Hancock County IL

Biographical Sketch of Dr. John Martin

Dr. John Martin, born on February 15, 1819, in Morgan County, Kentucky, moved to Tennessee as a child, where he received most of his education. After relocating to Illinois and marrying in 1839, he settled in Missouri in 1845, engaging in medicine and business, particularly in grain and lumber in Jamesport. A Civil War surgeon, he was elected to the State Senate in 1865 but denied his seat due to electoral irregularities. He and his wife have eight children and are active in the Baptist Church and local Masonry.

Biography of John Davis

John Davis, born on October 30, 1791, in Shenandoah County, Virginia, is a prominent figure of early Missouri history. After moving to Bourbon County, Kentucky, he served in the War of 1812 before relocating to Missouri in 1820. There, he witnessed the transformation of St. Louis and spent 46 years in Clarksville, where he recounted tales of pioneer life, including a memorable rattlesnake hunt. Despite early business failures, Davis persevered, valuing hard work and integrity, a testament to the resilience of his generation.

Biography of Enos Fitterer

Enos Fitterer was born on July 28, 1835, in Baden, Germany, and emigrated to the United States in 1846. Settling in Ohio, he learned the baking trade before establishing a bakery in Illinois. Fitterer served in the Union army during the Civil War and participated in notable battles, including Sherman’s March to the Sea. After the war, he opened a bakery in Missouri and later moved to Gallatin, where he continued his successful business. He married Mary Arkman in 1868 and had one son, Frank.

Biographical Sketch of Edmond H. Madison

Edmond H. Madison, a notable figure from Wichita, was born on December 18, 1865, in Illinois. After beginning his career as a teacher at eighteen, he pursued law in Wichita and was admitted to the bar in 1888. Madison served as Ford County’s attorney and later as a judge before entering Congress, representing Kansas’s Seventh District. Known for his support of President Roosevelt, he died unexpectedly on September 18, 1911, during his third congressional term, leaving behind a legacy of public service and advocacy.

Biography of Raymond Griffin Barnett

Raymond Griffin Barnett was born on October 8, 1882, in Carthage, Illinois. A distinguished World War I captain, he later pursued a legal career in Kansas City after graduating from Stanford University. Admitted to the bar in 1906, Barnett gained a reputation for his thoroughness and dedication. He was engaged in politics and previously ran for prosecuting attorney. Married to Martha Jones, he is involved in various social organizations and remains committed to civic duty and legal ethics.

Biographical Sketch of Noble L. Prentis

Noble L. Prentis, born on April 8, 1839, in Illinois, became a prominent Kansas editor, notably with the Kansas City Star. Orphaned at ten, he apprenticed as a printer and served in the Civil War. His journalism career began in Missouri, leading to roles with various Kansas papers. In 1890, he joined the Kansas City Star, where he remained until his death on July 6, 1900. An accomplished author, he wrote “A Kansan Abroad” and a “History of Kansas,” reflecting his significant contributions to journalism and literature.

Biography of Holmes Dysinger, Rev.

Rev. Holmes Dysinger, born March 26, 1853, in Pennsylvania, has devoted over thirty years to ministry and education. He has served as dean of the Western Theological Seminary since 1910 and has held various pastoral roles across the United States. A graduate of Pennsylvania College and the Gettysburg Theological Seminary, he also studied in Germany and earned multiple advanced degrees. He married Ada Frances Ray in 1886 and they have five children. Dysinger’s family has deep roots in Pennsylvania, tracing back to their German origins.

Biographical Sketch of Henry King

Capt. Henry King, born in Salem, Ohio, in 1841, was a prominent journalist whose career spanned several states, notably Kansas and Missouri. Initially trained as a printer, he rose to become the editor of multiple newspapers, including the Daily Whig and the St. Louis Globe-Democrat. King’s influence was significant, earning him leadership roles in editorial associations and recognition at the World’s Press Parliament. A devoted writer, he preferred penning his work by hand, leaving a lasting impact on Kansas journalism until his death in 1915.

Biography of James P. Stephens

James P. Stephens, born in Virginia in 1806, moved to Oregon in 1844 and became a prominent figure in East Portland. After acquiring land through the Donation land law, he established a ferry service and laid out the city. Despite facing significant financial setbacks, including losses from ventures in California and banking, he managed to retain a portion of his estate, which later appreciated in value. Known for his benevolence and resilience, he passed away in March 1889, leaving a legacy cherished by his community.

Biography of David S. Lamme

David S. Lamme, born February 11, 1842, in Illinois, played a vital role in the establishment of Payette, Idaho. After an arduous journey across the plains in 1864, he initially engaged in mining before turning to farming and retail. Lamme established a mercantile business in Payette, significantly contributing to the town’s growth. He was active in local politics, serving on the city board and as a member of the Idaho legislature. Lamme’s legacy reflects his commitment to community and perseverance during the trials of pioneer life.

