Vermont
Biography of Gen. John H. Stevens
Gen. John H. Stevens, a notable pioneer of the Inland Empire, was born in Vermont and later moved to Michigan, where he held various occupations, including hotel-keeping and lumbering. In 1852, he traveled to Oregon with a sizeable group, successfully navigating challenges like cholera. Stevens played a significant role in local governance, the military during the Yakima War, and was involved in the state’s legislative efforts. Eventually settling in La Grande, he became a prosperous rancher and respected community leader, with a legacy through his children and grandchildren.
Biography of Solomon Howard Smith
Solomon Howard Smith, born December 26, 1809, in Lebanon, New Hampshire, was a significant pioneer in the Pacific Northwest. He pursued education in medicine but transitioned to trading and agriculture after an adventurous journey to the region in 1832. Smith became an agricultural pioneer in Clatsop County, introducing livestock and establishing vital trade during the gold rush. A community leader, he prioritized education, served as a state senator, and supported settlers. He died in August 1876, leaving a legacy of enterprise and generosity.
Biography of Hon. E. L. Smith
Hon. E. L. Smith, born in 1837 in Vermont, became a prominent figure in California after moving there in 1861. An early member of the Republican Party, he was appointed secretary of Washington Territory and acted as governor. Smith established the first bank in Olympia and later moved to Hood River, Oregon, where he engaged in mercantile business and public initiatives. A respected speaker and community leader, he was elected speaker of the Oregon legislature in 1888. Smith was known for his advocacy of temperance and the Unitarian faith. He and his wife had six children.
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 Clarence W. Brooks
Clarence W. Brooks, born June 22, 1848, in Royalton, Vermont, exemplifies the pioneer spirit in his successful hotel ventures across the western United States. His career began in grocery and transitioned to prominent hotel roles in New York City and Colorado. In 1884, he acquired the Eagle House in Idaho Falls, later enhancing his reputation through various hotel developments, including the remodeled Brooks Hotel. A successful businessman, Brooks also managed substantial farmland and was supported by his wife, Mary Wallace, a respected landlady.
Biography of Damian Lavery, Rev.
Rev. Damian Lavery, a dedicated educator and director of St. Benedicts College in Atchison, is a native of Vermont but grew up in Kansas. Born on February 17, 1878, he pursued his education at St. Benedicts, graduating in 1896, before completing his theological studies and being ordained in 1903. Lavery became a faculty member that same year and was appointed director in 1911. Renowned as a public speaker, he has lectured widely across the Midwest, sharing his insights on various educational topics.
Biography of William H. Townsend
William H. Townsend, a key pioneer of Owyhee County, arrived in 1863 when the area was still undeveloped. Born in Vermont in 1832, he traveled to California for mining and later to Oregon before settling in Owyhee. Townsend participated in the discovery of rich mineral deposits and engaged in significant mining operations, including the Morning Star mine. He has since established a mill near De Lamar. A dedicated family man and community member, Townsend is involved in local politics and fraternal organizations, marked by hard work and industriousness.
Biography of James Edwards
James Edwards, born in Vermont in 1838, has contributed significantly to the industrial development of northern Idaho. After various business ventures, including dairy farming and mining, he became a successful hotel proprietor in Grangeville. Edwards actively participated in the Sheepeater Indian War and served as a long-term justice of the peace. He married Mary Rains, widow of a man killed in conflict, and they raised her sons. Now retired, Edwards owns several farms and remains respected in his community for his contributions and public service.
Biography of Levi Leland Chandler
Levi Leland Chandler, born on December 3, 1867, near North Springfield, Vermont, played a significant role in Chase County, Kansas, as a farmer and merchant. He moved to Chase County in 1879, where he eventually established a successful business at Bazaar. Active in local politics, Chandler held various positions within the Republican Party. He married twice, first to Alice Goldie Moon and later to Caroline H. Breese, a prominent family associated with early Kansas history. Chandler’s contributions to the community reflect a life of service and dedication.
Biography of Hiland Southworth
Hiland Southworth, born on September 26, 1849, in Vermont, became a pivotal figure in the development of Abilene, Kansas, after arriving in 1878. Initially practicing law, he transitioned to investment banking, where his exceptional skills contributed significantly to the financial stability of the community. Southworth managed millions in investments, earning a reputation for integrity and acumen across Kansas. He married Ella E. Walker in 1882 and, while they had no children, they raised two foster children. Southworth passed away on June 19, 1917.
