The series contains original affidavits of registration that record personal information about each registrant, their photograph affixed to the majority of documents, and the registrants fingerprints. All of these are specific to Kansas, and most have the actual documents attached.
Daniel Baker, born in England, married Sarah Chase in 1740. His lineage includes notable figures such as Col. Jacob, who served on General Washington’s staff, and two physicians, Samuel and Isaac, the latter contributing to the establishment of Bloomington, Illinois. The family continued to thrive, with descendants like Sidney Dodge, a 19th-century resident of Kansas, and various professionals across the country, including optometrists and realtors. Baker’s progeny demonstrate a legacy of community service and accomplishment.
Col. Samuel N. Wood, born December 30, 1825, in Ohio, was a pivotal figure in Kansas as a leader of the free-state party and a founding member of the Republican Party. He arrived in Kansas in 1854, engaging actively in anti-slavery efforts and legislative roles. Wood played a significant part in the Wakarusa War and attended major conventions in 1856 and 1858. He also served as a brigadier general and judge, and was involved in various newspaper ventures. His life ended tragically in 1891 during a dispute over a county seat.
Leonard R. Manley, born in 1873 in Nortonville, Kansas, rose from humble beginnings to become the president and manager of the Topeka Pure Milk Company, the largest milk business in Kansas. He mastered his trade in the creamery business, starting as a buttermaker and eventually leading the company that grew significantly under his management. A dedicated community member and civic leader, Manley is involved in various organizations and charitable efforts. He married Cora B. Neibarger in 1899, and they have two children, both engaged in their education.
Owin E. Edgerton, M.D., dedicated over thirty years to serving the families of Riley County, where he was almost a native, having lived there since childhood. Born in Iowa in 1857, he graduated from St. Louis College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1884. He practiced successfully in Randolph, Kansas, and continued his education with a post-graduate course. Married to Rachel L. Bacon, he raised seven children while earning respect in his profession and community, although he shunned political ambitions despite holding various civic roles.
Thomas S. Huffaker, born March 30, 1825, in Missouri, was a notable missionary and educator among the Shawnees and a leading figure in Council Grove. He began his work in Kansas in 1849, overseeing an Indian mission school until its closure in 1854. Huffaker and his wife established one of Kansas’s first schools for white children. He played a significant role in local governance, serving as postmaster and state legislator, and remained active in the Republican Party until his death on July 10, 1910.
The Kansa Indians, also known as Kaw, originated from the Siouan linguistic stock and are part of the Dhegiha subgroup, along with the Osage, Quapaw, Omaha, and Ponca. Their name is linked to the Kansas River, which runs through their territory. Historically, they occupied several villages along the river and established a reservation in Kansas in 1846, later moving to Oklahoma. Their population has fluctuated significantly due to disease, with current estimates around 515. The Kansa’s name has influenced various geographical names, including Kansas and Kansas City.
Warren S. Plummer, born on January 7, 1875, in Pottawatomie County, rose from humble beginnings to become a significant figure in his community. After working as a clerk and serving three terms as county clerk, he managed the Westmoreland Mercantile Company, the area’s largest general merchandise store. Plummer’s family legacy includes a rich history as early settlers, with his father, Hezekiah, a Civil War veteran and respected farmer. Married to Mary Olive Middleton, he has two children and remains active in local governance and community organizations.
Charles F. White, born in 1877 in Council Grove, Kansas, moved to North Topeka in 1916, showcasing his agricultural expertise and establishing himself in the community. Raised on a family farm and shaped by the hardships faced by his father, a pioneer farmer, White sought prosperity through farming and dairying. Married to Bertie Lee in 1900, they raised two children, Frank and Gwendolyn. Committed to his agricultural endeavors, White contributed to the community without seeking public office, becoming a respected figure in Shawnee County.
