LIBRARY OF CONGRESS DD02D5Q33fl5 e aass__E51 2, Book- ^' CONTAININS gOr^TI^AI^ITS AND BlOGl=^ -^•^' ¥^^VM. /-'/ u (^ ■:2!!«&,j'«r ■v^^UU^UUy^' .^i -^^5C(®V|^ 1 f E HAVE completed our labors in writing and compiling the Portrait andBiograph- ,_ICAL Album of Sanilac County, and wish, in presenting it to its patrons, to speak briefly of the importance of local works of this nature It is certainly the dvity ""* of the present to commemorate the past, to perpetuate the names of the pioneers, to furnish a record of their early settlement, and to relate the story of their progress. The civilization of our day, the enlightenment of the age, and this solemn duty which men of the present time owe to their ancestors, to themselves and to their posterity demand that a record of their lives and deeds should be made. In local history is found a power to instruct man by precedent, to enliven the mental faculties, and to waft down the river of time a safe vessel in which the names and actions of the people who contributed to raise this region from its primitive state may be preserved. Surely and rapidly the noble men who in their prime entered the wild forests of Sanilac and claimed the virgin soil as their heritage, are passing to iheir graves. The number remaining who can relate the history of the first days of settlement is Ijecoming small indeed, so that an actual necessity exists for the collection and preservation of his- torical matter witliout delay, before the settlers of the wilderness are cut down by time. Not only is it of the greatest importance to render history of pioneer times full and accurate, but it is also essen- tial that the history of the county, from its settlement to the present day, should be treated through its various phases, so that a record, complete and impartial, may be handed down to the future. The present the age of progress, is reviewed, standing out in bold relief over the quiet, unostentatious olden times; it is abnlhant record, which is destined to live in the future ; the good works of men, their magnificent enterprises, their lives, whether commercial or military, do not sink into oblivion, but, on the contrary, grow brighter with age, and contribute to build up a record which carries with it precedents and principles that will be advanced and observed when the acts of soulless men will be forgotten, and their very names hidden in obscurity. In the preparation of the personal sketches contained in this volume, unusual care and pains were taken to have them accurate, even in the smallest detail. Indeed, nothing was passed lightly over or treated indifferently, and we flatter ourselves that it is one of the most accurate works of its nature ever pubhshed. As one of the most interesting features of this work, we present the portraits of numerous representa- tive citizens. It has been our aim to have the prominent men of to-day, as well as the pioneers, represented in this department ; and we congratulate ourselves on the uniformly high character of the gentlemen whose portraits we present. They are in the strictest sense representative men, and are selected from all the call- ings and professions worthy to be represented. There are others, it is true, who claim equal prominence with those presented, but of course it was impossible for us to give portraits of all the leading men and pioneers of the county. We are under great obligation to many of the noble and generous people of Sanilac County for kindly and material assistance in the preparation of this Album. CHAPMAN BROTHERS. Chicago, December, 1884. I (^. (^ I ^H^m^^" )\irMh>^ %<^sr H^^i^ MM^ W ^7\ I (h v^ 9 f i-S^ fp) fW «^" ii^^ ^^ff- A< ^n !!:<►: ativ:>A^— ^»^ -l^^K<®/^ ^^K/^®))^^ ■r? v4>mi^iinr>T 5F 13 V^ C^ ^^ '^; H? -¥^'|«fSj«fspSjf ■^»^ ^^J<^n!l^tltlr> ■7v-^ — :^(&^ -*4'^( (0 (|^ ^^\§)^^^ ■^^^ ^ Q. ^ C^gil^[lIi;t> ^^Q >^ ^^!g:. ■ ai u— iS^; j pym^JiaiB BIf ffl l lllWIii mmmmm i! ..^tiK' ^ ul zL '^^^ ^ m\. ^ •;^rV^n'S'.'S?'tJ^<'^ta^.'V,'.\,H^S'UVg't^<^^t^t^t^»^t^tiga'^t;>^'^v^ mi' ^'^^mi<^)'^i<^^'mi<:^<^:ii'm't^^ifmi'i^-i$ti^c^ HE Father of our Country was 'S) born in Westmorland Co., Va., Feb. 2 2, 1732. His parents were Augustine and Mary (Ball) Washington. The family to which he belonged has not been satisfactorily traced in England. His great-grand- father, John Washington, em- igrated to Virginia about 1657, and became a prosperous planter. He had two sons, Lawrence and John. The former married Mildred Warner and had three children, John, Augustine and Mildred. Augus- tine, the father of George, first married Jane Butler, who bore him four children, two of whom, Lawrence and Augustine, reached maturity. Of six children by his second m.arriage, George was the eldest, the others being Betty, Samuel, John Augustine, Charles and Mildred. Augustine Washington, the father of George, died in 1743, leaving a large landed property. To his eldest son, Lawrence, he bequeathed an estate on the Patomac, afterwards known as Mount Vernon, and to George he left the parental residence. George received only such education as the neighborhood schools afforded, save for a short time after he left school, when he received private instruction in mathematics. His spelling was rather defective. Remarkable stories are told of his great physical strength and development at an early age. He was an acknowledged leader among his companions, and was early noted for that nobleness of character, fair- ness and veracity which characterized his whole life. When George was 1 4 years old he had a desire to go to sea, and a midshipman's warrant was secured for him, but through the opposition of his mother the idea was abandoned. Two years later he was appointed surveyor to the immense estate of Lord Fairfax. Li this business he spent three years in a rough frontier life, gaining experience which afterwards proved very essential to him. In 175 i, though only 19 years of age, he was appointed adjutant with the rank of major in the Virginia militia, then being trained for active service against the French and Indians. Soon after this he sailed to the West Indies with his brother Lawrence, who went there to restore his health. They soon returned, and in the summer of 1752 Lawrence died, leaving a large fortune to an infant daughter who did not long survive him. On her demise the estate of Mount Vernon was given to George. Upon the arrival of Robert Dinwiddie, as Lieuten- ant-Governor of Virginia, in 1752, the militia was reorganized, and the province divided into four mili- tary districts, of which the northern was assigned to Washington as adjutant general. Shortly after this a very perilous mission was assigned him and ac- cepted, which others had refused. This was to pro- ceed to the French post near Lake Erie in North- western Pennsylvania. The distance to be traversed was between 500 and 600 miles. Winter was at hand, and the journey was to be made without military escort, through a tenitory occupied by Indians. The A ^^ ■^T^^C mu^ t^r jyi<>.^'^c^p^ m^^: # GEORGE WASHINGTON. -^^^^^ -l^^^(<®V^ Q^ trip was a perilous one, and several limes he came near losing his life, yet he returned in safety and furnished a full and useful report of his expedition. A regiment of 300 men was raised in Virginia and put in com- mand of Col. Joshua Fry, and Major Washington was commissioned lieutenant-colonel. Active war was then begun against the French and Indians, in which Washington took a most important part. In the memorable event of July 9, 1755, known as Brad- dock's defeat, Washington was almost the only officer of distinction who escaped from the calamities of the day with life and honor. The other aids of Braddock were disabled early in the action, and Washington alone was left in that capacity on the field. In a letter to his brother he says : " I had four bullets through my coat, and two horses shot under me, yet I escaped unhurt, though death was leveling my companions on every side." An Indian sharpshooter said he was not born to be killed by a bullet, for he had taken direct aim at him seventeen times, and failed to hit him. After having been five years in the military service, and vainly sought promotion in the royal army, he took advantage of the fall of Fort Duquesne and the expulsion of the French from the valley of the Ohio, to resign his commission. S6on after he entered the Legislature, where, although not a leader, he took an active and important part. January 17, 1759, he married Mrs. Martha (Dandridge) Custis, the wealthy widow of John Parke Custis. When the British Parliament had closed the port of Boston, the cry went up throughout the provinces that "The cause of Boston is the cause of us all." It was then, at the suggestion of Virginia, that a Con- gress of all the colonies was called to meet at Phila- delphia,Sept. 5, 1774, to secure their common liberties, peaceably if possible. To this Congress Col. Wash- ington was sent as a delegate. On May 10, T775, the Congress re-assembled, when the hostile intentions of England were plainly apparent. The battles of Con- cord and Lexington had been fought. Among the first acts of this Congress was the election of a com- mander-in-chief of the colonial forces. This high and responsible office was conferred upon Washington, who was still a member of the