Biography

Biographical Sketch of Captain Moses Whipple

Captain Moses Whipple, born in 1733 in Grafton, MA, was among the first settlers of Croydon in 1766. Known for his education and strong character, he gained respect and trust from the community, acting as a father figure to the town. His hospitality and generosity were notable, and he held several significant positions, including chairman of the Committee of Safety during the Revolutionary War. His leadership and dedication were pivotal to the early development of Croydon.

Biographical Sketch of Timothy C. Eastman, Esq.

Timothy C. Eastman, Esq., born on May 30, 1821, began his career as a farmer in Croydon before becoming a successful milkman in Cleveland, Ohio. He later established himself as a prominent cattle-king in New York, residing on Fifth Avenue. Eastman notably innovated the refrigeration transport of beef to Europe, ensuring its freshness upon arrival, which earned him recognition, including a presentation of beef to the Queen. His remarkable achievements mark him as a leading financier from his hometown.

Biographical Sketch of William P. Wheeler, A.M.

William P. Wheeler, A.M., born on July 31, 1812, graduated from Harvard and became a significant figure at the Cheshire County bar. He was appointed twice to the Supreme Court but declined both positions. Wheeler also ran for Congress twice, served as president of the Keene Savings-Bank, and held trustee roles at the New Hampshire Industrial School and the Agricultural College. He passed away on May 10, 1876.

Biographical Sketch of Rev. Luther J. Fletcher

Rev. Luther J. Fletcher, born on February 25, 1818, was a distinguished Universalist clergyman known for his rare talent, eloquence, and writing ability. His ministry included locations in Buffalo, Lowell, and New York. In addition to his clerical duties, Fletcher served as a member of the Massachusetts Legislature and held the position of judge, reflecting his influence and commitment to public service.

Biographical Sketch of Israel Goodwin

Israel Goodwin was known for his intellect and social engagement. Initially a cloth-dresser, he relocated to Plainfield, Vermont, in 1824. There, he served as a representative in both branches of the Legislature and was later appointed as a judge. Goodwin eventually moved to Montpelier, where he passed away.

Biographical Sketch of Nathan Hall

Nathan Hall, the son of Edward Hall, Jr., is a farmer living at the Flat. He has held various public offices, including several years as moderator, twelve years as town clerk, and three years as County Commissioner.

Biographical Sketch of Captain Worthen Hall

Captain Worthen Hall, born on July 11, 1802, embarked on a maritime career in 1827 that spanned twenty-eight years. After retiring in 1855 with a considerable fortune, he settled at the Flat. Hall later served as a representative from 1866 to 1867, earning respect for his contributions and honoring his community through public service.

Biographical Sketch of Pliny Hall

Pliny Hall, born September 21, 1817, to Martin Hall, began his career as a farmer before becoming a clerk for twelve years. He served as a U.S. assistant census marshal in 1850, 1870, and 1880, and held various political roles including representative in 1851-1852, county treasurer in 1855-1856, and U.S. enrolling officer in 1864. He also participated as a delegate in the Constitutional Convention of 1876. Hall passed away on January 15, 1881.

Biographical Sketch of Dellavan D. Marsh, M.D.

Dellavan D. Marsh, M.D., was born on May 8, 1818, and graduated from Dartmouth College’s Medical Department in 1834. In addition to his medical career, he was actively involved in agriculture, serving as treasurer of the County Agricultural Society in 1848. He held various town offices throughout his life, including treasurer of Sullivan County from 1839 to 1840. Marsh passed away in 1866.

Biographical Sketch of Dr. Horace Powers

Dr. Horace Powers, born on October 27, 1807, was the son of Urias Powers. He graduated from Woodstock Medical College in 1832 and later settled in Morristown, Vermont. His public service included roles as high sheriff of Lamoille County during 1844-1845 and as a representative in the 1850 Constitutional Convention. Additionally, he served as a senator in 1853 and 1854 and held a directorship at the Lamoille County Bank.

