Materials for a History of the Sessions Family in America was compiled by Francis C. Sessions and published in 1890 as a documentary record of the descendants of Alexander Sessions of Andover, Massachusetts, who is recorded there in 1669. The volume consists largely of transcribed correspondence, genealogical notes, lineage charts, biographical sketches, and reminiscences.
Andrew Benson, born March 5, 1864, in Warberg, Sweden, immigrated to the U.S. with his family in 1870 and settled in Jamestown, New York. He began his career in the oil industry in Bradford, Pennsylvania, and moved to Independence, Kansas, in 1903, where he became a prominent oil and gas operator. As president of the Benson Oil and Gas Company, he accumulated significant properties. A progressive politician and active community member, he married Anua S. Engdahl, with whom he had four children, two of whom survived.
Texas Angel, born October 19, 1839, in Angelica, New York, is a notable attorney who has contributed significantly to the development of Hailey, Idaho. A descendant of early American settlers, he served in the Civil War with the Twenty-seventh New York Infantry, rising to the rank of first lieutenant. After practicing law in various states, he settled in Hailey shortly after its founding, where he has been a key figure in the community. A dedicated legal professional, he is known for his integrity and has actively engaged in politics, initially supporting the Republican Party before joining the Populist movement.
Edward A. Drake was born on December 13, 1871, in Jamestown, New York, to William D. and Ora Maria Wheeler Drake. He earned a B.S. from Case School of Applied Science. Married to Georgia A. Adams on November 21, 1898, they had two children. Drake began his career in 1895 as a traveling representative for Drake Weis Co. and later became the general manager. He also served as secretary of the W. D. Drake Co. and president of The Colonial Investment Co., and was active in Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity and the Presbyterian Church.
William Peterson, born February 17, 1834, in Sweden, immigrated to the United States in 1860 and enlisted in the Union Army shortly after. He served valiantly with the 112th New York Volunteer Infantry, sustaining a shoulder wound at Cold Harbor. After the war, he married Emma Oakland and began farming in New York before homesteading in Kansas in 1867. Peterson became a respected community member, serving as justice of the peace and supporting the Republican Party. He enjoyed retirement with his wife in Randolph, celebrating their 50th anniversary and raising twelve children.
Frank S. Taylor was born on December 11, 1879, near Alliance, Ohio, to Hugh S. and Catherine Taylor. He received his education at Alliance High School and Mt. Union College before attending Ohio State University for legal training. Taylor began his law practice in Cleveland on June 12, 1904, and married Mabel C. Todd in Jamestown, New York, on April 11, 1909. He was also involved in various organizations, including the Masonic Lodge and the Knight of Pythias.
The Pittsburg Sash Door Company, founded by L.N. Mosteller, gained prominence under the leadership of Henry R. Ransom, who purchased it in 1902. Originally a modest operation, it has grown significantly, providing employment and contributing to the wealth of Pittsburg. Ransom, born in 1870 in New York, began his career as a carpenter and contractor before heading west. He is married to Gertie N. Kilbourn, and they have three children, with two actively involved in the family business. His family’s background reflects a rich legacy of entrepreneurship and community involvement.
W. P. Jacobs, born in Hammond, Indiana, in 1866, established himself in Bartlesville’s business community before his untimely death in 1906. He was educated at Danville College and began his career in the lumber industry in Ohio. Later, he became president of the Producers Explosive Company. In 1905, Jacobs married Carolina Raymond and moved to Bartlesville, investing in a drug store and oil properties. Known for his integrity and enterprise, his passing at age forty left a notable impact on both family and community.
James Neild, born on March 3, 1884, in Albion, New York, was the son of Thomas Neild, an immigrant from Yorkshire. After schooling in Holley, he trained in wool grading in England before returning to work at various mills. Neild settled in Greenfield, Massachusetts, where he cultivated a ten-acre farm and contributed to local organizations, including the Masons and his church. He married Sadie Lucinda Smead in 1905, whose family had historical ties to the region, enhancing the Neild legacy in their community.
William Henry Truesdale, born on October 30, 1844, in New York, was the fourth son of Samuel and Charity Truesdale. He received his education at local schools and the University of Rochester, earning both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree. Although he studied law, he chose a career in education, serving as principal at various schools, including in Geneva, New York, where he became superintendent in 1891. He was affiliated with the Republican Party and the Presbyterian church, and he married Agnes E. Young, with whom he had three children.
Charles “Chuck” Weiland, 87, of Baker City, Oregon, passed away on December 26, 2001. Born on February 22, 1914, in Jamestown, New York, he was raised in Rochester and later married his high school sweetheart, Evelyn Bosse, in 1938. Chuck had a successful career as a purchasing agent and manager at Fasco Industries. After retiring, he enjoyed traveling and outdoor activities, particularly fishing. A devoted family man and friend, he was also known for his love of automobiles, especially his bright red Corvette.
Hon. Levant F. Thompson, born in 1827 in New York, exemplified the pioneer spirit of early settlements in Washington. Despite limited formal education, he demonstrated practical wisdom, contributing significantly to local development in Pierce County. His journey westward during the gold rush led him through hardships, including a successful stint in mining and lumber. Elected to Washington’s first territorial house of representatives in 1854, he later served as a senator and played a pivotal role in shaping the state’s early governance while prioritizing community growth over personal ambition.