Congress. He accepted it on June 19, but upon the express condition that he receive no salary. He would keep an exact account of expenses and expect Congress to pay them and nothing more. It is not the object of this sketch to trace the military acts of Washington, to whom the fortunes and liberties of the people of this country were so long confided. The war was conducted by him under every possible disadvantage, and while his forces often met with reverses, yet he overcame every obstacle, and after seven years of heroic devotion and matchless skill he gained liberty for the greatest nation of earth. On Dec. 23, 1783, Washington, in parting address of surpassing beauty, resigned his commission as commander-in-chief of the army to to the Continental Congress sitting at Annapolis. He retired immediately to Mount Vernon and resumed his occupation as a farmer and planter, shunning all connection with public life. In February, 1 7 89, Washington was unanimously elected President. In his presidential career he was subject to the peculiar trials incidental to a new government ; trials from lack of confidence on the part of other governments; trials from want of harmony between the different sections of our own country; trials from the impoverished condition of the country, owmg to the war and want of credit; trials from the beginnings of party strife. He was no partisan. His clear judgment could discern the golden mean; and while perhaps this alone kept our government from sinking at the very outset, it left him exposed to attacks from both sides, which were often bitter and very annoying. At the expiration of his first term he was unani- mously re-elected. At the end of this temi many were anxious that he be re-elected, but he absolutely refused a third nomination. On the fourth of March, 1797, at the expiraton of his second term as Presi- dent, he returned to his home, hoping to pass there his few remaining years free from the annoyances of public life. Later in the year, however, his repose seemed likely to be interrupted by war with France. At the prospect of such a war he was again urged to take command of the armies. He chose his sub- ordinate officers and left to them the charge of mat- ters in the field, which he superintende(J from his home. In accepting the command he made the reservation that he was not to be in the field until it was necessary. In the midst of these preparations his life was suddenly cut off. December i 2, he took a severe cold from a ride in the rain, which, settling in his throat, produced inflammation, and terminated fatally on the night of the fourteenth. On the eigh- teenth his body was borne with military honors to its final resting place, and interred in the family vault at Mount Vernon. Of the character of Washington it is impossible to speak but in terms of the highest respect and ad- miration. The more we see of the operations of our government, and the more deeply we feel the difficulty of uniting all opinions in a common interest, the more highly we must estimate the force of his tal- ent and character, which have been able to challenge the reverence of all parties, and principles, and na- tions, and to win a fame as extended as the limits of the globe, and which we cannot but believe will be as lasting as the existence of man. The person of Washington was unusally tall, erect and well proportioned. His muscular strength was great. His features were of a beautiful symmetry. He commanded respect without any appearance of liaughtiness, and ever serious without being dull. V^ 9 A ^: ( (^ mmM<> A. .#;:;/ ^ ^V4>lltl^llll>>^ 4^^(^Vi mm aS^i^ ?S) »>» OHN ADAMS, the second President and the first Vice- President of the United States, was born in Braintree { now Quincy),Mass., and about ten / ''"^ miles from Boston, Oct. 19, jT; 1735. His great-grandfather, Henry Adams, emigrated from England about 1640, with a family of eight sons, and settled at Braintree. The parents of John were John and Susannah (Boylston) Adams. His father was a farmer of limited means, to which he added the bus- iness of shoemaking. He gave his eldest son, John, a classical educa- tion at Harvard College. John graduated in 1755, and at once took charge of the school in Worcester, Mass. This he found but a "school of affliction," from which he endeavored to gain relief by devoting himself, in addition, to the study of law. For this purpose he placed himself under the tuition of the only lawyer in the town. He had thought seriously of the clerical profession but seems to have been turned from this by what he termed " the frightful engines of ecclesiastical coun- cils, of diabolical malice, and Calvanistic good nature,'' of the operations of which he had been a witness in his native town. He was well fitted for the' legal profession, possessing a clear, sonorous voice, being '9^ ready and fluent of speech, and having quick percep- tive powers. He gradually gained practice, .and in .1^ 1764 married Abigail Smith, a daughter of a minister, and a lady of superior intelligence. Shortly after his marriage, {1765), the attempt of Parliamentary taxa- tion turned him from law to politics. He took initial steps toward holding a town meeting, and the resolu- V^' tions he offered on the subject became very popular throughout the Provmce, and were adopted word for word by over forty different towns. He moved to Bos- ton in 1768, and became one of the most courageous and prominent advocatesof the popular cause, and was chosen a member of the General Court (the Leg- lislature) in 1770. Mr. Adams was chosen one of the first delegates from Massachusetts to the first Continental Congress, which met in 1774. Here he distinguished himself by his capacity for business and for debate, and ad- vocated the movement for independence against the majority of the members. In May, 1776, he moved and carried a resolution in Congress that the Colonies should assume the duties of self-government. He was a prominent member of the committee of five appointed June 11, to prepare a declaration of inde- pendence. This article was drawn by Jefferson, but on Adams devolved the task of battling it through Congress in a three days debate. On the day after the Declaration of Independence was passed, while his soul was yet warm with the glow of excited feeling, he wrote a letter to his wife, which, as we read it now, seems to have been dictated by the spirit of prophecy. "Yesterday," he says, "the greatest question was decided that ever was debated in America; and greater, perhaps, never was or will be decided among men. A resolution was passed without one dissenting colony, ' that these United States are, and of right ought to be, free and inde- pendent states.' The day is passed. The fourth of July, 1776, will be a memorable epoch in' the history of America. I am apt to believe it will be celebrated by succeeding generations, as the great anniversary festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to Almighty God. It ought to be solemnized with pomp, shows, <^ii!1^dd;'^ ■AVA-. ;S' i:©^ v<^:llll^(l(]>> |^^(( t V • ) 7> I JOI/JV ADAMS. W games, sports, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations from one end of the continent to the other, from this time forward for ever. You will think me transported with enthusiasm, but I am not. I am well aware of the toil, and blood and treasure, that it will cost to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these States; yet, through all the gloom, I can see the rays of light and glory. I can see that the end is worth more than all the means; and that posterity will triumph, although you and I may rue, which I hope we shall not." In November, 1777, Mr. Adams was appointed a delegate to France and to co-operate with Bemjamin Franklin and Arthur Lee, who were then in Paris, in the endeavor to obtain assistance in arms and money from the French Government. This was a severe trial to his patriotism, as it separated him from his home, compelled him to cross the ocean in winter, and ex- posed him to great peril of capture by the British cruis-. ers, who were seeking him. He left France June 17, 1779. In September of the same year he was again chosen to go to Paris, and there hold himself in readi- ness to negotiate a treaty of peace and of commerce with Great Britian, as soon as the British Cabinet might be found willing to listen to such pvoposels. He sailed for France in November, from there he went to Holland, where he negotiated important loans and formed important commercial treaties. Finally a treaty of peace with England was signed Jan. 21, 1783. The re-action from the excitement, toil and an.xiety through which Mr. Adams had passed threw him into a fever. After suffering from a con- tinued fever and becoming feeble and emaciated he was advised to go to England to drink the waters of Bath. While in England, still drooping anddespond- ing, he received dispatches from his own government urging the necessity of his going to Amsterdam to negotiate another loan. It was winter, his health was delicate, yet he immediately set out, and through storm, on sea, on horseback and foot, he made the trip. February 24, 1785, Congress appointed Mr. Adams envoy to the Court of St. James. Here he met face to face the King of England, who had so long