he county line. Mr. Barney is a very modest man and is sure ter an incessant there is nothing remarkable in his life with the cxik of the creek, ception of the fact that he has never taken a drink e no one then of whiskey, smoked a pipe or used tobacco. He has and we halted been a consistent member of the Methodist Episcoand make the pal Church for over fifty years, was Steward for The nervous many years,lias been Class-Leader, and for the last hat it was only twenty-five or thirty years has served as Trustee. He ne Providence was twice elected Justice of the Peace, but refused en by the hun- to qualify. He was somewhat active in politics as a 1 us all night. Democrat, until the Southern Democrats seceded ight she should from the Northern, when he left the party, and has a good job of since been identified with the Republicans. ig on this hint On July 29, 1844, Mr. Barney was united in after that, pay- marriage with Nancy Whitford, daughter of Eli and saying if I Whitford, and there were born to them three chilto call on her. dren, the second (ying in infancy. Albert G., a every time we student in Battle Creek High School, taught school light she would one term, then read law with Myron Joy six ear me, we shall months. He enlisted as a private in Company C, ry wolves.' But Twentieth Michigan Infantry, and was appointed said, 'Well, we Fifth Sergeant. Later he was promoted to Orderly ming daylight.' Sergeant for efficiency, and for meritorious conoted.)" duct at Spottsylvania was brevetted First Lieutenled and run for ant. A few days later he was wounded at Cold vas changed to Harbor and died from the effects of the wound 'ough Goguac and gangrene six weeks later. His death occurred tage in summer while home on a furlough and he lies buried in: T:x 1030 PORTRAIT AND BIOG RAPHIC AL ALLBUM.~ 103 PORTRAIT. --- — AND BIGRPICAL- ALBUM Oakhill Cemetery. Ellen married J. M.'Kimball and removed to Kansas, where she resides near Manhattan. Her family comprises six children. Mrs. Barney was one of the early educators of Michigan and began teaching at the age of fifteen years. She died June 19, 1861, and is buried beside her son in Oakhill. On December 19,1869, Mr. Barney married Mrs. Urana Woodward, who is still living. Although he had few advantages in his youth, Mr. Barney attained the best of all educations, that which is obtained by practical experience with men. He was appointed to write up the history of the early Methodist Episcopal Church, and this he did in a manner highly satisfactory. In it he stated that he attended the first preaching services held in Calhoun County. HOMAS MOORE is engaged in farming on section 16, Convis Township, which has been the scene of as much hard work on his part as has been done by any man in the county. He began with eighty acres of raw land, and after getting it into first-class condition, he added one hundred and sixty acres adjoining, farming the whole until 1883. He then gave and sold to his son all but his original acreage, and from this he is now gaining a good support and making provision for the future. The paternal grandfather of our subject was born and reared in Scotland and thence removed to County Derry, Ireland. His son John, father of Thomas, became a weaver and shoemaker, and while keeping two looms going carried on a twenty-acre farm. He died in August, 1823, when not yet forty-seven years old. His wife, Mary Lee, was born in County Derry and was a daughter of James Lee a Scotchman who settled in the Emerald Isle in his early life. He was a general merchant and held the position of yarn gauger under the English Government. One of his sons was in the British army and was an officer during the War of 1812. His family included five sons, the lightest pf whom weighed two hundred and twenty-five pounds. They were Orangemen, all well-to-do and prominent. The daughter, Mrs. Moore, died in the land of her birth. The religious belief of the family was that expressed in the creed of the Baptist Church, and they were faithful followers of Alexander Carson. The subject of this biographical notice was the fifth of the seven children born to his parents. He opened his eyes to the light in the parish of Maghera, County Derry, Ireland, January 6, 1817. lie remained with his mother until he was thirteen years old and prior to that time had acquired some knowledge of books, first in a Catholic parochial school and later in a Protestant institution. His opportunities were somewhat limited, as it was two miles and a half from his home to the nearest place of instruction, and he was not able to spend all his time in study. When he had entered his teens he was engaged by the Rev. Alexander Carson, as a confidential servant, and with that gentleman he remained four years. He then determined to come to America, having read much of the advantages afforded in thi, country and being determined if possible to better his condition. He bade adieu to home and friends and set forth with all the hopefulness of seventeen years, undeterred by the sad thoughts of those left behind. Mr. Moore set sail from Belfast on the "Lord Goodrich" of London, and landed in Quebec after a tedious voyage of nine weeks and three days. The vessel narrowly escaped being dashed on to the rocks off the coast of Newfoundland. The young man secured work near Champlain, N. Y., where he remained until fall and then traveled some. He went to the Indian village of Long Zoo, crossed to Canada and worked on the ship canal three months, then went to Rochester where he arrived Christmas night. Ill that city he was engaged in teaming until spring, when he took up boating on the Erie canal and spent three summers between Buffalo and Albany. During the winter seasons he busied himself at wood chopping and other employments in the vicinity of Rochester. He was married January 21, 1838, and for several years following spent the summers in farm work and the winters in butchering. In the spring of 1854 he came West and bought eighty acres of school land AL ALBUM. 1031 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICI — ~~~~~~ --- —-------- — ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ --- —~~~~~~~ for $850. To this he brought his family in the fall and established his new home in a log house. Mr. Moore began the improvement of this property with cattle and horses, doing all the work without the assistance of others. For twenty years he worked with ardor and vigor, but finally had his affairs in such a condition that he could take more time for recreation. He has a full line of improvements including a commodious and attractive house, large barns, carriage house and all other structures that belong to a well-regulated estate. The orchard, whose fruits form so appetizing an addition to the good cheer supplied to the family, was set out by his own hands. Mr. Moore improved the grade of cattle he kept, introducing Short-horns, and as soon as possible stocked his place with Merino sheep and good draft horses and roadsters. In Irondequoit, Monroe County, N. Y., January 21, 1838, Mr. Moore was united in marriage with Miss Eldula Allen. This lady was born in the county in which she was wed, the town in which she opened her eyes to the light being Greece, and the date of that event September 15, 1821. She was the third of six children born to William and Priscilla (DuPont) Allen. She was reared in her native county and was taught those things which have made her a valued companion and dearly beloved mother. Her children are six in number, four dead and two living. David breathed his last in childhood; Alex. C. enlisted in the Third Michigan Cavalry in February, 1865, was sent out on the plains to subdue the Indians and died on the march at the hospital at Ft. Ketrney; John T. is operating the home farm; Florence died at the age of two years;Allen lived to be four years old; and Mary E., married James A. Hart, and they live on the homestead. The father of Mrs. Moore was born in Connecticut and was left fatherless when but six years old. His parent was a wealthy farmer and cattle dealer; he left his home to go to Niagara Falls on horseback, was never heard from and is believed to have been murdered. Seven years later the son went with his widowed mother to Monroe County, N. Y., and there he grew to manhood. He was married at Greece, near which place he owned a farm, He was a soldier in the War of 1812, was a Democrat in politics and a Universalist in religion. Some time after his demise his widow came to this State and spent her last days with Mr. and Mrs. Moore, dying when sixty-four years old. She was born in Saratoga County, N. Y., and was a daughter of a Frenchman, John Du Pont, who was in the French army prior to the American Revolution. The command to which he belonged was sent to this country to fight against the Colonists, but he and his comrades deserted and joined the American force. After the Revolution he settled in New York, following his trade, shoemaking, in Saratoga County and later in Rochester, but finally giving his time to farming. Mr. Moore has been called upon by his neighbors and associates to serve them in several official capacities. He has been School Director several years, Township Treasurer and Justice of the Peace each two terms and Constable six years. In 1840 he voted for William Henry Harrison, but since the establishment of the Republican party he has been one of its most ardent members, and it would be hard indeed to find a man more thoroughly convinced of the justice of its principles. He belongs to the Masonic order, his name being enrolled in the lodge at Marshall. His religious belief is that expressed by the creed of the Baptist Church and his life corresponds to his profession, being honest, just and earnest. AMES GREEN. It being the purpose of the biographical writer to rescue from oblivion the names and histories of worthy men we / are pleased to incorporate in this ALBUM a sketch of James Green, Mayor of Battle Creek in 1889, and a business man of good repute in that city. He was born in Cambridgeshire, England, September 20, 1840, but has spent the greater part of his life in the United States. His parents were Thomas and Mary (Hazel) Green, the former of whom died when James was but an infant. The mother came to America in 1847, she having in the meantime become the wife of a Mr, Crabb, The 1032 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. family located in Genesee County, N. Y., but in 1854 came to Michigan, where our subject followed farming. In 1867 Mr. Green abandoned farming and locating in Battle Creek, embarked in the lumber business. After two years, during which he was alone in the business, he formed a partnership with Gilbert Smith & S. S. McCauley, a connection that continued three or four years. They bought the location occupied by Mason, Rathbun & Co., and carried on their trade in that place. The firm was changed to Sweetland, Smith & Green, and this in time was succeeded by that of Mason, Rathbun & Green, which is still in force. Under the reorganization of the Advance Threshing Machine Company Mr. Green became Superintendent, a position which he has held continuously. The lady who shares the cares and pleasures of Mr. Green was known in maidenhood as Miss Cornelia Kellogg. Their marriage was consummated in January, 1870, and they are the happy parents of one son, Charles, a promising student. Politically speaking, Ir. Green is a Republican. He is much interested in the social orders and is identified with the Knights of Pythias, American Legion of Honor and Ancient Order of United Workmen. As a business man he is energetic and judicious, displaying a tact and acumen which brings its own reward in the shape of increased trade and increasing repu - tation. ROF. W. W. PRESCOTT, one of the conspicuous figures in religious and educational circles in Battle Creek, was born in Alton, N. H. September 2, 1855. His parents removed to Wells, York County, Me., during his infancy and his earliest recollections are of the home in the Pine Tree State. His father was in moderate circumstances with a large family to support, and our subject was early set to work to learn the trade of shoemaking. This was before the invention of machines with which the work is now done, and all shoe-stitching was done by hand. He had such educational advantages as are common to boys who live in a country town and attend the district