Biographical Sketch of Elias Powers

Elias Powers, son of Major Abijah Powers, is a notable figure known for his intelligence and respected status as a farmer. He enjoys storytelling and various outdoor activities such as angling and trapping. Powers has contributed to his community as a selectman on two occasions and has served as a county commissioner for three years.

Biographical Sketch of Cyrus Barton

Cyrus Barton, born on December 25, 1795, had a distinguished career as an editor and public servant. He served as Sullivan County’s register of deeds from 1827 to 1829, held the position of presidential elector in the early 1830s, and was a senator and councilor in New Hampshire. Additionally, he was U.S. marshal in 1845 and a member of the Constitutional Convention. Barton passed away on February 17, 1855, during a political speech in Loudon, New Hampshire.

Biographical Sketch of Orlando Powers

Orlando Powers, born on May 5, 1810, relocated to Cornish Flat in 1832, where he has lived ever since. His public service includes serving as the town clerk for seven years, a representative in 1844, and county treasurer from 1849 to 1850. Additionally, he held the position of postmaster at Cornish Flat.

Biography of Henry H. Mynard

Henry H. Mynard, born on November 3, 1822, in Greene County, New York, has been a Stephenson County resident since 1863. He began farming in Cook County, married Caroline C. Cool in 1845, and later moved to Ridott Township before settling in Freeport. A retired farmer, he served in various local offices and was active in the Grange society. Mynard is a prominent Freeport citizen, a Republican voter, and a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He has four children, three of whom are living.

Biography of Willard P. Naramore

Hon. Willard P. Naramore, a distinguished physician and surgeon from Lena, has been a pivotal figure in the county’s growth from prairie to a thriving community. With dual expertise in healing and finance, he established a notable practice and became a successful banker. Born in 1824 in New York, he moved to Ohio, pursued medicine, and later settled in Lena. Active in politics and education, he contributed substantially to local governance and community welfare, exemplifying success and dedication throughout his life.

Biography of John Piper

John Piper, born on February 7, 1832, in Maryland, is now retired in Freeport, Illinois. He married Mary Myers in 1854, with whom he had six children, and later married Eleanor Humphreys in 1868, having four more children. A successful farmer and carpenter, he owned over 600 acres and shelled over a million bushels of corn. Mr. Piper was an influential figure in his community, serving as school director and road commissioner, and is a member of the Christian church.

Biography of John J. Pluemer

John J. Pluemer, born on January 3, 1817, in Ost Friesland, Prussia, was a prominent figure in Freeport, Illinois. He took over his father’s peat business at age 27, but due to outspoken views, he moved to America in 1852. After settling in Illinois, he operated a saloon for 33 years, retiring in 1889. Married to Sophia Hammel in 1844, they had eleven children. Pluemer was also a dedicated Union soldier during the Civil War, participating in key battles. He is known for his independent political views and prolific writing.

Biography of Gen. Smith D. Atkins

Smith D. Atkins, born in 1836 in New York, moved to Illinois in 1848 and began a diverse career as a lawyer, journalist, and politician. He actively supported Lincoln during the 1860 election and was the first to enlist for the Union army from his county after the Civil War began. Rising through the ranks, he became a notable officer, exhibiting bravery at key battles. Post-war, he returned to Freeport as an editor and served as Postmaster for many years, demonstrating dedicated public service.

Biography of Charles Betts

Charles Betts, a distinguished legal figure in Freeport, Illinois, was born in Batavia, New York, in 1825. Known as “Judge Betts,” his legal career began after being admitted to the bar in 1847. A prominent trial lawyer, he earned respect for his legal expertise and oratory skills. Betts was politically active, aligning with Democratic ideals while opposing proslavery sentiments. He married Mary Celestine Wilson in 1878, and they had five children. Throughout his long career, he maintained a reputation for integrity and civic duty, retiring honorably after decades in law.