re- garded him as a traitor. As England did not condescend to appoint a minister to the United States, and as Mr.' Adams felt that he was accom- plishing but little, he sought permission to return to his own country, where Jie arrived in June, 1788. AVhen Washington was first chosen President, John Adams, rendered illustiious by his signal services at home and abroad, was chosen Vice President. Again at the second election of Washington as President, Adams was chosen Vice President. In 1796, Wash- ington retired from public life, and Mr. Adams was elected President,though not without much opposition. Serving in this office four years, he was succeeded by Mr. Jefferson, his opponent in politics. While Mr. Adams was Vice President the great K, French Revolution shook the continent of Europe, and it was upon this point which he was at issue with the majority of his countr\'men led by ]\Ir. Jefferson. Mr. Adams felt no sympathy with the French people in their struggle, for he had no confidence in their power of self-government, and he utterly abhored the classof atheist philosophers who he claimed caused it. On the other hand Jefferson's sympathies were strongly enlisted in behalf of the French people. Hence or- iginated the alienation between these distinguished men, and two powerful parties were thus soon organ- ized, Adams at the head of the one whose sympathies were with England and Jefferson led the other in sympathy with France. The world has seldom seen a spectacle of more moral beauty and grandeur, than was presented by the old age of Mr. Adams. The violence of party feeling had died away, and he had begun to receive that just appreciation which, to most men, is not accorded till after death. No one could look upon his venerable form, and think of what he had done and suffered, and how he had given up all the prime and strength of his life to the public good, without the deepest emotion of gratitude and respect. It was his peculiar good fortune to witness the complete success of the institution which he had been so active in creating and ^^ supporting. In 18.24, his cup of happiness was filled to the brim, by seeing his son elevated to the highest station in the gift of the people. The fourth of July, 1826, which completed the half century since the signing of the Declaration of Inde- pendence, arrived, and there were but three of the signers of that immortal instrument left upon the earth to hail its morning light. And, as it is well known, on that day two of these finished their earthly pilgrimage, a coincidence so remarkable as to seem miraculous. For a few days before Mr. Adams had been rapidly failing, and on the morning of the fourth he found himself too weak to rise from his lied. On lieing requested to name a toast for the customary celebration of the day, he exclaimed " In- dependence FOREVER." When the day was ushered in, by the ringing of bells and the firing of cannons, he was asked by one of his attendants if he knew what day it was? He replied, "O yes; it is the glor- ious fourth of July — God bless it — God bless you all." In the course of the day he said, "It is a great and glorious day." The last words he uttered were, "Jefferson survives." But he had, at one o'clock, re- signed his spiiit into the hands of his God. The personal appearance and manners of Mr Adams were not particularly prepossessing. His face, as his portrait manifests.was intellectual ard expres- sive, but his figure was low and ungraceful, and his manners were frequently abrupt and uncourteous. He had neither the lofty dignity of Washington, nor the engaging elegance and gracefulness which marked the manners and address of Jefferson. (^ C< ( 1 4* ^^^^w- — ^^-^^ m% wo^ i^ -ks *w, THIRD PRESIDENT. |l^((S\/^^ I -I- W^^^'^^P'^WW^: HOMAS JEFFERSON was born April 2, 1743, at Shad- i#\vell, Albermarle county, Va. His parents were Peter and Jane (Randolph) Jefferson, the former a native of Wales, and the latter born in Lon- don. To them were born six daughters and two sons, of whom Thomas was the elder. When 14 years of age his father died. He received a most liberal education, hav- ing been kept diligently at school from the time he was five years of age. In 1760 he entered William and Mary College. Williamsburg was then the seat of the Colonial Court, and it was the obode of fashion a.id splendor. Young Jefferson, who was then 17 years old, lived somewhat expensively, keeping fine horses, and much caressed by gay society, yet he was earnestly devoted lo his studies, and irreproacha- able in his morals. It is strange, however, under such influences, that he was not ruined. In the sec- ond year of his college course, moved by some un- explained inward impulse, he discarded his horses, society, and even his favorite violin, to which he had previously given much time. He often devoted fifteen hours a day to hard study, allowing himself for ex- ercise only a run in the evening twilight of a mile out of the city and back again. He thus attained very high intellectual culture, alike excellence in philoso- phy and the languages. The most difficult Latin and Greek authors he read with facility. A more finished scholar has seldom gone forth from college halls; and there was not to be found, perhaps, in all Virginia, a more pureminded, upright, gentlemanly young man. Immediately upon leaving college he began the study of law. For the short, time he continued in the practice of his profession lie rose rapidly and distin- guished himself by his energy and accuteness as a C >) lawyer. But the times called for greater action. S The policy of England had awakened the spirit of ^ resistance of the American Colonies, and the enlarged ^ views which Jefferson had ever entertained, soon led ^ !iim into active political life. In 1769 he was chosen ^ a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses. In 1772 he married Mrs. Martha Skelton, a very beauti- ful, wealthy and highly accomplished young widow. /■ ^ Upon Mr. Jefferson's large estate at Shadwell, there was a majestic swell of land, called Monticello, which commanded a prospect of wonderful extent and beauty. This spot Mr. Jefferson selected for his new home; and here he reared a mansion of modest yet elegant architecture, which, next to Mount Vernon, became the most distinguished resort in our land. In 1775 he was sent to the Colonial Congress, where, though a silent member, his abilities as a writer and a reasoner soon become known, and he was placed upon a number of important committees, and was chairman of the one appointed for the draw- ing up of a declaration of independence. This com- mittee consisted of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger .Sherman and Robert R. Livingston. Jefferson, as chairman, was appointed to draw up the paper. Franklin and Adams suggested a few verbal changes before it was submitted to Con- gress. On June 28, a few slight changes were made in it by Congress, and it was passed and signed July Vi)i 4, 1776. What must have been the feelings of that ^ THOMAS JEPFERSON. #^C(®V^ man — what the emotions that swelled his breast — who was charged with the preparation of that Dec- laration, which, while it made known the wrongs of America, was also to publish her to the world, free, y soverign and independent. It is one of the most re- ©/markable papers ever written ; and did no other effort of the mind of its author exist, that alone would be sufficient to stamp his name with immortality. In 1779 Mr. Jefferson was elected successor to Patrick Henry, r.s Governor of Virginia. At one time the British officer, Tarleton, sent a secret expedition to Monlicello, to capture the Governor. Scarcely five minutes elapsed after the hurried escape of Mr. Jef- ferson and his family, ere his mansion was in posses- sion of the British troops. His wife's health, never very good, was much injured by this excitement, and in the summer of 1782 she died. Mr. Jefferson was elected to Congress in 1783. Two years later he was appointed Minister Plenipo- tentiary to France. Returning to the United States in September, 1789, he became Secretary of State in Washington's cabinet. This position he resigned ) Jan. I, 1794. In 1797, he was chosen Vice Presi- dent, and four years later was elected President over jv Mr. Adams, with Aaron Burr as Vice President. In A>. 1804. he was re-elected with wonderful unanimity, ca and George Clinton, Vice President. ^ The early part of Mr. Jefferson's second adminstra- c= tion was disturbed by an event which threatened the ?