Peoria Illinois

Biography of Thomas Page

Thomas Page, a key commercial figure in Kansas for over fifty years, was born in Scotland in 1843 and immigrated to the United States in 1866. He began his milling career in Albany, New York, before moving to Topeka in 1871. There, he played a pivotal role in establishing the city as a milling center, founding several mills, including the Interocean and Mid-Continent Mills. A respected businessman and community leader, Page remains active at over seventy years old, while balancing his family life with his wife Jessie and three children.

Biography of John Gallup

John Gallup, born on December 14, 1844, in Mystic, Connecticut, has deep colonial roots and a background in accounting. After marrying Ellen E. Noyes in 1870, he shifted from lumber to the grain industry before moving to St. Louis in 1887. There, he became auditor and treasurer of a railroad and later joined the Missouri Portland Cement Company, where he has served as assistant treasurer for over 25 years. A committed Republican and Baptist, Gallup has a legacy of military service in his ancestry.

Biography of Charles E. Schaff

Charles E. Schaff, born February 4, 1856, in Licking County, Ohio, became an influential figure in the railroad industry. Starting his career as a water boy at the Pennsylvania Railroad, he progressed to significant roles, including train master, general manager, and eventually president of the Missouri, Kansas & Texas Railroad Company. Schaff’s career spanned multiple railroad companies, showcasing his expertise and dedication. He married Leila B. White in 1878 and had two sons. Active in politics and fraternal organizations, he holds a prominent reputation in St. Louis.

Kickapoo Indians

The Kickapoo Indians, part of the Algonquian linguistic family, historically occupied regions across states such as Illinois, Wisconsin, and Kansas. Initially settling near the Sauk in Michigan, they later moved southward following conflicts, including the War of 1812. They experienced population fluctuations, estimated at 2,000 in 1650 and 3,000 in 1759, but declined to 706 by 1875. Some Kickapoo migrated to Mexico, forming distinct groups. Their name is now associated with geographic features across several states, reflecting their enduring legacy.

Biography of James J. Rogers

James J. Rogers, born July 24, 1862, in Baltimore, Maryland, has led a dynamic life shaped by travel and diverse experiences. After moving to New York, he pursued various professions, including acting and painting, before turning to law in Boise, Idaho, where he became a successful attorney and influential political figure. A founder of Idaho’s Populist party, he served in the state legislature and was known for his exceptional debating skills. Married to Rose Gertrude Garrecht, they have two children and enjoy a prominent standing in Boise’s social circles.

Biography of David Prager

David Prager, born June 7, 1834, in Bavaria, Germany, emigrated to the United States at fifteen and became a prominent jeweler in Fort Scott, Kansas, from 1869 until his death on November 26, 1911. Respected for his integrity and generosity, he was an influential community member and an active participant in local affairs, including the Masonic order. Married to Hattie Briggs, he had eight children, many of whom continued his legacy in business. Prager’s life exemplified selflessness and service over wealth, making him a beloved figure in Fort Scott.

Biography of William T. Cohenour

William T. Cohenour, born on March 7, 1877, in Pittsfield, Illinois, became a notable figure in the automobile industry in Muskogee after establishing his agency in 1919. He initially arrived in the southwest in 1903, engaging in various commercial ventures, including retail jewelry and banking. Cohenour is recognized for his expertise in sales, particularly with Chalmers and Maxwell cars. Married to Lelia Hoss, he has two children and enjoys golf and hunting. He is also active in community organizations and adheres to strong moral principles.

Biography of Isaac E., Lambert, Sr.

Isaac E. Lambert, Sr., a distinguished attorney in Kansas, tragically lost his life in the 1908 Copeland Hotel fire at age fifty-five. Born in 1853 in Illinois, he developed a successful legal practice in Emporia after moving there in 1875, specializing in criminal and corporate law. Notably, he served as U.S. district attorney and was involved in local politics. He was married to Hattie Barnes, who passed away in 1907, and had seven children. His son, Isaac E. Lambert, Jr., now a prominent lawyer in Emporia, continues his legacy.

