Warren County OH

Biographical Sketch of William Elgin

William Elgin, born in Wayne County, Ohio, on May 28, 1827, moved with his family to Montgomery County, where he attended school and learned cabinet-making. After working in Ohio and Indiana, he returned to farming. In 1861, Elgin enlisted in the Ohio Volunteer Infantry but later served as a captain for home protection. He settled in Daviess County, Indiana, in 1865, purchasing and improving a farm. Elgin married Rhoda M. Crosley in 1847, and they had four children together.

Slave Narrative of Celia Henderson

Celia Henderson, born in 1849 in Hardin County, Kentucky, recalls her early life shaped by slavery. Her mother, a skilled cook, was sold to settle a debt, leading the family to Natchez, where they lived and worked. Celia, who helped with chores from a young age, shares memories of community gatherings and herbal remedies from her mother. Now 88, she reflects on her family history, including her own struggles with aging and the transition from enslavement to a life of limited means in Ohio.

Slave Narrative of Reverend Williams

Reverend Williams, a 76-year-old Methodist minister from Greenbriar County, West Virginia, shares his life story during an interview in Lebanon, Ohio. Born to a free mother and enslaved father, he emphasizes the significance of education provided by Miss Frances Cree, his grandmother’s owner. Throughout his ministry, he has advocated for traditional hymns over spirituals, believing in a practical expression of faith. Williams reflects on the cultural differences within the church and his commitment to maintaining a consecrated life, underscoring resilience and community values.

Slave Narrative of Samuel Sutton

Samuel Sutton, born in 1854 in Garrett County, Kentucky, recounts his life as an enslaved person under the ownership of Master Ballinger. Sutton describes Ballinger as a fair master who treated his slaves kindly, unlike his stern wife. He recalls witnessing soldiers during the Civil War and shares experiences of hardship and the challenges faced by freedmen post-war. Sutton highlights the excitement of freedom, including voting for Lincoln’s policies. Now residing in Lebanon, Ohio, he farms and cares for his family.

Biographical Sketch of Henry King

Capt. Henry King, born in Salem, Ohio, in 1841, was a prominent journalist whose career spanned several states, notably Kansas and Missouri. Initially trained as a printer, he rose to become the editor of multiple newspapers, including the Daily Whig and the St. Louis Globe-Democrat. King’s influence was significant, earning him leadership roles in editorial associations and recognition at the World’s Press Parliament. A devoted writer, he preferred penning his work by hand, leaving a lasting impact on Kansas journalism until his death in 1915.

Biography of Frank H. Roberts

Frank H. Roberts, born in Ohio in 1851, is the current editor and proprietor of the Oskaloosa Independent, a Kansas newspaper established by his father, John W. Roberts, in 1860. Under their stewardship, it has become one of the longest-running publications in the state. Frank, who was educated locally and briefly worked elsewhere, has maintained the paper as a staunch Republican organ. In addition to his editorial role, he has served as Oskaloosa’s mayor and been active in the Methodist Church and various fraternal organizations. He has two marriages, producing four children.

Biography of John M. Morley

John M. Morley, born on November 23, 1852, in Ohio, has dedicated his career to banking, becoming one of Northeastern Kansas’ largest private bankers. He is the sole owner of the Bank of Severance and president of the State Bank of Purcell. Raised on his father’s farm in Kansas, Morley pursued education at St. Benedict’s College before entering banking in 1883. Beyond banking, he manages multiple farms and has served in various civic roles, remaining active in the Catholic Church and local community.

Biography of Charles O. Stockslager

Judge Charles O. Stockslager, a prominent jurist in Idaho’s fourth judicial district, was born on February 8, 1847, in Harrison County, Indiana. With a legal career starting in Kansas, he became a respected attorney and public servant, holding positions such as district court clerk and county attorney. After moving to Hailey, Idaho, he was appointed as receiver of the U.S. land office and later elected judge. Renowned for his fair judgments, he has earned respect across the Idaho legal community and is known for his contributions to society and family life.

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.

Biography of John W. Murphy

John W. Murphy, born December 9, 1831, in Franklin, Ohio, is recognized as a significant pioneer and contributor to the development of Union County. He engaged in various trades, including as a millwright and miner, and later became a successful orchardist, cultivating cherries and apples on his farm. Married in 1867, he had two children and gained respect for his integrity and commitment to education, serving as a school director. Additionally, Murphy faced numerous conflicts with Native Americans, proving his resilience and earning their respect.