^ tranquility and peace of the Union ; this was the con- spiracy of Aaron Burr. Defeated in the late election to the Vice Presidency, and led on by an unprincipled (( \ ambition, this extraordinary man formed the plan of a military expedition into the Spanish territories on our southwestern frontier, for the purpose of forming there a new republic. This has been generally supposed was a mere pretext ; and although it has not been generally known what his real plans were, there is no doubt that they were of a far more dangerous character. In 1809, at the expiration of the second term for which Mr. Jefferson had been elected, he determined to retire from political life. For a period of nearly forty years, he had been continually before the pub- lic, and all that time had been employed in offices of the greatest trust and responsibility. Having thus de- voted the best part of his life to the service of his country, he now felt desirous of that rest which his declining years required, and upon the organization of the new administration, in March, 1809, he bid fare- well forever to public life, and retired to Monticello. Mr. Jefferson was profuse in his hospitality. Whole families came in their coaches with their horses, — fathers and mothers, boys and girls, babies and nurses, — and remained three and even six months. Life at Monticello, for years, resembled that at a fashionalile watering-place. The fourth of July, 1826, being the fiftieth anniver- f, sary of the Declaration of American Indeiiendence, great preparations were made in every part of the Union for its celebration, as the nation's jubilee, and the citizens of Washington, to add to the solemnity of the occasion, invited Mr. Jefferson, as the framer, and one of the few surviving signers of the Declara- tion, to participate in their iestivities. But an ill- ness, which had been of several weeks duration, and had been continually increasing, compelled him to decline the invitation. On the second of July, the disease under which he was laboring left him, but in such a reduced state that his medical attendants, entertained no hope of his recovery. From this time he was perfectly sensible that his last hour was at hand. On the next d;iy, which was Monday, he asked of those around him, the day of the month, and on being told it was the third of July, he expressed the earnest wish that he might be permitted to breathe the air of the fiftieth anniversary. His prayer was heard — that day, whose dawn was hailed with such rapture through our land, burst upon his eyes, and then they were closed for- ever. And what a noble consummation of a noble life! To die on that day, — the birthday of a nation,- - the day which his own name and his own act had rendered glorious; to die amidst the rejoicings and festivities of a whole nation, who looked up to him, as the author, under God, of their greatest blessings, was all that was wanting to fill up the record his life. Almost at the same hour of his death, the kin- dred spirit of the venerable Adams, as if to bear him company, left the scene of his earthly honors. Hand in hand they had stood forth, the champions of freedom; hand in hand, during the dark and desper- ate struggle of the Revolution, they had cheered and animated their desponding countrymen; for half a century they had labored together for the good of the country; and now hand in hand they depart. In their lives they had been united in the same great cause of liberty, and in their deaths they were not divided. In person Mr. Jefferson was tall and thin, rather above six feet in height, but well formed; his eyes were light, his hair originally red, in after life became white and silvery; his complexion was fair, his fore- head broad, and his whole countenance intelligent and thoughtful. He possessed great fortitude of mind as well as personal courage ; and his command of tem- per was such that his oldest and most intimate friends never recollected to have seen him in a passion. His manners, though dignified, were simple and un- affected, and his hospitality was so unbounded that all found at his house a ready welcome. In conver- sation he was fluent, eloquent and enthusiastic ; and his language was remarkably pure and correct. He was a finished classical scholar, and in his writings is discernable the care with which he formed his style upon the best models of antiquity. J( A !:;!c<-t-^t.^ ''^-^Ac-*^^ fi^K^ FOURTH FRESIDENT. -^^^^■^ priQES npDisoi]. AMES MADISON, "Father f the Constitution," and fourth j' President of the United States, was born March i6, 1757, and died at his home in Virginia, June 28, 1S36. The name of James Madison is inseparably con- nected with most of the important events in that heroic period of our country during which the founda- tions of this great repubHc were laid. He was the last of the founders of the Constitution of the United States to be called to his eternal reward. The Madison family were among the early emigrants to the New World, landing upon the shores of the Chesa- peake but 15 years after the settle- ment of Jamestown. The father of James Madison was an opulent planter, residing upon a very fine es- tate called "Montpelier," Orange Co., Va. The mansion was situated in the midst of scenery highly pictur- esque and romantic, on the west side of South-west Mountain, at the foot of It was but 25 miles from the home of Jefferson at Monticello. The closest personal and political attachment e-xisted between these illustrious men, from their early youth until death. The early education of Mr. Madison was conducted mostly at home under a private tutor. At the age of 18 he was sent to Princeton College, in New Jersey. Here he applied himself to study with the most im- Blue Rid^e prudent zeal; allowing himself, for months, but three hours' sleep out of the 24. His health llius became so seriously impaired that he never recovered any vigor of constitution. He graduated in 177 i, witli a feeble body, with a character of utmost purity, and with a mind highly disciplined and richly stored with learning r ^ which embellished and gave proficiency to his subse- . quent career. Returning to Virginia, he commenced the study of law and a course of extensive and systematic reading. This educational course, the spirit of the times in which he lived, and the society with which he asso- <^. ciated, all combined to inspire him with a strong ^ love of liberty, and to train him for his life-work of ' T\ a statesman. Being naturally of a religious turn of ^ m.ind, and his frail health leading him to think that his life was not to be long, he directed especial atten- tion to theological studies. Endowed with a mmd singularly free from passion and prejudice, and with almost unequalled powers of reasoning, he weighed all the arguments for and against revealed religion, until his faith became so established as never to be shaken. In the spring of 1776, when 26 years of age, he was elected a member of tlie Virginia Convention, to frame the constitution of the State. The next year (1777)1 he was a candidate for the General Assembly. He refused to treat the whisky-loving voters, and consequently lost his election ; but those who had (q) witnessed the talent, energy and public spirit of tlie J modest young man, enlisted themselves in his behalf, j^ and he was appointed to the Executive Council. Both Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson were Governors of Virginia while Mr. Madison remained member of the Council ; and their appreciation of his ®))^^#*- %^^. •wer at Iiome and little respect abroad. Mr. Madison was selected by the conven- tion to draw up an address to the people of the United States, expounding the principles of the Constitution, and urging its adoption. There was great opposition to it at fust, but it at length triumphed over all, and went into effect in 1789. Mr. Madison was elected to the House of Repre- sentatives in the first Congress, and soon became the avowed leader of the Republican party. While in New York attending Congress, he met Mrs. Todd, a young widow of remarkable ]xiwer of fascination, whom he married. She was in person and character queenly, and probably no lady has thus far occupied so prominent a position in the very peculiar society which has constituted our repubhcan court as Mrs. Madison. Mr. Madison served as Secretarj' of State under Jefferson, and at the close of his administration was chosen President. At this time the encroach- ments of England had brought us to the verge of war. British orders in council destroyed our commerce, and our flag was exposed to constant insult. Mr. Madison was a man of peace. Scholarly in his taste, retiring in his disposition, war had no charms for him. But the meekest spirit can be roused. It makes one's blood boil, even now, to think of an American ship brought to, upon the ocean, by the guns of an English cruiser. A young lieutenant steps on board and orders the crew to be paraded before him. With great nonchal- ance he selects any number whom he may please to designate as British subjects ; orders them down the ship's side into his boat; and places them on the gun- deck of his man-of-war, to fight, by compulsion, the battles of England. This right of search and im- pressment, no efforts of our Governriient could induce the British cabinet to relinquish. On the 1 8th of June, 181 2, President Madison gave his approval to an act of Congress declaring war against Great Britain. Notwithstanding the bitter hostility of the Federal party to the war, the country in general approved; and Mr. Madison, on the 4th of March, 18 13, was re-elected by a large majority, and entered upon his second term of office. This is not the place to describe the various adventures of this war on the land and on the water. Our infant navy then laid the foundations of its renown in grap- pling with the most formidable power which ever swept the seas. The contest commenced in earnest by the appearance of a British fleet, early in February, 18 13, in Chesapeake Bay, declaring nearly the whole coast