Putnam County IN

Biography of Robert M. Black

Robert M. Black, born December 13, 1845, to a prominent lineage, exemplified the spirit of American patriotism. His great-grandfather fought alongside notable figures during the Revolutionary War, while his grandfather served in the War of 1812. Robert enlisted in the Seventy-eighth Indiana Regiment at sixteen, showcasing bravery despite a debilitating injury. He was a successful farmer and stockman, a devoted family man, and an active community member in politics and religion. Known for his generosity and strong friendships, he significantly impacted his community before his death on June 11, 1899.

Biography of Rev. William Knipe

Rev. William Knipe, born on September 28, 1827, in Indiana, is one of the last surviving veterans of the Mexican War and a prominent figure in Methodist history in Kansas. A soldier in both the Mexican War and the Civil War, he settled in Kansas in 1857, where he became a successful farmer and influential preacher. He conducted the first religious service and funeral in Jackson County and was ordained in the Methodist Church. Knipe served in the Kansas legislature and remains respected within his community, highlighting a life of dedicated service.

Biography of Boyd Elias Pollom

William Pollom, born in Ohio in 1838, was a dedicated farmer and Union soldier who moved his family to Shawnee County, Kansas, in 1871. Despite challenges, he repeatedly relocated to support his farming ambitions, eventually settling in North Topeka. He raised eleven children and lived a life marked by integrity, community service, and strong Methodist faith. His son, Boyd Elias Pollom, born in 1863, followed in his father’s footsteps, becoming a prosperous agriculturalist and active in local governance, notably serving on the Shawnee County board of commissioners.

Biography of Percy H. Swahlen, M. D.

Dr. Percy H. Swahlen, born on June 4, 1877, in Lebanon, Illinois, was a prominent obstetrician and gynecologist in St. Louis. He graduated from De Pauw University in 1899 and earned his M.D. in 1903 from the Marion Sims Beaumont College of Medicine. After internships and further studies in Europe, he began practicing in St. Louis in 1908. He served as a captain in the Medical Corps during WWI and held various esteemed roles in local hospitals and medical associations, becoming a distinguished figure in his field.

Biographical Sketch of Frank DeVore Gorham, M. D.

Dr. Frank DeVore Gorham, born on August 2, 1888, in Cloverdale, Indiana, graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Indiana in 1910 and earned his M.D. from Washington University, St. Louis, in 1912. A specialist in internal medicine, he began his practice in 1916 and served in World War I as chief of medical service in France. Dr. Gorham is affiliated with various medical societies and clubs and is married to Lillian Hawley. He continues to contribute to the medical field in St. Louis.

Biography of Joseph Ralph Burton, Hon.

Joseph Ralph Burton, born in Indiana in 1852, moved to Kansas in 1878, where he became a significant political figure and lawyer. Recognized for his reliability and integrity, he served multiple terms in the Kansas Legislature, playing a crucial role in railway legislation and introducing an anti-trust law that influenced the federal Sherman Act. Elected to the U.S. Senate, Burton opposed the Cuban Reciprocity Bill, drawing criticism but advocating for Kansas’s interests. Post-retirement, he successfully managed a publishing company and contributed to education, supported by his wife, Carrie.

Biography of George W. Akers

George W. Akers, born March 20, 1839, in Indiana, moved to Kansas in 1863, establishing a dual career in medicine and ministry. After graduating in medicine, he practiced in Paola before becoming a Methodist minister, serving various congregations until health issues led him back to medicine. He was also involved in journalism and served as postmaster of Stafford. A political figure, he actively supported the Republican Party. Married to Margaret Steele, they had four children, including Earl Akers, who became state treasurer of Kansas.

Biography of William D. Casey

William D. Casey, born on November 19, 1871, in Carroll County, Missouri, became a prominent lawyer in Atchison, Kansas, after being admitted to the bar at a young age. Originally from a hardworking family, he pursued law studies and built a successful career while holding various public offices including city judge and postmaster. He was active in community and state bar associations and was involved in several fraternal organizations. Married to Ella Scott, he and his wife raised three children in Atchison.

Biography of William D. Butner

William D. Butner, born in North Carolina in 1866, became a notable farmer in Dover Township, Shawnee County, Kansas. Emphasizing the importance of both livelihood and a nurturing home environment, Butner transformed his property into a thriving farm and family residence. After moving to Kansas in the late 1880s and eventually purchasing 160 acres, he specialized in livestock, notably Shorthorn cattle and Jersey red swine. A Republican and community figure, he prioritized family life and education, raising six children with his wife, Carrie.

Biography of Thomas C. Biddle, M. D.

Thomas C. Biddle, M.D., born in 1857 in Indiana, served as the Superintendent of the State Hospital for the Insane in Topeka, Kansas, and had a distinguished medical career spanning over 35 years. A prominent figure in his field, he dedicated 17 years to his role as superintendent, gaining national recognition. Educated at Rush Medical College, he also served in the Twenty-first Kansas Volunteer Infantry during the Spanish-American War. Married in 1883, Biddle was affiliated with various medical societies and engaged in local politics.

Biographical Sketch of Worth M. Tippy

Worth M. Tippy, a clergyman born on November 8, 1867, in Larwill, Indiana, was educated at DePauw University and Cornell University. He married Zella Birda Ward in 1895 and had two daughters. Tippy held various pastorates in Indiana and New York, served as a university preacher, and was active in social service and church finance committees. He authored “The Socialized Church” in 1909 and participated in numerous organizations, reflecting his commitment to both church and community.

Biography of Henry J. Rudisill

Henry J. Rudisill, who arrived in Riverside in 1875, played a significant role in the development of Southern California’s citrus industry. As an original incorporator of the Riverside Land and Irrigating Company, he advocated for horticulture and organized the first-ever citrus fair in 1878. His efforts led to Riverside’s citrus fruits winning multiple awards at the 1885 World’s Fair in New Orleans. A dedicated community member, Rudisill supported numerous public enterprises and was instrumental in establishing a reliable water supply for the area.

Biography of David Thomas Denny

David Thomas Denny, born on March 17, 1832, in Indiana, was the first settler of Seattle, Washington. He emigrated westward in 1851, helping to establish the first cabin in King County at Alki Point. A veteran of the 1855-1856 Indian War, Denny also contributed to Seattle’s growth through various public offices, including treasurer and probate judge of King County. Alongside his business ventures, he actively participated in local development and was married to Louisa Bown, with whom he had eight children.