Addison County VT

Addison County, Vermont is a county in western Vermont, established by act of the legislature on October 18, 1785, from a portion of Rutland County during the period of the independent Vermont Republic (prior to Vermont’s statehood in 1791), with its shire town (county seat) at Middlebury, making county court and land records available there from the late 1780s onward—vital for genealogical research. The area lies in the Champlain Valley and is drained primarily by Otter Creek; Native American presence by Iroquoian and other tribes along Lake Champlain predates European exploration by Samuel de Champlain in 1609 and later French and British colonial activity at sites such as Chimney Point. Early towns within the county, many chartered in the 1780s and 1790s, drew settlers largely from New England states after the American Revolution, with township land records, early census returns, and town meeting minutes beginning in this period; resources for genealogy include county town clerk records, Probate and Deed offices in Middlebury, local historical societies, libraries, and numerous cemetery transcriptions.

Biography of Sheldon Smith

Sheldon Smith, born January 26, 1810, in Bridport, Vermont, is the fifth son of Caleb Smith. He received basic education at local schools and an academy, later becoming a successful farmer, holding about 900 acres at one point. Despite his introverted nature, he has been actively involved in local governance, serving in various roles such as justice of the peace and legislator. Known for his integrity and judgment, he has remained a respected community figure, dedicating his life to farming and public service while never marrying.

Biography of Tyler Stickney

Tyler Stickney was born on December 10, 1799, in Shoreham, Vermont. He descended from English settlers and became a notable sheep breeder, particularly known for his Merino flock. He married Lora Treadway in 1828, with whom he had eleven children. Stickney was a respected farmer and community member, celebrated for his contributions to sheep breeding that greatly benefited Vermont’s agricultural reputation. He passed away from apoplexy on January 31, 1882, leaving behind a legacy of family and a reputable breeding line in Merino sheep.

Biography of Julius Preston Douglas

Julius Preston Douglas was born on June 12, 1815, in Cornwall, Vermont, to the family of Benajeh Douglas, an early settler and farmer. After marrying Etnily H. Williamson in 1843, he expanded his agricultural pursuits by acquiring a sizable farm in Middlebury. A successful farmer and hay dealer, Douglas was known for his industrious character, having built a comfortable estate through hard work. He raised three children but never sought public office, leading a life focused on community and practicality.

Biography of E.R. Jewett

E. R. Jewett, a prominent figure in Buffalo’s printing industry, made significant contributions to journalism and the community. Born in New Haven, Vermont, in 1810, he became publisher of the Buffalo Journal in 1839, merging it with the Commercial Advertiser. His business acumen established a reputable publishing firm noted for its executive ability. After retiring to Willow Lawn, he embraced farming while remaining active in public life and charitable endeavors, including substantial contributions to the Episcopal Church. Jewett’s legacy includes a commitment to both entrepreneurship and community service.

Biography of Judge William Silas Wright

Judge William Silas Wright was born on January 6, 1819, in Weybridge, Vermont. He attended Vergennes Classical Institute and Middlebury College before returning to his family’s homestead. Active in local governance, he held various positions, including town clerk and superintendent of schools. In 1885, he was appointed associate judge of Addison County Court. A member of the Congregational Church, he married Lucy C. Phillips, with whom he had two children. Known for his integrity and commitment to community, he was a respected figure throughout his life in Vermont.

Biography of Watson Wallace Ward

Watson Wallace Ward, born on October 8, 1834, in Waltham, Vermont, came from a family with deep roots in the area, tracing back to his grandfather, Jesse Ward, a Revolutionary War veteran. Ward spent his life as a farmer on the family’s 152-acre homestead, primarily focusing on dairying. Politically independent yet Democratic-leaning, he served in various town offices. A member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, he has been active in its stewardship. Ward married twice and has three children.

Biography of Gen.William Nash

General William Nash, born August 2, 1788, in Norfolk, Connecticut, was a prominent figure in New Haven after moving there with his family at age twelve. A successful businessman known for his integrity, he engaged actively in local politics, representing New Haven in the Legislature and serving as State Senator. Nash contributed significantly to education, banking, and temperance movements, and was an influential member of the Congregational Church, dedicating himself to community service. He died on December 15, 1871, leaving behind ten sons.

Biography of Aikens Dukett

Aikens Dukett was born on February 22, 1815, in Lower Canada. He faced limited educational opportunities in his youth but later gained a foundation in English. Dukett worked as a sailor before settling in Bridport, Vermont, in 1835. He owned and cultivated a significant estate, ultimately amassing around twelve hundred acres. Married twice, he had four children, all of whom have since passed, and now enjoys a family of five living children. Dukett is known for his industrious spirit, commitment to agriculture, and support of religious causes.

Biography of Miles Storey

Miles Storey, born on August 23, 1807, in Salisbury, Vermont, was the third of six children of Rufus and Laura Storey. He managed the family homestead until moving to Leicester in 1843, acquiring a substantial farm. Noted for his work ethic, Storey engaged in Merino sheep breeding and built a successful operation. Active in the Salisbury Congregational Church, he married Elizabeth Daniels in 1842. The Storey family is recognized for its longevity, integrity, and contributions to the community.

