Detroit Michigan

Slave Narrative of John Cameron

John Cameron, born in 1842 in Jackson, Mississippi, recalls his experiences as a slave under Howell Magee. He describes a relatively comfortable life, with adequate food, care, and leisure time. Cameron appreciated his master and mistresses, noting they treated their slaves well. He worked as a gardener and was content with his life until the Civil War disrupted everything. After the war, he and other former slaves returned to Mississippi, but he faced difficulties reconnecting with his now-adult children. Cameron reflects on the changes in society since the war, expressing nostalgia for the past.

Biography of Bert R. Parrot

Bert R. Parrott, born in December 1873 in Mendon, Ohio, was a notable mechanical engineer and director at Dorris Motors Corporation in St. Louis. He received his education in Ohio and Michigan, later studying mechanical engineering. Parrott’s career included roles with various engineering firms, including the Buick Auto Company and the Parrott Tractor Company. He was married twice and had one son. Active in local politics, he was also a member of the Elks Lodge and remained dedicated to his engineering profession throughout his life.

Biography of J. F. Otto Reller

J. F. Otto Reller, born on July 7, 1864, in St. Louis, has been a prominent figure in the city’s real estate sector for over twelve years. The son of German immigrants, he educated himself in parochial schools and graduated from law school in 1907. Initially involved in his father’s grocery business, he transitioned to real estate in 1908. Reller has contributed actively to local organizations and civic duties, including river and harbor improvements, while also serving as vice president of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church. He remains a respected member of the St. Louis business community.

Slave Narrative of Ambrose Douglass

Ambrose Douglass, interviewed at 92 years old, reflects on his life as a former slave. Born free in Detroit in 1845, he was reenslaved during a visit to the South and endured 21 years of servitude, often being sold for disobedience. Despite the hardships, he recalls a relatively kind master in Suwannee County who provided food and care. After the Civil War, Douglass settled in Florida, where he worked in construction and had 38 children. Now living in poverty, he hopes for a pension to support his family.

Biography of Jacob Kissel

Jacob Kissel, born in 1854 in St. Louis, Missouri, faced adversity early in life, becoming an orphan at nine. His industrious nature and German heritage propelled him into various clerking roles across multiple cities. Eventually, he settled in south Missouri, where he partnered with John F. Church to establish a successful business. A self-made man, Kissel exemplifies the potential for achievement through hard work and integrity. He married Adelia Dent in 1889, with whom he has two daughters, Clara and Alma.

Wyandot Indians

The Wyandot, originally known as Huron, are a Native American tribe belonging to the Iroquoian linguistic family, primarily located in the St. Lawrence Valley and the Ontario region. Historically significant, they interacted with French explorers and missionaries in the early 17th century. Their population diminished following devastating conflicts with the Iroquois in 1648-49, leading to migrations across various regions. They aligned with the British during the War of 1812, ultimately relocating to Kansas and later Oklahoma. The tribe’s legacy includes numerous geographical names and historical accounts of their enduring resilience.

Biography of Charles Snyder

Charles Snyder, born in Germany on November 8, 1827, is a pivotal figure in the development of Juliaetta, Idaho, where he established the post office and contributed to the town’s growth. Emigrating to the United States in 1850, he worked various trades, including cabinet-making and mining, before settling in Idaho. In Juliaetta, he founded a general store and constructed a hotel, earning respect as a community leader. Married to Augusta Keck, they raised ten children and have made significant contributions to local society.

Biography of Archibald Miller

Archibald Miller, a pivotal figure in the early development of Chase County, Kansas, settled there in 1857 after immigrating from Ireland. Over sixty years, he witnessed and actively participated in the county’s growth, transitioning from a frontier pioneer to a prosperous farmer and community leader. A founding member of the Chase County National Bank, he also served as county commissioner. Married to Mary McNee, they had seven children, and Miller’s legacy endures through his extensive land holdings and contributions to local welfare.

Biography of Gerald Francis Wilson

Gerald Francis Wilson, born on November 4, 1891, in Racine, Wisconsin, emerged as a significant figure in Clay County through his leadership of the Longford Leader. A practical printer with extensive editorial experience, Wilson revitalized the newspaper after acquiring it in 1917, transforming it into a vital community asset. His independent political views shaped the journal’s content, focusing on local interests. Married to Beatrice Allen in 1916, Wilson’s commitment to journalism and community engagement has left a lasting impact in the region.

