History Topics – Page 4 of 155

Wyoming’s Pioneer Ranches

The Newman Ranch on the Niobrara, about 1886.— Photo by courtesy P. H. Waddill of Gordon, Nebraska

Wyoming’s Pioneer Ranches aims to capture the essence of the people who shaped the Laramie Plains. It portrays their courage and cowardice, faith and skepticism, vision and blindness, responsibility and recklessness, humility and pride, kindness and cruelty, fortune and misfortune, competence and ineptitude. If this narrative manages to convey these diverse human experiences, then it will have successfully used the authors’ inherent talents to chronicle the history of one of Wyoming’s and the West’s significant natural landscapes. The saying “Grass Makes Wyoming and Wyoming is the West” captures the essence of this unique region.

History of Polk Nebraska, 1874-1974

Polk Memoirs: Where Corn is King 1874-1974

In 1974, sisters Mrs. Dwight Burney and Mrs. Irvin Anderson, edited a centennial celebration for the town of Polk Nebraska titled Polk Memoirs: Where Corn is King, 1874-1974. In this manuscript they and other townsfolks provide a look at the people and businesses that made up Polk in both the past and present. Genealogists should pay special attention to the families section.

A history of Williams, Arizona, 1876-1951

Williams in 1883 Bill Williams Mountain in Background (Courtesy Labratory of Anthropology Library, Santa Fe, New Mexico)

James R. Fuchs’ “A History of Williams, Arizona, 1876-1951” chronicles the development of the small Arizona town of Williams. Established in 1881, Williams began as a post office, then a railroad camp. The town’s economy shifted from ranching and railroading to lumbering, and finally, to tourism thanks to its proximity to the Grand Canyon.

Access Wise County Virginia Genealogy

Access Wise County Virginia genealogy using this page. This guide provides you with information on available online ancestry records including birth, court, death, land, and marriage, as well as the history of the Wise County VA and the biography and genealogy of her people.

Some Sandy Basin Characters

It is the purpose of this volume to capture and preserve some of the more striking activities of a few prominent leaders of Sandy Basin, as learned from available records and the existing recollections of the pioneers, and to show how the men and women of its earlier days lived and exerted themselves to make a living for their own families and to be of service to their less fortunate neighbors.

Access Meade County Kentucky Genealogy

Access Meade County Kentucky genealogy using this page. This guide provides you with information on available online ancestry records including birth, court, death, land, and marriage, etc., as well as the history of the Meade County KY and the biography and genealogy of her people. This is the most complete and accurate listing of online records for Meade County Kentucky.

History of Fairgrove Michigan

This document provides a history of Fairgrove Township, Michigan, from its beginnings as unsettled land to its development as a community by 1956. It uses stories of individual families to show how the community of Fairgrove grew and changed over time.

Freemont Nebraska Centennial History 1856-1956

In the heart of the United States, nestled within the vast expanse of the Great Plains, lies Fremont, Nebraska—a town whose story encapsulates the indomitable spirit of American settlement and growth. “The Prairie Venture: Fremont Nebraska Centennial History 1856-1956,” penned by Carroll W. Thompson, offers a detailed chronicle of this remarkable community from its founding through to its centennial celebration. Through meticulous research and captivating narrative, Thompson not only records the pivotal moments in Fremont’s history but also paints a vivid picture of the challenges, triumphs, and transformations that define this community.

History of St. Landry Parish, Louisiana

Some history of St. Landry Parish from the 1690's

This special edition of the Daily World, largely written in 1955 by Ruth Robertson Fontenot, celebrates the 150th anniversary of St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, detailing its history from the 1690s. Ruth Fontenot, a descendant of local pioneer families, extensively researched using parish records and private archives to provide a comprehensive view of the area’s early days, despite gaps due to historical record shortages. Supplemental contributions on specific areas like northern St. Landry Parish and Eunice were made by Sue Lyles Eakin and Mary Alice Fontenot, respectively. The publication is rich with historical photographs and includes personal insights into the region’s development, showcasing the significant local contributions of the families of St. Landry Parish.

History of Milam County Texas

Lelia McAnally Batte’s History of Milam County, Texas presents a comprehensive exploration of the county’s evolution from its earliest days to the mid-twentieth century. Published in 1956 by the Naylor Company in San Antonio, this 257-page work delves into the myriad forces that have shaped Milam County, making it a unique yet representative reflection of Texas’ broader historical and cultural dynamics.

The Story of Wise County, Virginia

“The Story of Wise County, Virginia” by Luther F. Addington, published in 1956 by the Centennial Committee and School Board of Wise County, Virginia, serves as a historical record of the county from its inception through its first hundred years. Wise County, established in 1856 from sections of Russell, Lee, and Scott counties, carries the name of Governor Henry Alexander Wise, highlighting its significance in the state’s political and social life. This text outlines the county’s formation, development, and the various elements that have shaped its identity, including geography, notable events, and significant figures.

History of Jefferson County Oklahoma

In “History of Jefferson County, Oklahoma,” Jim M. Dyer provides a comprehensive account of the development and heritage of Jefferson County within the broader context of Oklahoma’s growth since its inception as a state in the Union. This work is particularly significant as it commemorates Oklahoma’s Semi-Centennial, marking fifty years of statehood filled with rich productivity and development. Dyer’s exploration is driven by a multifaceted purpose: to celebrate the state’s achievements, to preserve the memory of Jefferson County’s “birth and growth” for future generations, and to honor the pioneers whose resilience and dedication laid the foundations for the county’s prosperity.

