An online index to the Portrait and Biographical Record of Seneca and Schuyler Counties, New York, this volume preserves portraits and biographical sketches of prominent local citizens, including many overlooked by public records. Compiled with care for accuracy, it offers valuable material for genealogists and historians, along with biographies of all U.S. presidents.
Francis A. McCarty, born April 23, 1837, in Schuyler County, New York, became a prominent business figure in Douglas County after moving there in 1879. He married Emma Young and had five children. A dedicated farmer, McCarty owned vast estates at his death on May 14, 1899. His family lineage includes notable ancestors, such as his grandfather Joseph Frost, a Revolutionary War soldier. McCarty’s success and business acumen left a lasting impact on the community, which his widow continued to nurture.
Edward S. Smith, born on February 28, 1827, in New York, became a prominent figure in the development of Winona and Tacoma, Minnesota. After early business setbacks, he achieved success through ventures such as building the first civilian sawmill in Minneapolis and investing in the local railroad. Notably, he played a crucial role in the Northern Pacific Railroad’s construction and the discovery of coal mines in Washington. A staunch advocate for justice and community, he died on December 31, 1885. He left a legacy marked by enterprise and philanthropy.
Norman Simon Hubbell, born on October 29, 1837, in New York, was a pivotal figure among Idaho’s early pioneers. He ventured west in 1862, working various jobs before establishing a prosperous life in Boise. Engaged in butchering, cattle, and sheep-raising, he became a successful landowner. A family man, Hubbell married Cynthia Reynolds in 1870 and had five children. Active in his community and a lifelong Republican, he maintained a reputation for integrity and temperance throughout his life.
Charles C. Davison, born on June 22, 1868, in Odessa, New York, has had a significant career in the milling industry. After briefly attending Cornell University, he pursued a path in milling, working in various mills before buying one in Odessa. He later operated a flour and feed store in Geneva, where he acquired the Geneva Flouring Mill in 1904. A member of the Democratic Party and several fraternal organizations, he is married to A. Louise and has one daughter, Annette B.
David Bennett Hill was born on August 29, 1843, in Havana, New York. Raised by industrious parents, he excelled in education and pursued a legal career, establishing a successful law practice in Elmira. Hill’s political journey began with his election to the state assembly and continued with various roles, including mayor of Elmira and lieutenant governor. He succeeded Grover Cleveland as governor of New York, serving with notable popularity and delivering eloquent addresses on democracy and governance. Hill’s career reflects his commitment to justice and the laboring class.
William Chapman immigrated in 1847, arriving in the West after a journey filled with challenges, including delays and encounters with buffalo herds. He later became involved in the defense against the Indians following the Whitman massacre, participating in several military campaigns. After returning to the Willamette valley, he worked on a farm, saved wages, and eventually married Esther Bewley. By 1852, he settled in Yamhill County, transforming his Donation claim into a productive farm. His family has managed the farm for generations.
George D. Shannon, born December 20, 1832, in Schuyler County, New York, rose to prominence as a contractor, banker, and farmer. Beginning his career in railroading at sixteen, he contributed significantly to train operations in Minnesota, including the first passenger train west of the Mississippi. Shannon later engaged in railroad contracting across multiple states before settling in Olympia, Washington, in 1870. He is known for his role in constructing the state’s asylum and as vice-president of the First National Bank. He married Mary A. Kennedy in 1876.
John Henry Woodward, born on February 9, 1836, in Tompkins, New York, pursued a successful career as a lawyer and military officer. After studying law, he was admitted to the bar in 1860 and soon volunteered for military service, becoming a captain on the general staff of the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War. Post-war, he resumed legal practice in Watkins and later in Portland, Oregon, where he gained prominence, served as County Judge, and became a respected figure in the legal community. Woodward was married in 1863 and remains a member of Trinity Episcopal Church.
Cyrus A. Dolph, born on September 27, 1840, in New York, became a distinguished lawyer in Oregon after moving to Portland in 1862. He began his legal studies while teaching and was admitted to the bar in 1866. Dolph served as City Attorney from 1869 and declined further political nominations. He held key positions in major corporations, including the Northern Pacific Terminal and the Oregon Improvement Company. A dedicated lawyer, his practice flourished, earning him respect for his sound judgment and conscientious nature.