Swinger, Polly Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Polly Swiger, age 81, passed away on October 9, 1910, at her home near Union, Oregon. Born on September 29, 1829, in Jackson County, Ohio, she married N. Swiger in 1851 and moved to Oregon in 1864. The couple had seven children, four of whom survive her. Mrs. Swiger’s funeral was held at the Presbyterian Church on October 12. She is remembered as a devoted family member, with surviving siblings also honoring her life.

Swiger, Polly Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Polly Swiger, aged 81, passed away at her residence near Union, Oregon, on October 9, 1910. Born Polly Wilkinson on September 29, 1829, in Ohio, she later moved to Illinois and then Nebraska with her husband, N. Swiger, whom she married in 1851. The couple relocated to Oregon in 1864, eventually settling in the Grande Ronde Valley. They had seven children, four of whom survive her. Polly was buried at the Presbyterian church on October 12.

Wicks, H. Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. H. Wicks passed away on June 21 at her ranch near North Powder after a prolonged illness. A respected pioneer in the community for 43 years, she was born in Ireland and immigrated to the U.S. at age four. Mrs. Wicks married Harrison Wicks in Illinois, and they settled in North Powder, where she lived until her death. She is survived by five children. Funeral services were held at the local Methodist church, with many community members attending to honor her memory.

Wilkinson, John – Obituary

John Wilkinson, born July 30, 1839, in Peoria, Illinois, was a prominent pioneer in Union County, Oregon, where he resided for 42 years until his death in Walla Walla, Washington. He journeyed westward in 1858, eventually settling in High Valley after leading a family caravan across the Rockies in 1864. Married in 1873 to Sarah Vansel, he had four children, two of whom survive him. A respected Democrat, Wilkinson actively avoided politics. His funeral on October 6 was well-attended, reflecting his legacy and community ties.

O’Farrell, James R. – Obituary

James R. O’Farrell, 80, of Orting, passed away on September 25, 1953. A prominent figure in local politics, he served as mayor, councilman, and county commissioner, and managed the Orting Funeral Home for over 50 years. Born to pioneer parents, he was active in community affairs and held various positions in the Caterpillar Tractor Company. After retiring, he enjoyed traveling. He is survived by his wife, Lena, and three children. Funeral services will be held at the Orting Methodist Episcopal Church.

Street, Victoria Hewitt – Obituary

Victoria Hewitt Street, born March 16, 1878, in Streeter, Illinois, passed away at her home in Sturgis on April 20, 1965. Married in 1899 to Leslie Street, they moved to South Dakota in 1911. She is survived by her son Harry, daughters May Fuller and Evelyn Marshall, a sister, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Following funeral services at F. O. Jolley Funeral Home, she was interred at Bear Butte Cemetery. She was preceded in death by eight siblings.

Peoria Tribe

The Peoria Tribe, a significant member of the Illinois Confederacy, originally inhabited regions along the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. They faced decline due to conflicts with northern tribes and were eventually forced to relocate, primarily due to treaties with the United States from 1818 to 1868. After consolidations with other tribes, the Peoria settled in Kansas before moving to Indian Territory (Oklahoma). Early population estimates were unreliable, with substantial reductions noted by the early 19th century, culminating in 192 recorded members in 1906.

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.

Biographical Sketch of Henry E. Brown

Henry E. Brown, born in Elmwood, Peoria County, Illinois, pursued his education in Peoria after age sixteen, culminating in a Bachelor of Physics from Grinnell College in 1899. He has dedicated his career to the Rock Island Public Schools, progressing from teacher to high school principal. An advocate for education, he leads the Western Section of the Northern Illinois Teachers Association and has authored a widely used textbook. At 35, he married Bertha Hanna in 1906.