New York

Biographical Sketch of John Frazer

Springwater Livingston County New York

John Frazer, born on August 1, 1818, is the son of David Frazer and resides on the family farm established in 1810. A prosperous farmer, he also owns significant land in the western states. He remains unmarried and lives with his sister, Jane. They are among eight siblings, with others residing in various locations or deceased, including Palina in Erie, Penn., and William G. in Iowa. The family reflects a rich heritage tied to their ancestral home.

Biography of Orson Walbridge

Orson Walbridge, born on September 14, 1809, in Burlington, New York, was a multifaceted individual who contributed to construction and local governance in Springwater, New York. He worked as a carpenter, joiner, and millwright, building various churches and mills throughout his career. A prominent figure in local politics, he served as constable, justice of the peace, and supervisor of Springwater multiple times. His life reflected dedication to both community service and craftsmanship until his later years, living with his daughter after his wife’s passing.

Biographical Sketch of Ozias Humphrey

Ozias Humphrey was born in Simsbury, Connecticut, in 1789 and relocated to Springwater, New York, in 1836, where he spent the rest of his life until his death in 1856. He married Parnal Douglass from New Hartford, Connecticut, and they had nine children, including Leora, Harvey D., Lucy Ann, and others, with varied lives across New York and Michigan. His daughter Mary L. passed away at 19 years old.

Biography of Dyers Family

The Dyers family, originating from Benson, Vermont, established themselves in Springwater, New York, in the early 19th century. Key figures include Lima Dyer, who settled in 1882, and Horatio Dyer, a successful merchant turned farmer, who moved there in 1828. Thomas T. Dyer worked in a family store and served as postmaster before relocating to Ohio. The youngest, Daniel E. Dyer, engaged in various businesses, eventually running a successful store and later supporting local widows and orphans after retiring.

Biographical Sketch of John Weidman

John Weidman was born on November 16, 1827, in Sparta, New York, to Jacob Weidman and was one of twelve siblings. He married Mary Ann Hartman on March 24, 1849. In 1852, he purchased the Wadams farm in Springwater and later acquired a larger, mostly unimproved 310-acre farm on West Hill. Through hard work, he developed the land, constructing elegant buildings for his family. John and Mary Ann have six living children and enjoy good health, looking forward to many happy years together.

Biography of Edward Withington

Edward Withington, originally from Stoughton, Massachusetts, moved to Springwater, New York, in 1813 after settling in Dorchester and Windsor. He married Nancy Monk, with whom he had seven children, three of whom he buried alongside her in Massachusetts. With his second wife, Susan Chilson, he had two sons, one of whom tragically died young. Withington cultivated a 200-acre farm, introducing a flock of Saxony sheep. He passed away in 1855, shortly after his second wife, during a severe local epidemic. His sons managed the farm until 1868.

Biography of Joel Hudson

Joel Hudson, born on October 10, 1794, in Chatham, New York, recounts his life in a self-penned biography for the Springwater Enterprise in 1883. He details his family’s move to Scipio, Cayuga County in 1799, where they faced hardships in farming and gathering resources. Hudson describes his experiences during the War of 1812, including being drafted and guarding prisoners. Later, he settled in Springwater, acquiring land and building a life despite early challenges. Hudson reflects on the passage of time and the few surviving friends from his youth.

Biography of Jonathan Frost

Jonathan Frost moved to Springwater from Hartford, N.Y., in 1830, where he established a tannery and leather business for approximately fifteen years before selling it. He married Tamor Ballou, and they had eight children, including two sons and six daughters. Notable descendants include Elvira Van Duze, Eliza Walbridge, and John J. Frost. Jonathan Frost passed away on August 4, 1857, at the age of 76, with his wife also deceased in Springwater.

Biography of Jared Erwin

Jared Erwin, born on June 12, 1797, in Piermont, New Hampshire, moved to New York around 1886 after the death of his first wife in 1838, with whom he had four children. He remarried and had three more children. A respected farmer and community leader, Erwin served as justice of the peace, promoting resolutions over lawsuits. He passed away on September 28, 1871, while his second wife lived until July 12, 1884.

Biographical Sketch of Amos Root

Amos Root was born on September 2, 1796, in Vermont, and later settled in Livonia before moving to Ohio and back to Springwater around 1827. He married Roena Hale and had eight children. Initially poor, Root later prospered in farming, acquiring additional land and building a residence until his death. His wife outlived him, and their children included Aaron, Amos, James, Zara, Frank, Julia Ann, Fanny, and Lucina, with various descendants continuing to reside in the area.

