Vermont

Biography of Charles P. La Riviere

Charles P. La Riviere, born in St. Albans, Vermont, on April 20, 1877, has served as Chicopee’s city clerk since 1922. He grew up in Chicopee, where he pursued various occupations, including work in drafting and as a business owner. La Riviere is actively involved in community organizations and local governance, and has held positions such as trustee at the Chicopee Falls Savings Bank and financial secretary for the Foresters of America. He married Corinne L. Maynard in 1899 and they have two children.

Biography of George Edward Reed

George Edward Reed, born January 10, 1880, in Brattleboro, Vermont, established a significant presence in the laundry industry as president of the Amherst Laundry Company. He began his career in a Brattleboro laundry, later moving through various Vermont towns before settling in Amherst, where he transformed the cooperative laundry into a modernized operation in 1921. Reed is respected in his field and active in local organizations, including the Odd Fellows and the Amherst Business Men’s Association. He married Maud Allian Crosier in 1902 and has two sons.

Biography of James Hale Newton

James Hale Newton, a prominent figure in Holyoke, Massachusetts, was an accomplished businessman, educator, and civic leader, regarded as the Grand Old Man of his community. Born in 1832 into a long-established New England family, he pursued an extensive education while working various jobs. Newton played a key role in founding and managing several paper mills and banks, contributing significantly to the region’s prosperity. His dedication to civic affairs included organizing educational and healthcare institutions, reflecting his philanthropic spirit and commitment to community development until his death in 1921.

Biography of George Edward Adams

George Edward Adams, born December 8, 1880, in Brattleboro, Vermont, is the president and general manager of the H. K. Smith Company in Springfield, a leading dealership for Ford automobiles and tractors. His lineage traces back to Robert Adams, an early New England settler. After a career in the grain business, Adams shifted to the automobile industry, establishing a successful agency in 1908. He is recognized for his community involvement and contributions, and he is a family man, married to Margaret C. Averill with three children.

Biography of Malcolm Crawford

Malcolm Crawford, born in Putney, Vermont, is known for his contributions as a farmer and skilled mechanic in Hatfield, Massachusetts. His ancestry traces back to James Crawford, an immigrant from Ireland who settled in New England in 1730. After a brief career in the grocery business, Malcolm transitioned to the tobacco industry before becoming a machinist at the Porter Machine Company. He is a respected community member, active in various Masonic organizations, and married Antoinette Morton in 1909.

Biography of Reese James Richards

Reese James Richards, born January 1, 1885, in Fairhaven, Vermont, has made significant contributions to Northampton’s jewelry industry. After years of training and experience across various locations, he established a prominent jewelry business in Northampton in 1913. An active civic leader, Richards served on the Board of Aldermen and held leadership roles in various fraternal organizations. He married Leona Bond in 1912 and has one son, continuing the family’s legacy in the community. His work has left a lasting impact on local commerce and civic engagement.

Biography of Julian Lee Perkins

Julian Lee Perkins, born August 23, 1879, in Bridgewater, Vermont, is the President of Perkins Appliance Company in Springfield, Massachusetts. His lineage traces back to English roots, with his ancestor John Perkins migrating to New England in 1630. Julian’s father, Charles A. Perkins, was a farmer and Civil War veteran. After working as an engraver and sawmill owner, Julian transitioned to manufacturing gears during World War I, adapting his business post-war. He is actively involved in local commerce and holds Republican views, alongside his Adventist faith.

Biography of James Barclay Jermain

James Barclay Jermain, born in Albany, NY, in 1809, is celebrated as a dedicated philanthropist. He inherited wealth and used it to benefit his community through initiatives including the Jermain Memorial Church and the Young Men’s Christian Association building in Albany. He also supported the Home for Aged Men and the Fairview Home for Friendless Children, ensuring the welfare of vulnerable populations. Jermain’s life reflects a commitment to social, intellectual, and moral upliftment, embodying the spirit of true Christian philanthropy.

Biography of Galen R. Hitt

Galen R. Hitt, born on August 16, 1843, in Pawlet, Vermont, rapidly gained recognition within the Democratic Party through his legal prowess and political engagement. After studying law and establishing a successful practice in Albany, he served multiple terms in local government and the state assembly, championing various improvements, notably the repaving of State Street. Hitt was known for his eloquence and fierce advocacy, earning respect as a prominent legislator. His dedication to Albany’s advancement and his strong political convictions significantly enhanced his reputation.

