Beal

Slave Narrative of Emmett Beal

Emmett Beal, at 78, recounts his experiences as a former slave in Bolivar, Tennessee, under Master Dr. Jim May. He describes his childhood chores, including churning milk, and the living conditions for enslaved families. After emancipation, many former slaves remained with Dr. May as sharecroppers. Beal recalls his father’s military service during the Civil War and the family’s struggles after being freed. He notes a lack of support from former owners and the complexities of voting rights in his current life.

Biographical Sketch of Israel Beal

Israel Beal, born on April 10, 1849, in Virginia, faced early hardships, including the loss of his father during the war. He moved to California in 1865, working in mining before establishing himself as a horticulturist in Lugonia and Redlands. Married to Martha Embers, they had seven children. Beal, a respected community member despite his origins as a former slave, built a successful life and maintained strong ties to his Congregational Church, embodying the spirit of industriousness and family values in his neighborhood.

Biography of Albert M. Beal, M. D.

Doctor Albert M. Beal, born on October 31, 1853, in Rock Island County, combined a rich educational background with a profound understanding of human nature in his medical practice. Initially an educator, he earned both Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees before studying law and passing the bar exam. He graduated from the College of Physicians and Surgeons in 1894 and established a successful practice in Moline. An active community member, he served as mayor and was involved in his local church and fraternal organizations. Beal married twice, having six children.

Six Related Choctaw Cases

The Dawes Commission records from 1896 document the citizenship applications of multiple families—Marlow, Beal, Caldwell, Marrs, Underwood, and White—claiming Choctaw heritage through a common ancestor, John Patterson. Some applicants were admitted as citizens of the Choctaw Nation, while others were denied and later appealed to U.S. courts. Despite favorable rulings for some, a 1904 decision by the Choctaw-Chickasaw Citizenship Court overturned many approvals.

Rough Riders

Rough Riders

The compiled military service records of 1,235 Rough Riders, including Theodore Roosevelt, have been digitized. Each record features individual jackets detailing the soldier’s name, organization, rank, and medical records. The records also contain personal information and documentation descriptions. Discharges occurred for various reasons, such as age, ability, discipline issues, or hardship. This initiative provides significant insights into the personnel of the 1st U.S. Volunteer Cavalry during the Spanish-American War.

Biography of Alfred Franklin Beal

Alfred Franklin Beal, born on September 27, 1849, in Union County, Ohio, became a key figure in Clarinda, Iowa, through his successful business acumen and public service. After starting his career in Terre Haute, Illinois, he established a general store in Clarinda in 1881, focusing on cash transactions. Beal served on several community boards and was active in the Presbyterian church, reflecting his commitment to public welfare. Married to Ellen Foresman, he fathered six children. His life exemplifies perseverance, integrity, and commitment to community service.