Union County NJ

Plainfield New Jersey Police Department Records, 1890-1948

Daily Blotter Police Headquarters vol 10

The Plainfield, New Jersey Police Department records, spanning from 1890 to 1948, offer a unique window into the past, providing genealogists and historians alike with a bounty of information. These records, housed at the Plainfield Public Library, encompass a wide array of documents including arrest records, city court records, daily blotters, detective records, permit records, summons recordings, and general police logs. Despite the seemingly mundane nature of these documents, they are anything but. Each page, each entry, tells a story, contributing to the larger narrative of our shared history.

Will of John Woodruff, – 1670

John Woodruff of Southampton, L.I., bequeathed a half Crown Piece to his eldest son, John, while his daughters, Anne Woolley and Elizabeth Dayton, each received £20. The remainder of his estate was left to his wife, Ann, and youngest son, also named John, who were appointed executors. Dated May 4, 1670, the will was witnessed and proved on July 1, 1670. John Woodruff, a significant figure, was connected to the original settlers of Southampton and eventually moved to New Jersey around 1660.

Biographical Sketch of Edward C. McKay

Edward C. McKay, born in Cleveland on November 19, 1876, was the son of George A. and Margaret Adam Creech McKay. He attended Grammar and Central High School and married Louise Patten in 1905. McKay held prominent positions, including chief clerk at the Cleveland Chamber of Commerce and secretary-treasurer of The Ohio Rubber Co. He was involved in various companies, including American Trust Co. and Carnegie Steel. McKay actively participated in local organizations, including the Cleveland Real Estate Board and naval reserves.

Biography of P. C. Young, Hon.

Hon. P. C. Young stands as a prominent figure in Wilson County, celebrated for his legal acumen, literary talents, and steadfast community spirit. Born in New York in 1851, he moved to Kansas with his family, where he worked various jobs while pursuing education. Eventually becoming a well-respected attorney and public servant, Young served as county attorney and a Kansas legislator, known for his advocacy for law and order. His contributions extend beyond law, with a passion for poetry and civic engagement, leaving a lasting impact on his community.

Biographical Sketch of J. I. Ayer

J. I. Ayer, born on February 3, 1854, in Medford, Massachusetts, moved to Elizabeth, New Jersey, at age 12. After a military education in civil engineering, he helped manage a family book and stationery business. In 1870, he relocated to Mattoon, Illinois, where he worked on local railroads for three years. Ayer later became a bookkeeper before buying a book and music store in 1877. He married Mary L. Cleveland in 1876 and has one daughter. He is related to the notable Dr. J. C. Ayer.

Biography of Walter L. Fay

Walter L. Fay, born on February 5, 1859, in Auburn, New York, is a notable figure in manufacturing. After attending the Pingry School, he began his career as an office boy at D. M. Osborne Company, eventually rising through the ranks. In partnership with Ernest S. Bowen, he founded Fay & Bowen, initially producing bicycle components before transitioning to gasoline engines and launches. The company flourished in Geneva, exporting worldwide. An active community member, Fay served in various leadership roles and was politically independent. He married Minnie G. in 1888 and had two children.

Biography of John Edward Stewart

John Edward Stewart, a distinguished figure in Springfield, Massachusetts, was a successful businessman and a Civil War veteran. As president of the John E. Stewart Company, he exemplified integrity and community spirit, significantly impacting the local manufacturing and printing trade. With Scottish ancestry, his family’s legacy contributed to various societal foundations. Stewart served with valor in the Union Army, earning a commission from President Lincoln. His personal and civic virtues fostered respect and admiration throughout his community, marking him as a vital and constructive element of Springfield’s progress.

Biography of Colonel George Davenport

Colonel George Davenport, born in 1783 in England, was the first permanent settler in present-day Rock Island County, arriving in 1816. A veteran with a notable military career, he served against Native American tribes and fought in the War of 1812. After the war, he transitioned to Indian trading and became a respected figure among local tribes, known as Sag-a-nosh. Davenport’s contributions included acting as postmaster and helping establish the town of Davenport, Iowa. His life ended tragically in 1845 due to a robbery, but his legacy as a humanitarian remains significant.