The History of Carter County Oklahoma

Published in 1957, ‘The History of Carter County’ provides a comprehensive visual and textual history of Carter County Oklahoma. Covering the period from its Native American origins to the mid-20th century, the book focuses on the themes of Native American presence, settlement, churches, utilities, transportation, and industry. In doing so, it serves as a tribute to the people who shaped Carter County.

Spokane Story

“Spokane Story: A Colorful Early History of the Capital City of the Inland Empire” by Lucile Foster Fargo offers readers an evocative journey through the formative years of Spokane, Washington. Published in 1957 by Northwestern Press in Minneapolis, this work seeks to straddle the realms of history and storytelling, presenting a narrative that is neither entirely factual history nor pure fiction. Fargo accepts the challenging task of depicting Spokane’s cultural and developmental evolution from its fur trade beginnings to its emergence as a municipal entity in the early twentieth century.

History of San Juan County Utah

“Saga of San Juan,” originally published in 1957, is a history of San Juan County Utah, compiled by the San Juan County Daughters of Utah Pioneers. The book provides a comprehensive look at the county’s origins and development. It spans from prehistoric times to the year 1957, offering insights into the diverse communities and challenges faced by early residents of this unique region.

The Occupation Of Alabama And Mississippi By The English

History of Alabama and incidentally of Georgia and Mississippi, from the earliest period

In the mid-18th century, France ceded its North American territories to Spain and Britain, dividing the land along the Mississippi River and beyond. The secret treaty gave Spain the western side, including New Orleans and other regions up to the river’s sources, while Britain received Canadian lands, Mobile, and east of the Mississippi, forming East and West Florida. West Florida’s northern boundary was later extended to include parts of present-day Alabama and Mississippi, with the Illinois province encompassing the Northern regions. British rule brought organizational changes, with the establishment of English law, encouragement of migration from Britain and the American colonies, and various governors ruling the territory, with Peter Chester being notably esteemed. The French population endured, avoiding the excessive lifestyle of the English that led to a health crisis in Mobile in 1765. West Florida faced natural disasters, like hurricanes, and political issues, culminating in resistance to a three-year legislative term, resulting in a lack of representation. Pensacola thrived architecturally, and nearby Georgia saw land treaties with indigenous tribes to settle debts, though they led to conflict and resettlements. Britain’s southern colonies remained heavily militarized, with slavery ongoing, and the introduction of new crops and trading practices.

Bossu’s Visit To The French Forts Upon The Alabama And Tombigby Rivers

In the mid-1700s, Captain Bossu, a French Marine, embarks on a voyage from New Orleans to Fort Toulouse, home to the Alabama and Creek Indians. After a 50-day journey, he arrives to a warm reception by Montberaut, the fort’s esteemed commandant, who shares his successful strategies for maintaining good relationships with the neighboring tribes. During Bossu’s stay, he observes the Creeks’ peace and prosperity, evidenced by their generosity and eloquence.

The fort experiences tumultuous events, including a mother threatened with execution for her son’s crime, but the son bravely surrenders to save her. Later, Bossu is present for the pompous arrival and negotiation efforts with the young Emperor of Coweta, witnessed by Bossu and the French officers.

Fort Toulouse sees various commandants following the whims of colonial governance. Bossu eventually transitions to Fort “Tombecbe” under orders, facing an alligator encounter and foraging ventures along the way. The narrative celebrates the vibrant culture and environment of pre-colonial Alabama, contrasted against its transformation under American expansionism.

As European conflicts spill into colonial territories, France loses its hold on Louisiana in the face of British victory, signified by commanding officers transferring posts to British control. The French finally evacuate, with the Chevalier Lavnoue disposing of all military assets at Fort Toulouse before departing for Mobile, marking the end of French dominion in the region.

Hudson Wisconsin History, 1857-1957

Hudson centennial souvenir program, 1857-1957

In the heart of the American Midwest, nestled along the scenic banks of the Willow River and the St. Croix, lies Hudson, Wisconsin—a city with a storied past and a vibrant present. The “Hudson Centennial Souvenir Program, 1857-1957,” published by the Hudson Wisconsin Centennial Committee was written to showcase the city’s rich history. This program commemorates the 100th anniversary of Hudson’s charter as a city, celebrating a journey that began in the early 19th century.

History of Union County South Dakota

This History of Union County, South Dakota was authored by Donald Dean Parker and published in 1959 by South Dakota State College, and it stands as a comprehensive chronicle of the region’s development from its earliest settlements to its role in the broader tapestry of state and national history. This work delves into the intricate narrative of Union County, capturing its transformation from a sparsely populated territory to a flourishing agricultural hub, enriched by a vibrant community and diverse cultural heritage.

History of Mercer County Ohio

“History of Mercer County Ohio,” authored by Bronshart H. Gilberg and published in 1959 by the Mercer County Historical Society, serves as a comprehensive journey through the annals of Mercer County, Ohio. This book emerges from a deeply felt need among the residents of Mercer County for a cohesive and detailed account of their county’s past—a narrative that had been missing from local educational and cultural institutions.