Biography of Willard Graham McKelvie

(III) Willard Graham, son of William G. and Lydia (Jackson) McKelvie, was born in Geneva, April 8, 1869. After concluding his attendance at the Geneva high school he proceeded to familiarize himself with the various branches of agriculture, and the substantial success he has since attained in that useful calling is the result of his careful training and superior intelligence. He owns a desirably located farm containing one hundred and twenty-five acres of fertile land and for the past fifteen years he has given his principal attention to farming and the cultivation of fruit, having an orchard of twenty acres. … Read more

Biographical Sketch of Edward Wiser McKelvie

Edward Wiser McKelvie, son of William G. and Lydia (Jackson) McKelvie (q. v.), was born in Geneva, October 16, 1870. He was graduated from the Geneva high school and for the past twenty years has been engaged in general farming and fruit growing. He owns fiftyfour acres of well improved land, nine acres of which are devoted to the raising of fruit, and he manages his property with such care and foresight as to secure the best possible returns for his investment. He is a member of the Patrons of Husbandry, having served one term as steward of the local … Read more

Biographical Sketch of William Graham McKelvie

(II) William Graham, only child of Charles and Charlotte (Graham) McKelvie, was born in Geneva, January 27, 1831 ; died April 30, 1903. Reared to the occupation of a farmer and fruit-grower, he became an expert nurseryman and for twenty-five years devoted his attention almost exclusively to that business. He purchased several pieces of agricultural property located just south of what is known as Bellwood farm, and these farms are still owned by the family. He was a successful farmer and a prominent citizen, supporting all movements which have resulted in developing the growth and prosperity of Geneva, and for … Read more

Biographical Sketch of William McKelvie

William McKelvie settled in the town of Geneva, Ontario county, New York, and married Sophia Turk. William Henry, son of William McKelvie, was born March 22, 1865, in Geneva. He was educated in the public schools, and has always followed farming. He has fifty-five acres of land, three of which are devoted to orchards of apples, pears, etc. His farm is part of the old McKelvie homestead. In politics he is a Republican. He is a member of the Presbyterian church and of the local grange, Patrons of Husbandry, of which he has been gatekeeper one term, steward two terms, … Read more

Biographical Sketch of Charles McKelvie

The McKelvies are descended from an ancient and formidable Scottish clan, noted in the middle ages for their prowess, and in modern times for their sturdy application to the peaceful pursuits of agriculture, commerce, etc. The Geneva, New York family of this name were pioneers in the fruit growing industry of that locality. Early in the last century Charles McKelvie, aged eight years, emigrated from Scotland with his parents, who settled in Geneva when that city was but a small hamlet. The McKelvies were industrious farming people who firmly adhered to the precepts of the established church of Scotland, and … Read more

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.