of the United States under blockade. The Emperor of Russia offered his services as me ditator. America accepted ; England refused. A Brit- ish force of five thousand men landed on the banks of the Patuxet River, near its entrance into Chesa- peake Bay, and marched rapidly, by way of Bladens- burg, upon Washington. The straggling little city of Washington was thrown into consternation. The cannon of tlie brief conflict at Bladensburg echoed through the streets of the metropolis. The whole population fled from the city. The President, leaving Mrs. Madison in the White House, with her carriage drawn up at the door to await his speedy return, hurried to meet the officers in a council of war. He met our troops utterly routed, and he could not go back without danger of being captured. But few hours elapsed ere the Presidential Mansion, the Capitol, and all the public buildings in Washington were in flames. The war closed after two years of fighting, and on Feb. 13, 1815, the treaty of peace was signed at Ghent. On the 4th of March, 1817, his second term of office expired, and he resigned the Presidential chair to his friend, James Monroe. He retired to iiis beau- tiful home at Montpelier, and there passed the re- mainder of his days. On June 28, 1836, then at the age of 85 years, he fell asleep in death. Mrs. Madi- son died July 12, 1849. ( ^• ^: ( ^ %sa- U^ ■^^nn^niif^^ ^i:^ -8S§ i^^f^ 1^: IK i I Mi-" I 5 .j'?* I /;^^^ -^^^ 7<^iiii ^ C li^>"rT7— 5stf©^ ^•7 @iX at this early period displayed some of that ability 4^ and aptitude for legislation, which were afterwards © employed with unremitting energy for the public good, ^^^rf*- .^^^^.^ ^>tlIl^IIIlr> A.^^ <^nD^iiD^> JAMES MONROE. A he was in the succeeding year chosen a member of the Congress of the United' States. Deeply as Mr. Monroe felt the imperfections of the old Confederacy, he was opposed to the new Constitution, thinking, with many others of the Republican party, that it gave too much power to the Central Government, and not enough to the individual States. Still he re- tained the esteem of his friends who were its warm supporters, and who, notwithstanding his opposition secured its adoption. In 1789, he became a member of the United States Senate; which office he held for four years. Every month the line of distinction be- tween the two great parties which divided the nation, the Federal and the Republican, was growing more distinct. The two prominent ideas which now sep- arated them were, that the Republican party was in sympathy with France, and also in favor of such a strict construction of the Constitution as to give the Central Government as little power, and the State Governments as much power, as the Constitution would warrant. The Federalists sympathized with England, and were in favor of a liberal construction of the Con- stitution, which would give as much power to the Central Government as that document could possibly authorize. The leading Federalists and Republicans were alike noble men, consecrating all their energies to the good of the nation. Two more honest men or more pure patriots than John Adams the Federalist, and James Monroe the Republican, never breathed. In building u)) this majestic nation, which is destined to eclipse all Grecian and Assyrian greatness, the com- bination of their antagonism was needed to create the light equilibrium. And yet each in his day was de- nounced as almost a demon. Washington was then President. England had es- poused the cause of the Bourbons against the princi- ples of the French Revolution. All Europe was drawn into the conflict. We were feeble and far away. Washington issued a proclamation of neutrality be- tween these contending powers. France had helped us in the struggle for our liberties. All the despotisms of Europe were now combined to prevent the French from escaping from a tyranny a thousand-fold worse than that which we had endured. Col. Monroe, more magnanimous than prudent, was anxious that, at whatever hazard, we should help our old allies in their extremity. It was the impulse of a generous and noble nature. He violently opposed the Pres- ident's proclamation as ungrateful and wanting in magnanimity. Washington, who could appreciate such a character, developed his calm, serene, almost divine greatness, by appointing that very James Monroe, who was de- nouncing the policy of the Government, as the minister of that Government to the Republic of France. Mr. Monroe was welcomed by tlie National Convention in France with the most enthusiastic demonstrations. Shortly after his return to this country, Mr. Mon- roe was elected Governor of Virginia, and held the office for three years. He was again sent to France to co-operate with Chancellor Livingston in obtaining the vast territory then known as the Province of Louisiana, which France had but shortly before ob- tained from Spain. Their united efforts were suc- cessful. For the comparatively small sum of fifteen millions of dollars, the entire territory of Orleans and district of Louisiana were added to the United States. This was probably the largest transfer of real estate which was ever made in all the history of the world. From France Mr. Monroe went to England to ob- tain from that country some recognition of our rights as neutrals, and to remonstrate against those odious impressments of our seamen. But Eng- land was unrelenting. He agam returned to Eng- land on the same mission, but could receive no redress. He returned to his home and was again chosen Governor of Virginia. This he soon resigned to accept the position of Secretary of State under Madison. While in this office war with England was declared, the Secretary of War resigned, and during these trying times, the duties of the War Department were also put upon him. He was truly the armor- bearer of President Madison, and the most efficient business man in his cabinet. Upon the return of peace he resigned the Department of War, but con- tinued in the office of Secretary .of State until the ex- piration of Mr. Madison's adminstration. At the elec- tion held the previous autumn Mr. Monroe himself had been chosen President with but little opposition, and upon March 4, 1817, was inaugurated. Four years later he was elected for a second term. Among the important measures of his Presidency were the cession of Floiida to the United States ; the Missouri Compromise, and the " Monroe doctrine.'' This fainous doctrine, since known as the " Monroe doctrine," was enunciated by him in 1823. At that time the United States had recognized the independ- ence of the South American states, and did not wish to have European powers longer attempting to sub- due portions of the American Continent. The doctrine is as follows: "That we should consider any attempt on the part of European powers to extend their sys- tem to any portion of this hemisphere as dangerous to our peace and safety," and "that we could not view any interposition for tlie purpose of oppressing or controlling American governments or provinces in any other light than as a manifestation by European powers of an unfriendly disposition toward tlie LTnited States." This doctrine immediately affected the course of foreign governments, and has become the approved sentiment of the United States. At the end of his second term Mr. Monroe retired to his home in Virginia, where he lived until \l when he went to New York to live with his son-in- law. In that city he died, on the 4th of July, 1831. t/jp ^ <-'J «5 ^«^^ -s^C^r: @7^4I1 D M Il<>^^)— -^€3^ ¥1 'i Uj oL. c>ft-t-<2'7n4 'o 'T<^mmm^ >^-;^v^:y<:x-> i>.v^^ ^!l^:^ i^ OHN QUINCY ADAMS, the sixth President of the United ^States, was born in the rural Iiome of his honored father, John Adams, in Quincy, Mass., on the I ith cf July, 1767. His mother, a woman of exalted worth, watched over his childhood during the almost constant ab- sence of his father. When but eight years of age, he stood with his mother on an eminence, listen- ing to the booming of the great bat- tle on Bunker's Hill, and gazing on upon the smoke and flames billow- ing up from the conflagration of Charlestown. When but eleven years old he took a tearful adieu of his mother, to sail with his father for Europe, through a fleet of hostile British cruisers. The bright, animated boy spent a year and a half in Paris, where his father was associated with Franklin and Lee as minister plenipotentiary. His intelligence attracted the notice of these distinguished men, and he received from them flattering marks of attention. Mr. John Adams had scarcely returned to this country, in 1779, ere he was again sent abroad. Again John Quincy accompanied his father. At Paris he applied himself with great diligence, for six months, to study; then accompained his father to Holland, where he entered, first a school in Amsterdam, then the University at Leyden. About a year from this time, in 17 81, when the manly boy was but fourteen years of age, he was selected by Mr. Dana, our min- ister to the Russian court, as his private secretarj'. In this school of incessant labor and of enoliling culture he spent fourteen months, and then returned to Holland through Sweden, Denmark, Hamburg and Bremen. This long journey he took alone, in the winter, when in his sixteenth year. Again he resumed his studies, under