Washington County PA

History of Bentleysville, Pennsylvania

Bentleysville title page

This book is a collection of stories, letters, and historical records detailing the brief history of Bentleysville, a rural community in southwestern Pennsylvania. Established around a mill operated by Sheshbazzar Bentley Sr. and Jr. on Pigeon Creek in 1816, the town grew to a population of 300 by 1868. The author traces the origins of Bentleysville back to the 1770s to document the earliest settlers, while also providing context through significant national events like the Whiskey Rebellion and the Civil War. Although Bentleysville’s history as a village ended before 1900, this work preserves its legacy for future generations.

The Cox family in America

The Cox family in America

Two volumes of Cox family genealogy combined as one. The first volume contains information about the various early Cox families across America. The second volume deals specifically with the descendants of James and Sarah Cock of Killingworth upon Matinecock, in the township of Oysterbay, Long Island, New York.

Record of the Smith family descended from John Smith

Record of the Smith family descended from John Smith

This book contains the history of the descendants of John Smith, born in Ireland in 1686, died in Uwchlan, Chester County, Pennsylvania, December 19, 1765; and his wife, Susanna, born in Ireland in 1691, died in Uwchlan, Chester County, Pennsylvania, December 24, 1767.

Biography of John H. Mitchell

John H. Mitchell, born in Pennsylvania, emerged as a distinguished political leader in Oregon after receiving a strong education at the Witherspoon Institute. Admitted to the bar in 1856, he moved west, where he became a key figure in the formation of the Union party and was elected to the Oregon Senate in 1862. Mitchell later served as a U.S. Senator, known for his thorough understanding of law and significant contributions to the development of the Columbia River. His leadership and dedication to public service earned him respect across party lines.

Biography of James A. Williams

James A. Williams, born in August 1862 in Monongahela City, Pennsylvania, achieved notable success despite limited formal education. After his mother’s death at age thirteen, he sought opportunities in the West, ultimately settling in Tuscola Township, Illinois. Through hard work, he acquired 240 acres of land and engaged in store ownership. Married to Amy McGrath, he has three children and remains active in farm management. Williams is affiliated with the Modern Woodmen of Camargo and identifies as a Republican.

Genealogy of Susannah French and John Shideler

Susannah French, born in 1785 in Essex County, New Jersey, married John Shideler, a descendant of Peter Shideler from Pennsylvania. The couple settled in Miami County, Ohio, where they raised their children. Among them were Aaron, Susannah, John, Peter, Mary, Priscilla, Jesse, Lavina, Louisa, Simeon, and Isaac, many of whom married and had families of their own. John Shideler passed away in 1844, while Susannah died in 1863.

Genealogy of Deborah French and Isaac Clark

Deborah French, born November 24, 1769, in Essex County, New Jersey, married Isaac Clark on April 12, 1786. She passed away on December 30, 1846, near Amity, Pennsylvania. The couple had several children, including Phebe, John, Aaron, Silas, and more, with varied fates and marriages throughout their lives. Their lineage reflects a diverse family history, with descendants spreading to locations such as Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Iowa. Isaac Clark died on November 30, 1842.

Genealogy of Aaron French, Jr.

Aaron French, Jr. (1767-1850) was born in New Jersey and settled in Johnstown, Ohio. He married Ruth Coe in 1792, with whom he had several children, including John and Ira. After Ruth’s death, he wed Catharine Combs in 1835. His lineage includes notable descendants such as John Newton French and Abigail French, who married Isaac Connet. Throughout his life, Aaron contributed to a rich family history with roots dating back to Robert Coe, an English immigrant of 1634.

Genealogy of Aaron French

Aaron French, born on September 8, 1739, in New Jersey, passed away near Amity, Pennsylvania, on August 31, 1805. He was married twice: first to Mary Clark and then to Elizabeth, who outlived him. Aaron lived in New Providence, New Jersey, before relocating to Pennsylvania around 1787, where he acquired extensive land. His first marriage produced several children, including Aaron Jr., Deborah, and Ezekiel, among others, contributing to the French lineage in the area.

