Biography of Thomas Mercer

Thomas Mercer, born on March 11, 1813, in Ohio, became a prominent figure in Seattle, Washington. After moving to Illinois, he journeyed to Oregon in 1852, where he faced personal tragedy upon his wife’s death. Settling in Seattle in 1853, he transformed land into urban lots and was influential in naming local lakes. Mercer served as King County probate judge for a decade and was among its first commissioners. He married Hester Ward in 1859 and thrived in his prosperous later life in Seattle.

Biography of Hiram H. Heberling

Hiram H. Heberling, born in Virginia in 1811, moved to Kansas in 1855, aiming to promote free state ideals and secure land for his family. He founded Georgetown and built a log cabin, returning to Ohio for winter before bringing his wife, Catherine, and six children back to Kansas. A skilled mechanic and farmer, Heberling contributed significantly to the early community, aiding in construction and participating in the first Kansas Legislature. He passed away in 1897, with his legacy continuing through his son, Junius.

Biography of Levi F. Johnson

Levi F. Johnson, born in 1837 in Ohio, was a pioneer in Cowley County, Kansas. He first visited Kansas in 1860 before serving as a Union soldier in the Civil War. After the war, he returned to Kansas, where he cultivated land and built a successful farming operation. He was instrumental in local community development, constructing the first schoolhouse and a bridge over the Arkansas River. Johnson’s long life, marked by hard work and community service, reflects the spirit of early Kansas settlers.

Biographical Sketch of Alexander A. Hunter

Alexander A. Hunter, born on May 1, 1873, in Lakewood, Ohio, is the son of William and Sarah R. Hunter. He attended local schools and Spencerian Business College. In 1898, he married Annah G. Weber, and they have two children. Hunter began his career at the Murphy Varnish Co., later joining the Western Reserve Woolen Co. in 1904, where he rose to the position of secretary and treasurer by 1911. He is active in his community and enjoys gardening.

Biography of Burton Emory Clifford

Burton Emory Clifford, born May 7, 1872, in Aledo, Illinois, rose to prominence as a lawyer and ex-prosecuting attorney of Allen County, Kansas. His legal acumen was built on a solid education and extensive experience, complemented by an innate understanding of human nature. After graduating from Kent Law School in 1898, he established a successful practice in Iola, noted for his fearless prosecution and thorough legal knowledge. A member of various bar associations and fraternal organizations, Clifford was married in 1899 but had no children.

Shuss, Susanna – Obituary

Susanna Shuss, born November 18, 1839, in Cadiz, Ohio, passed away on December 17, 1917, at 78. She married Geo. Shuss on August 5, 1856, and they had three children. A devoted member of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Portland, she spent her final years with her son, intending to visit her daughter in Denver. She is survived by her children and grandchildren. Her body will be transported to Denver for burial following a service led by Rev. Hughs.

Sharp, James Meilke – Obituary

J. M. Sharp, a prominent figure in Ventura County’s agricultural development, passed away on December 8, 1932, after a brief illness. Born in Ohio in 1844 and later relocating to California, Sharp was an early citrus grower and innovative rancher, significantly contributing to the region’s farming community. He played vital roles in numerous organizations, including the Saticoy Walnut Growers Association and the Farmers and Merchants Bank. Sharp is survived by his wife, eight children, and numerous grandchildren. Funeral services are set for December 12.

Bean, Julia Anne Sharp – Obituary

Julia A. Bean, an Oregon pioneer, passed away in Eugene on February 19, 1908, at nearly 70 years old. Born on February 25, 1838, in Ohio, she journeyed to Oregon with her family in 1849, eventually settling in Lane County. She married Obediah R. Bean in 1853, and they raised 11 children, including notable figures such as Robert S. Bean, a Supreme Court judge. Remembered for her noble character, Mrs. Bean is mourned by many friends and family. Funeral services will be private.

Biography of E. R. Connely

E. R. Connely, born March 6, 1829, in Lawrence County, Indiana, was part of a pioneer family that settled in his county in 1832. As the youngest of eleven siblings, he inherited and managed a 380-acre homestead from his father, who originally owned 1,500 acres. A prominent community member, Connely served as Supervisor and School Director since 1856. He married twice, fathering eleven children with his first wife, Rebecca, and one with his second wife, Susan. His parents were devout Baptists, contributing to the local church and community.