Biography of Matthew Hale

Matthew Hale, born on June 20, 1829, in Chelsea, Vermont, has established a distinguished legal career in Albany over the past twenty-two years. Hailing from notable ancestry, he received an excellent education, graduating from the University of Vermont in 1851. His legal practice began in Poughkeepsie and subsequently expanded to New York City. Hale has participated in significant legal cases and held various political roles, including serving in the state senate and being a delegate to the constitutional convention. He is recognized for his integrity, intellectual contributions, and commitment to independent political thought.

Biography of Isaac G. Perry

Isaac G. Perry, born on March 24, 1822, in Bennington, Vermont, rose to prominence as an architect after moving to New York City in 1852. His early apprenticeship with his father laid the foundation for a successful career, leading to notable projects including the New York State Inebriate Asylum and several significant buildings in Binghamton and nearby cities. Appointed as the regular capitol commissioner in 1883, Perry oversaw the new capitol’s design, particularly the impressive state library. He became known for his integrity and dedication to architecture throughout his career.

Biography of Cyrus Strong Merrill, M. D.

Cyrus Strong Merrill, M.D., born on September 21, 1847, in Bridport, Vermont, became a prominent oculist and aurist. His early passion for natural sciences led him to study medicine at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York, graduating in 1871. After working at the Brooklyn Eye and Ear Hospital, he furthered his education in Europe. Returning to Albany in 1874, he established a successful practice and held esteemed positions at local hospitals and Albany Medical College. Dr. Merrill is renowned for his cataract surgeries and contributions to medical literature.

Vermont Frontier Forts Prior 1902

The text lists various forts, blockhouses, and military hospitals located in Vermont, highlighting their historical significance and geographic locations. Notable entries include Alburgh Springs, Ethan Allen Fort, and various facilities associated with military activities such as the Champlain Arsenal and hospitals in Burlington and Montpelier. These sites reflect Vermont’s strategic military history and contributions, especially during key conflicts.

Miscellaneous African American Genealogy

Old Slave

African American genealogy poses unique challenges due to limited record-keeping prior to the Civil War. A dedicated section addressing these resources is vital, paralleling Native American research. While improvements have been made through new publications and guides, effective research requires a methodical approach, particularly when differentiating between records for enslaved individuals and free Black individuals. Key resources include census, military, court, and church records, alongside cemetery databases. Understanding these differences is crucial for tracing African American ancestry in pre- and post-emancipation contexts.

Biography of Edwin K. Burnham

Edwin K. Burnham, born on September 8, 1839, in Randolph, Vermont, is a notable figure in both military and civil service. After attending law school in Albany, he enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War, serving as a sergeant with the Fifteenth Vermont Volunteers, and later as captain of the One Hundred and Eleventh New York Volunteers. Burnham later established a successful legal career, entered local politics, and was elected to the New York Assembly. Since 1889, he has served as the superintendent of public buildings in New York.

Biography of Lewis Balch, M. D., PH. D.

Dr. Lewis Balch, born in New York City on July 7, 1847, is a prominent physician and surgeon in Albany. He hails from a distinguished lineage, including connections to notable figures like John Jay. Educated at several institutions, he graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1870. After relocating to Albany in 1873, he held multiple medical positions, including attending surgeon and professor of anatomy at Albany Medical College. He was also active in public health, serving as city physician and secretary of the state board of health. Dr. Balch’s contributions to medicine and public service are significant.

Biography of Hon. George W. Vinton

Hon. George W. Vinton, born on December 5, 1834, in Middlebury, Vermont, became a respected figure in Rock Island County through his integrity and public service. After graduating from Randolph Academy, he taught briefly before moving west to Minnesota. Vinton worked with his uncle, John Deere, and contributed significantly to the community through various political roles, including serving as an Alderman and a member of the Illinois State Legislature, where he introduced vital legislation for healthcare and the World’s Columbian Exposition. He was also involved in Masonic and Knights of Pythias organizations.

Vermont Indian Tribes

The Abnaki Indians, specifically the Missiassik band, settled along the Missisquoi River in Franklin County. Meanwhile, Mahican bands, known for their transient settlements, occupied the southwestern and western parts of Vermont, with a village called Winooskeek likely at the Winooski River’s mouth. The Pennacook Indians inhabited the eastern regions, frequently hunting in Vermont, while the northernmost Pocomtuc bands extended into the state’s southern areas.

History of Addison, Addison County, Vermont

Addison, located on the shores of Lake Champlain in western Addison County, is characterized by its predominantly level terrain, with the notable exception of the hilly eastern region, including Snake Mountain, the county’s highest point. The town’s history encompasses various aspects such as mercantile activities, industry, military involvement, and religious institutions. Additionally, it includes brief sketches of prominent citizens from 1885, chronicling the development of local governance and contributions to the community, including military records and the early settlers’ contributions.