Biography of Edwin R. Christman

Edwin R. Christman, born on September 6, 1887, in Wheeling, West Virginia, rose to prominence as secretary of the Silurian Oil Company in St. Louis. Educated in Washington, Pennsylvania, he began his career with the McClure Company before joining the Silurian Oil Company in 1908. A dedicated family man, he married Genevieve Templeman and has three children. During World War I, he actively supported American defense efforts. Christman is a Knight of Columbus and a committed Republican, recognized for his contributions to both business and community.

Biographical Sketch of Richard W. Blue

Richard W. Blue, born on September 8, 1841, in Wood County, Virginia, emerged as a prominent lawyer and judge after serving as a Union officer in the Civil War. Educated at Monongalia Academy and Washington College, he enlisted in the Third West Virginia Infantry and rose through the ranks despite being captured and held as a prisoner of war. After the war, he settled in Kansas, practiced law, and held various political positions including two terms in the State Senate and a congressman-at-large role before his death in 1907.

Biography of Eames Dickey

Eames Dickey, born on September 3, 1788, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, was raised in the northwestern territory. He made a name for himself as a dedicated mail rider between Marietta and Chillicothe during challenging conditions, particularly during the War of 1812. Notable for his integrity, he earned respect for his reliability in carrying mail despite numerous obstacles. In 1815, he married Betsy Brown and later established a farm in Bernard. He was known for his hospitality until his death on June 12, 1862, in McConnellsville.

Biography of Rev. Jacob Lindley

Rev. Jacob Lindley, born June 13, 1774, in Washington County, Pennsylvania, was a prominent figure in early American education and the Presbyterian Church. After graduating from Princeton in 1798, he became a licensed preacher and moved to Ohio in 1803, where he helped establish Ohio University in Athens, serving as its first leader for nearly twenty years. A steadfast moral advocate, Lindley’s amiable nature and influence extended to both students and the local community. He returned to Pennsylvania in 1829 and passed away on January 29, 1857.

Biographical Sketch of Vincent J. Lane

Vincent J. Lane, born on January 27, 1828, in Pennsylvania, emerged as a prominent newspaper figure and civic leader in Wyandotte County, Kansas. After leaving home at 16, he taught school, helped establish Quindaro, and served as its postmaster. His ventures included farming and a stint during the gold rush in Montana. Returning to Kansas City, he founded the Wyandotte Herald, and held roles such as register of deeds, state legislator, and postmaster under Grover Cleveland, contributing significantly to local governance.

Biography of Mrs. A. C. Stich

Mrs. A. C. Stich, a prominent Kansas woman of notable heritage, descends from a lineage rich in service and talent, including a Civil War captain father and a Revolutionary War general ancestor. Born in Pennsylvania, she married pioneer Thomas Raisor and became an influential figure in Independence. Mrs. Stich led philanthropic efforts, notably as president of the Ladies Library Association, contributing to the establishment of the Carnegie Library, and actively supported the arts. Her dedication extends across various community and social organizations, marking her as a vital force in local initiatives.

Biography of James P. Lee

James P. Lee, born in 1855 in Washington County, Pennsylvania, is a prominent member of the Merrick Lee general merchants in Swan, Missouri. Known for his honorable business practices, he has gained the respect of the community. Educated later in life, Lee transitioned from farming to merchandising in 1890, while maintaining agricultural interests. He married Alfredine A. Meyers in 1878 and is an active member of the Odd Fellows. Lee’s rise in business is attributed to his industrious nature and commitment to education.

Biography of James W. Ballantine

James W. Ballantine, born on February 15, 1839, in Pennsylvania, exemplifies the mercantile spirit of the Wood River Valley. The son of Scottish immigrants, he served valiantly in the Civil War, rising to the rank of major due to his commendable service. After the war, he transitioned to the oil refining industry before moving to Idaho to manage mining operations. A prominent businessman and member of the local legislature, Ballantine was influential in the Populist Party and engaged in various successful ventures, maintaining a strong community presence.