Paterson New Jersey

Ancestors of William Mason of Taunton, Massachusetts

Mason Machine Works - Mason Machine Works, Taunton, Massachusetts, 1899 Catalog

The Mason family of Taunton, Massachusetts, has played a significant role in the area’s business life, particularly in machinery manufacturing. Notably, William Mason, a mechanical genius, made transformative contributions to machinery design, including the self-acting mule and advancements in cotton and woolen machinery. His lineage traces back to Major John Mason, a notable early settler and military leader. Following William’s death in 1883, his son, Frederick Mason, continued the legacy, managing the Mason Machine Works and contributing to the family’s enduring prominence.

Descendants of Abraham Tappan of Newbury, MA

tappan

The Tappan family, descendants of Abraham Toppan who arrived in Newbury, MA, in 1637, has established itself prominently in Attleboro’s jewelry industry. Ephraim H. Tappan and his sons, Charles H. and William C., contributed significantly to its growth with innovative practices. The brothers founded Tappan Brothers, evolving into D.F. Briggs Co., renowned for producing items like the Carmen bracelet. Their legacy continues through their descendants, maintaining a strong presence in local business and community endeavors.

Biography of James Baxter

Captain James Baxter, born in Norwich, England, immigrated to the United States with his family as a child. Educated in New York and Paterson, he became a mining engineer and later served as a captain in the Civil War, enduring serious injuries. After the war, he engaged in mining and established a successful foundry in Boise, Idaho. A devoted family man and community member, Baxter is involved in various civic organizations and remains committed to the progress of his city and state.

Biography of Samuel Brownlee Fisher

Samuel Brownlee Fisher, born on October 24, 1846, in Ohio, is a distinguished consulting engineer with nearly fifty years in railway engineering. Descended from Scottish Covenanters, he studied at Washington and Jefferson College, earning multiple degrees. His career spans significant roles, including chief engineer positions with various railways, leading to his long-standing association with the Missouri, Kansas Texas Railroad Company. A Republican and Presbyterian elder, he married Agnes Crooks in 1881, with whom he had two children. Fisher’s legacy is marked by his contributions to American railway infrastructure.

Biography of Frank Lyman Gold

Frank Lyman Gold, born on June 4, 1884, in Belchertown, Massachusetts, hailed from a prominent New England family with deep historical roots. He pursued education and taught various subjects before joining the U.S. Government’s Ordnance Department during World War I. His diverse career included roles in accounting, contracting, and eventually establishing the Belchertown Motor Sales Company. A respected businessman and community member, Gold was active in local organizations and the Methodist Episcopal Church. He married twice, having four children along with his second wife’s two children.

Aquackanonk Tribe

The Aquackanonk Indians, a division of the Unami Delawares, inhabited areas along the Passaic River in New Jersey and interior lands, including the Dundee tract. The name Aquackanonk, meaning “a place in a rapid stream where fishing is done with a bush-net,” emerged in the late 17th century. In 1678 and 1679, the tribe’s territory was further defined, covering parts of Bergen County and the future city of Paterson. They sold portions of their land in 1676 and 1679.

Biography of James Lotan

James Lotan, born in 1843 in Paterson, New Jersey, of Irish descent, began his career as a machinist apprentice. He served in the Ninth New York Volunteer Regiment during the Civil War, participating in major battles before being mustered out in 1863. After various employment in the ironworks industry, he settled in Portland in 1865, where he became a prominent businessman and local political figure. Lotan was instrumental in the success of the Willamette Iron Works and served in various military and civic roles throughout his life. He married Emma Carroll in 1868 and has one son.

Biography of John Brandt

John Brandt, born on July 4, 1828, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, of German descent, played a significant role in the early development of American railroads. He began his career as a fireman and quickly rose through the ranks to locomotive engineer and subsequently to various superintendent roles across multiple railroads, including the New Jersey Locomotive Works and the Oregon and California road. His meticulous attention to detail and exceptional management skills resulted in a notable record of safety and employee loyalty. Brandt passed away in 1880.