The Eel River Indians were a subgroup of the Miami tribe, historically located in Indiana. Their village centered at Thorntown, Boone County, where they had a reservation until its sale in 1828. Following this, they relocated to the Miami Reservation near the Wabash and Eel rivers in Miami County. Their experiences reflected the broader challenges faced by the Miami tribe during this period. The name “Eel River” derives from the French term “I’Anguille,” meaning “The eel.
A guide and directory to Boone County Indiana genealogy, containing both online and offline resources for genealogy and historical research. This article contains sources of genealogical data about Boone County such as biographies, cemetery records, census records, church records, court records, family records, land records, military records, naturalization records, and vital records.
Ebenezer West was born in Indiana on February 9, 1829, and spent his childhood in Boone County. After marrying Julia Ann Robinson in 1850, he initially farmed before transitioning to various occupations, including working in a county recorder’s office and photography. He enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War, serving with the Twenty-third Missouri Volunteer Infantry, where he sustained injuries and was captured at the Battle of Shiloh. Post-war, he pursued merchandising and cabinet making, and served in the Missouri General Assembly. He later settled in Gallatin, continuing his career in painting.
William Henry Redenbeaugh, born on March 2, 1865, in Boone County, Indiana, was a significant figure in Shawnee County after settling there in 1871. Initially working as a boilermaker and later a conductor with the Santa Fe and Rock Island Railways, he maintained an impeccable record during his railway career. Transitioning to agriculture, he established a well-equipped dairy farm near Topeka, demonstrating diligence and entrepreneurship. Redenbeaugh’s life reflects his family’s pioneers’ spirit and his commitment to hard work and moral integrity.
John F. McLean, born June 22, 1843, in Indiana, served as sheriff of Idaho County. He descended from Scotch pioneers and was educated in log schoolhouses before learning the milling trade. After moving to Idaho in 1880, he operated a successful flouring mill for 16 years. His political career began as assessor and led to his election as sheriff in 1898, reflecting his popularity. Married to Sarah T. Kibby, they had five sons. McLean is recognized for his integrity, community involvement, and dedication to public service.
Perry E. Cook, a prominent carpenter contractor in Topeka for over two decades, has skillfully contributed to the city’s residential landscape. Born in Indiana in 1859, he moved to Kansas in 1886 and initially worked as a journeyman before establishing his contracting business. Cook’s firm, known for quality work in new constructions and remodeling, has built a loyal clientele. A family man with four children, he remains active in the community and upholds an independent republican political stance while being a member of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
Robert Paris Harrison, born on June 6, 1867, in Oakwood, Illinois, was a prominent figure in Muskogee, where he served as city manager. After a career in journalism, including roles at various newspapers and a significant tenure as the clerk of the United States district court, he shifted to public administration in 1920. Harrison contributed to civic life through directorship in local banks and involvement in community projects, including Honor Heights Memorial Park. He was also actively engaged in the arts and served in several civic organizations during World War I.
Ulysses Schuyler Wolfe, born on October 13, 1868, in Indiana, became the sole proprietor of the Alfalfa Milling Company in Emporia, Kansas, in 1907. His family, early settlers of Emporia, had deep roots in agriculture, with his father transitioning from farming to blacksmithing. Ulysses pursued teaching before entering public service and the milling business. The company specializes in alfalfa feed, serving a broad market, including distant cities. A Republican and community member, he married Gertrude Ham, and together they have two daughters.