McKean County PA

Settlers from Bradford, Pennsylvania

In early spring 1883, a group of sixty-five settlers from Bradford, Pennsylvania, established a colony along the Keya Paha River, significantly impacting the region’s early history. This area, marked by crime and violence, became a battleground between lawless elements and those seeking order. The difficulty in traversing the Niobrara River contributed to a strong sentiment for county division, leading to the formation of a new county by November 4, 1884, with many descendants of the original settlers still influential today.

Biography of Richard Watson Argue

Richard Watson Argue (1845-1916) was a prominent figure in the Mid-Continent oil industry, establishing significant operations in Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Born near Ottawa, Canada, he began his career in Pennsylvania before moving to Buffalo and later to Independence, Kansas. A dedicated community member, he actively contributed to local church and civic affairs. After his death, his widow, Eva Jean Allport Argue, adeptly managed their extensive properties. Together, they had four children, all of whom pursued education and careers in various fields.

Biography of Andrew Benson

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.

Biographical Sketch of Ralph Martin Hulett

Ralph Martin Hulett, born in Cleveland on March 28, 1873, was an accomplished architect noted for his work on high-quality residential buildings, including The Farmers Mechanics Bank Bldg. and the Richmond Hotel. He established the Ralph M. Hulett Co., which focused on designing factories and other structures in the Cleveland area. Hulett was actively involved in local organizations, being an associate member of the Cleveland Real Estate Board and a member of Brooklyn Lodge of Masons and the Fraternal Order of Eagles.

Biographical Sketch of John S. McCarrens

John S. McCarrens, born on July 27, 1869, in Pennsylvania, was the son of D. A. and Anna McGinley McCarrens. He attended public schools and Niagara University before marrying Mary Sweeney in Toledo, Ohio, on June 24, 1896. McCarrens worked as an advertising manager and business collector, and he was an active member of the Cleveland Advertising Club. He was also known for his interest in horseback riding. He and Mary had two daughters and two sons.

Biography of Alfred Thomas Bailey

Alfred Thomas Bailey, born in Ottawa, Canada, on September 25, 1873, was a notable figure in the oil industry of northeastern Oklahoma. His sudden death in 1918 left a profound impact on his devoted mother and the community he served. After moving to the U.S., he established himself as a successful oil producer, known for his integrity and business acumen. A 32nd degree Mason, Bailey was recognized for his contributions to both individual prosperity and community welfare, embodying the traits of manliness and enterprise.

Biography of Albert L. Alderman

Albert L. Alderman, born in Connecticut and raised in New York, embarked on a remarkable journey to Oregon in 1845. He faced numerous hardships, including dangerous interactions with Native Americans and arduous travel conditions, but eventually settled in Dayton, where he successfully farmed and raised cattle. Alderman was known for his ingenuity, managing to thrive despite the challenges of frontier life. A devoted family man, he married twice and raised a total of nine children, becoming a respected and active member of his community throughout his life.

Biography of Marcellus Marcus Pietrzycki, M.D.

Marcellus Marcus Pietrzycki, M.D., born on April 25, 1843, in Galicia, Austria, immigrated to the U.S. in 1866. He began his medical career in Pennsylvania before moving to California, where he graduated from Pacific Medical College in 1872. After settling in Rio Vista in 1873, he actively contributed to the town’s welfare and established local telecommunication. In 1879, he relocated to Dayton, Washington Territory, where he built a prominent medical and surgical practice, served as health officer during a smallpox epidemic, and engaged in agricultural development.