Biographical Sketch of R. J. A. Mack

R. J. A. Mack, born in Syracuse, New York, in 1842, pursued a medical career that began in his hometown and included a degree from Bennett Medical College in Chicago in 1876. He practiced medicine in various locations before relocating to Redlands, California, in 1886, where he became involved in orange cultivation. Dr. Mack is married to Annetta Bishop and has three surviving children. He is known for his contributions to the local community and is currently focused on business ventures related to agriculture.

Biography of Dr. John W. Short

Dr. John W. Short has practiced medicine in Geneva, New York, since 1909, drawing on extensive experience gained in a relatively short period. A graduate of Syracuse University’s medical program in 1903, he established his practice initially in Canastota before relocating to Geneva. Dr. Short is respected for his professional skills and personal integrity, cultivating a growing reputation in the community. He is also involved in multiple fraternal organizations and is a member of the Methodist Church. Dr. Short married Ruth Worden in 1905, and they have two children.

Biography of John Boyd Thacher

John Boyd Thacher, born in 1847 in Ballston Springs, New York, was the son of former Albany Mayor George H. Thacher. He graduated from Williams College in 1869 and subsequently mastered his father’s car wheel business. Thacher held various public positions, including state senator, where he advocated for labor interests and prison reform. As mayor of Albany from 1886, he notably reduced taxes and organized significant civic events. Thacher also had a passion for collecting rare books and autographs and was married to Emma Treadwell in 1872.

Biography of Charles Rufus Skinner

Charles Rufus Skinner, born on August 4, 1844, in Oswego County, New York, was a prominent political figure and educator. The son of a New England pioneer, he became a Republican politician after initially being raised in a Democratic household. Skinner’s career included teaching, newspaper work, and multiple terms in the New York Assembly and U.S. Congress, where he actively supported legislation on education and postal reform. He also served as deputy superintendent of public instruction in New York. Skinner was honored with an honorary degree from Hamilton College and cherished family life.

Biography of Colonel Stanhope E. Blunt

Colonel Stanhope E. Blunt was born on September 28, 1850, in Boston, Massachusetts, to a prominent military family. A West Point graduate, Blunt served in various capacities within the U.S. Army, ultimately becoming the commandant of Rock Island Arsenal in 1897. Under his leadership, the Arsenal transformed from a modest facility into a significant manufacturing hub, especially noted during the Spanish-American War. Blunt is also recognized for his contributions to military literature and belongs to several military societies. His distinguished career exemplifies dedication and effective leadership.

Biography of Hon. William Savage

Hon. William Savage, born in New York in 1826, was a pioneer who arrived in Oregon in 1845. Orphaned at five, he ventured to Ohio before joining a group headed to Oregon. His early work involved handling livestock, a pursuit he continued throughout his life. Savage became a prominent farmer and stock-raiser, significantly expanding his operations. He also engaged in banking and served as a state representative from Polk County. Married twice, he had a total of eight children, with four sons following in his stock-raising footsteps.

Biographical Sketch of Collins F. Tillotson

Collins F. Tillotson, born December 7, 1846, in Onondaga County, New York, settled in Maple Township, Ida County, Iowa, in 1874, acquiring 417 acres of wild prairie land. He was educated in local schools and Monroe Collegiate Institute. His ancestry includes a Revolutionary War soldier and a participant in the War of 1812. At 24, he married Mary J. Clark, with whom he had six children. Tillotson’s homestead featured various structures and livestock facilities, reflecting his dedication to farming.