Knox County IL

Knox County IL, established on January 13, 1825, from unorganized territory, is a region steeped in history and characterized by its rich agricultural landscape. Named in honor of Henry Knox, the first United States Secretary of War, Knox County reflects the early American spirit of expansion and cultivation. Galesburg, the county seat, is known for its historical significance, including being a stop on the Underground Railroad and the site of one of the Lincoln-Douglas debates in 1858. The geography of Knox County is predominantly rolling prairies, which have supported a strong agricultural economy since the county’s inception. The formation of Knox County, part of the Military Tract set aside to compensate veterans of the War of 1812, played a crucial role in attracting settlers and shaping the region’s development.

Hearing, Susan Jane – Obituary

Mrs. Susan Jane Hearing, affectionately known as Grandma Hearing, passed away early this morning at her home in Haines after a prolonged illness. Born on January 31, 1848, in Illinois, she migrated to Oregon in 1852. A resident of Baker County since 1872, she was married to Samuel P. Hearing, who predeceased her in 1909. Of their thirteen children, seven survive, along with twenty-three grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday at her residence, followed by interment in Haines cemetery.

Biography of Marshall F. Price, M. D.

Dr. Marshall F. Price, born in 1834 in Ohio, had a distinguished medical career shaped by his service during the Civil War as an Assistant Surgeon in the Army of the Potomac. After enduring health challenges from battlefield conditions, he resumed civilian practice in Nashville and later in Topeka, Kansas. In 1885, he settled in Colton, California, where he became an influential physician and community leader. Dr. Price held numerous positions, including city health officer and Territorial Prison Surgeon, while participating actively in local medical societies and civic organizations. He married twice and adopted children from his second wife’s previous marriage.

Biography of S. M. Goddard

S. M. Goddard, a prominent businessman in Colton, California, leads the esteemed James Lee Company, a significant wholesale enterprise founded in 1885, which became the largest warehouse in the county. Following the death of his partner, James Lee, in 1886, Goddard continued the business and also sold the banking branch, which evolved into the First National Bank of Colton. A dedicated civic leader, he serves as City Treasurer, contributes to public improvements, and presides over the Hermosa Cemetery Association. Born in New York in 1854, he moved to California in 1882 and married Margaret A. Lee, with whom he has one daughter.

Rogers, Vernon Irving “Vern” – Obituary

Vernon Irving “Vern” Rogers, 84, of Baker City, Oregon, passed away on September 9, 2004, in Boise, Idaho. Born on August 23, 1920, in Maquon, Illinois, he was the eldest of nine siblings. Vern served as a B-17 bomber mechanic in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and had a long career as an auto mechanic throughout the western United States. He was married three times and is survived by his wife, Ethel, and several sons, siblings, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Biography of Isaac V. Gilbert

Isaac V. Gilbert moved to Riverside in 1881, acquiring seven acres on Jurupa Avenue, where he built a cottage and established a productive home with beautiful landscaping. He cultivated a notable orange grove and various deciduous fruits, yielding impressive profits. In 1885, he helped found a national bank, serving as its first president for three years and maintaining a long-term role on its board. Born in New York in 1826, Gilbert priorly engaged in farming in Illinois and married Hannah Brown, with whom he had three children.

Biography of John Aberdein

John Aberdein, originally from Scotland, settled in Riverside, California, in 1880, purchasing a two-and-a-half-acre block where he cultivated citrus and deciduous fruits. He built a notable residence, exemplifying the region’s horticultural potential. Born in 1821, Aberdein served in the Forty-second Illinois Volunteer Infantry during the Civil War, earning promotion despite being seriously wounded. After the war, he worked in various occupations, including clerk of the Circuit Court in Illinois, before relocating to California. He married Candace M. Johnson and had four children.

Biography of Fred Titterington

Fred Titterington, born in Edgington on September 1, 1852, transitioned from a successful farming career to become the secretary and general manager of the Argillo works at Carbon Cliff. After farming in various locations, he entered public service as Rock Island County treasurer. Titterington was instrumental in the growth of the manufacturing business and actively participated in local churches and community organizations. He had two marriages, first to Harriet Edgington, with whom he had three children, and later to Rose Powers, with whom he had two more.