Biography of George W. Buck

George W. Buck, born on March 22, 1848, in Illinois, is a prominent figure in Union County, managing a significant sawmilling and lumbering business producing millions of feet of lumber annually. His career spanned various ventures, including farming, merchandising, and military service during the Civil War. Buck settled in Oregon in the late 19th century, becoming a key player in local industry and serving multiple terms as mayor of Elgin. He has been married twice and remains active in the community through his Masonic affiliations and church involvement.

Biography of Lewis Snyder

Lewis Snyder, born in Germany on February 16, 1846, immigrated to the United States at age fourteen. He settled in Illinois before moving west to Virginia City, where he worked for Mechum Brothers and later engaged in freighting. In 1872, he homesteaded and eventually purchased a 215-acre farm near Island City, where he prospered in agriculture and livestock. Married in 1891 to May E. Rochester, he was politically active in the Democratic party and upheld strong moral values throughout his life.

Biography of James McCall

James McCall, a dedicated and respected figure in Union County, originated from East Tennessee before settling in Hancock County, Illinois, and later in Oregon’s Grande Ronde Valley. After establishing a successful farming and stock-raising operation, he returned to Oregon in 1885, where his efforts flourished on his 400 acres of land. Married to Sarah E. Surber, they raised ten children and actively contributed to their community through the Methodist church and the I.O.O.F. McCall is noted for his commitment to county improvements and his engaging family life.

Biography of Joseph C. Rich

Joseph C. Rich, born in Nauvoo, Illinois, in 1841, was the eldest son of Judge Charles C. Rich. He experienced the tumultuous journey of the Mormon exodus and contributed significantly to the settlement of the Salt Lake Valley and southeastern Idaho. An active Democrat, he held numerous political offices, advocating for women’s suffrage and fighting against the disenfranchisement of the Mormon community. Rich was elected to numerous legislative roles and served as a respected judge, recognized for his fairness and commitment to justice. He married Ann Eliza Hunter and fathered six children.

Biography of Charles C. Rich

Charles C. Rich, born in 1809 in Kentucky, was a pivotal figure in the early settlement and development of Utah, California, and Idaho. A devout member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he played a significant role in establishing the city of Paris, Idaho, and was instrumental in founding Santa Bernardino in California. Rich was a leader among the pioneers, actively participating in their affairs, and served multiple church missions, including a notable one in Europe. He was married six times and fathered fifty-two children, leaving a lasting legacy in the communities he helped shape. Rich passed away in 1883, remembered for his leadership and contributions to the region.

Biography of Mary Pierce Van Zile

Mary Pierce Van Zile, born February 7, 1873, in Kansas, became a prominent faculty member at the Kansas State Agricultural College, serving as dean of women and the division of home economics. After the death of her husband, she pursued her education, graduating from Iowa State College in 1904. Joining Kansas State in 1908, she demonstrated exceptional ability in her field, influencing hundreds of young women annually. A dedicated educator and mother, she is recognized for her strong character and commitment to her students’ futures.

Biography of Charles Reynolds Love

Charles Reynolds Love, born August 23, 1848, in Pennsylvania, was a prominent Topeka businessman known for his generosity and strong character. He moved to Kansas in the late 19th century, initially living on a farm before transitioning to a successful career in wall paper and interior decorating in Topeka. A devoted family man and community member, Love was involved in various fraternal organizations and the Methodist Church. He passed away on April 15, 1910, leaving a legacy of kindness and business acumen, along with his daughter, Bertie, who also contributed significantly to society.

Biography of Albert D. Bauer

Albert D. Bauer, born on March 6, 1863, in Nauvoo, Illinois, has been a significant figure in the Kansas printing industry for nearly 40 years. Starting his career at the Kansas Farmer print shop, he quickly mastered the trade and traveled across the United States before returning to Topeka in 1894 to establish his own printing business. He has published various periodicals, including a Kansas medical journal for over two decades. Active in several fraternal organizations, Bauer’s success is attributed to his commitment to serving his clients.

Biography of William H. Reed

William H. Reed, born on January 30, 1830, in Bedford, Pennsylvania, moved to Kansas in 1869. A self-made man, he progressed through various trades, building a successful furniture business in Topeka with his son B. F. Reed. Known for his integrity and public spirit, he contributed to community development, holding a brief stint as a constable. Now in retirement, Reed is respected for his business acumen and civic involvement. His wife, Elizabeth, also played a significant role in their ventures and community engagements.

Biography of Bertrand Rockwell, Captain

Captain Bertrand Rockwell, born in Illinois in 1844, became a significant figure in Kansas after the Civil War. A former army captain, he settled in Junction City, where he established a successful merchandise business that evolved into B. Rockwell Merchandise Grain Company. His contributions included building a clubhouse for the Ladies Reading Club, a unique gift for a women’s organization. An active community member, Rockwell was also involved in banking and civic duties while raising a family with five daughters. He passed leadership to his brother in 1905.