Biography of Hon. Ruel Rounds
Ex-Senator Ruel Rounds, born in Vermont on September 3, 1841, served in the U.S. Army during the Civil War before pursuing various business ventures in the West. He established a trading post, worked as a stage guard, and engaged in mining and merchandising across multiple states. In 1890, he settled in Idaho Falls, where he played a pivotal role in local development and served as Bingham County commissioner. Elected to the state senate, he contributed to significant legislation and later became postmaster of Idaho Falls, earning widespread respect.
Biography of William F. Benson, Hon.
Hon. William F. Benson served as the state bank commissioner of Kansas, appointed by Governor George H. Hodges based on merit rather than politics. With extensive banking experience and a strong ethical foundation, Benson managed the vital responsibilities of the office effectively. His career included roles as county treasurer, bank cashier, and state senator. A Kansas resident for over thirty-eight years, he was actively involved in public service and community affairs. Married to Margaret Farley, they had four children. Benson was also an active member of several fraternal organizations.
Biography of David Millington Howard
David Millington Howard was a significant figure in Rossville, Kansas, known for his contributions as a farmer, stockman, and financier. Born in Vermont in 1841, he excelled in his education despite the demanding labor of farm life. A pioneer in agricultural practices, he notably raised alfalfa and bred quality livestock. Howard also played a crucial role in local banking and politics, serving in the Kansas Legislature. Renowned for his integrity, he supported numerous community initiatives before passing away in 1913, leaving a lasting legacy.
Biography of John O. Adams, Hon.
Hon. John O. Adams, born on September 24, 1889, in Langley, Kansas, emerged as a prominent figure in Ottawa County’s business and civic life after relocating to Delphos in 1901. Following his father’s death, he managed the family general store and continued its legacy of fair business practices. Elected mayor in 1917, Adams advocated for civic improvements while maintaining a strong presence in fraternal organizations. He married Pansy Mitchell in 1916 and was known for his commitment to both commerce and community service throughout his career.
Biography of Chester P. Coburn
Chester P. Coburn, born May 3, 1832, in Vermont, was a significant pioneer in Idaho’s development after arriving in 1862. He participated in organizing both the territory and state, contributing to its transformation through public service and business. Initially involved in mining in California, he later established a livery and engaged in stock raising and butchering in Lewiston. Married to Martha Chauncy, they had seven children. Coburn’s political involvement began with the Republican Party, and he remains a respected figure in Masonic circles, known for his dedication to Idaho’s progress.
Biography of Carmel C. Carpenter
Carmel C. Carpenter, born in Iowa in 1845 to a prominent family, exemplified faith in Idaho’s agricultural potential. After serving honorably in the Civil War, he pursued farming, relocating to Latah County in 1880. With dedication, he cultivated a 320-acre farm, excelling in wheat and barley production. A staunch Republican, Carpenter served in various local positions, including as chairman of the board of trustees. He is respected for his integrity and contributions to the community, leaving a legacy intertwined with Idaho’s agricultural advancements.
Biography of Charles L. Kaler
Charles L. Kaler, a notable figure on the Pacific coast for over four decades, has significantly contributed to the region’s progress through his extensive work in horticulture. As the proprietor of a large nursery and greenhouse in La Grande, he offers a diverse range of ornamental trees, shrubs, and flowers. Born in Maine and having traveled extensively, Kaler ultimately established Willow Glen, a renowned property featuring an extensive nursery and a picturesque artificial lake. He is well-respected in his community for both his business acumen and musical talents.
Biography of Peter Goyette
Peter Goyette, born on April 5, 1841, in East Canada, near Montreal, emigrated to the United States in 1858, where he engaged in various occupations before settling in Union County. Over thirty years, he became a prominent agriculturist and stockman, cultivating a significant estate in High Valley. Married twice, he had several children and was known for his integrity and dedication to his community. A member of the Catholic Church, Goyette’s life exemplifies the achievements of immigrants in the American West.
Biography of William G. Peach
William G. Peach, born on October 15, 1833, in Newbury, Vermont, led a notable life marked by industriousness and integrity. After limited schooling, he journeyed to California in 1853, where he engaged in mining for seven years. Later, he shifted to general farming and dairying, ultimately acquiring a significant estate near Island City, Oregon. A Republican and Mason, Peach married Jane Seaver in 1860, raising several children. Respected in his community, he is known for his upright character and contributions to local agriculture.