Mifflin County PA

Early Exploration and Native Americans

Ferdinand de Soto’s interactions with Native American tribes, specifically the Choctaws and Chickasaws, exemplify early European attempts to impose their ideologies of civilization and Christianity upon Indigenous populations. This approach set a precedent for further exploitation and oppression of Native Americans, as European settlers sought to acquire land and resources. Throughout history, tribes like the Chickasaws, known for their valor, remained steadfast allies rather than adversaries. This enduring alliance contrasts sharply with the overarching narrative of dispossession and extermination faced by Indigenous nations in North America.

Biographical Sketch of Jesse O. Snyder

Jesse O. Snyder has been a prominent figure in South San Francisco for over twenty years, serving as the General Superintendent of the Western Meat Company, the largest packing plant on the Pacific coast. Originally from Pennsylvania, he developed his expertise in the packing industry in Chicago before relocating to California. An active community member, Mr. Snyder contributes to local development through his involvement with the Chamber of Commerce and the Bank of South San Francisco. He was born in February 1876 and is a family man with Masonic and Elks affiliations.

Biography of Frederick S. Kohler, M. D.

Frederick S. Kohler, M.D., born in Pennsylvania on December 18, 1838, was a prominent early resident of Nampa, where he established a successful career as a druggist and physician. A Civil War surgeon, he practiced medicine in Pennsylvania and Indiana before moving to Nampa in 1887. Kohler contributed significantly to the city’s steady economic growth while maintaining professional success. A devoted father and lifelong Democrat, he is respected for his commitment to medicine and community, having lost his first wife while raising two sons, both of whom became physicians.

Biography of Oscar B. Steely, M. D.

Dr. Oscar B. Steely, M.D., born in Belleville, Pennsylvania, on August 22, 1862, is a distinguished physician and surgeon at Pocatello, Idaho. He graduated from Pennsylvania College and Jefferson Medical College, later gaining extensive surgical experience in railway medicine. Appointed surgeon of the Idaho and Montana divisions of the Oregon Short Line Railroad in 1896, he is well-respected in the medical community, a member of several professional associations, and served as surgeon general of Idaho. He is also active in Masonic and fraternal organizations.

Biography of Joseph W. Cochran

Joseph W. Cochran, born in Pennsylvania in 1865, overcame humble beginnings to become a respected agriculturist in Shawnee County, Kansas. After moving west with his family in 1877, he faced numerous challenges, including crop failures and harsh living conditions. Determined, he established a successful farm, eventually accumulating 107 acres in Menoken Township. A devoted public servant, he held various local offices and actively contributed to community development. Married to Eva Godwin, they raised six children while remaining engaged in their church and civic duties.

Biographical Sketch of J. C. Postlethwaite

J. C. Postlethwaite, born on August 22, 1848, in Mifflin County, Pennsylvania, moved to Manhattan, Kansas, in 1869. He later settled in Jewell County, where he homesteaded and studied law, becoming a practicing attorney in 1873. In 1880, he helped establish the Jewell City Bank, serving as cashier. A Mason, he was the inaugural Master of the Jewell City Lodge. Postlethwaite married Louisa McClung in 1870 and had four children: Robert, Jessie, William, and John.

Biographical Sketch of Walter D. Meals

Walter D. Meals, born on January 4, 1872, in Mill Creek, Pennsylvania, was educated in local public schools and graduated from Keystone State Normal School in 1888. He taught school in Minnesota before earning an LL.B. from the University of Michigan in 1892 and practicing law in Lewistown, Pennsylvania. Meals moved to Cleveland in 1894, where he continued his legal career. He was active in local organizations and served as chairman of the Cuyahoga County Republican Executive Committee before becoming a judge on the Court of Appeals in 1913.

Biography of John Duffy Robertson

John Duffy Robertson was a prominent pioneer merchant and financier in Kansas, instrumental in the founding and development of Jewell City. Born in Pennsylvania in 1846, he faced early challenges but rose to prominence by establishing the J.D. Robertson Mercantile Company and serving as president of several banks, including the Interstate National Bank. Renowned for his integrity and community spirit, he supported local families during hardships. A dedicated family man and active Mason, Robertson’s legacy endures through his contributions to the state’s economic landscape until his death in 1908.

Yoder, Elmer Simon – Obituary

Elmer Simon Yoder, 75, of Elgin, passed away on May 24 at a La Grande care center after an extended illness. He was born on March 11, 1933, in Belleville, Pennsylvania, and had a diverse career in cabinet installation and carpentry. A former pastor in the Elgin and Cove Methodist churches, he cherished nature, engaging in hunting, fishing, and planting native trees. Elmer is survived by his wife, Cheryl, children, eight grandchildren, and several siblings. No services were planned, and he requested no flowers.

Biographical Sketch of Andrew Lytle

Andrew Lytle, born in 1812 in Pennsylvania, later moved to Ohio and married Hannah Hull. He migrated through Missouri and Illinois before settling in Salt Lake City. In 1850, he was among the first settlers in San Bernardino, California, where he thrived as a blacksmith and held various public offices, including mayor. Lytle and Hannah had eight children. He passed away in 1870, leaving his widow to continue residing in their San Bernardino home.

Biography of Stephen R. Magee, M. D.

Stephen R. Magee, M.D., was born in Pennsylvania in 1820 and pursued medical studies, graduating in 1843. After practicing medicine, he entered politics, serving as sheriff and a military officer during the Civil War. In 1876, he moved to Riverside, California, where he and his wife transformed a barren tract into a successful citrus and vineyard property. By 1886, their orange grove achieved notable yields, exemplifying their horticultural expertise. Dr. Magee was actively involved in local schools and the Episcopal Church, raising six children in the community.

Biography of Hon. Samuel S. Guyer

The Honorable Samuel S. Guyer, born on December 26, 1814, in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, was a notable figure in Illinois history. After moving to Peoria in 1839, he engaged in various entrepreneurial ventures, including building flat boats and managing mining and railroad companies. His legal career began in Rock Island, where he defended the Redings in a high-profile case and served as Sheriff. Elected County Court Judge in 1871, he was known for his community contributions, including the founding of Chippiannock Cemetery. He passed away on February 20, 1883.

Biography of Hon. James Kerr Kelly

Hon. James Kerr Kelly, a prominent figure in Oregon’s history, dedicated thirty years to public service, rising from humble beginnings. Born in Pennsylvania in 1819, he pursued law and moved to the Pacific coast during the gold rush. Kelly became active in Oregon’s politics, serving as a legislator and participating in the Indian Wars as Lieutenant-Colonel. Elected as a U.S. Senator and later appointed Chief Justice of Oregon’s Supreme Court, he was involved in significant political developments. Kelly’s legacy includes his democratic ideals and enduring influence on the state’s governance.