schools. Wein Mr, Prescott was six years old his father had changed his residence to North Berwick, which was his home until he went away to prepare for college. The first year's preparatory work of Mr. Prescott was done at the old Berwick Academy in South Berwick, Me., and the second at the Penacook Academy, Penacook, N. H. He entered Dartmouth College at the age of seventeen and was graduated in 1877, ranking fifth on average standing in a class of fifty-two. For three years after his grad. uation he was Principal of the public' schools in the towns of Northfield and Montpelier, Vt. In 1880 he engaged in editorial work as editor and publisher at Biddeford, Me., the sheet of which he had charge being the Biddeford Journal, which he conducted two years, after which he devoted three years to similar work on the Vermont Watchman at Montpelier. Of the latter journal lie was also proprietor. In 1885 Mr. Prescott was invited to the Presidency of Battle Creek College, which position he has since held, discharging his duties in such a way as to secure the commendation of the Board and the good opinion of other educators in Battle Creek and elsewhere. Two years after assuming his position he was elected General Educational Secretary of the Seventh Day Adventists, and has been reelected annually. He has also for five years past been one of the Trustees of the Seventh Day Adventists' Society, which is the governing board of Battle Creek College. In 1885 he received the degree of Master of Arts in course from Dartmouth College. In 1889 he was ordained as a minister of the Seventh Day Adventists denomination, and he is now combining the duties of clergyman and educator. The Seventh Day Adventists' Educational Society was chartered in 1874, the object as set forth in the by-laws being "the establishment and management of a college for the purpose of giving instruction to persons of both sexes in the sciences and languages of Holy Scriptures to qualify them for usefulness in life and to benefit others." A substantial brick building was erected at Battle Creek the same year and opened to students. Additions have from time to time been made to the facilities for caring for students until the present equipment consists of the original college building enlarged to nearly PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 1033 double its original capacity, a dormitory for ladies others, and deals fairly by all who have occasion and one for gentlemen-the two having accommo- to deal with him. He is known in social circles as dations for rooming and dining two hundred and a member of the Patrons of Industry and of the twenty-five students, and four cottages for the use Knights of Labor organizations at Olivet. He'has of the members of the faculty. opinions of his own on all subjects, especially in The course of study is substantially the same as regard to politics. In that respect he is independin other institutions of like character, the most ent of party ties, preferring to vote for the man marked exception perhaps, being that a contin- whom he regards best fitted for the office, whatever uous study of the English Bible with daily recita- his political affiliations may be. tions for two years is a required part of every course. The usual degrees are granted to those who complete the scientific or classical courses. The average attendance is about three hundred, and the last graduating class numbered thirty. The OSEPH A. WASHBURN. Amongthe men institution has excellent rank among the colleges who are prospering in the vocation of farnof the country, and much of its efficiency is due to ing in this county is the gentleman above the efforts of its President, backed by the capable named, who resides on section 10, Eckford Board of Directors. Township. His property consists of one hundred and twenty acres on that section and twenty acres of woodland on section 27. On first coming to this county in the spring of 1869 he bought his home farm of P. P. Hamilton, and since settling ' EWIS DECATUR CARPENTER is a na- thereon he has rebuilt the house and added to the tive of Lee Township, and is one of the accommodations for stock and farm produce. He youngest of its farmers. Though he has has built a barn 26x36 feet, in which to shelter his just attained his majority, he has already made a horses, and one 40x72, with a basement, which is good start in life and bids fair to be successful in used exclusively for grains. He raises the usual his vocation. Our subject was born on the parental crops and considerable stock, the cattle being from homestead in Lee Township, January 30, 1870. He is half to three-fourths Durham blood. a son of Z. J. and Thankful (Emerson) Carpenter, a Mr. Washburn is of the old New England stock, short biography of whom appears in the sketch of his parents, Aaron and Clarissa (Crouch) Washburn, his brother John on another page of this work. having been born in Connecticut and his grandWhen Lewis D. Carpenter was a lad of seven fathers also having been natives of the "land of years, his parents removed to Marshall, where he steady habits." Grandfather Crouch, whose given had fine educational advantages in the High School name was Richard, was born in Colchester, whence of that city. During his boyhood he helped his he moved to Steuben County,'N. Y., in 1816. His father in farming and gained a good insight into death occurred in the summer of 1853. Grandthe business, and has since established himself as a father Washburn bore the given name of Levi. farmer. He makes his home with his brother The natal day of the father of our subject was NoJohni. vember 13, 1786, and his marriage was solemnized Our subject is well endowed, mentally and phys- January 2, 1814. He taught in his native State ically, is energetic and capable, and carries on his several winters, farming during the summer work in a systematic and business-like manner that months, and after removing to Steuben County, will some day place him among the leading farmers N. Y., in 1816, he continued to divide his time and stockmen of his township, if he does as well between the two occupations for a number of years. as he has heretofore done. lie is pleasant and In 1838 he bought fifty acres of land in Spring-: obliging in his intercourse with his neighbors and water, Livingston County, and added fifty-tour:.:::::::. -::..i:;:::::.:::,ii.::.:'::i::-::I:: I:.-,- g --: ~: 1034 PORTRAIT AND BIOGR;APHIXCAL ALBUM.R3[._34 PORTRAI AND BIOGRAPHICALALB acres more, which he sold and bought in the town of Burres, Allegany County, N. Y. He sold that farm and moved to Conesus, Livingston County, N. Y., where he diedaNovember 10, 1878. The parental family consisted of ten sons and two daughters, he of whom we write being the third in order of birth. Of the others we note the following: Clarissa, who married Enoch Fobes, a farmer at Caryville, Genesec County, N. Y., died in the spring of 1887; George L., a school teacher and farmer, breathed his last. October 8, 1847; Joel is now living in Connecticut; William resides in Pasadena, Cal.; Solomon died November 9, 1846; Sarah who married William C. Morris, lives in Conesus, Livingston County, N. Y.; Richard C. is in a music store in St. Joseph, Mo.; James H. died at Springwater, N. Y., January 12, 1857; Aaron W., Jr., born February 4, 1838, died June 8, 1838; Thomas J. is in a music store in St. Joseph, Mo. The eyes of Joseph A. Washburn opened to the light in Coshocton Township, Steuben County, N. Y., July 30, 1820, and he remained with his parents until 1837, when he went out to work by the month. In the fall of 1845 he bought a tract of land consisting of about one hundred and fifty acres of timber and one hundred and fifty acres cleared, having upon it a house and barns and two sawmills run by water power. After occupying and operating this property for some two years he sold it to his uncle, Jackson Crouch, and went to Conesus, Livingston County. In 1849 he bought a farm there consisting of fifty-two and a half acres, on which he remained four years, then sold out and bought one hundred and forty-four acres at Springwater. ' This was an improved farm, upon which be lived a year, then sold and bought one hundred and sixty-eight and a half acres one mile south. For eight years that tract was the home of our subject and his family, but he then rented and moved -onto two hundred and twelve acres in the same township, operating both farms and dividing his attention between ordinary farming and stockraising, making rather a specialty of sheep. In the spring of 1869 he disposed of his property in the Empire State, and turning his face westward, selected the location he now occupies and where for so many years he has been industriously laboring. The household affairs are under the control of the lady who became his wife November 15, 1854, and who prior to that time was known as Miss Martha L. Hamilton. She was a resident of Springwater, N. Y., had received excellent care during her early years and is an intelligent and capable woman, well fitted to sympathize with and aid her husband and the daughter who has been given them. Miss Clara M., who is still with her parents, is a well informed and lovable young lady belonging, like them, to the Presbyterian Church. Mr. Washburn is a Trustee of the religious body with'which he is now identified. His first Presidential ballot was for Henry Clay, and when the Whig party was disorganized he gave his allegiance to the Republican, in the ranks of which he is still to be found. As a citizen he is public-spirited and law-abiding, as a member of society intelligent and cordial in his bearing, and as one of the great body of farmers he is entitled to the respect of others for his industry, thrift and progressive ideas. OHN BROWN. Although born in a land far distant from this, Mr. Brown is a true American in his belief in and support of the institutions on which our Government rests. He has made his home in Marshall for more than a quarter of a century and has a large circle of acquaintances here. He began his life practically without means and by the exercise of his natural ability and the good principles which actuate every true man he has reached good circumstances, owning a pleasant home in this city and a valuable farm in Osceola County. Mr. Brown is the third son and child of Patrick and Bridget (Lynch) Brown, and was born in County Clare, Ireland, May 3, 1835. He was but a year old when his parents emigrated to America, landing at Boston, Mass., whence they came at once to Jackson, this State. There they made a permanent settlement, the mother dying in 1846 and the 1035r PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. father in 1859. The latter was an humble laborer, but one who desired the best for his children and did all that he could to fit them for usefulness and honor in the years to come. Of the four sons and one daughter that made up tie parental family, he of whom we write and his sister Mary, who lives in Jackson, are the sole survivors. In the common schools at Jackson, which he attended until he had entered his teens, John Brown laid the foundation for the knowledge he now possesses, and prepared his mind to receive and assimilate the impressions and facts gathered from contact with men. Upon leaving the schoolroom lie entered the employ of Daniel B. Hibbard of Jackson and ere long began driving a stage on the route from Jackson to Lansing, continuing that work for four years. He then came to Marshall and entered the employ of the Michigan Central Railroad as a fireman, stoking on freight and Mr. Brown. He believes it to be the foundation of good citizenship, and that upon it rests the destiny of the boys and girls who are soon to take the place of the present generation and make or mar the national life. Mr. Brown is well-informed on the political issues of the day and takes an active part in party councils, being a stanch Democrat. His social and benevolent qualities find partial expression in the workings of St. Albans Lodge, No. 20, F. & A. M., and Lafayette Chapter, R. A. M., at Marshall, with which he has been identified several years. The quick wit of the nationality which he represents gives his conversation an added flavor, and the sterling traits in his character are duly appreciated by those who know him. ~ - P2 6 r passenger engines about five years, when he was HOMAS 11. BRIGGS, M. D., is one of the given charge of an engine.