Edson Baxter, born in 1842 in Illinois, migrated to Kansas with his family during the territorial era. Settling in Morris County, he played a significant role in early local developments, becoming an influential figure in Marion County. A veteran of the Civil War, he held various governmental positions, including clerk of the District Court, where he earned a reputation for diligence and integrity. Married to Rebecca A. Shreve, a pioneer educator, they raised eight children and contributed to the region’s history through their pioneering efforts and leadership.
David Crawford Thoroman, born in Ohio in 1824, was a pioneering educator and farmer in Kansas. After serving as a lieutenant in the Civil War, he settled in Osage County before moving to Coffey County. Despite health challenges from his military service, he contributed significantly to his communities as a respected teacher for nearly three decades. Thoroman’s legacy continued through his children, especially Albert M. Thoroman, who became an influential educator and editor of school texts in Kansas, reflecting the family’s commitment to education and integrity.
Herbert Miller, born on February 26, 1856, in Osage County, Kansas, became a prominent figure in Lyon County as a farmer, banker, and civic leader. He inherited his father Richard’s legacy after his death in 1864 and was a lifelong advocate for agriculture, owning extensive farmland. As president of the State Bank of Admire since 1894, he has played a key role in local economic development. Miller, a dedicated Republican, actively contributed to public welfare and education, raising two daughters, one of whom is a teacher.
George Pierson Morehouse played a significant role in Kansas’s development through his diverse engagements in agriculture, law, and politics. Born in Illinois in 1859, he adapted to frontier life, eventually excelling academically in the East. A prominent Republican, he served in various political capacities, including state senator, where he championed education, women’s suffrage, and railroad initiatives. An esteemed historian and genealogist, he contributed significantly to local cultural pursuits, preservation efforts, and literary organizations, exemplifying dedication to both his heritage and his community.
The Farmers Union of Kansas, part of a national body with 2.5 million members, was founded around 1907. It has significantly strengthened agricultural interests in the state, boasting 50,000 members and facilitating better market conditions for farmers through the Kansas Jobbing Association. Charles S. Walker, a dedicated farmer and manager of the Kansas Union, has been pivotal in its development since its inception. Born in 1875 to pioneering parents, Walker has combined farming with leadership roles in the organization, advocating for cooperative efforts among farmers.
James S. Adam, born March 12, 1870, in Kirkentelloch, Scotland, became a key figure in Dunlap’s business community over the past fifteen years. After immigrating to the U.S. with his family in 1880 and growing up on a Kansas farm, he ventured into railroad work before settling in Dunlap in 1902. He is known for his role as cashier of the Dunlap Farmers Bank and involvement in various social organizations. Married to Annie Farmer, they have six children and manage extensive farming interests in Lyon County.
Ralph P. Yeakley, aged 80, passed away at St. Elizabeth Hospital. His funeral will be held on September 19 at West and Co. Memorial Chapel, officiated by Rev. Joe Jewett, followed by interment at Mt. Hope Cemetery. Born on April 8, 1887, in Dunlap, Kansas, he moved to Oregon with his family during childhood. A longtime rancher, he married Gladys Coyle Yeakley in 1907 and is survived by his daughter, grandchildren, siblings, and great-grandchildren.
The Kansa, a southwestern Siouan tribe and part of the Dhegiha group, share linguistic ties with the Osage and Quapaw. Historically, they migrated along the Missouri River, eventually settling near the Kansas River. They faced numerous challenges, including conflicts with neighboring tribes, leading to reductions in their population. In the 19th century, efforts to assimilate them into Western culture were largely unsuccessful. Despite some agricultural adaptation, many traditional practices persisted. The Kansa’s societal structure included strict marriage norms and a focus on preserving cultural identity amidst external pressures.
Arrena Runft Karp Oliver, 95, passed away on April 18, 2003, in Boise. Born on October 9, 1907, in Kansas, she dedicated her life to teaching and was known for her commitment to education. After marrying Donald Runft in 1932, she navigated the challenges of the Great Depression and later raised her family in Baker City. Following Donald’s death in 1964, she married William Karp and, later, Jim Oliver, with whom she enjoyed life and travel. Arrena is survived by her family and friends, leaving a legacy of warmth and positivity.