Michigan

Biography of Jacob Rumbaugh

Jacob Rumbaugh, a prominent figure in Fort Scott, Kansas, moved to the area in 1870, cultivating resilience during challenging farming conditions. His optimism and resourcefulness allowed him to thrive, despite personal hardships, including years of invalidism. Rumbaugh documented his life experiences in “Reminiscences of Jacob Rumbaugh,” reflecting his belief in the power of hope and the importance of history. He contributed significantly to his community and demonstrated tenacity in overcoming financial difficulties, ultimately achieving prosperity and leaving a lasting literary legacy in Kansas.

Biography of James A. Campbell, Dr.

Dr. James A. Campbell, born on December 13, 1881, in Bangor, Michigan, has practiced dentistry in Humboldt, Kansas, since 1905. A prominent community leader, he serves as the president of the local Board of Trade and has previously held a city council position. Educated at the University of Illinois, he has dedicated himself to professional associations and fraternal organizations. Married to Nina Pryor, the couple has one son, William. Dr. Campbell’s contributions reflect his commitment to both his profession and his community.

Biography of Albert N. Curtis

Albert N. Curtis, born in Michigan in 1864, is a prominent figure in the Mid-Continent oil fields with over twenty years of experience. He moved to Chanute, Kansas, in 1903, quickly establishing himself by drilling hundreds of wells and managing around 100 oil and gas sites in various directions from the city. Educated locally, Curtis ventured into the oil business in Ohio before his success led him to Kansas. A community leader and Democrat, he has been actively involved in local organizations and is a family man, having been married twice and raising three children.

Biography of J. M. Massey

J. M. Massey, born on May 25, 1843, in Pennsylvania, became a prominent figure in Chanute, Kansas, where he established a successful clothing business and served as vice president of the First National Bank. He moved to Kansas with his family in 1857 and engaged in various occupations, including military service during the Civil War. A devoted community member and Republican, he has been active in local civic duties and fraternal organizations. Massey married Alice Fuller in 1878 and has two children, contributing significantly to Chanute’s business landscape.

Biography of Judge Napoleon Bonaparte Moore

Judge Napoleon Bonaparte Moore, born January 8, 1827, in Alabama, played a vital role in Oklahoma’s history before his passing on October 10, 1911, at age eighty-four. Over his career, he served in various public offices, including eight years as a Supreme Court judge and nearly thirteen years as Treasurer of the Creek Nation. An accomplished agriculturist and educator, Moore was integral to community developments, particularly in the Presbyterian Church. His character earned him great respect, marking him as a significant figure in the state’s early growth.

Biography of William Thomas Rye

William Thomas Rye, born on September 2, 1879, in Virginia, has been a notable attorney in Vinita, Oklahoma, since 1908. Educated at the Cluster Springs Academy and Hampden Sidney College, he also studied law at the University of Michigan. Rye initially taught school and later partnered with prominent lawyers, demonstrating his expertise in legal matters. A veteran of World War I and a Democratic supporter, he is committed to civic engagement and continual professional development, recognized for his contributions to law and public welfare.

Cannon, Geneva R. – Obituary

Geneva R. Cannon, born June 27, 1902, in Michigan, passed away on June 6, 1979, in Walla Walla, Washington. She graduated from Monmouth Normal School and married Everett L. Cannon in 1925. The couple lived in Flora until retiring to Milton-Freewater in 1959. After her husband’s death in 1973, she moved to Walla Walla. A dedicated member of Eastgate Baptist Church, she also volunteered as a reading teacher. She is survived by her daughter, two sons, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Services were held on June 8, 1979.

Wood, William H. – Obituary

William H. Wood, born August 26, 1822, in New York, was a pioneering figure who traversed several states before settling in Oregon. He served in the U.S. Army during the Mexican-American War and participated in the California Gold Rush in 1849. Wood was married twice, first to Elizabeth Tatum and later to Mary E. Boatman, with whom he had six children. After years of declining health and blindness, he passed away, leaving behind a son and several relatives. He was remembered for his resilience and engaging storytelling.

Cole, Horatio W. Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Horatio W. Cole passed away on February 23 in San Jose, California, after a brief illness. She was surrounded by her husband, who she would have been married to for 56 years in May, and her two daughters. The funeral was held on February 26. Mr. and Mrs. Cole were influential figures in Wallowa County, known for their hospitality and support of teachers. Mrs. Cole is survived by her husband, daughters Grace Keifer and Ruby, as well as three grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Biography of Isaac E., Lambert, Sr.

Isaac E. Lambert, Sr., a distinguished attorney in Kansas, tragically lost his life in the 1908 Copeland Hotel fire at age fifty-five. Born in 1853 in Illinois, he developed a successful legal practice in Emporia after moving there in 1875, specializing in criminal and corporate law. Notably, he served as U.S. district attorney and was involved in local politics. He was married to Hattie Barnes, who passed away in 1907, and had seven children. His son, Isaac E. Lambert, Jr., now a prominent lawyer in Emporia, continues his legacy.