[ reputable practicing physicians in Battle Mr. Brown began his labors as an engineer in I / Creek, and in a city where medical men are 1861, and during the years that have elapsed froin neither few nor lacking in knowledge and skill, this that time to the present lie has never met with an is saying much for his intellectual attainments and accident. He is now running between Jackson and professional ability. He is a member and ex-PresiMichigan City, Ind., but continues to reside in the dent of the County Medical Association, a member city which he chose as his home so long ago. That of the State Medical Society, also the American he has been a faithful employe and that the mana- Medical Association. He comes from the old Puritan gers of the company repose confidence in him is stock in both lines of descent, the Briggs family proven by his long continuance in a responsible having been founded in America in Colonial days p)osition, and it is equally true that the public have by three brothers, natives of Scotland who settled no cause for complaint, in New England, Kentucky and Virginia respectIn 1860 Mr. Brown led to the hymeneal altar ively. His father, Dr. Joseph Briggs, was a native Miss Catherine Mericle, daughter of Henry and of the Empire State and married Emeline A. Crook, Catherine (Adamy) Mericle, who removed hither of Rutland, Vt., Mrs. Briggs being an own cousin from New York when she was about eleven years t tthe renowned Indian fighter Gen. Crook. The old. Like her husband she has made good use of father was educated at Geneva, N. Y., and after the opportunities which she enjoyed in an educa- concluding his medical studies, opened an office in tional way, and has taken great interest in the wel- Belvidere, Boone County, Ill., with the intention of fare of their children, who are three in number. practicing his profession there. The homes of the The eldest, Josephine, has adopted the profession settlers were so few and scattered that within a of teaching and is engaged in a public school at radius of twenty miles there were not fifty people. Marshall; Norman G. fs a dry-goods clerk in the He therefore came to this State, locating in Schoolsame city; and Julia T. is her mother's companion craft, Kalamazoo County, in 1841. and assistant in social and domestic duties. During the remainder of his life Dr. Joseph It is doubtful if a man can be found who more Briggs practiced in Schoolcraft, where he was well strongly advocates the public school system than and favorably known. In 1854 he was killed by -- ~ ~ ~ ~ 0; 1036 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. I - the running away of a horse, leaving a widow and three children to mourn his untimely decease. The son Thomas is the first-born; the second child, Lewis M., a banker, resides in Atchison, Kan.; the third, Nettie V., is the wife of F. B. Hays of Milwaukee, Wis. The birth of Dr. Thomas Briggs occurred in Boone County, Ill., February 2, 1840, but his earliest recollections are of his home in this State. After securing a fundamental education at Albion this county,he pursued his studies in the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and in the University of Tennessee, from the latter of which he was graduated in 1864. In the spring of 1861 he had enlisted in Company G, Eleventh Michigan Infantry and was mustered in as First Lieutenant. He followed the fortunes of the regiment in the Army of the Cumberland until the fall of 1863, when he entered the hospital service until the close of the war. In the intervals between his active work in his official capacity he was able to continue his medical studies and received his diploma. When the war was over Dr. Briggs located in Van Buren County, this State, where he practiced considerably more than a decade. In 1881 he went to Chicago, making that city the seat of his labors during the ensuing two years and then establishing himself in Battle Creek. As might well be supposed he belongs to the Grand Army Post and he is also identified with the Knights Templar. Politically, he is a stalwart Republican, Chairman of the Citizen Republican Committee of the city and active in all similar work. The Doctor is now holding the office of Coroner, this being his second term. In 1861, at the bride's home in Albion, Dr. Briggs was united in wedlock with Miss Mary Gould, daughter of Zeno and Clarissa Gould. Mrs. Briggs is an estimable woman, intelligent and of pleasing manners, and one who understands how to make her home cozy and attractive. The happy union has been blest by the birth of three children, named respectively, Blanche, Claire and Ima. The first-born received the degree of Master of Arts from the University of Michigan and is now teaching in the Battle Creek High School; the second is atending the Michigan University and the young est is studying in the public schools at home. The position held by the family in the refined circles of society is an assured one and their reputation throughout the community accords with their merits. AZARD PERRY NICHOLS, an honored resident of Le Roy Township, was born in Otsego County, N. Y., June 6, 1824. His father, Israel Nichols, was a soldier in the War of 1812 and (ied when our subject was only five years old. For the next seven years he remained in the county of his birth, then, in company with his mother, who bore the maiden name of Merity Brownlow, and an older brother Martin, he came to Jackson County, this State. However, he sojourned in that place for only a brief period, coming in the fall of the same year to Climax Corners, Kalamazoo County, where he worked for his brother four years. We next find Mr. Nichols in this county, whither he came with his brother and located in Le Roy Township. After remaining a year in one place he purchased sixty acres of land of Timothy Kelsey, and there he and his mother lived until 1846. When prepared to establish a home of his own he was united in marriage with Julia Ellen Findlay, formerly of Saybrook, Conn. The parents of Mrs. Nichols died when she was young, after which she was adopted into the family of John H. Bushnell. Mr. and Mrs. Nichols reared to maturity two children-John Edgar and Martha Electa. John died June 23, 1884, leaving one child-Myrta Evelyn. Martha E. is the wife of Henry Martin, of Climax, and they have six children. Mary, the eldest, has lived with her grandfather Nichols since she was six years old and since the death of Mrs. Nichols has been his only companion to cheer and comfort him in his loneliness. The beloved wife of Mr. Nichols departed this life November 23, 1889, after a long and happy wedded life. She was a member of the Congregational Church, to whivh he also belonged, having become a Christian when he was fourteen years old. Just before her death, Mrs. Nichols told her UM. '1037 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALB husband not to mourn, for their wedded li been a happy one, and though they had t they would be re-united never more tosepar: her Mr. Nichols says that if there was ever f ful wife and true friend she was one. It was in July, 1836, that Mr. Nichols c: Michigan, which was then very sparsely and of the few pioneers then living there o Case and Henry McNary remain. During al years great changes have taken place, and hi of the very few who have been spared to s whole of this great transformation. Being and healthy he has done his share of this work, and, although he has seen misfortune has been overtaken at times by adversity, the aid of his blessed Master he feels that h has been happy and useful. Now, in his dce years he is surrounded by the comforts wh accumulated during more active life, quietly passing to that "bourne whence no ti returns." Enjoying the universal esteem neighbors and the deep love of those who him best and hold him dearest, he will be r bered for many years to come as one of the prominent pioneers of Calhoun County..... - -_ -- ife had ner by trade, following that business in Windham o part, and Dorset, and subsequently in Crown Point, ate. Of Essex County, N. Y. Still later he located in Para faith- ishville, St. Lawrence County, N. Y., and there engaged at his trade. To him and his good wife ame to there were born seven children, who lived to be settled, men and women: Orison, who married Sarah Murnly Ira dace, and after her death was united in marriage II these with Emeline Benedict; Benjamin S., of this sketch; e is one Laura, who resides in Utah; Mary Ann, who maree the ried Albert Foster and died in Jackson in 1845; strong Miriam, whio became the wife of William H. Comb, great and died in Boonville, Mo., October 3, 1856; es and Hiram, who married Louise Bernapp, of Stockholm, yet by N. Y. and Louisa, who was the wife of Warren is life Briggs and died in Stockholm, N. Y. dining Although long since passed to their rest the parich he ents of our subject are remembered for their integand is rity and fair dealing with all. They were mourned raveler at death not only by those who knew them best, of his but by all who beheld the influence of their spotknow less lives upon the community. The father passed:emem- away in Parishville, N. Y., April 8, 1854, while the most mother survived until August 9, 1869. The gentleman of whom we write received his education in the common schools of his vicinity and when eleven years old entered his father's shop to learn the trade of a shoemaker. In June, 1827, he went to New York and finished his trade, becoming a of Cal- first-class workman and thoroughly proficient iu his:ord of chosen vocation. He returned to Crown Point in ives us the fall of 1858 and resumed work for his father. ALBUM When ready to establish a home of his own Mr. ssed so Davis was united in marriage June 10, 1830, with of the Miss Caroline Hustis. and to them were born six pment. children who attained to maturity: Benjamin Willuounty, ard died at Lake Superior when he was sub-Indian rius l. Agent under Leach of Lansing; he was a teacher, Lerfield, and at the age of nineteen years left Albion College o bore to accept the position which he held until death; August George R. is a farmer of Jackson County, Mich.;.Davis Joseph enlisted in Company D, Twelfth Michigan Infantry and died in Arkansas; Charles is a resident Wind- of Jackson County, Mich.; Maiy Ann married John father Nicholson, of Parma, Mich.; and Romonda lives in n, Vt., Albion. a tan In 1836 Mr. Davis left Crown Point, N. Y., for;- f S ENJAMIN S. DAVIS. The history houn County is best told in the rec the lives of its pioneers, and it g pleasure to place on the pages of this a record of this early settler, who has pas much of his life within the boundaries county and has done so much for its develo Mr. Davis was born in Windham, Windham C Vt., May 31, 1810, and is the son of Dai Davis, a Quaker, who was born in Chest N. H., November 5, 1785. His mother, wh the maiden name of Lois Smith, was born 5, 1785, and was united in marriage with Mr in Chesterfield about 1804. The parents of our subject first located in ham and at the time of the War of 1812 the volunteered to drive a wagon to Burlingtol not being subject to military duty. He was t 1038 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. - ---------— I ----- ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ I the Territory of Michigan, making the long journey by canal to Buffalo, thence to Detroit, and from there by wagon to Jackson. The year previous to his arrival here, he purchased eighty acres of land from his brother-in-law, and upon this he located, adding forty acres to the original purchase. He still has in his possession the deed for the eightyacre tract, signed by Martin Van Buren. In 1842 he came to Albion, where he had charge of a large manufacturing shop for seven years, and later he worked for Thomas Hazzard. In 1852 he crossed the plains to California, walking the entire distance, (three thousand miles), and locating first in Placerville, later in Coloma and subsequently going to Spanish Camp. In 1854 he returned home via New.York. On December 16, 1861, Mrs. Davis passed from earth; Mr. Davis afterward was united in marriage with Charlotte Goodrich, of Crown Point, who died July 17, 1882. Politically, Mr. Davis is a stanch Democrat, but has never sought office. In 1847 he joined the Concord Lodge, A. F. & A. M., and is the only charter member of the lodge now living. He is a member of Albion Lodge, No. 20, I. 0. 