Biography of Frank A. Landee

Frank A. Landee, born in Sweden in 1852, epitomizes the self-made man. Immigrating to the U.S., he rose from humble beginnings through relentless effort, ultimately becoming a prominent retail grocer in Moline. His community involvement spans numerous organizations, including leadership roles at Augustana College and the Swedish Lutheran Church. Landee earned widespread respect as a telegraph foreman before his retirement from the railroad industry, where he was honored by his workers. His unwavering dedication to civic duty and family reflects his status as a treasured citizen of his community.

Biography of Almon A. Buffum

Rock Island County’s transformation from wilderness to a thriving community occurred within a few decades, with pioneers like Jonathan Buffum playing key roles. Arriving in 1835, he opened the region’s first tavern, contributing to its early development. His descendants, including Almon Atwood Buffum, remain part of the area’s history. Born in 1849, Almon spent his youth in Andausia, later marrying Amanda Weaver and raising four children. A lifelong farmer in Black Hawk, he is also a spiritualist and holds independent political views.

Biography of W. L. Adams A.M., M.D.

W. L. Adams, A.M., M.D., born in Ohio in 1821, was a significant pioneer in the settlement of Oregon, journeying across the plains in 1848 with an ox team. Overcoming numerous challenges, he established himself as a respected educator and leader against pro-slavery initiatives, contributing significantly to Oregon’s Republican Party. His talents as a writer, politician, and physician gained him recognition and appointments, including collector of customs under President Lincoln. A devout family man, Adams remained active in various pursuits, advocating for freedom and education throughout his life.

Biography of Arthur A. Denny

Arthur A. Denny, born in Salem, Indiana, in 1822, played a vital role in the early settlement of Puget Sound and is recognized as the founder of Seattle. A pioneer in various capacities—legislator, congressman, and philanthropist—he contributed significantly to the region’s development. Denny’s journey to the Pacific Coast in 1851 involved numerous trials, alongside his dedicated wife, as they established their new home. His steadfast commitment to integrity and public service left a lasting legacy in Washington Territory, ensuring his contributions would not be forgotten.

Biographical Sketch of Philologus Ely

Philologus Ely, born in East Tennessee in 1825, moved with his family to Illinois in 1834. He worked as a plasterer and farmer before marrying Amanda Mansfield in 1851. In 1853, they journeyed to Oregon, settling near Junction after a challenging trip. Their property was largely destroyed by floods in 1861. They later moved to Umatilla County in 1874, where Ely suffered from rheumatism, becoming an invalid for a decade. He continues to live on a farm with his wife and their six children.

Allensworth, George Verne, Jr. – Obituary

George Verne Allensworth Jr., 76, passed away on April 4, 2006, in Richland, Oregon. A memorial service was held at the Richland Christian Church, followed by inurnment at Eagle Valley Cemetery. Born on December 10, 1929, in Galesburg, Illinois, he graduated high school there and served in the Navy. He worked for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and later became Richland’s justice of the peace. He is survived by his wife Retha, three children, seven grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Biography of W. H. Mastin

W.H. Mastin, born in Knoxville, Illinois in 1840, is a notable figure in Colfax, Washington, recognized for his contributions to the community through the establishment of the Thielson House hotel. His diverse early career included harness-making and various trading ventures across the Pacific Northwest, reflecting resilience as he rebuilt his business after multiple fires. Mastin’s story exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship, emphasizing not only personal gain but also a commitment to enhancing community life, making him a respected and successful citizen.

Biography of S. S. White

S.S. White, born in Franklin County, Indiana, in 1811, became a significant figure in Oregon’s early history. He migrated to Oregon in 1845, where he served as chief justice of Clackamas County and later as a state legislator. White was involved in legislative actions following the Whitman massacre and participated in the gold rush to California in 1848. He returned to Oregon to engage in various entrepreneurial ventures, including the construction of the first steamer on local waters. White remained active in Portland until his later years.