a private tutor, at Hague. Thence, in the spring of 1782, he accompanied his father to Paris, traveling leisurely, and forming acquaintance with the most distinguished men on the Continent; examining architectural remains, galleries of paintings, and all renowned works of art. At Paris he again became associated with the most illustrious men of all lands in the contemplations of the loftiest temporal themes which can engross the human mind. After a short visit to England he returned to Paris, and consecrated all his energies to study until May, 1785, when he returned to America. To a brilliant young man of eighteen, who had seen much of the world, and who was familiar with the etiquette of courts, a residence with his father in London, under such cir- cumstances, must have been extremely attractive; but with judgment very rare in one of his age, he pre- ferred to return to America to complete his education in an American college. He wished then to study law, that with an honorable profession, he might be able to obtain an independent support. Upon leaving Harvard College, at the age of twenty, he studied law for three years. In June, 1794, be- ing then but twenty-seven years of age, he was ap- pointed by Washington, resident minister at the Netherlands. Sailing from Boston in July, he reached London in October, where he was immediately admit- ted to the deliberations of Messrs. Jay and Pinckney, assisting them in negotiating a commercial treaty with Gr«at Britian. After thus spending a fortnight in London, he proceeded to the Hague. In July, 1797, he left the Hague to go to Portugal as minister plenipotentiary. On his way to Portugal, upon arriving in London, he met with despatches directing him to the court of Beriin, but requesting him to remain in London until he should receive his instructions. While waiting he was married to an American lady to whom he had been previously en- gaged, — Miss Louisa Catherine Johnson, daughter of Mr. Joshua Johnson, American consul in London; a lady endownd with that beauty and those accom- plishment which eminently fitted her to move in the elevated sphere for which she was destined. Si/ 1 v©^$^#= .^=1^ <^^D!I^nDf^ #^^ w g#« 4° /OJlAr QUlNCY ADAMS. "^'^i^-_. -4^^^ I f \i V ■ s ) He reached Berlin with his wife in November, 1797 ; where he remained until July, 1799, when, having ful- filled all the purposes of his mission, he solicited his recall. Soon after his return, in 1802, he was chosen to the Senate of Massachusetts, from Boston, and then was elected Senator of the United States for six years, from the 4th of March, 1804. His reputation, his ability and his experience, placed him immediately among the most prominent and influential members of that body. Especially did he sustain the Govern- ment in its measures of resistance to the encroach- ments of England, destroying our commerce and in- sulting our flag. There was no man in America more familiar with the arrogance of the British court upon these points, and no one more resolved to present a firm resistance. In 1S09, Madison succeeded Jefferson in the Pres- idential chair, and he immediately nominated John Quincy Adams minister to St. Petersburg. Resign- ing his professorship in Harvard College, he embarked at Boston, in August, 1809. While in Russia, Mr. Adams was an intense stu- dent. He devoted his attention to the language and history of Russia; to the Chinese trade; to the European system of weights, measures, and coins ; to the climate and astronomical observations ; while he kept up a familiar acquaintance with the Greek and Latin classics. In all the universities of Europe, a more acconijjlished scholar could scarcely be found. All tlirough life the Bible constituted an important part of his studies. It was his rule to read five chapters every day. On the 4th of March, 1817, Mr. Monroe took the Presidential chair, and immediately appointed Mr. Adams Secretary of State. Taking leave of his num- erous friends in public and private life in Europe, he sailed in June, 1819, for the United States. On the i8th of August, he again crossed the threshold of his home in Quincy. During the eight years of Mr. Mon- roe's administration, Mr. Adams continued Secretary of State. Some time before the close of Mr. Monroe's second term of office, new candidates began to be presented for the Presidency. The friends of Mr. Adams broifght forward his name. It was an e.xciting campaign. ■Party spirit was never more bitter. Two hundred and sixty electoral votes were cast. Andrew Jackson re- ceived ninety-nine; John Quincy Adams, eighty-four; William H. Crawford, forty-one; Henry Clay, thirty- seven. As there was no choice by the people, the question went to the House of Representatives. Mr. Clay gave the vote of Kentucky to Mr. Adams, and he was elected. The friends of all the disappointed candidates now combined in a venomous and persistent assault upon Mr. Adams. There is nothing more disgraceful in the past history of our country than the abuse which was poured in one uninterrupted stream, upon this high-minded, upright, patriotic man. There never was an administration more pure in principles, more con- scientiously devoted to the best interests of the coun- try, than that of John Quincy Adams; and never, per- haps, was there an administration more unscrupu- lously and outrageously assailed. Mr. Adams was, to a very remarkable degree, ab- stemious and temperate in his habits; always rising early, and taking much exercise. When at his home in Quincy, he has been known to walk, before breakfast, seven miles to Boston. In Washington, it was said that he was the first man up in the city, lighting his own fire and applying himself to work in his library often long before dawn. On the 4th of Maich, 1829, Mr. Adams retired from the Presidency, and was succeeded by Andrew- Jackson. John C. Calhoun was elected Vice Presi- dent. The slavery question now began to assume lx)rtentous magnitude. Mr. Adams returned to Quincy and to his studies, which he pursued with un- abated zeal. But he was not long permitted to re- main in retirement. In November, 1830, he was elected representative to Congress. For seventeen years, until his death, he occupied the post as repre- sentative, towering above all his peers, ever ready to do brave battle' for freedom, and winning the title of " the old man eloquent." Upon taking his seat in the House, he announced that he should hold him- self bound to no party. Probably there never was a member more devoted to his duties. He was usually the first in his place in the morning, and the last to leave his seat in the evening. Not a measure could be brought forward and escape his scrutiny. The battle which Mr. Adams fought, almost singly, against the proslavery party in the Government, was sublime in Us moral daring and heroism. For persisting in presenting petitions for the abolition of slavery, he was threatened with indictment by the grand jury, with expulsion from the House, with assassination; but no threats could intimidate him, and his final triumph was complete. It has been said of President Adains, that when his body was bent and his hair silvered by the lapse of fourscore years, yielding to the simple faith of a little child, he was accustomed to repeat every night, before he slept, the prayer which his mother taught hiiii in his infant years. On the 2 1 St of February, 1848, he rose on the floor of Congress, with a paper in his hand, to address the speaker. Suddenly he fell, again stricken by paraly- sis, and was caught in the arms of those around him. For a time he was senseless, as he was conveyed to the sofa in the rotunda. With reviving conscious- ness, he openecf his eyes, looked calmly around and said " Tills is the end of earth ;"then after a moment's pause he added, '' I am eontent." These were the last words of the grand "Old Man Eloquent," Vf (^ ^ C< < ( ^. \#)f^|=* ..<;::-A <^^D!l.^lDf^ M i\ l#^- rJ^K — ^V<^IlI]:t:Dll>->T SEVENTH PRESIDENT. <^ WMlt^ . <»9.aa-.<;»'-^JSXg37?