This microfilm is a copy of the original records located at the Kentucky State Historical Society in Frankfort and microfilmed in 1975. It is an incomplete copy of the set of records for each county but can provide the information for the specific counties and years as denoted in the list.
Genealogy of the descendants of John Walker of Wigton, Scotland, with records of a few allied families : also war records and some fragmentary notes pertaining to the history of Virginia, 1600-1902
In 1811, Tecumseh, the Shawnee leader, met with Apushamatahah, a prominent Choctaw chief, to rally southern tribes against American encroachment amidst looming war between the U.S. and England. Tecumseh passionately urged unity against their common foe, warning of the dire consequences of inaction. Apushamatahah countered with a call for prudence, advocating for peaceful measures. Ultimately, the council resulted in favoring American alliance, thwarting Tecumseh’s ambitions. This pivotal meeting highlighted the contrasting strategies of the two influential leaders, shaping tribal responses during a critical historical period.
From October 18 to November 3, the traveler and a companion journeyed through Ohio and Kentucky, encountering muddy roads, hilly terrain, and varying degrees of settlement. They observed a decline in land quality and hospitality as they moved westward, noting indifferent buildings and unwelcoming locals. Key stops included Siers, Freeport, Zanesville, Chillicothe, and Louisville, where they experienced both hospitality and disappointment. The journey concluded with reflections on the changing landscapes and the people met along the way, contrasting Ohio’s and Kentucky’s societal characteristics.
Abraham Snethen, a German immigrant, settled in New Jersey with his wife, Elizabeth Stewart, and raised eleven children. After various relocations, including Kentucky and Missouri, he became a prominent pioneer figure. His children included notable individuals like Aley B., a Baptist preacher, and John, Jr., a successful merchant. Abraham participated in the community’s defense during conflicts with Native Americans and was known for his long life, witnessing the growth of his family, which included eighty-one grandchildren before his death in 1859.
Joe Robinson, born in 1854 in Mason County, Kentucky, recalls his relatively kind treatment under his master, Gus Hargill, who ensured his slaves had enough food and never separated their family. In contrast, Joe’s father was cruelly treated by Rube Black and was eventually sold, leaving the family without contact. Now residing in Indiana, Joe lives with his wife on a modest pension while attending W.P.A. classes to improve his literacy. They have two children living in Chicago.
J. B. Thomas, born in Mason County, Kentucky on August 27, 1859, is a prominent figure in Willow Springs, Missouri, where he has lived for five years after moving from southern Iowa. Initially involved in merchandising, he switched to the insurance sector in 1890 and has held multiple civic roles, including notary public and alderman. Active in local politics and various organizations, Thomas is a successful businessman and property owner, married to Lizzie Power, and recognized as a respected community leader.
Arnold Gragston, a 97-year-old former slave, recounts his experiences assisting enslaved people to escape via the Underground Railroad, although he did not call it that at the time. Born in Kentucky in 1840, he helped transport hundreds of slaves across the Ohio River to freedom while still in bondage himself. Gragston describes his plantation owner, Mr. Tabb, as relatively lenient, allowing him to learn to read and facilitating courtships. After years of risky ventures, he ultimately sought his own freedom and moved to Detroit, where he raised a family.
Richard Perry Tolle was born on October 20, 1883, in Maysville, Kentucky, to William A. and Sarah Frances Fowler Tolle. He was educated in the public schools of Maysville and married Annabel Day in Indianapolis on May 19, 1904, with whom he had three children. Tolle managed the S. S. Kresge Company in Cleveland and was a 32nd degree Mason, affiliated with the A.A.O.N.M. Shrine and a member of the Country Club. His hobbies included baseball and automobiling.
E. T. Currens, born in 1816 in Bracken County, Kentucky, became a prominent farmer and fruit-grower after a diverse career spanning education, mercantile pursuits, and agriculture. He established the Kentucky settlement in Iowa before returning to Kentucky to engage in hardware trade. Currens was a pioneering businessman and an enthusiastic supporter of agriculture, influencing local farming practices and founding the Union Agricultural Company. In Mattoon, he played a pivotal role in horticultural development, establishing the local Horticultural Society and advancing the community’s agricultural interests.
In the booming era of steamboat commerce along the Mississippi River, Captain John Burgess Davis emerged as a distinguished figure. Born in 1828 in Kentucky, he navigated the river’s complexities and achieved notable milestones, including taking the first boat into the Minnesota River and pioneering a critical wing dam for navigation. Davis’s legacy extends beyond the river, as he served with honor in the Civil War and led various steamboat enterprises. His later years were dedicated to family and community projects, leaving behind a reputation for kindness and generosity.
Daniel H. Lownsdale, born on April 8, 1803, in Kentucky, was a prominent pioneer and businessman in early Oregon. After losing his first wife, he ventured to Europe for health reasons before settling in Portland in 1845. Recognizing its potential, he purchased prime land for Portland in 1848. Lownsdale played a significant role in the city’s development, contributed to public service, and served in the Indian wars. He passed away on May 4, 1862, and was laid to rest in Lone Fir Cemetery, Portland.
Daniel H. Lownsdale, born in Kentucky in 1803, was a notable pioneer who played a vital role in the development of Portland, Oregon. He married Ruth Overfilled at age 23 and later relocated to Indiana before moving to Oregon amid the excitement of the Oregon question. Lownsdale purchased land in Portland in 1848 and promoted growth by keeping property prices low. He served in various public roles and contributed to the community, ultimately witnessing Portland’s rise as a key metropolis before his death in 1862.