0. F., and is identified with the progress of this section of Michigan. He has lived to see many changes and has himself been no unimportant factor in bringing about the present high civilization. LIVER C. PERRIN. The real estate interests of the city of Marshall and Calhoun County are ably represented by the gentleman whose name introduces this brief biographical review and whose life record is closely identified with the growth and progress of this section of Michigan. Although not a native of this county, he has resided here for more than a decade and has come to be regarded as one of the prominent citizens of this community. Tie family of which he is a member are widely known as people of wealth, culture and enterprise, and he is no unworthy scion of an honored ancestry. On August 30, 1836, Mr. Perrin was born in Medina, Ohio, to Hyde and Sylvia (Scribner) Perrin, the former a son of Calvin Perrin, whose ancestors came from England to America in 1635. The father was born in 1790 in the State of Connecticut, while the mother, a native of Vermont, was born in 1800 to Daniel Scribner and his good wife. To the parents of our subject eight children were born, of whom seven lived to maturity, six sons and one daughter, our subject being the fifth in order of birth. Hyde Perrin was married in Penfield, Monroe County, N. Y., from which place he removed to Ohio, and after a short sojourn in the Buckeye State, came west to Cumberland County, Ill. There he located on a farm which he improved and cultivated for a number of years, but in his old age he returned to New York, to make his home with a son, and in Genesee County he passed away in 1873, honored and esteemed by all who knew him. The mother departed this life in 1883. The boyhood of our subject was passed in Cumberland County, Ill., on his father's farm. He was early initiated into the mysteries of agriculture. and gained a practical knowledge of its various departments. He received excellent educational advantages and made good use of the opportunities afforded him, passing through the different grades in the public school, thence entering the Brockport Institute at Brockport, Monroe County, N. Y. After leaving school he became book-keeper for a firm in Rochester which, after filling satisfactorily for some time, he left to accept the position of cashier and book-keeper in the Perrin Bank at the same place. He remained with that institution until 1863, when the bank closed. It now seemed an opportune time to come West, and accordingly Mr. Perrin bade adieu to the friends in the East, and coming to Kalamazoo, this State, sojourned there until 1880. Prior to his arrival, his two brothers, Joel and Levi, had settled in Kalamazoo, and were carrying on the mercantile business under the firm name of J. J. Perrin & Co. Our subjectentered the firm as a partner in 1871 and continued thus engaged until 1880, when he sold out and came to Marshall to look after the interests of his brother, Horace J. Perrin. The latter is remembered as one of the honored pioneers of Calhoun County, coming here in 1846 and util PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 1039 izing the Kalamazoo River water power in various namely: Morgan, Sophia, Jenett, Diana and Fanmilling and manufacturing enterprises. He also nie. His second wife bore the maiden name of operated as a banker for many years and owned a Olive Eddy and was born in Floyd, Oneida County, large amount of real estate, both in this county and N. Y. At the time of her marriage, July 11, 1845, other places. His death in 1880 deprived the com- she was the widow of Morgan N. Wallace, and the munity of one of its most useful and influential mother of five children. Of her union with Mr. citizens, and one who had always been interested Kyes two children were born-Milton E. and Carin all enterprises calculated to advance the welfare oline, now Mrs. Thyer. of the county. About 1830 David Kyes came West to MichiOur subject, after the death of his brother, Hor- gan, locating in Grass L.ke, Jackson County, and ace J., assisted in settling the vast estate, which was building the first house on the present site of the in litigation several years, and upon the divi- village. He also entered the first eighty acres in sion of the property he was given the old Perrin the township, and in 1832 was appointed Sheriff homestead and what is known as the mill and water by Lewis Cass. He then removed to Jackson, power, one of the best in the State of Michigan. where he resided several years. About 1840 he He also owns the noted Lyon Lake Farm, which is located in the town of Sherwood, where he purbeautifully located and improved by a fine resi- chased one hundred and twenty acres and devoted dence, substantial outbuildings, and carefully tilled his attention mainly to its improvement. Here he soil. The barn is especially noticeable and is one sojourned until 1847, although in the meantime he of the best in the locality, and there each year is resided during a brief period in Albion, whither he stored the golden grain which the fields yield to went in order to give his children better educathe husbandman. Socially, Mr. Perrin is a mem- tional advantages than they had hitherto enjoyed. ber of the Masonic fraternity, and is also a Knight The father of our subject came to Calhoun Templar. Politically, he casts his vote in support County at a very early day in its settlement and of the candidates who are pledged to the principles located on section 25, Athens Township, where he of the Democratic party. improved a farm of eighty acres and remained until death called him hence. In April, 1849, he.~_ ^ x~,~__< ~,.made an overland trip to California, returning the following winter by water; one year later he went back to the Golden State and remained three years. Ax ILTON E. KYES. One of tle most pleas- A leading member of the Methodist Episcopal ant rural abodes in Athens Township is Church, he helped to organize and build the first that of the gentleman above named, which church in Athens. During the Black Hawk War is located on section 25, in the midst of he was pressed into service to haul provision. He fertile fields. Everything necessary in the way of served as Supervisor and as Justice of the Peace farm buildings has there been erected and all other for many years. His wife still survives, but he improvements made which would add to the value passed to his final rest June 21, 1888. of the estate or the comfort of those who occupy Mr. Kyes traces his ancestry to Scotch forefait. The greater part of the life of this gentleman thers, the original name of the family being has been passed in Calhoun County, and he is well McKeyes. The paternal grandfather, Elihu Kyes, known as a successful agriculturalist and a good married Sallie Morgan and four children were born business man. to them, viz: Elias, Diana, Betsie and Elihu. On September 15, 1801, David Kyes, the father Grandfather Kyes died in Niagara County, N. Y., of our subject, was born in Fairfield, Herkimer and his widow afterward married Timothy WillCounty, N. Y., and he was reared to farming pur- iams, to whom she bore two children-Sallie and suits. He was twice married, his first wife being Eunice. The gentleman of whom we write was tith Culyer, To them were born five children, reared on the home farm7 obtaining a corasi ~:~i 1040 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 7 school education and later entering Albion College, but sickness prevented him from taking a comllete course there. He afterward engaged as a teacher, and has taught seven terms, five in his own district. He has served as Justice of the Peace, Township School Inspector, and in his political belief is a strong Republican. Socially he is a Mason. On December 21, 1869, Mr. Kyes was united in marriage with Lydia A. Wright, who was born in Racine, Wis., and is the daughter of Thomas and Angeline (Knowles) Wright. Mr. Wright was born near London, England, and was an early settler of Wisconsin, where he built the first brick block in the city. He was waylaid and killed in California about 1857, but his widow survived him twenty-five years. Unto our subject and his estimable wife two children have been born-David H. and Calvin C., the former being now a student in Albion College. Mr. and Mrs. Kyes are consistent members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and are held in high esteem by their neighbors and friends. The greater )art of their married life has been passed on the farm where they now reside, and which comprises one hundred and fifteen acres. Two years, however, were passed in Decatur County, Kan., but with that exception they have resided continuously in Calhoun County, of which they are honored residents. 9 AMIUEL S. BERRY. A writer, famous alike in America and England, says of the mason to whom he served an apprenticeship that t he put a conscience into every stone that he laid." This unswerving integrity should be the foundation of every avocation, for upon it is based our national honor. The citizens of Calhoun County have contributed to elevate the standing of morality not only in the county but in the State, and among those whose "word is as good as his bond," and whose individual efforts have aided in the development of the resources of the county, a conspicuous position is accorded Mr. Berry. As one of those brave soldiers who offered their lives for the nation's honor and who bravely faced the foe on many a hard-fought battle-field, he is held in high esteem, and is prominent in the ranks of the Grand Army of the Republic. A native of Canada, Mr. Berry was born February 22, 1847, to the Rev. James Berry and his wife, formerly Julia Switzer. The father, a native of New York, was a minister in the Methodist Episcopal Church, and a man of more than ordinary ability. He came to Michigan about 1856, locating in Pontiac and joining the conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He is now living at Big Rapids. The mother departed this life in Canada. They were the parents of five children, as follows: Francis, who died at the age of twenty-six years; Samuel S., of this sketch; Mary A., a resident of Albion; Maggie, the wife of Edward Leonard, a farmer of Genesce County, Mich.; and James, who was educated in Albion College and commenced his work as a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church when twenty-six years of age. Francis was also a preacher of the Word, having been ordained and commenced preaching when seventeen years old. Samuel S. Berry, of this sketch, was educated in the common schools of Canada and Michigan, and at the commencement of the late war was living in Pontiac. Thence he removed to Alrnont, and was there apprenticed to learn the trade of a harness. maker. The day after the expiration of his apprenticeship, which lasted three years, he enlisted for three years in the defense of his country. He enlisted in the Thirtieth, but afterward was placed in the Third Michigan Infantry, Company G. From Pontiac the regiment was ordered South to Decatur, Ala., and crossed the Tennessee River on a pontoon bridge under heavy fire. Mr. Berry participated in many engagements, among them the battles of Stone River, Nashville and Murfreesboro. At the latter place the regiment was surrounded and compelled to fight their way out of the city in the midst of heavy cannonading from the enemy. Later Mr. Berry was ordered to Nashville, where for a short time he laid in the camp and whence he was ordered to Jonesboro. Receiving orders, he returned to Nashville and there tie was poisoned PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 1041 while out on picket duty; in company with a friend 1797. Hetwas a sea captain, following the sea for he went to a house and got some pork which, being more than twenty years, and visiting many of the poisoned, threw both him and the man with him ports of South America, Europe, England, France into spasms. IHe was sent to a field hospital, and and Germany in his various voyages across the becoming convalescent went back to his regiment water. and remained with them until they were ordered The paternal grandfather of our subject, Daniel to Texas and to No. 2 Hospital, Nashville. Being Drinkwater, was born in North Yarmouth, Me., in then transferred, he was appointed ward master, 1754, and was a shipmaster, as were his six sons. and later received a