Albany County NY

Albany County, New York, one of the original twelve counties established by the Province of New York in 1683, encompasses part of the historic Hudson River Valley and is among the oldest jurisdictions in the state, with continuous governmental records—land, probate, tax, and vital—available from the late 17th century, making it a key location for early colonial genealogical research. Originally much larger, it was gradually reduced in size as new counties were formed; it includes the state capital, Albany, which was first settled by the Dutch as Fort Orange in 1624 and chartered as a city in 1686 under the Dongan Charter. The region was historically inhabited by Mohican (Mahican) peoples before European colonization and saw significant Dutch, English, and later immigrant settlement. The Hudson River, Mohawk River, and early turnpikes and canals made Albany County a transportation hub, further increasing the richness and accessibility of genealogical records.

Van Biene, Jean Ann Mrs. – Obituary

Jean Ann van Biene, 65, passed away from pancreatic cancer on June 23, 2002, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Born on March 4, 1937, in Chicopee Falls, Massachusetts, she was a graduate of Eastern Oregon University. Jean moved to Scottsdale in 1979, where she operated Diet Center franchises and engaged in community theater and historical reenactments. She was involved with the Business and Professional Women’s Organization and attended Our Lady of Perpetual Help parish. She is survived by her husband, son, stepdaughter, and grandchildren.

Biography of Hon. William P. Lord

William P. Lord, born in Dover in 1838, became a prominent figure in Oregon’s legal history. After excelling at Fairfield College, he enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War, rapidly rising to the rank of major. Post-war, he pursued law and partnered with Colonel N.B. Knight in Salem. Elected to the state senate in 1878, he became Oregon’s first elected chief justice in 1880. Lord’s legal writings and opinions significantly elevated the state’s jurisprudence, earning him widespread respect until his term’s expiration in 1894.

Biography of Theodore C. Van Epps

Theodore C. Van Epps, born on February 15, 1847, in New Scotland, New York, is a prominent figure in Washington, D.C. He was raised in Iowa and began his career as a schoolteacher before moving to Nebraska, where he homesteaded. In 1875, he settled in Olympia, Washington, establishing a successful stationery business. Later, he transitioned to real estate and became involved in local organizations, demonstrating strong leadership and community commitment. Married in 1868, he and his wife Rosalia had three children, earning respect and a comfortable life in Olympia.

Biography of Edward James Northrup

Edward James Northrup, born on July 4, 1834, in Albany, New York, began his career as a clerk in a Boston bookstore before moving to Portland in 1852. He became a prominent merchant, ultimately leading the firm Northrup Blossom and later Northrup Thompson. Despite his modest nature, he was deeply involved in community affairs and a dedicated member of the Methodist Church. Northrup’s life ended tragically in 1883 due to an accident at work. He left behind his wife, Frances, and five children, and was remembered for his integrity and contributions to the community.

Biography of John O’Day, Esq.

John O’Day, born on November 18, 1843, in Limerick, Ireland, emigrated to America as a child and was raised in Wisconsin. He studied law under Judge Windsor and was admitted to the bar in 1864. O’Day settled in Springfield in 1865 and became a prominent criminal and corporate attorney, notably for the St. Louis and San Francisco Railway Company. An active Democrat, he served on the State Central Committee and played a key role in the party’s successes. He married Jennie Campbell and has two sons.