Biographical Sketch of J. W. Hanna

J. W. Hanna, born on December 2, 1848, in Freeport, Ohio, began his career in his father’s store at age 13. He moved west in 1866, settling in Mattoon, where he worked in local bookshops. In 1869, he and his brother purchased a bookstore, later selling it and forming partnerships that shaped his business ventures. By November 1877, he established his current store. Hanna married Mary E. Henderson on July 25, and they had four children, three of whom survived him.

Biography of Stephen R. Magee, M. D.

Stephen R. Magee, M.D., was born in Pennsylvania in 1820 and pursued medical studies, graduating in 1843. After practicing medicine, he entered politics, serving as sheriff and a military officer during the Civil War. In 1876, he moved to Riverside, California, where he and his wife transformed a barren tract into a successful citrus and vineyard property. By 1886, their orange grove achieved notable yields, exemplifying their horticultural expertise. Dr. Magee was actively involved in local schools and the Episcopal Church, raising six children in the community.

Biography of Josiah G. Heck

Josiah G. Heck, born on May 8, 1840, in Harrison County, Ohio, has been a significant figure in Moline and Rock Island County for over sixty years. He is the descendant of an established family, with roots tracing back to early American settlers. A Civil War veteran, he served in the Sixty-sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry. In public service, he held various positions, including justice of the peace and school board member. Heck married Lora E. Cornwall in 1881, and together they have one daughter, Elizabeth. They are active members of the United Brethren Church.

Roll Of Capt. Baruch Dickerson’s Company

Capt. Baruch Dickerson commanded a company that served from March 12 to September 12, 1814, likely from Harrison County. The company’s personnel included Lieut. John Jamison, Ensign Samuel Gilmore, and several sergeants, musicians, and privates. Notable ranks include Sergt. William Hagerfleld and Sergt. Charles Holmes, alongside a diverse group of privates such as Samuel Browning, John Carson, and James McConkey. This roster reflects the composition of a unit during a pivotal period of military history.

Roll Of Captain John Alexander’s Company

Captain John Alexander’s Company, likely from Harrison or Jefferson County, served during the War of 1812 from September to December 1812 and again from July to August 1813. The roster includes Lieutenants Hugh Christy and Angus McCoy, along with various sergeants, corporals, and privates, showcasing a diverse group of soldiers committed to their service during this conflict. The company was structured with a clear chain of command and demonstrates the military organization of the time.

Roll Of Capt. David Pecks Company

Capt. David Peck’s company served from August 25, 1812, to February 28, 1813, likely hailing from either Harrison or Jefferson County. The roster includes Lieut. Josaph Davis and Ensign Jacob Shaffer, alongside several sergeants and corporals. The company comprised numerous privates, reflecting a diverse group of men such as John Albert, Archibold Armstrong, and Thomas Bennet, among others. Their collective service contributes to the historical military efforts during this period.

Roll Of Capt. William Stoakes Company

The roll of Capt. William Stoakes’ Company lists soldiers who served from August 21, 1812, to February 28, 1813, likely from Harrison County. Key figures include Lieut. Thomas Orr and Ensign John Cantwell, alongside a dedicated team of sergeants, corporals, and enlisted men. Among the ranks were various privates, highlighting the diverse contributions of individuals such as John Andrews, Patrick Archbod, and many more. This company represents a segment of the military organization during this period.

Biography of John Zurcher

John Zurcher, born on October 19, 1837, in Wimmis, Switzerland, immigrated to Ohio with his family in 1852. He apprenticed as a carriage maker before enlisting in the Thirtieth Ohio Volunteer Infantry at the onset of the Civil War. Zurcher served valiantly, enduring wounds and re-enlisting until the war’s conclusion in 1865. After the war, he returned to his trade and later settled in Wallowa County, Montana, where he farmed and became an esteemed community member. He was married to Helen Hogan, and they had nine children.