Biography of Hon. Lucius E. Smith

Hon. Lucius E. Smith was born on October 5, 1824, in Monkton, Vermont. A well-educated man, he graduated from Juliet College in Canada and became proficient in French. Smith engaged in various industries, owning significant property in Monkton. Politically active, he transitioned from the Old Whig to the Republican Party, serving in the Vermont House and Senate and appointed by President Lincoln as commissary of subsistence. A devout Roman Catholic, he married Elvira Bates and had two children. Smith passed away on January 4, 1886, from heart complications.

Biography of Loyal Case Remele

Loyal Case Remele, born on May 5, 1807, in Whiting, Vermont, was the son of Jonathan and Clarissa Remele. He grew up under the care of his grandfather and became a farmer, focusing on breeding Spanish Merino sheep. He married Samantha Barker in 1832, who died childless, and later married Alma Alden in 1852. Remele transitioned from the Whig to the Republican party throughout his life. After several moves, he settled on a farm in Shoreham, where he lived for many years.

Biography of Henry I. Purdy

Henry I. Purdy was born on February 19, 1823, in Vergennes, Vermont, and emigrated with his family to Jackson County, Illinois, in 1842, becoming part of Vergennes Colony. He worked on the family farm and taught school, eventually acquiring land and prospering. Purdy served in the Civil War with the Seventy-third Illinois Volunteer Infantry and died in a Kentucky hospital on January 22, 1863. He was married twice, had six children, and was known for his dedication to his community and church.

Biography of Hiland Southworth

Hiland Southworth, born on September 26, 1849, in Vermont, became a pivotal figure in the development of Abilene, Kansas, after arriving in 1878. Initially practicing law, he transitioned to investment banking, where his exceptional skills contributed significantly to the financial stability of the community. Southworth managed millions in investments, earning a reputation for integrity and acumen across Kansas. He married Ella E. Walker in 1882 and, while they had no children, they raised two foster children. Southworth passed away on June 19, 1917.

Biography of Vernon H. Branch

Vernon H. Branch, born on February 3, 1863, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, moved to Kansas at a young age and established a notable banking career spanning over thirty-five years. Starting as a bookkeeper at the Cloud County Bank, he progressed to various influential banking roles across Kansas. Settling in Wichita in 1903, he became a vice president of the National Bank of Wichita and later focused on investment banking. Branch was married to Luella Brown, who was actively involved in community philanthropy, and they had a highly educated daughter, Hazel E.

Biography of Ezra Brainerd, Jr.

Ezra Brainerd, Jr., born on August 26, 1878, in Middlebury, Vermont, has been a prominent lawyer in Muskogee for seventeen years. After graduating from the University of Michigan in 1904, he began his legal career in Muskogee, establishing a successful practice. Brainerd has also been involved in commercial ventures as president of the Muskogee Crystal Ice Company. He married Edith Hubbard and has five daughters. Active in community organizations, he is a member of several fraternal societies, including the Knights Templar and Elks.

Biography of James Barclay Jermain

James Barclay Jermain, born in Albany, NY, in 1809, is celebrated as a dedicated philanthropist. He inherited wealth and used it to benefit his community through initiatives including the Jermain Memorial Church and the Young Men’s Christian Association building in Albany. He also supported the Home for Aged Men and the Fairview Home for Friendless Children, ensuring the welfare of vulnerable populations. Jermain’s life reflects a commitment to social, intellectual, and moral upliftment, embodying the spirit of true Christian philanthropy.

Biography of Cyrus Strong Merrill, M. D.

Cyrus Strong Merrill, M.D., born on September 21, 1847, in Bridport, Vermont, became a prominent oculist and aurist. His early passion for natural sciences led him to study medicine at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, graduating in 1871. After working at the Brooklyn Eye and Ear Hospital, he furthered his education in Europe. Returning to Albany in 1874, he established a successful practice and held esteemed positions at local hospitals and Albany Medical College. Dr. Merrill is renowned for his cataract surgeries and contributions to medical literature.

Biography of Hon. George W. Vinton

Hon. George W. Vinton, born on December 5, 1834, in Middlebury, Vermont, became a respected figure in Rock Island County through his integrity and public service. After graduating from Randolph Academy, he taught briefly before moving west to Minnesota. Vinton worked with his uncle, John Deere, and contributed significantly to the community through various political roles, including serving as an Alderman and a member of the Illinois State Legislature, where he introduced vital legislation for healthcare and the World’s Columbian Exposition. He was also involved in Masonic and Knights of Pythias organizations.

History of Addison, Addison County, Vermont

Addison, located on the shores of Lake Champlain in western Addison County, is characterized by its predominantly level terrain, with the notable exception of the hilly eastern region, including Snake Mountain, the county’s highest point. The town’s history encompasses various aspects such as mercantile activities, industry, military involvement, and religious institutions. Additionally, it includes brief sketches of prominent citizens from 1885, chronicling the development of local governance and contributions to the community, including military records and the early settlers’ contributions.