Biography of Lloyd Minot Collins

Lloyd Minot Collins served as the superintendent of schools in Longton, Kansas, where he quickly earned the community’s respect due to his energetic and progressive educational methods. Born on January 20, 1893, Collins was educated in Bronson, Kansas, and graduated from the Manual Training Normal School in 1916. His teaching career began in local schools before he assumed his supervisory role, overseeing seven teachers and 180 students. Collins is actively involved in several educational associations and is a dedicated member of the Baptist Church, embodying qualities essential for effective leadership in education.

Biography of William Henry Van Meer, M. D.

Dr. William Henry Van Meer, born May 4, 1854, in Ontario, Canada, is a physician and surgeon with over 25 years of experience. After early farming and carpentry, he pursued medicine and graduated from Kansas City Homeopathic Medical College in 1890. His career spanned various locations, including Valley Falls and Longton, Kansas, where he earned community respect for his medical practice. Active in professional societies and fraternal organizations, he is noted for his commitment to medical ethics and community welfare. Dr. Van Meer was married to Sarah E. Lane, and they had four children.

Biography of Alonzo J. Tullock

Alonzo J. Tullock, a prominent civil engineer born on March 21, 1854, in Winnebago County, Illinois, made significant contributions to engineering in the western United States. After studying at the University of Illinois and the University of Michigan, he took charge of a struggling bridge works in Leavenworth, which he eventually owned and transformed into the Missouri Valley Bridge and Iron Company. Tullock’s notable projects include bridges over the Mississippi River and a harbor at Galveston. He passed away on July 21, 1904, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and a supportive family.

Biography of Oscar G. Richards

Oscar G. Richards, a prominent pioneer in Kansas, passed away on April 4, 1915. Born in Michigan in 1836, he exemplified the spirit of the Kansas prairies through his remarkable character and contributions. After joining General Lane’s forces during the border conflict, he settled in Douglas County, where he studied law and practiced. A staunch advocate for temperance and justice, Richards upheld the law while earning respect from his community. His legacy, marked by kindness and leadership, continues to inspire those who remember him.

Biography of Clark Goodhue Howland, Rev.

Rev. Clark Goodhue Howland, born August 8, 1835, in New York, became a prominent Unitarian minister in Kansas, known for his kindness and dedication to service. Initially a Universalist, he converted to Unitarianism after his ordination and led the Lawrence congregation from 1881 until his death in 1899. Despite lacking formal education, Howland was a self-taught scholar and a beloved figure, especially among students. He was married to Marcia Brown, who contributed to their community through her hospitality. The Howlands had two daughters, one of whom predeceased them.

Biography of William N. Smelser

William N. Smelser, a prominent lawyer in Emporia for twenty-five years, has established a commendable reputation through diligent work and integrity. Born in Sturgis, Michigan, in 1870, he moved to Emporia as a teenager, where his family has deep roots. After completing his education and gaining experience in law, he was admitted to the bar in 1891 and has since built a successful practice. Smelser has also served as police judge and on the local school board, and he is active in several professional and civic organizations. He is married with three children.

Biography of George Alfred Sanders

George Alfred Sanders, born on July 27, 1885, in Cherokee County, Kansas, is an accomplished educator serving as superintendent of Roseland schools. He comes from a pioneering family with roots in Pennsylvania and has influenced local education for over six years. A graduate of Cherokee County High School, Sanders has taught in various capacities and oversees three schools with an enrollment of 500 students. He is also a farmer and active in the Christian Church, married to Sadie Earl with two children.

Wickham, Fannie, Mrs. – Obituary

Mrs. Fannie Wickham, sister of the late George W. Hyatt, passed away from pneumonia on May 5 at her home in Adrian, Michigan. She had visited Enterprise several times during her brother’s lifetime. Her death was reported in the Enterprise Record Chieftain on May 14, 1931.

Ketscher, Ruth Jean – Obituary

Ruth Jean Ketscher, 84, of Burns and formerly of Enterprise, passed away at home. A memorial service will be held at St. Katherine’s Catholic Church, followed by burial and a celebration of life. Born on October 9, 1922, in Detroit, she taught high school and community college after earning degrees in home economics and history. Ruth married George Ketscher in 1950, raising five children and later managing a ranch in Oregon. She is survived by her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Biography of Vern E. Thompson

Vern E. Thompson, born on November 12, 1878, in Stockbridge, Michigan, has significantly impacted the Ottawa County bar since 1902. After earning his LL.B. from the University of Michigan, he practiced law in Miami, served as the first County Attorney, and later as County Judge. A committed Republican and active in civic affairs, he contributed to local organizations, including the Chamber of Commerce and the Red Cross during World War I. Thompson is also known for his involvement in the Masons and the Presbyterian Church. He continues to practice law with a focus on mining and corporation law.