Biographical Sketch of Edwin C. Manning

Edwin C. Manning, born on November 7, 1838, in Redford, New York, was a pivotal figure in Kansas history. He taught school, learned the printing trade, and journeyed to the Pikes Peak region seeking gold. Disillusioned, he turned to journalism, publishing Democratic and later Republican platforms. Manning served in the Civil War and transitioned to government contracting before founding Winfield in 1869. He was active in state politics, serving in the Legislature and holding key positions, such as Secretary of the upper house.

Biography of Robert Wilson Turner, Hon.

Hon. Robert W. Turner, a notable figure in Kansas, practiced law for over 25 years and held significant roles in public service. Born in 1858 in New York, he served as consul general to Spain, where he translated vital commercial laws and significantly contributed to American trade. A steadfast advocate for bi-metallism, he engaged actively in Kansas politics, opposing party norms to uphold integrity. A prominent Mason and community member, Turner was also a family man, with notable descendants involved in various professions.

Biography of Alex Furgason

Alex Furgason, born March 26, 1826, in Rouses Point, New York, was a significant early settler in Union County, Oregon. After working in lumber and participating in the Davis train expedition to Oregon in 1862, he became the first settler on the island where Island City now stands. Overcoming numerous hardships, Furgason improved his homestead and became a successful farmer, managing livestock and land. Married to Jenette L. Dwinell, he raised four children, and though he refused political office, he earned respect for his contributions to the community.

Biographical Sketch of Henry Merton Merihew

Henry Merton Merihew, born June 3, 1875, in Plattsburgh, New York, was an attorney who graduated from Cornell University College of Law in 1898. He began practicing law in Plattsburgh before joining the Erie Railroad Company’s legal department in New York City in 1904. He married Bessie Mable Hewitt in 1907 and has been active in the local Masonic Lodge. Merihew has served as a land and tax agent for the Erie Railroad since 1907.

Biography of Thomas P. Smith

Thomas P. Smith, born in 1861 in Clinton County, New York, was a prominent figure in Muskogee, Oklahoma, where he passed away in 1917. After moving to Plattsburg and entering business, he served as deputy postmaster and later as chief clerk at the San Carlos Indian Agency. Smith was integral to Oklahoma’s development, serving as an Indian inspector and assistant Commissioner of Indian Affairs. His contributions to Muskogee included organizing the Chamber of Commerce, serving as mayor, and founding the city’s traffic department, marking him as a dedicated public servant and community leader.

Thompson, Mary R. – Obituary

Mary R. Thompson, affectionately known as Grandma Thompson, passed away on January 11, 1904, at the age of 87. Born in Vermont in 1816, she lived in New York before moving to Illinois in 1865 and later to Oregon. Thompson was married twice, first to Peter Bisconer, with whom she had one son, and then to William Thompson, with whom she had eleven children, four of whom survived her. A dedicated member of the M.E. church for 70 years, her funeral was held at the church with interment in the local cemetery.

Vanderbilt, Marguerite Jean – Obituary

Marguerite Jean Vanderbilt, 88, passed away on June 18 at Grande Ronde Hospital in La Grande, Oregon. A memorial service will be held on Thursday at Nazarene Church. Born on November 10, 1917, in Canada, she became a registered nurse after training in Montreal. Married to John William Vanderbilt in 1946, she was engaged in community activities and church groups. Survivors include her four children, ten grandchildren, and two sisters. She is preceded in death by her husband, daughter, and sister.

Biographical Sketch of Simeon Hayes

Simeon Hayes, born February 17, 1768, in Simsbury, was the son of Captain Samuel and Rosanna Hayes. He relocated to Plattsburgh, New York, in 1806, where he practiced farming and various trades, showcasing his mechanical talent and inventive spirit. Hayes was characterized by his integrity and religious devotion. He married twice, first to Elizabeth Holly in 1790 and then to Elizabeth Gilbert in 1801, with whom he had several children, in addition to a few who died in infancy. He passed away on August 18, 1841.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph Bryon Hayes

Joseph Byron Hayes, born June 8, 1809, in Plattsburgh, was the son of Simeon and Elizabeth Hayes. A respected apothecary in Canandaigua, he succeeded his brother George Edward as a pupil of Dr. Pliny Hayes. Married to Sarah Antis in 1832, he was admired for his principles and character, and his untimely death in 1841 was deeply felt by the community. Hayes had four children, including Joseph Byron and Edward Antis, who both carried on the family legacy.

Biography of Albion Brainard Allen

Albion Brainard Allen, born in Mooers, New York, in 1864, was a prominent builder and civic leader in Amherst, Massachusetts. With a legacy tracing back to early New England settlers, Allen significantly impacted regional development through his construction firm, notably working on many educational and infrastructural projects. He served on local boards, including the School Board and Finance Board, and was a state legislator. Married twice, he had one son, Roger, and remained deeply committed to community welfare throughout his life.

Biographical Sketch of Thomas S. Brannan

Thomas S. Brannan, an attorney-at-law in Ida Grove, Iowa, was born on August 15, 1839, in Keyesville, New York, and raised in Canada before settling in Ida County in 1879. He served in the Civil War with the 10th Iowa Volunteer Infantry, where he was wounded twice. Admitted to the Iowa bar in 1883, he also served as Clerk of the District Court. Married to Rachael Tiser, Brannan had five children and was of Irish descent, with connections to the Hudson Bay Fur Company.