Troy New York

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.

Fall River Branch of the Lincoln Family

henry lincoln

The Fall River branch of the Lincoln family traces its roots to 17th-century Hingham, Massachusetts, originating from families in Norfolk, England. Notably, Thomas Lincoln, the miller, moved to Taunton, where his descendants, including Caleb Lincoln, contributed to the area’s manufacturing growth. Jonathan Thayer Lincoln, a prominent figure in Fall River’s industrial scene, led Kilburn, Lincoln & Co., which excelled in machinery production. His sons continued this legacy, shaping the local economy and civic life through various business and community engagements, demonstrating the family’s enduring influence in the region.

Stetson Family of Bridgewater, MA

The Stetson family of Bridgewater, MA, boasts a legacy spanning over two centuries, deeply intertwined with the town’s iron manufacturing roots. Cornet Robert Stetson, an early settler in New England, established the family’s prominence, which continued through his descendants, notably Capt. Abisha Stetson and his son, Nahum, who significantly advanced the Bridgewater Iron Works. The family contributed to various industries while maintaining a strong community presence, with members active in agriculture and local politics, demonstrating enduring civic pride and influence in Bridgewater’s development.

Grinnell Family of New Bedford, MA

l grinnell

The Grinnell family, with roots tracing back to the early 17th century in Rhode Island, has played a significant role in the history of New Bedford, MA. Notable members include Capt. Cornelius Grinnell, a Revolutionary War patriot and merchant, and his son Joseph, a U.S. Congressman. The family continued to thrive in business, particularly in the manufacturing of fire protection equipment, chiefly attributed to Frederick Grinnell’s innovations. Throughout generations, the Grinnells have exemplified civic engagement and entrepreneurial spirit within their community.

Biography of Levi Livermore Tucker

Levi Livermore Tucker, born December 10, 1853, in Vermont, dedicated his life to educating young people in business for over forty years. A graduate of the Vermont Conference Seminary and Troy Business College, he held numerous teaching and administrative positions before becoming president of the Kansas Wesleyan Business College in Salina in 1913. A devout Methodist, he was recognized for his character and leadership both in education and community service. Tucker passed unexpectedly on March 30, 1917, leaving a legacy of devotion to his students and faith.

Biography of Norman M. Ruick

Norman M. Ruick, born on October 4, 1854, in Granby, Connecticut, is a prominent Idaho attorney known for his dedication to law and public service. After initially working as a machinist, he pursued a legal career, being admitted to the bar in Indiana in 1877. Ruick practiced law in Idaho, serving as assistant district attorney and later as a state senator. He was instrumental in the Populist-Democratic coalition in 1896. Residing in Boise, he is celebrated for his criminal law expertise and has made significant contributions to Idaho’s legal and political landscape.

Biography of Michael C. Normoyle

Michael C. Normoyle, born on September 8, 1853, in Troy, New York, is a notable figure in Kendrick, Idaho, known for his significant contributions to the city’s development over the past nine years. A self-made businessman, he began his career at age ten and eventually became the proprietor of the St. Elmo Hotel. He played a key role in establishing the town’s first hotel and has invested in various enterprises, leading to local prosperity. Normoyle is also active in community initiatives and holds interests in agriculture and mining.

Biography of William H. Stufflebeam

William Herman Stufflebeam, a well-respected figure in Idaho, is the proprietor of the Blackfoot Hotel, known for his popularity and trustworthiness. Born in New York, his family has deep roots in American history, with ancestors who fought in the Revolutionary War. He moved to Idaho with his family in 1883, establishing a successful stock ranch. Educated in New York, he had a diverse career, including managing the Blackfoot Hotel and serving in various financial roles. He is also an active Democrat and an Elk. Stufflebeam married Carrie M. Keith in 1892.

Biographical Sketch of James Welch Frazier

James Welch Frazier, born on July 4, 1870, in Pittsburgh, Pa., was a prominent consulting engineer. He graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1894 and held various engineering roles, including chief engineer for the Federal Street Pleasant Valley Railroad and assistant engineer for Pennsylvania Company. In 1910, he became president of The J. W. Frazier Company and was an influential member of several engineering societies. He also served on the consulting board for the Detroit-Superior High Level Bridge and engaged with various civic organizations.