furlough. Upon returning to He was a soldier in the Revolutionary War, and the field of duty he reported for active service, and was pilot of the French fleet that was on the coast was honorably discharged at the close of the war. under command of De Grasse. Having been taken We next find Mr. Berry in Almont, where he prisoner by the British he was conducted to Halifax, engaged at his trade and whence he removed to but broke away from his captors and returned to Orion. In that village he became acquainted with his home in Maine in the winter. The mother of the lady whom he won for his wife and who bore our subject bore the maiden name of Sarah Wilcox, the maiden name of Annie Searls. Two children and was a native of Guernsey County, Ohio. Her were born of this congenial union: Lottie, wife of father, Amos Wilcox, was a native of New York, Prof. G. W. Loomis, of the M1Jpchester schools, and a pioneer farmer of Ohio. Mich., and Frank, at home. In 1873 Mr. Berry The parents of our subject were married in Sencame to Albion, where he operated as a harness- eca County, Ohio, and located in Adams Township, maker for several years. He is Adjutant of the where they spent their wedded life, the father dying Grand Army of the Republic, and in political be- in 1873 and the mother in 1856. They were lief is a firm Republican. For eight years he was worthy people and universally esteemed for their Chief of the Fire Department. He belongs to Al- many virtues and kindness of heart. They were bion Chapter No. 36, and Marshall Commandery, the parents of eight children, namely: Reuben, of and is a member of the Ancient Order of United this sketch; Mrs. Rebecca Metzger, who lives at Workmen. Religiously he belongs to the Metho- the old home in Ohio; James, a minister and a dist Episcopal Church, and his sterling character farmer, who resides in Clarendon Township; Reuel has given him a warm place in the hearts of all. F., a farmer in Sandusky County, Ohio; Mrs. CathMrs. Berry possesses the true virtues of woman- erine Metzger, who lives on a farm in Kansas; hood, a sweet disposition and Christian spirit. To Mrs. Sarah J. Baker, who resides on a farm in Ohio; her counsel and love our subject owes much of the William E., a farmer living in Ohio; and Addison, indomitable perseverance which has given him a who lives on a farm in Hillsdale County, Mich. prominent rank among the citizens of Calhoun James Drinkwater was a loyal soldier during the County. Civil War, enlisting November 8, 1861, and after two years re-enlisting in the same regiment, the ^ ---.. ~':*^^^: 2 aSeventy-second Ohio Infantry. He participated in the battle of Shiloh, or Pittsburg Landing, the EUBEN DRINKWATER, a veteran of the siege of Vicksburg, and was with the regiment in late war who is identified with the farming all their marches until captured at Guntown, Miss. interests of Clarendon Township, is Justice For nine months he was a prisoner, being most of of the Peace and Notary Public, and for that time in Andersonville. He was honorably several years has been well-known in the civic life discharged in 1865, after a long and faithful serof this section. He was born in Adams Township, vice. He is a member of the Grand Army of the Seneca County, Ohio, November 14, 1840. His Republic at Litchfield, Mich. father, whose name was like his own, was a native He of whom this biography is written is the of Maine and was born in Cumberland, October 12, eldest child of his father's family, and obtained -:: i:.:::::, ~~ 1042 PORTRAIT A~ND BIOGRAPH-ICAL ALBUM.iI 104 POTRI AN BIGAHCLAB his education in the local district school and in the Seneca County Academy. He continued to live on the home farm until he was twenty years old. When the war broke out he was about the first to respond to his country's call for aid, and enlisted in the three months' service in Capt. Way's company, when President Lincoln issued his call for seventy-five thousand men. His regiment was sent back as the quota was already filled. November 8, 1861, he again enlisted becoming a member of Company A, Seventy-second Ohio Infantry. In the trying days that followed he showed himself to be possessed of excellent soldierly qualities and did good service in fighting the battle of Shiloh, or Pittsburg Landing, but the hardships and privations that he had to endure were too much for his constitution, and he was taken sick and was subsequently honorably discharged January 27, 1863, on account of disability. After he retired from the army Mr. Drinkwater returned to his old home in Ohio and for two years his physical condition was such that lie was unable to do any work. He subsequently came to Michigan and was married October 19, 1865, to Miss Clarissa Rosecrantz. She is a native of this county and township, born November 30,1842, on section 35, in the pioneer home of her parents, Richard and Irene (Hayes) Rosecrantz, who were natives of New York, she being tile eldest of their three children-one son and two daughters. The father came to this State some time in the '30s and the mother came a few years afterward with her people. They were married in Clarendon Township, March 2, 1842, and first located here, then moved just across the line to Branch County. They now reside on a farm on section 2, which they took possession of in 1846. Their daughter, Mrs. Orissa Bowers, lives in Butler Township, Barnes County, and their son, Ransom W., resides in Pearson, Mich. After his marriage our subject returned to Ohio, and devoted himself to farming for some years. In 1871 he came again to Michigan and took up his residence on his present farm on section 34, Clarendon Township. He has forty-six acres of land here and a farm of sixty acres in Butler Township, Branch County, upon which his son lives. He has h4s b4estad w4]l equipped aqd tteg?4s to its management while at the same time he faithfully discharges his official duties. He and his wife are happy in their married life which has brought to them two children: Merle E., who married Estella Drinkwater and resides on the farm in Butler Township; and Elmer R., who lives at home with his parents. Our subject is a man of thoughtful mind; wellinformed and has strong opinions on all subjects with which he is conversant; especially is this true in regard to politics and his sympathies are with the Republican party. He is well fitted by intellect and executive ability to fill any office to which his fellow-citizens call him, and his public record is one of a useful career as a civic official, and is without blemish. He was a member of the County Board of Supervisors in 1875 and in 1877. He has been prominen in educational matters as School Director, Assessor and School Treasurer. In 1876 lie was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace and has held it continuously since, performing its duties fearlessly and without favor, and to the general satisfaction of all concerned. He is likewise a Notary Public. He is a man of honor, is conscientious and straightforward in all things and his many friends and acquaintances regard him with confidence and esteem. Mr. and Mrs. Drinkwater are members of the Baptist Church, of which he has been Trustee since 1880. He is identified with the Grand Army of the Republic as a member of the Post at Litchfield. OHN WHALEN. Among the well-kept business establishments of Marshall is the hardware store of John Whalen, where everything usually kept in such a place may be found. The proprietor has been in business here for some time, and by his strict application, square dealing and careful consideration of the wants of the community, he has built up a good trade and reputation. The patronymic of Mr. Whalen is indicative of his Irish blood, and we learn that in the Emerald Isle he opened his eyes to the light June 18, 1848, He was an infant of a 1043 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. _.........~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~1.....,.. 1.,.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ few months when his parents, John and Mary (Malony) Whalen, bade adieu to their native land, crossed the Atlantic, and took up their residence at Woonsocket Falls, R. I. They remained there until 1855, when they removed to Marshall. Here the father died in 1873 in the sixty-seventh year of his age, leaving a widow and five children. The sons and daughters are: CatherineJ., wife of Jeremiah Coshin, of Albion, Mich.; William, who resides in Chicago, Ill.; James, who was a seaman during the late war, on the United States Navy vessel '"Carondolet," followed his father to the tomb in March, 1883; John, the subject of this notice; and Margaret, wife of Matthew Falahee, of Jackson. The mother departed this life March 15, 1891, aged eighty-seven years. The subject of this notice spent his school days principally in Marshall, but attended for a short time while in Rhode Island. In his thirteenth year he laid aside his books, and from that time until after the war began he worked at various occupations. In the spring of 1862 he went to St. Louis, Mo., and entered the Government service, going from that city to Cairo, and from that place to Island No. 10, New Madrid, Ft. Pillow, Shiloh and the first siege of Vicksburg. Having been repulsed at Vicksburg, with his company he proceeded to Arkansas Post, which was taken after an engagement of eight hours. They then returned to the vicinity of Vicksburg, from which place they were ordered to Memphis, Tenn., with dispatches for Gen. Grant. On the way the boat was fired into by a rebel battery of ten guns stationed on the Mississippi side near Greenville, about eighty miles above Vicksburg, and received twelve shots from the battery besides about three hundred musket shots. Returning to St. Louis, Mr. Whalen retired from the service in January, 1863, and coming back to this State became a clerk in the store of his brother William in Detroit. After a time he became connected with the police force of that city, and for eight years aided in preserving law and order, during five years holding the position of Police Sergeant. He then returned to Marshall and engaged in the business which he is still successfully prosecuting. Mr. Whalen was elected Treasurer of the city of Marshall in 1886, serving two years, and is the present incumbent of the office of City Recorder, to which he was elected in 1889. In exercising the right of suffrage he votes with the Democrats. The marriage of Mr. Whalen and Miss Mary Henkel was solemnized in Marshall, September 23, 1890, according to the ceremonial of the Catholic Church. Mrs. Whalen was born in Detroit, but spent most of her youthful days in Marshall, where she received her education. She is a daughter of Frederick and Bridget (O'Brien) Henkel. Mr. Whalen and his estimable wife are communicants of St. Mary's Catholic Church, and are classed among the prominent and worthy citizens of Marshall. Their general intelligence, affable manners and honorable conduct give them wide popularity, while their home is the abode of hospitality, and the warm welcome given to their guests makes it a favorite resort with the people of the community. SAAC M. FLINT. Among the men who are actively engaged in the practice of law in I Battle Creek is he whose life history it is our purpose to present to our readers. The fact that in the face of a large Republican majority he was elected Justice of the Peace in 1885 and held the office continuously until 1890, furnishes abundant evidence of the estimate of his mind and character that is held by his fellow-men. The Flints were first represented in America just prior to the Revolution, one of the three brothers who founded the family having assisted in throwing the tea overboard in Boston Harbor. The brothers located in Connecticut, whence one of them removed to what is called the Holland Purchase, in New York. To this branch of the family our subject belongs. Mr. Flint opened his eyes to the light November 25, 1834, in Herkimer County, N. Y., being one of the nine children born to Isaac M. and Lois (Wetmore) Flint. The other members of the family circle now living are: Mrs. Eliza L. Hal-l, whose home is in Eaton, this State; Mrs. Adelia C. