Biography of Jacob Krohn

Jacob Krohn, born in 1832 in Pomerania, Prussia, is the president of Freeport’s Second National Bank, known for its solid reputation in the Northwest. Immigrating to America in 1853, he initially worked as a cigar maker before entering banking as a stockholder and director in 1871. Krohn has held various public offices, including mayor and alderman. He is a prominent Mason and Odd Fellow, actively involved in both organizations. He has been married twice and is a devoted father to eight children, with a strong commitment to education and community service.

Biography of Bernhard Huenkemeier

Bernhard Huenkemeier, a respected Freeport resident for over fifty years, played a significant role in the community’s development. Born in Germany in 1822, he immigrated to America in 1848, where he established himself as a successful stone mason. A devoted family man and active citizen, he contributed to local politics and education while building numerous public structures. His philanthropic nature and business acumen made him a well-loved figure in Freeport, exemplifying dedication and perseverance, inspiring future generations.

Biography of William A. Horan

Rev. William A. Horan, born on February 2, 1851, in DeKalb Co., Ill., served as pastor of St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in Freeport, Illinois. He was the son of Irish immigrants and excelled academically, completing his education for the priesthood at the University of Niagara. Ordained in 1877, Horan dedicated his life to various parishes, notably raising funds for multiple church constructions. Beloved by his community for his selflessness, he passed away on November 5, 1899, and is memorialized at St. Mary’s Church.

Biography of John Fosha

John Fosha, a successful farmer from Silver Creek township, Stephenson County, Illinois, built his wealth through hard work and determination. With land holdings in both Illinois and Kansas, his achievements reflect his industrious nature. Born to German immigrants, he began working the land early, becoming one of the region’s largest landowners. Married in 1856, John and his wife Mina raised twelve children. A community leader and member of the Evangelical church, he has witnessed significant agricultural development in northern Illinois.

Biography of Tobias Engle

Tobias Engle, born May 9, 1829, in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, was an early settler in Freeport, Illinois. He worked on his father’s farm before moving to Illinois in 1851 and later returning to Pennsylvania. Engle entered the hardware business before purchasing a 400-acre farm in Stephenson County. Married to Mary A. Myers, they had eleven children. Engle was involved in local education and politics, shifting from Republican to Prohibitionist views. He is affiliated with the Embury M.E. Church of Freeport.

Biography of C. N. Bentley

C. N. Bentley, a respected pioneer in Harlem township, has deep roots in Stephenson County’s history. Born in 1826, he witnessed the region’s development and has contributed significantly to his community as a school trustee, constable, and highway commissioner. His ancestors include notable figures, such as his grandfather Eldred Bentley, linked to Ethan Allen of the Revolutionary War. C. N. Bentley married Alecta Smith and had five children, while his family experienced both triumphs and tragedies throughout their lives.

Biography of Charles Betts

Charles Betts, born on June 13, 1825, in New York, is a distinguished figure in the Stephenson County legal community, often referred to as “Judge” Betts. After being admitted to the bar in 1847, he practiced law in Freeport, Illinois, where he became known for his legal expertise and oratory skills. Involved in politics, he was nominated for various positions, including Auditor General and Congress, demonstrating significant influence and popularity. Betts continues to be respected for his honorable life and contributions to the community.

Biography of Gen. Smith D. Atkins

Smith D. Atkins, born June 9, 1836, in New York, was a multi-talented lawyer, soldier, journalist, and politician. He began his career in journalism before pursuing law and active military service during the Civil War. Notably, he fought bravely at Fort Donelson and commanded the 92nd Illinois Infantry, refusing to return escaped slaves to their owners. Promoted to Brigadier General by war’s end, he became a respected leader. Post-war, Atkins edited the Freeport Journal and served as Postmaster, continuing his commitment to public service.

Biography of Thomas Carroll

Thomas Carroll, an experienced engineer with the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Road, began his career at eighteen as a fireman. He quickly advanced, dedicating over thirty years to the railway. Born in 1847 in Freeport, he comes from an Irish immigrant family, with his father also working in the railroad industry. Married in 1874, Carroll is a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church and the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. He is proud of his long, accident-free service in the railroad sector.

First Confederate Flag

Would you know why I am a “Veteran” “Daughter of the Confederacy,” and of the making of our first flag? Then must I tell you something of my story. My father, an eminent lawyer, active in public work, and a member of the Legislature, died at the age of thirty-three, leaving my mother and three little children. His State honored his memory by the monument which marks his grave, and his name is held in loving – memory by his associates. My mother belonged to quite an old family that can count its ten quarterings. My great-grandfather owned the first … Read more

South Carolina Women in the Confederacy

Carlo Botta, the Italian historian, in his History of the War for Independence, says: “In that fierce struggle, the War of the American Revolution, the women of Carolina presented an example of fortitude more than manly. I know not the history, ancient or modern, which has recorded a story of devotion exceeding or equaling that exhibited by these heroic beings to their American country. Far from considering the epithet a reproach, they gloried and exulted in the name of Rebel women. Their example was inspiring, and it is owing principally to the firmness of these patriotic Carolinians that the name, … Read more

Famous American Belles of the Nineteenth Century

Jennie Chamberlain

Famous American Belles of the Nineteenth Century provides 19 biographies of some of the leading ladies in the 18th and 19th century who resided in the US. These 19 biographies portray ladies who were considered by the author to be women of preeminent beauty, dazzling wit, and powerful magnetism.

History of Hanover Massachusetts

1879 Map of Hanover, Massachusetts

An historical sketch about Hanover, Plymouth County, Massachusetts as abstracted from the Plymouth County Directory and Historical Register of 1867. Includes a list of the men from Hanover who gave their life during the Revolutionary War.

History of Halifax Massachusetts

1879 Map of Halifax, Massachusetts

An historical sketch about Halifax, Plymouth County, Massachusetts as abstracted from the Plymouth County Directory and Historical Register of 1867. Includes a list of the men from Halifax who gave their life during the Revolutionary War.

History of East Bridgewater Massachusetts

C Spragues Establishment, North Bridgewater, Massachusetts

An historical sketch about East Bridgewater, Plymouth County, Massachusetts as abstracted from the Plymouth County Directory and Historical Register of 1867. Includes a list of the men from East Bridgewater who gave their life during the Revolutionary War.

History of Duxbury Massachusetts

Town Hall and Partridge Academy, c. 1870.

An historical sketch about Duxbury, Plymouth County, Massachusetts as abstracted from the Plymouth County Directory and Historical Register of 1867. Includes a list of the men from Duxbury who gave their life during the Revolutionary War.

History of Carver Massachusetts

1903 Map of Carver, Massachusetts

An historical sketch about Carver, Plymouth County, Massachusetts as abstracted from the Plymouth County Directory and Historical Register of 1867.