Adams County IL

Adams County, Illinois, located along the Mississippi River in the western part of the state, was officially organized on March 30, 1825, from Pike County and named after President John Adams. The county seat, Quincy, was founded in 1822 and became a major early river port and transportation hub, drawing settlers from New England and the Upper South. Early settlement began in the 1820s, with land records available from 1823, marriages from 1825, and probate and court records beginning soon after, making it one of Illinois’ most thoroughly documented early counties for genealogical research. The area was originally home to Kickapoo and Sauk-Fox tribes, with Native land cessions formalized in early 19th-century treaties. The county’s rich agricultural land, access to river trade, and arrival of the railroad in the 1850s contributed to its growth. It is also notable for its strong German immigrant communities from the 1830s onward, which are reflected in Lutheran, Catholic, and Evangelical church records. Key genealogical repositories include the Adams County Courthouse, Historical Society of Quincy and Adams County, and various regional church archives.

Biography of George W. Robinson

George W. Robinson, born in Ohio in 1855, has significantly influenced Kansas banking since moving to the state in 1876. Initially an educator in Winfield, he transitioned to banking, partnering with his family in various financial institutions. His notable achievement includes successfully reopening the First National Bank of Arkansas City as its receiver in 1894. Robinson went on to establish multiple banks in Wichita, including the National Bank of Wichita and the Security State Bank, where he served as president. He married Ella E. Holmes and has one daughter, Edith.

Biography of Charles F. Armstrong

Charles F. Armstrong, born on February 27, 1872, in Indian Territory, is a notable farmer and stockman near Coodys Bluff, Oklahoma. He was educated at local schools and business colleges, then worked in retail with his father before turning to farming. He operates a successful 100-acre farm, known for its cultivation and modern improvements. Married to Ota Ralls, they have raised seven children. A key figure in local politics and community welfare, Armstrong’s contributions reflect his commitment to agricultural and social development in the region.

Biographical Sketch of William Granville Lee

William Granville Lee, born on November 29, 1859, in La Prairie, Illinois, was a prominent labor leader. He received his education in public schools and married Mary R. Rice in 1901. Lee’s early career included roles as a brakeman and conductor for several railways from 1879 to 1884, followed by service as deputy recorder of deeds in Kansas. He later became a conductor for the U.P. R.R. and served as president of the Brotherhood of Railway Trainmen from 1909, contributing significantly to labor movements.

Biography of Lewis Hanback

Lewis Hanback, born in Illinois in 1839, became a prominent Union officer during the Civil War before establishing a successful law practice in Topeka, Kansas, in 1865. Renowned for his contributions to Kansas history, he served in various legal and political roles, including congressman-at-large and assistant United States district attorney. Active in veterans’ organizations, Hanback remained a passionate public speaker. He passed away in 1896, leaving behind a legacy through his legal achievements and a family that continued to influence Kansas society.

Biography of Anton Andrew Ackerman

Anton Andrew Ackerman, born on November 23, 1876, in Illinois, emerged as a notable businessman in Neosho County, primarily in the oil and gas industry. The son of German immigrants, he cultivated his mechanical skills while working on his family’s farm before transitioning to a successful career as a stationary engineer and oil driller. By 1908, Ackerman established himself as a pioneering contractor in Kansas and Oklahoma. He also co-operated a prominent garage in Chanute. Married twice, he was a devoted family man and an active member of his community and various fraternal organizations.

Biography of Edward P. Moulton

Edward P. Moulton, born on August 27, 1872, in Wilson County, Kansas, emerged as a prominent businessman in Neodesha, owning the largest hardware store in the area. The son of pioneering parents, he pursued education amid hardship after his father’s early death. Moulton built a successful career in the hardware industry after gaining experience in banking, establishing himself through self-reliance and integrity. A community leader and active in local governance, Moulton’s life reflects dedication to both business and civic duty, complemented by a family of three children.

Cusick, William C. – Obituary

William C. Cusick, born February 21, 1842, in Adams County, Illinois, passed away on October 7, 1922, near Union, Oregon. After moving to Oregon in 1853, he settled in Union County in 1871. A Civil War veteran, Cusick developed a passion for botany, particularly in the Blue Mountain area. He was married briefly to Emma A. Alger in 1892. Survived by siblings, his funeral was held at the Presbyterian Church, where he was a charter member and respected community member.

Fry, Ellen Bimson – Obituary

Ellen Fry, aged 60, passed away at her home in Guernsey, Iowa, on January 29, 1899, due to tumorous cancer. Born on April 9, 1838, in England, she immigrated to America at four, eventually settling in Iowa. Ellen’s life was marked by hardship, including the death of her first husband, Cyrus Griswold, and her subsequent marriage to Abraham Fry. A devoted member of the Moravian Church, she was remembered for her faith and resilience, leaving behind her husband, two brothers, and many friends.