^ O'" '^ > ■ :^ o '1 * NDREW JACKSON, the venth President of the "United States, was born in Waxhavv settlement, N. C, March 15, 1767, a few days after his father's death. His parents were poor emigrants from Ireland, and took up their abode in Waxhaw set- tlement, where they lived in deepest poverty. Andrew, or Andy, as he was universally called, grew up a very rough, rude, turbulent boy. His features were coarse, his form un- gainly, and there was but very little in his character, made visible, which was at- tractive. When only thirteen years old he joined the volun- teers of Carolina against the British invasion. In 1781, he and his brother Robert were captured and imprisoned for a time at Camden. A British officer ordered him to brush his mud-spattered boots. " I am a prisoner of war, not your servant," was the reply of the dauntless boy. The brute drew his sword, and aimed a des])erate blow at the head of the helpless young prisoner. Andrew raised his hand, and thus received two fear- ful gashes, — one on the hand and the other upon the head. The officer then turned to his brother Robert with the same demand. He also refused, and re- ceived a blow from the keen-edged sabre, which quite disabled him, and which probably soon after caused his death. They suffered much other ill-treatment, and were finally stricken with the small-pox. Their mother was successful in obtaining their exchange. and took her sick boys home. After a long illness Andrew recovered, and the death of his mother soon left him entirely friendless. Andrew supported himself in various ways, such as working at the saddler's trade, teaching school and clerking in a general store, until 17 S4, when he entered a law office at Salisbury, N. C. He, however, gave more attention to the wild amusements of the times than to his studies. In 1788, he was appointed solicitor for the western district of North Carolina, of which Tennessee was then a part. This involved many long and tedious journeys amid dangers of every kind, but Andrew Jackson never knew fear, and the Indians had no desire to repeat a skirmish with the Sharp Knife. In 1 7 91, Mr. Jackson was married to a woman who supposed herself divorced from her former husband. Great was the surprise of both parties, two years later, to find that the conditions of the divorce had just been definitely settled by the first husband. The marriage ceremony was performed a second time, but the occur- rence was often used by his enemies to bring Mr. Jackson into disfavor. During these years he worked hard at his profes- sion, and frequently had one or m.ore duels on hand, one of which, when he killed Dickenson, was espec- ially disgraceful. In January, 1796, the Territory of Tennessee then containing nearly eighty thousand inhabitants, the people met in convention at Knoxville to frame a con- stitution. Five were sent from each of the eleven counties. Andrew Jackson was one of the delegates. The new State was entitled to but one member in the National House of Representatives. Andrew Jack- son was chosen that member. Mounting his horse he rode to Philedelphia, where Congress then held its CI ro) 44 r^i^^ (h (f* •! ^ i ANDREW JACKSON. sessions, — ^a distance of about eight hundred miles. Jackson was an earnest advocate of the Demo- cratic party. Jefferson was his idol. He admired Bonaparte, loved France and hated England. As Mr. Jackson took his seat. Gen. Washington, whose second term of office was then expiring, delivered his last speech to Congress. A committee drew up a complimentary address in reply. Andrew Jackson did not approve of the address, and was one of the twelve who voted against it. He was not willing to say that Gen. Washington's adrainstration had been " wise, firm and patriotic." Mr. Jackson was elected to the United States Senate in 1797, but soon resigned and returned home. Soon after he was chosen Judge of the Supreme Court of his State, which position he held for si.K years. When the war of 18 12 witlr Great Britian com- menced, Madison occupied the Presidential chair. Aaron Burr sent word to the President that there was an unknown man in the West, Andrew Jackson, who would do credit to a commission if one were con- ferred uix)n him. Just at that time Gen. Jackson offered his services and those of twenty-five hundred volunteers. His offer was accepted, and the troops were assembled at Nashville. As the British were hourly e.xpected to make an at- tack upon New Orleans, where Gen. Wilkinson was in command, he was ordered to descend the river with fifteen hundred troops to aid Wilkinson. The expedition reached Natchez; and afteradelay of sev- eral weeks there, without accomplishing anything, the men were ordered back to their homes. But the energy Gen. Jackson had displayed, and his entire devotion to the comrfort of his soldiers, won him golden opinions ; and he became the most popular man in the State. It was in this expedition that his toughness gave him the nickname of " Old Hickory." Soon after this, while attempting to horsewhip Col. Thomas H. Benton, for a remark that gentleman made about his taking a part as second in a duel, in which a younger brotlier of Benton's was engaged, he received two severe pistol wounds. While he was lingering upon a lied of suffering news came that the Indians, who had combined under Tecumseh from Florida to the Lakes, to exterminate the white set- tlers, were committing the most awful ravages. De- cisive action became necessary. Gen. Jackson, with his fractured bone just beginning to heal, his arm in a sling, and unable to mount his horse without assis- tance, gave his amazing energies to the raising of an army to rendezvous at Fayettesville, Alabama. The Creek Indians had established a strong fort on one of the bends of the T.allapoosa River, near the cen- ter of Alabama, about fifty miles below Fort Strother. With an army of two thousand men, Gen. Jackson traversed the pathless wilderness in a march of eleven days. He reached their fort, called Tohopeka or Horse-shoe, on the 27th of March. 1814. The bend of the river enclosed nearly one hundred acres of tangled forest and wild ravine. Across the narrow neck the Indians had constructed a formidable breast- work of logs and brush. Here nine hundred warriors, with an ample suplyof arms were assembled. The fort was stormed. The fight was utterly des- perate. Not an Indian would accept of quarter. When bleeding and dying, they would fight those who en- deavored to spare their lives. From ten in the morn- ing until dark, the battle raged. The carnage was awful and revolting. Some threw themselves into the river; but the unerring bullet struck their heads as they swam. Nearly everyone of the nine hundred war- rios were killed A few probably, in the night, swam the river and escaped. This ended the war. The [wwer of the Creeks was broken forever. This bold plunge into the wilderness, with its terriffic slaughter, so appalled the savages, that the haggard remnants of the bands came to the camp, begging for peace. This closing of the Creek war enabled us to con- centrate all our militia upon the British, who were the allies of the Indians No man of less resolute will than Gen. Jackson could have conducted this Indian campaign to so successful an issue Immediately he was appointed major-general. Late in August, with an army of two thousand men, on a rushing march, Gen. Jackson came to Mobile. A British fleet came from Pensacola, landed a force upon the beach, anchored near the little fort, and from both ship and shore commenced a furious assault. The battle was long and doubtful. At length one of the ships was blown up and the rest retired. Garrisoning Mobile, where he had taken his little army, he moved his troops to New Orleans, .\nd the battle of New Orleans which soon ensued, was in reality a very arduous campaign. This won for Gen. Jackson an imperishable name. Here his troops, which numbered about four thousand men, won a signal victory over the British army of about nine thousand. His loss was but thirteen, while the loss of the British was two thousand six hundred. The name of Gen. Jackson soon began to be men- tioned in connection with the Presidency, but, in T824, he was defeated by Mr. Adams. He was, however, successful in the election of 1828, and was re-elected for a second term in 1832. In 1829, just before he assumed the reins of the government, he met with the most terrible affliction of his life in the death of his wife, whom he had loved with a devotion which has perhaps never been surpassed. From the shock of her death he never recovered. His administration was one of the most memorable in the annals of our country; applauded by one party, condemned Iiy the other. No man had more bitter enemies or warmer friends. At the expiration of his two terms of office he retired to the Hermitage, where he died June 8, 1845. The last years of Mr. Jack- son's life were that of a devoted Christian man. (J) ^ — ^^f^ 'f^^ O ^ T^tf^^ 1^-^/3 Uii^c^t^c^ i 1=1 f <^ EIGHTH PRESIDENT. ^^/^^^f^-\®m^>^^ WW^^ W^ BnREi]. ,. . ■ ,'iV-S ■. I; ^i'^ft 1 p' 7 .if- J i «* ARTIN VAN BUREN, the eichth President of the United States, was born at Kinderhook, N. Y., Dec. 5, 1782. He died at the same place, July 24, 1862. His body rests in the cemetery at Kinderhook. Above it is a plain granite shaft fifteen feet high, bearing a simple inscription about half way up on one face. The lot is unfenced, unbordered or unbounded by shrub or flower. There is but little in the life of Martin Van Buren of romantic interest. He fought no battles, engaged in no wild adventures. Though his life was stormy in political and intellectual conflicts, and he gained many signal victories, his days passed uneventful in those incidents which give zest to biography. His an- cestors, as his name indicates, were of Dutch origin, and were among the earliest emigrants from Holland to the banks of the Hudson. His father was a farmer, residing in the old town of Kinderhook. His mother, also of Dutch lineage, was a woman of superior intel- ligence and e.\emplary piety. He was decidedly a precocious boy, developing un- usual activity, vigor and strength of mind. At the age of fourteen, he had finished his academic studies in his native village, and commenced the study of law. As he had not a collegiate education, seven years of study iji a law-office were required of him before he could be admitted to the bar. Inspired with a lofty ambition, and conscious of his powers, he pur- sued his studies with indefatigable industry. After spending si.