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~:::::: f X 1044 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.; - — -1-`- I I Hodges, who lives in Battle Creek; Mrs. Helen C. Brackett, residing in Lansing; Abijah M., an attorney at Lake Odessa, lonia County; and Forest W. W., a carpenter in Battle Creek. The father was born in the Empire State August 4, 1808, and was a carpenter, joiner and canal contractor as long as he lived in his native State. In 1842 he built a couple of iron bridges in Orleans County, this being about the last work he did in New York, as he soon afterward came to this State and located in Battle Creek. He carried on the work of a carpenter here until 1856, then engaged in the hotel business in Eaton County. In 1865 he exchanged his hotel for a farm near Bellevue, whence he subsequently removed to Nashville. His death occurred in Briar Hill, St. Lawrence County, N. Y., September 26, 1890. His first wife, the mother of our subject, had died in 1881. She belonged to a New England family, members of which occupied a conspicuous place in the history of Connecticut. The subject of this sketch was brought up to the trade of a carpenter under his father's instruction, but drifted into teaching, taking his first school in Kalamazoo County, this State, when but seventeen years old. He afterward read law, was admitted to the bar in 1861 and began the practice of his chosen profession in Ionia County. The Civil War having broken out, he devoted himself for some time to securing mechanics for the Government, then resumed teaching in which he continued to expend his energy until 1869. At that time he again turned his attention to the legal profession, combining with his practice the real-estate business. His reputation as a teacher, however, was such that his services were called for, and finding it hard to entirely abandon pedagogical work he taught a number of terms after he began law prac. tice. Mr. Flint resided in Vicksburg, Kalamazoo County, ten years, and although his chief attention was given to his legal work he at the same time owned and controlled an hotel. He returned to Battle Creek in 1881 and had a place in the store department for the Grand Trunk Railroad two or three years, after which he gave himself entirely to professional work in connection with the office of Justice of the Peace. He is now actively engaged in the law, in the knowledge of which he is accurate and thorough, while in practice he is skillful. The pleasant home of Mr. Flint is under the capable management of the lady who became his wife August 18, 1856, and who prior to that time was known as Miss Mary Hodges. The happy union has been blessed by the birth of nine children, but the parents have been called upon to part with three, who have preceded them to the silent land. The survivors are Isaac W., Frank H., Lewis R., Nina M., Lucina A. and Mary. Lewis is proprietor of the City Hotel and Frank is a printer; Nina is now the wife of Paris W. Rice. Mr. Flint belongs to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and the Patriotic Order Sons of America. In politics he is a Democrat with liberal tendencies, voting for the man rather than the party. He has been an unsuccessful candidate for divers political honors, having generally been found with the minority. In the lodges to which he belongs he has occupied various chairs. He is held in good repute both as a lawyer and a man, and has made many true friends during his pro. gress through life. AMUEL G. LEWIS, an old settler of Pennfield Township, owns and occupies a tract of land on section 7, which he improved from the brush. Its present size, fortyseven and one-half acres, gives but a faint idea of the work performed by its owner, as the extent of his landed estate was much larger at one time and the entire property he formerly owned was improved by him. His knowledge of affairs in this county extends over a period of half a century, his arrival here having been in the fall of 1837. The primitive surroundings of his first home here, the old-fashioned schoolhouse which he attended, and the wild animals and Indians that roamed over the country, make a picture to his mind which it is impossible to reproduce on paper but which in conversation with him is vividly presented to his listener. PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. 1045 f Samuel Lewis, father of our subject, was born in Connecticut August 7, 1780, and in his early manhood went to Rutland County, Vt., where he farmed until 1840. He then came to this county, settling in Pennfield Township where he breathed his last July 18, 1842. He was an old-line Whig in politics. His wife, Tama Geer, was born in Rutlend County, Vt., September 10, 1789, and was a daughter of Albia Geer, a Green Mountain farmer, who died in his native State at an advanced age. Mrs. Lewis entered into rest June 14, 1865, leaving seven children, namelyv Mrs. Roxana Johnson, David, Elisha, Mrs. Polly Plant, Mrs. Fidelia Weston, John L. and Samuel G. In Rutland County*Vt., July 16, 1825, the eyes of Samuel G. Lewis opened to the light of day. He lived in his native State until nine years old, then went with his parents to Genesee, now Wyoming County, N. Y., where he remained three years. In both States he attended the subscription schools and still further increased his knowledge after he came to this State to live with his sister, Mrs. Johnson. He made the journey in company with a man who had an ox-team, but walked a great part of the way. Here he found settlers living at a considerable distance from each other, and what are now thriving cities either utterly unknown or but tiny hamlets. Battle Creek was a cluster of five or six buildings and all around it was a wild and practically unbroken territory. Mr. Lewis were four months in reaching their destination. Mr. Lewis became a miner and remained on the Slope seven years, during the most of which period he was wielding the pick. He returned by water to New York and thence to his former home in this State. The year after his return from the West Mr. Lewis put up a neat frame house on his land, where his physical comfort is looked after by his sister, Mrs. Johnson, as he has never married. He is a stanch supporter of the policy of the Republican party, doing much in his quiet way to advance the interests of that body. He belongs to the Grange. Perhaps there is no man living in this part of the country who is more universally liked than "Uncle Sammy", as Mr. Lewis is sometimes jocularly called. He is one of those jolly, whole-souled men who make the best of everything and who, if they have trials to encounter or disadvantages to overcome, turn the same smiling face to their friends and acquaintances and surmount difficulties by the sheer force of good nature. In connection with this brief biographical notice is presented a view of the commodious residence and rural surroundings on the farm of Mr. Lewis; 'tt;zz ----LFr=' -----— —f"f= hunted but little, although the opportunities af- ENRY CURTIS HASKELL. This wellforded were excellent, wild game being very abun- known insurance agent in Marshall has been dant./ interested in the welfare of this county since After some time devoted to study Mr. Lewis ( 1836, when he came here a youth of some began to work out by the month, and finally bought sixteen years. He was born in Oakham, Worcesland upon which he built a log house which he ter County, Mass., May 28, 1820. His father, occupied some ten or twelve years. Indians often Reuben IIaskell, was born in Rochester, Mass., in came to his door to beg or barter, but their visits, 1777, and was a farmer by occupation. The altliough annoying, were not fraught with personal mother of our subject bore the maiden name of danger. Mr. Lewis owned and improved one hun- Lavina Athearn, was born in Martha's Vineyard in dred acres of land, but as before stated, has reduced 1779, and was a daughter of Belcher Athearn. his estate. He has given his attention to the rais- In 1827 Mr. and Mrs. Haskell went to Western ing of mixed crops and has won a comfortable New York and thence came to this State, settling fortune by his well-directed efforts and good judg- on a farm in Bellevue Township, E:ton County. ment. In 1851 he crossed the plains to California At the time of his demise in February, 1842, Mr. with wagons, being one of a company of five. Haskell had two hundred acres under good imThey remained in Salt Lake Valley a month and provement and quite well developed. His wife r~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~-:: 1046 PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM. and ten children survived him, the widow dying in Marshall in 1859. The boyhood of our:subject was passed in Monroe County, N. Y., and his time was divided between home duties, study and recreation, in proportion usual to one of the youngest members of a large family. He had seven brothers and sisters older than himself and two younger, but of the entire circle only four members are now living. After coming to this county young Haskell continued to pursue his studies, first in the district school and then for a time in the Academy at Marshall. He assisted his father upon the farm, and made it his home until he was twentyttwo years old, when he went to Jackson and secured a position as clerk in a store. He was thus employed eighteen months, then in the fall of 1843 came to Marshall and in August, 1844, opened a general store. A partnership was formed with his brother, Charles F., the firm name being Charles F. Haskell & Co., but subsequently changed to C. F. & I1. C. Haskell. In 1855 Mr. Haskell sold out and became agent for the bank and business safes of Lillie & Son, New York, the sale of which he conducted for ten years. In 1871 he engaged in the insurance business which he has continued until the present time, representing several of the most reliable companies. He has succeeded well in this line having the agreeable manners, persistency without offensiveness, and ability to present the claims of his business that are particularly required of insurance agents. Careful to represent only reliable companies, he is depended upon and his personal honor gives additional stability to his business standing. In the year 1845 Mr. Haskell was united in marriage with Miss Laura T. Mason, a native of Connecticut, but at that time a resident of Marshall. She had accompanied her parents, the Rev. Stephen and Phebe S. Mason, hither in 1838. She shared her husband's fortunes some thirty years, then exchanged time for eternity, breathing her last in March, 1875. She was the mother of seven children, all living and named Laura T., Stephen M., Henry M., Mary C., Porter D., and William L.; and Frances E., who died in infancy. Stephen is now foreman of the tin and copper department of the Grand Trunk Railroad shops in Port Huron; Henry is practicing medicine in the Upper Peninsula; Mary is the wife of N. J. Howe, of Delphi, Ind.; Porter is second assistant scientific examiner in the patent office; William is an artist in Chicago. Porter was a graduate from the Annapolis, Md., school of the Navy Department, spent one year in Europe after graduating and one in Newport on a school ship, and was an Ensign when he resigned. The present wife of Mr. Haskell is one of those noble characters who reflect credit upon the name of woman, and who may iradily be believed to represent "good families by reason of their own intelligence and breeding. She was born in Smithfield, Madison County, N. Y., bore the maiden name of Matilda Delaria Lamb, and is a daughter of Seth and Delaria (Jenks) Lamb. Her parents were born in Berkshire, Mass., and were of Welsh and English extraction. Her father was an own cousin to Gerritt Smith, of national renown, and was of the same political belief. Her maternal grandmother, Naomi (Sumner) Jenks, was a first cousin to the Hon. Charles Sumner. She was living in widowhood at Lyndonville, N. Y., when wooed and won by Mr. Haskell, to whom she was married January 8, 1879. Mr. Haskell was present at the birth of the Republican party in Michigan and has never swerved in his allegiance to its principles. Whatever he sees to regret in the actions of its members, he yet believes that its platform embodies the best principles of government "by the people and for the people." He and his wife are enrolled among the members of the First Presbyterian Church, in which he has served as Clerk some eighteen years and Deacon and Elder thirty-two years. It is scarcely necessary to say, as it is self-evident from the foregoing regarding their lives and characters, that Mr. and Mrs. Haskell are among the most highly respected residents in the city. Si~~~~:~~~r=~~~~ngEz;~ -=1.