Biography of Smith Deaf Smith

Erastus “Deaf” Smith, born on April 19, 1787, in New York, moved to Texas in 1821. A trusted scout during the Texas Revolution, he provided crucial intelligence to the Texan army, notably in battles against Mexican forces. He married Guadalupe Duran in 1828 and had two children. Smith’s significant contributions included guiding troops and engaging in key battles before his untimely death on November 30, 1837. His legacy as a valiant figure of Texas history endures, marked by loyalty and bravery.

Biographical Sketch of Hibbered, Loron

Loron Hibbered, born in New York in 1827, moved to Texas with his parents in 1837. His father, Elmer Hibbered, initially paused in New Orleans due to the Texas invasion but eventually settled near the Brazos River. Loron witnessed the aftermath of the Battle of San Jacinto as a child and grew up in challenging conditions after his father’s death. He later supported his family by driving a freight wagon and acquired land in Fort Bend County, where he has resided for 65 years.

Biographical Sketch of William A Atwood

William A. Atwood, born on August 4, 1833, in Killingly, emerged as a key figure in local industry, managing the Williamsville mills after his father’s passing in 1865. He received a solid education, advancing the family business to notable prosperity during his leadership. Atwood was married in 1855 to Caroline A. Hargraves and had four children. Respected by his community and employees alike, he was known for his humble, generous spirit, which endeared him to many. His death on June 26, 1881, was widely mourned, reflecting his significant impact.

Biography of Timothy Guy Phelps

Timothy Guy Phelps, a prominent figure in San Mateo County, was a statesman and farmer who made significant contributions to California’s political landscape. Born on December 24, 1824, in New York, he arrived in San Francisco during the Gold Rush. Phelps served multiple terms as a State Assemblyman and Senator, and briefly as a U.S. Congressman. He was instrumental in establishing the County of San Mateo and advocated for the rights of ranch owners. His legacy includes a commitment to public service and a deep bond with his community, remembered fondly for his integrity and dedication.

Biography of Charles A. Jefts

Charles A. Jefts, born on January 27, 1853, in Putney, Vermont, is a notable figure from Langdon, New Hampshire. Descended from a family that originated in seventeenth-century England, he is the son of Alphonso M. and Almira Jefts. Educated at Fort Edward College, he returned to manage the family farm, which he now owns, while also engaging in brokerage. Jefts has played a significant role in his community, being elected to various town offices, highlighting the respect he commands among his peers.

Biographical Sketch of King, Gilbert

Gilbert King, a prominent figure in Malheur County, was born in 1848 in Jefferson County, New York. He settled in Ontario in 1885, where he opened a station for the Oregon Short Line, working there until 1897. Approximately eight years ago, he purchased and fully cultivated his current farm, growing apples and prunes. Active in local politics, he is the silver republican nominee for representative. King married Belle Easton from Nebraska in 1873, and they have six children together.

Biography of Hon T. A. Sherwood

Thomas Adiel Sherwood was born on June 2, 1834, in Eatonton, Georgia. He was educated at Mercer University and Shurtleff College, later graduating from Cincinnati Law School in 1857. Sherwood practiced law in various Missouri towns before becoming a prominent jurist, serving as Chief Justice of the Missouri Supreme Court from 1876 to 1888. Renowned for his legal expertise and dedication, he was recognized for his progressive views and impactful published opinions, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in American jurisprudence.

Biography of John O’Day, Esq.

John O’Day, born on November 18, 1843, in Limerick, Ireland, emigrated to America as a child and was raised in Wisconsin. He studied law under Judge Windsor and was admitted to the bar in 1864. O’Day settled in Springfield in 1865 and became a prominent criminal and corporate attorney, notably for the St. Louis and San Francisco Railway Company. An active Democrat, he served on the State Central Committee and played a key role in the party’s successes. He married Jennie Campbell and has two sons.

Biography of Hon. Charles E. Linderman

Hon. Charles E. Linderman, born in 1829 in New York, became a prominent figure in southwestern Iowa, known for his dedication to public service, high ideals, and community development. After practicing law briefly, he served as clerk of the district court and enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War, ultimately rising to the rank of second lieutenant. Post-war, he excelled in banking and politics, representing Page County in the Iowa General Assembly. A respected Mason and community leader, he passed away on April 15, 1907, leaving a lasting legacy.

Biography of W. P. Ferguson

W. P. Ferguson, born in Glasgow, Scotland, on July 29, 1843, emigrated to America as a child. He became a prominent figure in Shenandoah, Iowa, recognized for his legal expertise and contributions to civic development. Admitted to the bar in 1870, he played a key role in establishing the town’s legal and educational foundations, including the first college and Presbyterian church. Serving as mayor and county attorney, his influence shaped the community significantly, cementing his legacy as a dedicated public servant and esteemed judge.