Nelson County KY Genealogy – Access Genealogy

Biography of Hon. Ninian Edwards

Judge Ninian Edwards, born in 1775, was a prominent lawyer, jurist, and statesman whose public service spanned nearly forty years across Kentucky and Illinois. After graduating from Dickinson College, he became a successful attorney and served in various political roles including Chief Justice of Kentucky and Governor of the Illinois Territory. Elected to the U.S. Senate upon Illinois’s admission to the Union, Edwards was known for his legal acumen and leadership. He passed away in 1833, leaving a lasting legacy in American history.

Biography of Gov. Charles S. Morehead

Charles S. Morehead, born on July 7, 1802, in Nelson County, Kentucky, was a prominent lawyer, legislator, and Governor. Educated at Transylvania University, he began his legal career in Christian County, quickly earning political acclaim. Morehead served multiple terms in the Legislature and as Attorney General, ultimately becoming Governor in 1855. He advocated for peace during the lead-up to the Civil War but faced imprisonment for his beliefs. After the war, he returned to a diminished estate, passing away on December 23, 1868.

The O’Hara Family of Prairie du Rocher Illinois

Henry O’Hara and his family, including his wife Margaret and ten children, relocated from Frederick County, Maryland, to Nelson County, Kentucky, in late 1811. After six years, they journeyed to Illinois, settling near Prairie du Rocher by 1818. Henry established the O’Hara Settlement and constructed a reliable clock, which passed through the family for generations. His son James, a pioneer in Southern Illinois, ran a successful farm and store. The family expanded, with notable members Charles and James R. O’Hara contributing to the community’s development.

Biographical Sketch of James Rodgers

James Rodgers, originally from Pennsylvania, moved to Nelson County, Kentucky, where he raised a large family and gifted each child a Bible. His son, Presley Rodgers, married Elizabeth Folay, and they had several children. In 1831, James relocated to Missouri, settling in various counties including Howard, Boone, Saline, and Montgomery. As a blacksmith, he established the first blacksmith shop in Montgomery City. He passed away in December 1863, leaving behind eight of his eleven children, seven of whom remain in Montgomery County.

Biographical Sketch of the Brown Brothers, Richard and Daniel

Richard and Daniel Brown, natives of Kentucky, were born in the 1820s and have dedicated their lives to farming. They moved to Illinois in 1854, initially settling south of Charleston before relocating to Douglas County in 1856. Richard briefly served as Assessor and was married twice, raising five children. Daniel, married to Mary Morrison, has seven children. Both brothers own over 200 acres of land and are involved in farming, stock raising, and road grading, contributing to their community in Humboldt, Illinois.

Obituary of Susan Little Davis

Susan Little Davis, born June 5, 1848, in Nelson County, Kentucky, died on February 3, 1926, at the age of 77. She moved with her family to Hamburg, Iowa, at eight years old and married Richard Davis on October 5, 1863. The couple resided in Hamburg for six years before relocating to Monona County, where they spent a decade. In 1879, they moved to Harrison County, marking the final chapter of her life.

Slave Narrative of Charles Anderson

Charles Anderson, a former slave born in Bloomfield, Kentucky, recalls his life under the ownership of Isaac Stone. He describes his family’s conditions, the absence of violence during the Civil War, and the work and food they received. Anderson reflects on the mysterious concept of freedom and how he and his family were not forced to leave upon emancipation. He shares his transition to Arkansas, his struggle with health issues, and the difficulties faced in securing a stable life for his family.

Biography of John Norval Sherman, M. D.

Dr. John Norval Sherman, born July 11, 1884, in Ohio, is a respected physician in Thayer, Kansas, renowned for his medical training and ethical practice. After graduating from the University of Louisville, he gained experience in several hospitals before settling in Thayer in 1916. His practice quickly garnered community trust due to his kindness and dedication. A member of various medical societies and the Masonic Lodge, he balances his professional life with family, including his wife, Palmer Hibbs, and their daughter, Eunice.

Littreal, Ishmeul – Obituary

Ishmeul Worth Littreal, aged 75, passed away at his home in Summerville, Oregon. Born in Bardetown, Kentucky, on May 5, 1865, he had resided in Union County for 51 years. He is survived by two daughters, six stepchildren, one brother, and ten grandchildren. Funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Summerville chapel.