Biography of Louis Van Dorp

Louis Van Dorp, born in Detroit in 1857, moved to Kansas in 1878 with minimal capital. He became a prominent sheet metal contractor, establishing his business in Topeka and working on significant projects, including state buildings. After years of experience in various locations, he founded the firm Bradbury & Van Dorp, later partnering with his son under Louis Van Dorp & Son. An active community member, he was involved in local organizations and raised four children with his wife, Johama.

Biography of Ludwick Oldenburg

Ludwick Oldenburg, a prominent orchardist in Union County, was born in northern Holland and began his career in fruit growing under his father’s guidance. After serving in the army, he emigrated to America, spending time in Michigan before settling in the Grande Ronde valley. There, he developed one of the best orchards in the northwest, cultivating vast quantities of fruit and vegetables. Married to Lorena Yonker, they had ten children. Politically, Oldenburg aligned with the Socialists and was active in local church affairs, gaining community respect.

Biographical Sketch of James M. Stanley

James M. Stanley, born on January 17, 1814, in Canandaigua, New York, was a portrait painter who relocated to Michigan and later to Chicago. His artistic journey included significant travels to the Indian Country near Fort Snelling and extensive explorations through the prairies to Texas and New Mexico. Notably, he created “Buffalo Hunt on the Southwestern Prairies” in 1845. Despite his efforts to have the government purchase his works, he faced challenges, with only five paintings surviving a fire at the Smithsonian in 1865.

Biography of Charles A. Karlan

Charles A. Karlan, born in Detroit in 1874, has made significant contributions to the furniture industry in Kansas since establishing his factory in Topeka in 1905. His artistic designs, notably for the State Historical Society’s Memorial Building, have garnered wide recognition. A veteran of the Spanish-American War, he served with distinction and returned to furniture manufacturing after his honorable discharge. Active in community organizations, Karlan has built a reputation as a skilled craftsman and businessman, raising two children with his wife, Louise.

Biographical Sketch of Edmund E. Allyne

Edmund E. Allyne, born in Cleveland on December 25, 1874, was a pioneering manufacturer in aluminum castings. After his service in the Ohio National Guard, he founded a foundry in 1900, which became the world’s largest aluminum foundry with plants across six states. He pioneered the commercial use of aluminum in castings, beginning production in 1908. Allyne also held leadership roles in various organizations and maintained involvement in the plumbing goods sector. He was married to Mildred Ford and had three children.

Biographical Sketch of Henry A. Becker

Henry A. Becker, born on March 3, 1870, in Chicago, Illinois, was a prominent surgeon. He studied at West High School, Adelbert College, and earned his medical degree from Western Reserve University in 1894, furthering his education in Europe. He married Laura E. Ferguson in 1901 and had one son. Becker held significant positions, including visiting surgeon at German Hospital and assistant professor at Western Reserve University. He was an active member of various medical associations and enjoyed boating, fishing, and music.

Biographical Sketch of Joseph G. Doherty

Joseph G. Doherty, born in Detroit, Michigan, served as secretary and general manager of the Cleveland Milling Company. He received his education in the Detroit public schools and was married on December 2, 1901, with whom he had two children. A member of the Masonic order, Doherty enjoys golf as his preferred leisure activity.

Biographical Sketch of Edward Brush Finch

Edward Brush Finch, born on October 17, 1873, in Holly, Michigan, was a prominent motor car dealer and businessman. He studied at the University of Michigan and married May Pruegs in January 1900, with whom he had two children. Finch held various roles in the automotive industry, including secretary and treasurer at Pungs-Finch Auto Gas Engine Co., and later worked for Packard Motor Car Co. and Chalmers Motor Car Co. He established his own dealership in Cleveland in 1910 and was actively involved in local clubs and organizations.

Biographical Sketch of Edwin Victor Hale

Edwin Victor Hale, born on August 1, 1869, in Cleveland, was the son of Edwin B. and Susan C. Hoyt Hale. A Yale University alumnus, he married Florence Clark in 1899 and had three children. His banking career began as a teller at the Western Reserve National Bank and included roles as assistant secretary and treasurer at the American Trust Company. He later served as treasurer and vice president of The Citizens Savings Trust Company and held a directorate at The First National Bank.