Cornford

History of Ontario County, New York, part 2

History of Ontario County, New York

The History of Ontario County, New York genealogical section provides an extensive array of surnames, indicating the comprehensive nature of the section in Part 2. These genealogies not only serves as a reference for individuals researching family histories but also reflects the diverse settler and immigrant populations that have contributed to the fabric of Ontario County. Each surname represents a family’s journey, struggles, and contributions to the county’s development over centuries.

Biographical Sketch of Thomas Cornford

Thomas Cornford (2), born on September 20, 1796, in England, was the eldest son of Thomas (1) and Margaret Cornford. He married Urina Harmer and emigrated to America in 1835. To honor their new homeland, they named their youngest sons after notable American figures. Thomas and Urina had a total of ten children, including Sylvan, David, Thomas, and their last two sons, George Washington and Benjamin Franklin, reflecting their admiration for the United States.

Biographical Sketch of William H. Cornford

William H. Cornford, born September 8, 1835, in England, immigrated to America as a child with his family. He trained as a carpenter and fought in the Civil War with the Seventy-sixth and Ninth Michigan Volunteers. After the war, he settled in Michigan, first in Hudson and later in Birch Run as a pioneer farmer, before returning to Phelps in 1871. Cornford, a past commander of the local Grand Army post, died on October 3, 1909, and was a member of the Methodist Episcopal church. He married Catharine and had several children.

Biographical Sketch of William H. Cornford

William H. Cornford (2), born June 15, 1859, in Phelps, Michigan, experienced the challenges of pioneer life and was educated in local schools. After assisting his father in farming, he worked as a clerk and, in 1894, acquired a saddlery business. Cornford has served as a justice of the peace since 1901 and is actively involved in the Methodist Episcopal church. He married Helen Loveridge in 1878, and they have a son, Enoch Marsh, who works alongside him in business.