Eugene Fuller, born on May 14, 1815, in Cambridge, Massachusetts, was the second child of Timothy and Margaret Fuller. He studied law at the Dane Law School and practiced in Charlestown before moving to New Orleans to work in journalism. After suffering health issues due to sun-stroke, he attempted to seek treatment in New York. Tragically, on June 21, 1859, during his journey, he was lost overboard and never seen again.
Thomas Bailey Aldrich, born on November 11, 1836, in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, was the son of Elias T. and Sara Aldrich. He received an early education in New Orleans and Portsmouth, but after losing his father at fifteen, he pursued a career in publishing instead of college. Aldrich began publishing poetry in New York journals, achieving significant acclaim with works like “Babie Bell.” He contributed to notable magazines, including “Harper’s Monthly” and “Atlantic Monthly,” where he also served as editor. He relocated to Boston in 1866.
Jonathan Wilkins, an early resident of Athens and a learned educator, faced financial ruin due to circumstances beyond his control. In 1829, in despair over his debts, he disappeared, leading the community to believe he had drowned. His wife, after a period of mourning, remarried. However, in 1834, rumors surfaced that Wilkins was alive; he eventually returned to Athens, revealing that his disappearance was a calculated escape from creditors. In a surprising reunion, he and his wife chose to rekindle their relationship, leaving for the south together.
Hiram C. Whitley, born in Maine in 1832, emerged as a significant figure in Kansas, particularly in Emporia, where he spent over forty years contributing to local development. A former chief of the Secret Service Division of the U.S. Treasury, his diverse experiences during the Civil War and Reconstruction are chronicled in his autobiographical work, *In It*. His life reflects a rich tapestry of adventure, public service, and business acumen, including combating counterfeiters and the Ku Klux Klan, before retiring to a prominent role in Emporia’s community.
Peter Taschetta, a Swiss native born on January 6, 1822, became one of the early settlers of Leavenworth after arriving in America in 1849. He initially engaged in mercantile activities in St. Louis before moving west, where he invested in real estate and opened a restaurant. Known for his honesty and industriousness, Taschetta was also active in local politics and raised a family of eight with his wife, Elizabeth Adam. He passed away on November 5, 1897, leaving a legacy of community respect and goodwill.
Dr. S. Galland, born May 11, 1822, in Posen, Prussia, graduated from Berlin’s medical school in 1847. After practicing in Germany and various U.S. cities, he settled in Dodge City, Kansas, in 1870, where he continued his medical practice until 1878. Galland also ran a hotel for six years and served in local government roles. He married Bertha Leon in 1858 and was involved in the Masonic order. He retired from active practice after a distinguished career in medicine.
Jacob Kamm was a key figure in the navigation history of the Willamette and Columbia rivers. Born in Switzerland in 1823, he immigrated to America and began his career in engineering and navigation at a young age. Notable for his contributions to steam navigation, he helped establish several prominent companies, including the Oregon Steam Navigation Company. Despite health challenges, Kamm remained active in business and investment, contributing to the development of infrastructure in the Pacific Northwest, and maintaining a reputation for integrity throughout his career. He married Caroline A. Gray in 1859 and had one son.
James Brown, born January 16, 1843, in Perry County, Ohio, purchased land in Ida County, Iowa, on October 10, 1873, and settled there on March 29, 1874. Coming from a large family, he was the son of John Brown, an Irish immigrant. After marrying Margaret and farming in Jackson County, he plowed the first furrow in Battle Township. An active community member, he served as county supervisor and held various township offices, with notable local landmarks named in his honor.