~-.I *^Vr-~Q3 (S^^^.^\AA^ BIOGI F? IG Li no e - _O I A Abbott, Sylvester...........1011 Acker, Norman..............619 Ackley, G. W................687 Adams, Charles..............815 Adams, John................. 23 Adams, John Q............39 Albertson, H. M.......... 1013 Aldrich, C. F................ 423 Alexander, W. H.............835 Alger, Russell A..............173 Allen, I. I., M. D..............992 Alvord, A. W...........974 Anderson, Mary (Squire).... 513 Andrews, C. S................438 Andrus, W...................626 Angevine, A. U.........403 Anthony, T. C................498 - -IA T 1D A9.) Barnum, T. B................337 Barry, James S...............924 Barry John S................ 113 Bathrick, F. W., M. D....... 668 Baty, James.................611 Baum, J. A..................640 Beach, Joseph P..............324 Beach, Morgan G............261 Begole, Josiah W.............169 Begole, W. A.................484 Belcher, George J............ 549 Benedict, Nathan.............709 Benham, M. C................433 Bentley, G. W................475 Bentley, J. R................ 701 Berry, Samuel S.............1040 Bickford, D.................747 Bidwell, W............... 212 Bills, George................. 290 Bingham, Kinsley S..........137 Bisbee, I. H...............605 Blair, Austin................145 Blanchard, Charles.......... 556 Blanck, A. E.................712 Blashfield, M. L............ 1008 ~ 7l_.- T 1-. rV,'1' Bushnell, E. D................867 Bushnell, H. D................402 C Calkins, Albert B............933 Cameron, George.......... 329 Cannon, M....................355 Carpenter, Henry L..........445 Carpenter, John............. 1020 Carpenter, L. D............1033 Carver, C...................19 -Carver, Elizur...............543 Case, Ira.....................757 Case, J. C.....................291 Case, R. Z................... 50 Case, Z. N...................512 Chamberlin. Benjamin.......300 Chapin, E. F.................831 Chapman, Charles.......... 533 Cherry, Hon. Henry P.......222 Chidester, C. P...............245,.1:...A wx nrn I Corlis, William.............220 Cornwell, J. H................439 Cortright,'Emerson..........956 Court, James.............765 Cowles, C. S., M. D...........346 Cowles, D. W.................481 Cowles, Ryan B..............541 Crapo, Henry H.............149 Crawford, Gamble............593 Crocker, Luther 0............719 Cronk, George................310 Croswell, Charles M.......... 11 Cruse, William...............905 Culver, R. A..................947 Cummings, J. R..............922 Cunningham, D..............652 Curtis, O. F..................705 D Arnol, J. -.... Arthur, Chest Ashley, G. J.. Austin, Charle Austin, Hon. C Austin, Gates Baart, Rev. P Babcock, Amo Babcock. D. M Bagley, John Bailey, Charle Baird, J...... Baker, Daniel Baldwin, Hen Ball, James.. Barney, Milto........... ue, Jo.................... pm a,.............. er A........... 99 Blue, Peter................692 Christy, William.............58................317 Bock, Charles F.............277 Church, J. Frank..........878 *s F...........768 Bordine, S. F.................375 Clark, Hon. Philo...........828 Daley, E. A..................748 harles.........211 Born, George................478 Clark, Rev. Calvin...........35 Davidson, John A.......334 L..............617 Bosley, Hon. W. E...........553 Clark, W2...................302 Davis, Alva................330 Boyd, William..............907 Cleveland, S. Grover.....103 Davis, Benjamin S..........1037 Bradley, C. E................725 Cobb, C. M.................779 Davis, George W............497 Bradley, Hon. Harmon..... 309 Cobley, C. C.................. 772 Davis, William............. 76 Breakey, Thomas E....416 Cole, E. G...................729 Davis, W. H..................972 B.......Brewer, Edgar G........... 1018 Cole, George C...............363 Dean, Andrew...............891 Briggs, George W...........1019 Cole, L. W...................720 Dean, L............959 Briggs, Thomas H..........1035 Cole, Lysander...............806 Dedrick, M...............665 Brokaw, George W...........802 Collier, Rev. Isaac..........721 Dedrick, John..............886 Brown, E. H................ 675 Collins, George, Jr..........912 Denison, Robert, M. D........3 A.............385 Brown, F. C71............... 781 Collins, W. W., M. D.........321 Deuel, A. W..................718 s A............349 Brown, Hon. William H...... 217 Conklin, James E...........851 Dickey, F. W.................832..............349 Brown, John...1034 Connor, William.............979 Dickey, Hon. Charles..;. 946 J...............157 Brown, J. R..................686 Converse, J. M...............487 Dickey, Marsh................279 -s H............919 Brown, M. E..................257 Convis, C. B.................235 Dobbins, J. L................ 755................746 Bruce, A. G., M. D...........469 Cook, Clinton T..............1015 Dobbins, S. F.907................877 Brukner, Conrad............451 Cook, H. R............... 537 Doolittle, A 8.......... 896 ry P............153 Buchanan, James......... 75 Cook, Hon. William..........771 Doty, Zebulon L.............392............ 926 Burkhardt, A..............424 Cook, Theodore..............504 Drinkwater, R..... n........... 1028 Burr, Rufus D.........,.,467 Corey, William,,,,.. 223 Dumphry, William C., Sr.... 30q -fa~~~~~~~~~~\S'fS INDEX. I I I1 E Eberstein, H. C.............. 737 Eldridge, Capt. Clement.....3'32 Elliott, Leonard..............980 Ellis, Barzilla................440 Elyea, Robert P.............792 Emery, R. J.................984 Enos, Newman...............966 Errington, George........... 457 Evans, John.................868 F Failing, J. M................. 399 Faurot, Mrs. Celind..........710 Felch, Alpheus...............117 Fillmore, Millard.............67 Fish, Miles..................678 Fisher, John K...............218 Fiske, L. R., D. D............634 Flint, Isaac M.............. 1043 Flint, Samuel A..............993 Foley, John E............... 728 Ford,E.C................... 981 Foster, J. L..................559 Fox, Arthur G................286 Freed, John A..........7....742 Francisco, F.................427 French, George.............468 French, Hon. George H......249 French, J. M................. 316 French, Martin..............228 French,S. S.................205 Frey, James.................811 Frink, Warren...............536 Frisbie, Orin B...............618 G Gage, William C.............387 Gardanier, C. A..............948 Garfield, James A............ 95 Garfield, M. C...............897 Garrett, Caleb..............311 Gatrell, George..............715 Geddes, Albert H............271 Geisen, Joseph..............510 Gifford, J. M...............1007 Gillett, C. H................587 Gleason, A. E................356 Godsmark, John.............. 522 Gordon, Aaron B.............961 Gordon, Alexander...........493 Gore, Phil S................816 Gorham, Hon. Charles T..... 191 Goss, William...............494 Gould, David................37 Graham, John............328 Grant, E. H..................93 Giant, Ulysses S............. 87 Graves, Eben W..............707 Graves, Jerome..............780 Gregg, William J..........227 Greene, George H., M. D.....437 Green, George W., M. D......489 Green, James................1031 Greenly, William L...........121 Greenman, Daniel...........306 Gregory, J. L................263 Grinnell, Ezra................955 Groff, L. D................... - H Hadden, Amos...............805 Hale, Solon W...............627 Hall, Charles T...............473 Hall, E. H....................758 Hall, Hon. H. C...............327 Hall, Homer..................645 Hall, Theodore..............996 Hamilton, F. S.............935 Hamilton, P. P...............876 Hamilton, William...........891 Hamlin, H....................322 Hammond, W. H............1024 Harmon, W. R...............301 Harrington, Charles........621 Harrington, George..........501 Harrington, James W........426 Harrington, John A.........1009 Harrington, P. A.............548 Harrison, Benjamin.......... 107 Harrison. John...............519 Harrison, William Henry.... 51 Harsh, L. L..................295 Haskell, Henry C...........1015 Hastings, William............577 Hatch, James W.............452 Haven, Hon. Martin.........589 Haven, Moses...............446 Havens, A. L...............865 Hawkins, A. M..............821 Hay, Alexander........... 274 Hayes, Rutherford B........91 Hazen, Rockwell J...........964 Heath, Cyrus... r..........525 Henderson, John.............490 Herrick, S. C.................307 Henry, A...................412 Henry, W. C................. 839 Henshaw, J. G...............564 Hess, B. P.................. 848 Hicks, E. H..................267 Hicks, E. J., M. D............224 Hicks, John Y................410 Hinman, Edward C..........825 Hoag, T. E...................339 Hoaglin, Hon. F. F...........812 Hodges, Edward.............748 Holcomb, A.....658.......... 653 Hollon, N. H................432 Holmes, Charles D...........785 Holmes, H. I., M. D..........65 Hopkins, J. L................575 Houston, Hon. John,..........45 Houston, M. A..............1017 Howard, Henry..............571 Howell, Ashbel..............428 Howes, George E.............6(9 Huggett, J...................862 Hughes, J. M................. 722 Hughes, Mrs. M. A........... 696 Hughson, W. J...............288 Hutchison, Daniel........... 965 Huxford, Samuel.............. 809 Hyde, A. 0O...............262 Hyde, E. V. B............... 708 Irving, Robert...............756 Ismon, E. A.................1021 J Jackson, Andrew............ 43 Jager, D...................612 Jefferson, Thomas........... 27 Jerome, David H............1 5 Johnson, Andrew........... 83 Johnson, A. S., M. D........587 Johnson, F. H...............43 Johnson, Jonathan...........717 Johnson, O. Clark...........986 Johnson, P. T., M. D..........462 Johnson, Seely...............287 Johnson, Thomas D..........582 Joslyn, James L..............345 Joslyn, C. H..................716 Joy, M. H.............208 K Kane, A....................761 Keeler, Richard..............415 Kellogg, L. D.............352 Kellogg, Oroz................272 Kelsey, Hon. Newell J..... 255 Kendall, H. L...............1003 Kerr, William I.............639 Kidney, William............544 Kimball, O. F........... 655 Kimball, S. H................214 Kimmer, Frederick...........690 Kingman, Hon. R............566 Kinney, Leonard.............242 Kirk, Newton T..............750 Knickerbocker, M. R.........826 Knickerbocker, W. M........417 Knight, Thomas..............796 Krenerick, Adam............735 Kyes, M. E................ 1039 L Lamb, Sanford..............6. 6 Lamont, Isaac...............578 Lamoreaux, E. W., M. D.....775 Lapham, A. J............... 671 Lockton, David..............580 Long, Harry................. 860 Loud, Hon. Rienzi...........531 Lee, A. W....................697 Lewis, Joseph J..............699 Lewis, J. B. W., M. D........ 656 Lewis S. G..................1044 Lewis, Seth...................953 Lewis, W. R..................953 Lincoln, Abraham........... 79 Linihan, Martin..............285 Luce, Cyrus Gray............177 Lusk, Augustus.............920 M Mack, Erastus A...........960 Madison, James.............. 31 Mahrle, Jacob.............. '06 Manchester, E. C............819 Mapes, George W...........200 Marble, Capt. Ephraim......397 Marble, Milton M............968 Markham, J. P...........682 Markham, R. J...............798 Martin, C. N............... 711 Martin, John B...............404 Martin, William............875 Marsh, George H............507 Mason, Stephen T............105 Mason, W. H................ 233 Mayo, Perry..............377 McBeth, Alonzo E...........785 McBeth, Benjamin C........785 McCanily, Mark..... 6..9....695 McClelland, Robert.......... 129 McCombs, John.............. 949 McCormick, H. N............374 McHugh, John............. 1016 McIntyre, A. R...............547 McManus, Rev. J. P..........752 McNary, Henry..............278 McWethy, R. H..............927 Mead, J. B................... 605 Merchant, George R.........449 Merrifield, William...........732 Merritt, William.............563 Metcalf, David H...........790 Metcalf, Martin..............915 Milbourn, William...........492 Miller, Henry H..............975 Miller, William D............488 Minges, A....................463 Miner, Charles............... 