Cortland County NY

Biography of Harrison B. Oatman

Harrison B. Oatman was born in Cortland, New York, in 1826 and moved to Ohio and then Rockford, Illinois, where he married Lucena K. Ross in 1847. In 1853, he journeyed to Oregon, settling in Jackson County, and participated in mining and trading. He notably escaped an attack related to the Indian war and later lived in Portland, transitioning from grocery trade to land speculation. Oatman served as a first lieutenant in the First Oregon Infantry during the Civil War, earning commendations for his bravery.

Biography of John S. White

John S. White, born in Cortland County, New York in 1830, has had a significant impact on the history of the American West. He served in various capacities, including deputy sheriff and U.S. marshal in Minnesota, before moving to Idaho, where he became a pioneer and later the probate judge of Elmore County. A veteran of the Civil War, White is recognized for his public service and dedication to his community. He is married to Laura E. Wheeler and is a father to one daughter, Katie E.

Biography of Mason A. Cornwall

Mason A. Cornwall, a prominent citizen of Moscow, Idaho, is now seventy-seven years old but remains vigorous and active in business. Born in 1821 in New York, he comes from a distinguished lineage, with ancestors who contributed to America’s founding. Cornwall’s career spans education, farming, and various business ventures, including founding the Bank of Moscow and investments in mining. A respected community member, he has also contributed significantly to local growth and charity, exemplifying a life of integrity and dedication to public welfare.

Biography of Joseph Edward Exner

Joseph Edward Exner, born on November 10, 1861, in Savannah, New York, transitioned from a seasoned railroad engineer to a manufacturer in Coffeyville, Kansas. After 22 years in railroading, he founded the Coffeyville Shale Products Company, producing hollow building tiles. A prominent figure in local business, he also holds leadership positions in several other manufacturing concerns. Exner, who is politically active and a member of various fraternal organizations, married Nannie R. Worden, with whom he had three children. His contributions significantly shaped Coffeyville’s industrial landscape.

Biography of Edwin Hart

Edwin Hart, born in 1835 in Cortland County, New York, emerged as a prominent horticulturist in Riverside, California. After moving to the West in search of opportunity, he became a farmer in Wisconsin and later Iowa, where he served in the Civil War. In 1873, he settled in Riverside, acquiring land that he transformed into a successful horticultural enterprise, specializing in raisins and citrus fruits. A civic-minded individual, Hart contributed to local initiatives and was active in his church and the Grand Army of the Republic. He had two marriages and two children.

Biographical Sketch of R. B. F. Watrons

R. B. F. Watrons, M.D., is a notable figure in Redlands, having arrived with modest means and transformed his life through hard work and investment in land. A New York native and medical graduate, he practiced medicine before serving as a Second Sergeant in the Civil War. After moving to California, he transitioned to horticulture, amassing an impressive estate of over 50 acres in Redlands and San Diego County. His contributions have established him as a respected and prosperous citizen of his community.

Biography of Major Charles A. Richardson

Major Charles A. Richardson, born on August 14, 1829, in Cortland County, New York, was a prominent figure as a soldier, lawyer, and statesman. After studying law and practicing in Canandaigua, he joined the One Hundred and Twenty-sixth New York Volunteers during the Civil War, rising to the rank of major despite suffering severe injuries at Gettysburg and Petersburg. Post-war, he excelled in local government roles, including county treasurer and surrogate. He was also instrumental in the Gettysburg National Park Commission and contributed significantly to community development projects. Major Richardson remained unmarried throughout his life.

Biography of Hamilton Harris

Hamilton Harris, born on May 1, 1820, in Preble, New York, became a prominent lawyer, scholar, and statesman in Albany. The son of pioneering settlers, he excelled in his legal career, serving as district attorney and later in the state senate, where he championed education and political reform. Known for his eloquence and deep understanding of law, Harris amassed a significant legal practice, representing major railroad companies. His extensive personal library reflects his dedication to literature, biography, and history, showcasing a lifelong commitment to knowledge and advocacy.

Biography of Nathaniel Cleveland Moak

Nathaniel Cleveland Moak, born October 3, 1833, in Sharon, New York, exemplifies success through diligence and perseverance. He worked on his father’s farm, pursued education at Cherry Valley and Cooperstown academies, and began studying law under James E. Dewey. Admitted to the bar in 1856, he became a prominent lawyer in Albany, noted for his expertise in medical jurisprudence. Moak served as Albany County District Attorney and was involved in significant criminal cases. A prolific writer and legal reform advocate, his extensive law library and contributions to legal literature solidified his reputation as a distinguished legal figure.

Biography of Howard Brown Gibbs

Howard Brown Gibbs, born in Marathon, New York, in 1875, founded Eaglebrook Lodge in Deerfield, a school for boys aged eight to sixteen. He attended Cortland Normal School and graduated from Amherst College before teaching at various institutions, including Worcester Academy and Deerfield Academy. His vision for Eaglebrook Lodge emphasized character development alongside academics, leading to its rapid growth and reputation. Gibbs, active in professional and fraternal organizations, married Judith Hemenway in 1923, and they have one son, Julian.