Biographical Sketch of William Edward Patterson

William Edward Patterson was born on February 5, 1873, in Hunter, Ohio. He earned his Ph.B. from Mt. Union College in 1893 and his LL.B. from West Virginia University in 1895. Admitted to the bar that same year, he practiced law in Wheeling before moving to Cleveland in 1897. He became a partner at Patterson Nieding in 1910 and held several corporate positions, including treasurer of Forest City Woolen Mills. Patterson was also active in various civic and fraternal organizations.

Biographical Sketch of William G. Phare

William G. Phare, born June 29, 1863, in Warrensville, Ohio, was an attorney and prominent public figure. He graduated from the National Normal University in 1882 and married Mattie M. Linder in 1884. Phare served in the Ohio Legislature (1900-1902) and the Ohio Senate (1910-1912), and was Mayor of Cleveland Heights (1912-1914). He organized The Fairmount Savings Bank Co. in 1902 and was involved in real estate. Additionally, he contributed to local educational and church boards and was active in various professional organizations.

Biography of Joseph Kennedy Hudson, General

General Joseph Kennedy Hudson was a prominent Kansas soldier and a fervent advocate for the free-state movement, gaining recognition for his leadership during crucial conflicts. He founded and edited the Topeka Capital, significantly influencing public opinion and state politics. Hudson’s commitment to journalism spanned nearly three decades, enhancing the Capital’s reputation. A veteran of the Civil War and later a brigadier general during the Spanish-American War, Hudson was also a political figure, serving in the Kansas House and as state printer. His legacy endures in Kansas history.

Biography of William H. Smith

William H. Smith, born in 1846 in Warren County, Ohio, moved to Kansas in 1869 and became a prominent figure in Chanute, where he served as president of the Old Settlers Association. He had a diverse career, transitioning from livestock and livery businesses to farming, and ultimately engaging in retail. Active in local politics, a Democrat, and involved in various fraternal organizations, Smith was a respected community leader. Married in 1877, he raised two children and owned significant property in the area, emphasizing industriousness and civic responsibility throughout his life.

Biography of Keenan Hurst

Keenan Hurst, born March 5, 1839, in Ohio, is a notable Civil War veteran and esteemed figure in Elk County, Kansas. After several years of farming, he transitioned into politics and law, serving as city attorney and deputy county attorney in Howard. He actively participated in significant battles, including Chickamauga and Atlanta, sustaining injuries but continuing his service. A lifelong learner, Hurst pursued legal education post-war. He married twice and fathered several children, contributing to local civic life and the Grand Army of the Republic.

Biography of John W. Roberts

John W. Roberts, born July 3, 1880, in Topeka, grew up in Oskaloosa, Kansas, where he pursued a career in education and journalism. After graduating from Baker University in 1903, he held various teaching positions, culminating in his role as superintendent of city schools at Sedan since 1912. A member of several educational associations, Roberts has contributed significantly to local education. He married Lena McConnell in 1908, and they have one daughter, Margaret. His family’s distinguished newspaper legacy also shapes his identity.

Biography of John Quincy Smith

John Quincy Smith, born on September 20, 1848, in Lebanon, Ohio, exemplified a life of diverse success in both medicine and business. After earning his medical degree, he practiced in several states before transitioning to the wholesale produce sector and later establishing a successful piano business in Fredonia. A community leader and active Republican, he contributed significantly to local development, including the Fredonia Development Company. Smith married Minerva C. Van Harlingen in 1872, and they had two children, continuing his legacy in Fredonia.

Biography of John Quincy Smith

John Quincy Smith, born in Lebanon, Ohio, in 1848, was a prominent figure in Fredonia, where his diverse career spanned medicine and business. After earning his medical degree, he practiced in Indiana and Idaho before transitioning to commercial endeavors. Smith established a successful wholesale produce business and later a piano company, influencing the local economy significantly. A dedicated community member and Methodist church trustee, he contributed to various enterprises, including the Fredonia Development Company. He married Minerva Van Harlingen and had two children, continuing to shape the region’s growth and prosperity.

Biography of Col. James L. Abernathy

Col. James L. Abernathy was a significant figure in Kansas history, arriving in Leavenworth in 1856, a time of frontier expansion. Born in Ohio in 1833, he initially worked in retail before entering the thriving furniture business with his brother. A staunch Union supporter, Abernathy served as captain during the Civil War. Post-war, he continued to shape Leavenworth’s economy and growth, holding various leadership roles, including mayor. Known for his business acumen and gentle demeanor, he was a beloved community leader until his death in 1902.