394 Minor, E. H...............331 Mitchell, Harvey.............902 Mitchell, John................625 Monroe, James............... 35 Moore, Thomas..............1030 Morgan, B. F.................610 Morgan, W................882 Morehouse, A............... 736 Moses, D. B...................963 Moses, J. M............. 672 Muir, H............ 471 INDEX. Murrey, D. W., Jr...........554 Pritchard, James............866 Sharpstein, A.............. 777 Van Sch6ick, D. H...........333 Murray, A. J................ 528 Pritchard, Jason S..........892 Sharpsteen, Caroline P......857 Vogel, C. F.................841 Pritchard, Samuel L..........929 Shipman, A. W...............842 Vroman, John................472 Pritchard, Thomas W........929 Shipman, R. B.............909 Shipp, Joseph................847 'N Shipp, Thomas J.............866 Short, C. H..................855 W Shuart, D. M................581.Q Shumway, E. G.............401 Nash, Ira.................... 361 Shurtleff, H. A., M. D........289 Newbre, Elias...............730 Simonds, Rev. W. D..........822 Wagoner, Daniel.............646 Newbre,W.W............... 622 Sloat, D. N....................448 Walker, T. P.................18 Newman, J. V...............376 Snedeker, H. S...............364 Walker, W. R................67 Newton, E. R................192 Quick, A. J..................777 Snow, J. H....................766 Walkinshaw, David......... 38 Nichols, H. P................103i6 Snyder, Alonzo...............569 Walklnshaw, Hon. James....229 Nichols, O. A................. 362 Snyder, Myron...............482 Wallace, William.318 Snyder, R. A..................266 Warren, I. A.................315 Snyder, S. F.................1018 Washburn, J. A............1.033 R Smith, C. C., M. D...........343 Washington, George........ 19 Smith, L. C...................985 Waterman, H. B.............762 )0 ISmith, Uriah.................240 Watrous, William P.........604 Smith, W. J.................1015 Way, Charles W.............861 Southworth, T. H..............353 Way, James A...............662 Randall, Rev. F. R.........889 Spaulding, A. N.............594 Way, John G.................900 Randall, H...................667 Spaulding, N. L..............633 Webster, E. W...............939 Olney, William V........... 1022 Randall, T. A.................198 Stafford, A. C................236 Weeks, Cornelius...........801 Ordway, A. D................776 Ransom, Epaphroditus......125 Standley, P. W...............800 Weever, S. L.................476 Ostrom, Isaac L..............788 Rathbun, Frank M...........421 Starks, Peter................. 958 Welton, George-A............727 Ott,.J. E....................... 888 Rathbun, Roswell............731 Starks, F. A.................616 Whalen, John...............1012 Ott, Peter E.................. 999 Reed, Asa W................ 973 Stolp, William...............55 Wheat, Benjamin W..........943 Remalie, Henry............. 526 Storrs, J. H..................700 Wheeler, C. C................207 Rhodes, A.................... 262 Sundberg, Nicholas..........885 Wheelock, F. A., M. D........782 Richardson, George..........685 Sweet, H. F..................1004 Whitaker, S. D...............636 p Roberts, W. F., M. D.........615 Sweney: J. C.................6(;1 Whitcomb, J. L..............299 Robertson, 0. W..............602 Swift, David S................815 White, C. P..................642 Robinson, E. W.............698 White, M. H..................880 Robinson, J. A................461 White, Thomas M............991 Rogers, Charles H............509 White, W. N..................769 Page, W. L...................514 Rogers, Luther.1023 Whitmore,. H..............391 Palmerton, J. B3 99 L..............351 Rorers, Luther D............998 Williams,. W. 911 Parkers, W. B...............760 Willard, Charles..............370 Parkis, W.G................. 767 Root, E. B.............. 1002 Willard, Hon. George........195 Parsons, Amdesw. 239 Rorabacher, M., M D 596 Tabor, Daniel..................558 Vilson, Amos................689 Rosecrantz, William.........601 Talmage, A. P................740 Wilson, Elisha...............470 Patterson, David............1025 Ross, Daniel..................221 Taylor, John................535 Winans, Edwin B...........181 Phelps, Silas.....520 Rowe, H. J..................251 Taylor, Lorenzo..............738 Winslow, H. C................201 Phillips, Arthur J.........R..977 Rowley, Benjamin........ 284 Taylor, Zachary.............63 Winsor, II. E...............411 Pearl, John.2R..............9 60 Rowley, 1 illiam.............795 Tefft, V. J....................369 Wiselogel, M. W..............936 Peck, Charles HB..............600 Rundell, Joseph..............808 Tillotson, Hon. H. A..........797 Wiseman, John..............373 ~Peck, DanielB. 1005 Ryder, H. M..................849 Townsend, Lewis.............818 Wisner, Moses................141 Peck, H. I....................603 Traut, Wilson...............702 Wolcott, H. B................820 Peck, John M.................252 Truth, Sojourner.............990 Wood, J. T....................648 Peckham, Shelden.....258 Tyler, John.................. 55 Wood, M. J...................791 Perrin, Lewis.................206 Wood, Hon. M.B.............388 Perrin, Hon. H. J............273 Wood, William D...........310 Perrin, 0. C.................1038 Wood, William 0.............916 Perry, H......................668 Woodbridge, William........109 Peterman, Hiram A., M. D...409 U Wooden, Andrew.............23 Pierce, Franklin.............71 Woolsey, G. S................982 Place, Dr. O. G...............569 Wormley, J. E...............283 Polk, James K................59 Sackett, J. H.................989 Wright, Frank B...........895 Pond, J.E....................483 Samson, Benjamin L........750 Underwood, C. R.............669 Poole, R. S....................234 Samson. Galen...............679 Upright, Edmond............871 Poormon, Benjamin..........659 Sanders, G. H................914 Upright, G. N................341 Porter, Henry M.............199 Sanders, J. H................906 Porter, John..................995 Sanders, John S..............836 Y Porter, R. B., M. D...........368 Sands, T. E., M. D............23 y Porter, William H............971 Sanford, J. R................1001 Prentice, A. K...............807 Sayer, James................899 Prescott, W. W..............1032 Schott, Nicholas.............244 Yotdes, Christopher..........370 Prior, John..............901 Sechler, Abram..............872 Van Bureh, Martin.........., 47 Young,Dayid,,,,,..,...,,,624 INDEX. -.- _- -- 8:: t: fofI^ln) I: (G --- —-(^.^^^J- ~ ~ -^^'. ' -'.'-O,,~ W= =,), — Adams, Charles..............814 Adams, John................ 22 Adams, John Q............. 38 Alexander, W. H.............834 Alger, Russell A..............172 Arthur, Chester A............ 98 Austin, Charles..............210 Baart, Rev. P. A.............382 Babcock, Amos A...........348 Bagley, John J...............156 Baldwin, Henry H............152 Barnum T. B.................33(; Barry, John S................112 Bingham, Klnsley S.......... 136 Blair, Austin.................144 Begole, Josiah W............. l 1 Bock, Charles F..............27 Bosley, Hon. William E...... 552 Brown, E. H..................674 Brown, Hon. William H......216 Buchanan, James........... 74 Burr, Rufus D................ 466 Calkins, A. B 3.................,32 Carpenter, H. L.............. 443 Carpenter, Mrs. H. L.........442 Case, Z. N....................512 Cleveland, S. Grover........ 102 Court, James................. 7(6 Cowles, D. W........... 480 Cowles, Heman.............. 540 Crapo, Henry H..............148 Crawford, Gamble............592 Croswell, Charles M..........160 Davis, George W............496 Dedrick, M..................664 Dumphry, William C.........304 Felch, Alpheus...............116 Fillmore, Millard............. 66 Freed, John A................744 French, Dr. S. S.............204 French, Hon. G. H........... 248 Garfield, J. A................. 1 Gatrell, George.............. 71 Geddes, Albert H........... 270 Gorham, Hon. C. T...........190 Grant, U. S................... 86 Gregg, William J.............226 Greene, Dr. George H.......436 Greenly, William L..........120 Hadden, Amos...............804 Hall, H. C................. 326 Hall, Lyman R............. 644 Harrison, Benjamin..........106 Harrison, John............. 516 Harrison, Mrs. John.........517 Harrison, W. H.............. 50 Hayes,R.B.................. 90 Heath, Cyrus................524 Hinman, Edward C..........c 4 Hopkins, J. L.................5 74 Howard, Henry..............70 Howes, George E............ ((8 Hyde, A. O...................260 Jackson, Andrew............ 42 Jefferson, Thomas........... 26 Jerome, David H............ 164 Johnson, Andrew............ 82 Johnson, Dr. A. S............584 Johnson, Mrs. A. S........... 585 Keeler, Richard.............414 Kelsey, Newell J.............2.54 Kerr, William H..............638 Kimball, 0. F................654 Krenerick, Adam............ 734 Lamoreaux, Dr. E. W.......774 Lewis, Seth.................952 Lincoln, Abraham........... 78 Loud, Rienzi.................530 Luce, Cyrus Gray............176 Madison, James..............30 Marble, Capt. Ephraim......396 Martin, William..............874 Mason, Stephen.............104 Mason, William H...........232 McBeth, Ben C...............784 McCamly, Mark..............694 McClelland, Robert..........128 McIntyre, A. R..............546 Merritt, William..............562 Metcalf, Martin.............. 914 Monroe, James............... 3 Murrey, David W............555 Murrey, Mrs. D. W...........555 Nash, Ira.....................358 Nash, Mrs. Ira................359 Parker, John B...............598 Parsons, Andrew.............132 Parsons, James M............238 Pearl, John..................292 Peterman, Dr. H. A......... 408 Pierce, Franklin............. 70 Place, Dr. O. G...............568 Polk, J. K................... 58 Porter, Hon. William H..... 970 Ransom, Epaphroditas...... 124 Roberts, Dr. W. F...........614 Robinson, J. A................460 Short, C. H.................. 54 Smith, C. C.................32 Spaulding, N. L..............630 Taylor, Zachary............ 62 Tyler, John............... 54 Van Buren, Martin........... 46 Walker, William R...........366 Warren, Ira A...............314 Washington, George......... 18 Whitcomb, James L........ 298 Whitmore, I. H............390 Winans, Edwin B............180 Wiseman, John...............372 Wisner, Moses................140 Woodbridge, William........108 Wormley, J. E...............282 Wormley, Mrs. J. E.........282 Wright, F. B...............894 0ias Baart, Rev. P. A.............383 Bailey, Charles H.......... 903 Begole, William A............485 Bradley, Charles E...........723 Brown, J. R.............. (: Cook, Theodore............. t Converse, J. M.........,... Cruse, William...............903 Curtis, 0. F...................703 Dedrick, John...............883 Frisbie, Orin B...............619 Huggett, Jesse............... 863 Hughes, James M............723 Jonon? 0. Clark......... 7 Lewis, S. G................ 987 Markham, J. P...............683 Marsh, George H.............505 Mitchell, Harvey............903 Morgan, W................883 Penniman, Mrs. J. H........863 Richardson, George........, 683 Shipman, A. W...............843 Spaulding, N. L..............631 Sundberg, Nicholas..........883 Swift, David S...............843 Traut, Wilson................703 Wormley, J. E.........,.,....319 I — C-~ Lil~ —i~.__;-; _C16x BBRU- Digital Production Notes Mirlyn ID: BAD0869 Call number: EB 2 C152 P853 Volume: Total Pages: 1050 Targets: Bibliographic Target Greyscale: Color: Foldouts: No No Irregular Pagination pagination begins with pg. 7 pagination begins over following pg 108; pg 110 is misnumbered as 10. pagination skips from 182 to 191; pagination skips from 280 to 283; pagination skips from 404 to 409. Missing Pages Scanning Notes Pagination Scan Intact 4L; 108; 182, 6L; 280; 4L; 404; 2L; 512; 2L; 548; 2L; 530; 554; 4L; 570; 2L; 940;1050;2L Other Production Notes numerous irregularities in page enumeration but not loss of text (not missing pages, just misnumbered) large tear at top of page 1003/1004. & 1047/1048 Irregular pagination continued: pagination skips from 428 to 430; pagination skips from 530 to 553; pagination skips from 940 to 943.