Biographical Sketch of Michall F. Donovan

Michall F. Donovan was born in Corning, New York, in 1863 to John and Mary Leary Donovan. He received his education locally and married Margaret Holmes in 1905. Beginning his career at age 14, he trained as a printer and worked in various New York cities. In 1885, he shifted focus to typewriting machines and founded a company in Cleveland in 1892, producing typewriter ribbons and carbon papers. He served as secretary and treasurer of the Buckeye Ribbon and Carbon Company and was a member of the Cleveland Credit Men’s Association.

Biography of Dudley Emerson Cornell, General

General Dudley Emerson Cornell, born in 1837 in New York, had a diverse and impactful career marked by military service, public office, and business acumen. A civil engineer by training, he served in the Civil War, eventually becoming a major-general in the Kansas State Militia. After relocating to Kansas in 1866, he excelled in the railroad industry and held various civic roles, including mayor of Kansas City. A dedicated family man, he married Annic M. Speck and had six children, leaving a legacy of service and community involvement.

Biographical Sketch of Frank Chittenden Osborn

Frank Chittenden Osborn, a civil engineer born on December 18, 1857, in Michigan, graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1880. He held various positions in prominent engineering firms, including chief engineer at King Bridge Co. and later established his own practice. He served as president of Osborn Engineering Co. and was actively involved in several professional organizations and local commissions. Additionally, he authored a work on moments of inertia in 1894. Osborn was also a member of various clubs, including Masonic and athletic associations.

Biographical Sketch of Frank Perkins Whitman

Frank Perkins Whitman was born on July 29, 1853, in Troy, New York. He was the son of William Warren and Caroline Keith Whitman. He earned his A.B. and A.M. from Brown University and studied at Johns Hopkins. Whitman was married to Charlotte Webster Wheeler in 1881. His teaching career included positions at English and Classical Schools in Providence and as a professor of physics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Western Reserve University. He was a fellow of the A.A.A.S. and actively contributed to various scientific journals.

Biographical Sketch of Arthur Bishop Shepherd

Arthur Bishop Shepherd was born on November 29, 1871, in Troy, New York. He pursued his education at St. Paul School, Columbian University, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In September 1900, he married Gertrude Robins and had three children. Shepherd worked as a designing engineer at General Electric for fourteen years, later managing their Cleveland office. He held various managerial positions across several companies and served as a director for the Toledo-Chicago Interurban Railroad Company. He was also active in the Electric League and the Theta Phi Fraternity.

Cooke, Susan Brewster – Obituary

Mrs. Susan E. Cooke, a prominent Kittitas Valley pioneer, passed away at 89 on March 11, 1921, following a prolonged decline. Born in 1832 in New York, she crossed the plains in 1851 and settled in Oregon before moving to Kittitas Valley in 1870. A direct descendant of Pilgrim William Brewster, Mrs. Cooke was orphaned young but embodied the pioneer spirit throughout her life. She leaves behind six children and numerous descendants. Funeral services will take place at her residence on Cooke Creek.

Biography of Mrs. Ellen Woods Crafts Meacham

Mrs. Ellen Woods Crafts Meacham, originally from Jackson, Michigan, is a notable figure in San Bernardino County, residing at Crafton Retreat, a site established by her father, Myron Harwood Crafts. After a diverse education spanning several states, she moved to California in 1865 and enjoyed a successful career in teaching and real estate. Mrs. Meacham, a strong advocate for women’s issues, continues to enhance Crafton Retreat, a beautiful locale surrounded by orchards and scenic views, reflecting her commitment to community and nature.

Biography of Isaac V. Gilbert

Isaac V. Gilbert moved to Riverside in 1881, acquiring seven acres on Jurupa Avenue, where he built a cottage and established a productive home with beautiful landscaping. He cultivated a notable orange grove and various deciduous fruits, yielding impressive profits. In 1885, he helped found a national bank, serving as its first president for three years and maintaining a long-term role on its board. Born in New York in 1826, Gilbert priorly engaged in farming in Illinois and married Hannah Brown, with whom he had three children.

Biography of Frank Hinckley

Frank Hinckley, a prominent horticulturist from Rhode Island, graduated in civil engineering before moving to California, where he initially worked on fortifications and railroads. After a decade, he devoted himself to fruit farming, establishing a renowned orchard on sixty acres in San Bernardino Valley. His impressive yields and the quality of his residence have earned him a respected reputation in the community. Married to Sarah C. Meek, they have ten children. Hinckley is known for his hospitality and is an active member of the Masonic fraternity.