Biographical Sketch of Theodore Jonte

Theodore Jonte, born April 4, 1839, in Nashville, Tennessee, was a harness and saddles dealer in Mattoon, Illinois. After leaving home at 16, he worked in Quincy and contributed to U.S. cavalry equipment during the Civil War. In 1862, he partnered in a shop in Paris before settling in Mattoon in 1864, where he established a premier saddlery. Married to Anna Stoneburner in 1865, he has one daughter, Alberta, and has held various civic roles, including City Mayor and Assistant Supervisor.

Biography of David A. Correll

David A. Correll, born in Ohio in 1845, is a prominent figure in Riverside as the owner of the Blue Front Grocery Store, a cornerstone of the community since 1883. After various jobs and serving in the Civil War, he moved to Riverside in 1882, where he began his grocery career. By 1887, he managed the Blue Front alone, expanding its success through dedicated service. Correll, known for his geniality and community support, also pursued horticulture, cultivating orange groves. He was a devoted Republican and family man, married to Naomi Harshburger with two children.

Biography of Samuel C. Pine

Samuel C. Pine, a pioneer of San Bernardino County, has lived there for over thirty years. He operates a successful general farming business on 160 acres in Chino Township, which he acquired in 1867 after years of litigation. His diverse agricultural endeavors include a vineyard and orchard, alongside hay, grain, and livestock. Born in New York in 1825, Pine has a rich heritage and extensive experience, having previously worked as a lumberman and trader in various states. He is a respected community member and family man, with five children.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph H. Kelly

Joseph H. Kelly, a prominent horse dealer and trainer in San Bernardino County’s Mission District, has dedicated the last decade to his passion for horses. He operates a 100-acre ranch, recently enhanced with a comfortable home, and currently tends to about fifty well-bred horses. A native of Quincy, Illinois, he arrived in California in 1861, initially engaging in mining and teaming in Holcomb Valley. He has been married for fourteen years and has established a significant reputation in the equestrian community.

Biography of F. Garner

F. Garner, born on March 5, 1835, near Quincy, Illinois, had a remarkable pioneer life. After journeying to Utah with his family, he drove an ox team to California at age fifteen. The family faced challenges, including cholera and encounters with Native Americans, before settling in San Bernardino. Garner farmed for fifteen years, later acquiring land on Base Line. He married Amanda Thompkins in 1855 and they raised eight children. Garner became a successful figure in San Bernardino and is now retired.

Biography of Joseph Hancock

Joseph Hancock was born in Ohio in 1822 and later became a rancher near San Bernardino, California. His family, with roots in Massachusetts and Vermont, faced numerous hardships as pioneers. After moving through various states, they encountered perilous conditions while crossing rivers and deserts. Hancock’s perseverance led to successful land ownership and farming in California, supported by his second wife, Nancy Bemis. They had seven children and preserved historical artifacts from their journeys, reflecting on their challenging yet enriching pioneer experiences.

Biography of Hon. William Payne

Hon. William Payne, born on March 8, 1841, in Iowa, exemplifies the rare farmer who remained dedicated to agriculture while serving in public office. After a significant political career that included roles as county treasurer and sheriff, and twelve years in the Illinois legislature, he continued farming in Zuma Township. An active Mason and member of the Grand Army of the Republic, Payne retired to Rock Island after selling his farm. He was married to Jennie Wilson and had four children, maintaining deep roots in his community throughout his life.

Biography of Major James Bruce

Major James Bruce, born on November 3, 1827, in Indiana, became a notable figure in Oregon’s history through his extensive contributions as a pioneer, soldier, and legislator. He began his adventurous life at twenty, engaging in border patrols in Texas and participating in the California Gold Rush. Bruce later served with distinction during conflicts with Native Americans, demonstrating both bravery and diplomacy. A prominent landowner and public servant, he has played an essential role in the development of Oregon, shaping its agricultural landscape and participating in local governance.

Biography of Abel E. Eaton

Abel E. Eaton, born May 30, 1834, in Conway, New Hampshire, was the seventh of eleven children. Despite limited early education, he pursued knowledge voraciously and embarked on a teaching career, facing various challenges in the evolving frontier. After several ventures, including teaching in Illinois during the Civil War, he moved to Oregon, where he established a successful freight and farming business. By the end of his career, he owned significant land and livestock, contributing to educational and civic endeavors in his community. Eaton married Mary E. Baird in 1867, and their home became a refuge for others.