Hagerstown Maryland

Biography of Abraham Snethen

Abraham Snethen, a German immigrant, settled in New Jersey with his wife, Elizabeth Stewart, and raised eleven children. After various relocations, including Kentucky and Missouri, he became a prominent pioneer figure. His children included notable individuals like Aley B., a Baptist preacher, and John, Jr., a successful merchant. Abraham participated in the community’s defense during conflicts with Native Americans and was known for his long life, witnessing the growth of his family, which included eighty-one grandchildren before his death in 1859.

Biography of Colonel James H. B. McFerran

James H. B. McFerran, born on September 17, 1819, in Maryland, transitioned from stone cutting to law, studying under Samuel A. Lowe. He served as prosecuting attorney and a county commissioner before becoming a judge in 1859. During the Civil War, he organized the First Cavalry Regiment of Missouri State Militia, achieving the rank of colonel. Post-war, he engaged in banking, founding the Daviess County Saving Association and later the Peoples Saving Bank in Chillicothe. McFerran settled in Colorado Springs in 1873, remaining active in both law and banking while enjoying family life.

Biography of Frederick D. Schnebly

Frederick D. Schnebly, born in 1832 in Hagerstown, Maryland, pursued education at Franklin and Marshall College. In 1854, he journeyed to California via Nicaragua, encountering numerous challenges, including a ship fire. After unsuccessful mining attempts, he settled near Dayton, Washington, contributing to local commerce. He later established an agricultural implement business in Yakima County and was elected sheriff, where he faced lawlessness head-on. Notably, he participated in efforts against Native American conflicts, showcasing his resilience and leadership throughout his life.

Biography of Samuel Bowman

Samuel Bowman, born May 18, 1846, in Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, is a notable Kansas figure with a diverse background. A descendant of German settlers, he migrated to Ohio in 1864 before establishing a farm in Illinois. In 1882, he moved to Kansas, where he engaged in farming and later served two terms as probate judge in Labette County. Since 1910, he has been in Coffeyville with his sons in the real estate, insurance, and loan business, contributing significantly to the community through various civic roles.

Biography of James A. McGonigle

James A. McGonigle, born in Hagerstown, Maryland, in 1834, became a pioneer in Leavenworth, Kansas, arriving in 1857. A dedicated soldier in the Union army, he was wounded in the Civil War but went on to establish himself as a prominent contractor and builder. His legacy includes notable structures across several states, such as the Montezuma Hotel and various depots. Married in 1864, McGonigle remained active in community affairs and continued his business well into his eighties, respected for his contributions to the city.

Biography of George Loughead Eyster, M. D.

Dr. George L. Eyster, born on May 14, 1853, in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, has established a prominent medical practice in Rock Island since 1876. He graduated from Pennsylvania College and the University of Pennsylvania’s medical school, initiating his career in Nebraska before moving to Rock Island. An esteemed member of various medical associations, he served as County Physician and Health Commissioner. Married to Fannie P. Wright, he is actively involved in community and fraternity life, recognized as a generous and respected citizen.

Biography of David J. Schnebly

David J. Schnebly, born in 1818 near Hagerstown, Maryland, was a pioneering editor who established the first newspaper on the Pacific coast, the Spectator, in Oregon in 1850. After gaining the trust of the community, he became its editor and proprietor until 1854. Following his tenure in journalism, he ventured into ranching and later freight and toll bridge constructions, facing financial challenges. He eventually became the sole publisher of the Kittitass Localizer in 1883, where he continued to make significant contributions until his later years.