\ years in an office in his native village, he went to the city of New York, and prosecuted his studies for the seventh year. In 1803, Mr. Van Buren, then twenty-one years of age, commenced the practice of law in his native vil- lage. The great conflict between the Federal and Republican party was then at its height. Mr. Van Buren was from the beginning a politician. He had, perhaps, imbibed that spirit while listening to the many discussions which had been carried on in his father's hotel. He was in cordial sympathy with Jefferson, and earnestly and eloquently espoused the cause of State Rights ; though at that time the Fed- eral party held the supremacy both in his town and State. His success and increasing ruputation led him, after six years of practice, to remove to Hudson, the county seat of his county. Here he spent seven years, constantly gaining strength by contending in the courts with some of the ablest men who have adorned the bar of his State. Just before leaving Kinderhook for Hudson, Mr. Van Buren married a lady alike distinguished for beauty and accomplishments. After twelve short ye^ars she sank into the grave, the victim of consump- tion, leaving her husband and four sons to weep over her loss. For twenty-five years, Mr. Van Buren was an earnest, successful, assiduous lawyer. The record of those years is barren in items of public interest. In t8i 2, when thirty years of age, he was chosen to the State Senate, and gave his strenuous support to Mr. Madison's adminstration. In 1815, he was ap- [Minted Attorney-General, and the next year moved to Albany, the capital of the State. While he was acknowledged as one of the most prominent leaders of the Democratic party, he had 'mw>^^ — ^^- < MARTIN VAN BUREN. 3 ^ 'O the moral courage to avow that true democracy did not recjuire that " universal sufif rage" which admits the vile, the degraded, the ignorant, to the right of governing the State. In true consistency with his democratic principles, he contended that, while the path leading to the privilege of voting should be open to every man without distinction, no one should be invested with that sacred prerogative, unless he were in some degree qualified for it by intelligence, virtue and some property interests in the welfare of the State. In 182 1 he was elected a member of the United States Senate; and in the same year, he took a seat in the convention to revise the constitution of his native State. His course in this convention secured the approval of men of all parties. No one could doubt the singleness of his endeavors to promote the interests of all classes in the community. In the Senate of the United States, he rose at once to a conspicuous position as anactive and useful legislator. In 1827, John Quincy Adams being then in the Presidential chair, Mr. Van Buren was re-elected to the Senate. He had been from the beginning a de- termined opposer of the Administration, adopting the "State Rights" view in opposition to what was deemed the Federal proclivities of Mr. Adams. Soon after this, in 1828, he was chosen Governorof the State of New York, and accordingly resigned his seat in the Senate. Probably no one in the United States contributed so much towards ejecting John Q. Adams from the Presidential chair, and placing in it Andrew Jackson, as did Martin Van Buren. Whether entitled to the reputation or not, he certainly was re- garded throughout the United States as one of the most skillful, sagacious and cunning of politicians. It was supposed that no one knew so well as he how to touch the secret spiings of action; how to pull all the wires to put his machinery in motion ; and how to organize a political array which would, secretly and stealthily accomplish the most gigantic results. By these powers it is said that he outv/itted Mr. Adams, Mr. Clay, Mr. Webster, and secured results which few thought then could be accomplished. When Andrew Jackson was elected President he appointed Mr. Van Buren Secretary of State. This position he resigned in 1831, and was immediately appointed Minister to England, where he went the same autumn. The Senate, however, when it met, refused to ratify the nomination, and he returned a y home, apparently untroubled ; was nominated Vice President in the place of Calhoun, at the re-election of President Jackson ; and with smiles for all and frowns for none, he took his place at the head of that Senate which had refused to confirm his nomination as ambassador. His rejection by the Senate roused all the zeal of President Jackson in behalf of his repudiated favor- ite ; and this, probably more than any other cause, secured his elevation to the chair of the Chief Execu- tive. On the 20th of May, 1836, Mr. Van Buren re- ceived the Democratic nomination to succeed Gen. Jackson as President of the United States. He was elected by a handsome majority, to the delight of the retiring President. " Leaving New York out of the canvass," says Mr. Parton, "the election of Mr. Van Buren to the Presidency was as much the act of Gen. Jackson as though the Constitution had conferred upon him the power to appoint a successor." His administration was filled with exciting events. The insurrection in Canada, which threatened to in- s volve this country in war with England, the agitation ^ of the slavery question, and finally the great commer- ^ cial panic which spread over the country, all were &' trials to his wisdom. The financial distress was at- ^'^ tributed to the management of the Democratic party, ^ and brought the President into such disfavor that he failed of re-election. With the exception of being nominated for the Presidency by the " Free Soil " Democrats, in 1 848, Mr. Van Buren lived quietly upon his estate until his death. He had ever been a prudent man, of frugal habits, and living within his income, had now fortunately a competence for his declining years. His unblemished character, his commanding abilities, his unquestioned patriotism, and the distinguished positions which he had occupied in the government of our country, se- cured to him not only the homage of his party, but the respect ot the whole community. It was on the 4th of March, 1841, that Mr. Van Buren retired from the presidency. From his fine estate at Lindenwald^ ^i^ he still exerted a powerful influence upon the politics r of the countr)'. From this time until his death, on • the 24th of July, 1S62, at the age of eighty years, he ^ resided at Lindenwald, a gentleman of leisure, of culture and of wealth ; enjoying in a healthy old age, probably far more happiness than he had before experienced amid the stormy scenes of his active life, ( ^^|]ti:-»:ntlf^ Ao . ^^ ^ ^^^fi :'^: ygf /^ /5^/^^:^-^Wb>^ Wl^^MM mil ffi4ffiMil. '^) ir^ ILLIAM HENRY HARRI- SON, the ninth President of the United States, was born at Berkeley, Va., Feb. 9, 1773. His father, Benjamin Harri- son, was in comparatively op- ulent circumstances, and was one of the most distinguished men of his day. He was an intimate friend of George Washington, was early elected a member of the Continental Congress, and was conspicuous among the patriots of Virginia in resisting the encroachments of the British crown. In the celebrated Congress of 1775, Benjamin Har- rison and John Hancock were both candidates for the office of speaker. Mr Harrison was subsequently chosen Governor of Virginia, and was twice re-elected. His son, William Henry, of course enjoyed in childhood all the advantages which wealth and intellectual and cultivated society could give. Hav- ing received a thorough common-school education, he entered Hampden Sidney College, where he graduated with lionor soon after the death of his father. He then repaired to Philadelphia tostudy medicine under the instructions of Dr. Rush and the guardianship of Robert Morris, both of whom were, with his father, signers of the Declaration of Independence. Upon the outbreak of the Indian troubles, and not- withstanding the remonstrances of his friends, he abandoned his medical studies and entered the army, having obtained a commission of Ensign from Presi- dent Washington. He was then but 19 years old. From that time he passed gradually upward in rank until he became aid to General Wayne, after whose death he resigned his commission. He was then ap- pointed Secretary of the North-western Territory. This Territory was then entitled to but one member in Congress and Capt. Harrison was chosen to fill that position. In the spring of 1800 the North-western Territory was divided by Congress into two portions. The eastern portion, comprising the region now embraced in the State of Ohio, was called '' The Territory north-west of the Ohio." The western portion, which included what is now called Indiana, lUinois and ^V"isconsin, was called the "Indiana Territory." Wil- liam Henry Harrison, then 27 years of age, was ap- pointed by John Adams, Governor of the Indiana Territory, and immediately after, also Governor of Upper Louisiana. He was thusj'uler over almost as extensive a realm as any sovereign upon the globe. He was Superintendent of Indian Affairs, and was in- vested with powers nearly dictatorial over the now rapidly increasing white population. The ability and fidelity with which he discharged these responsible duties may be inferred from the fact that he was four times appointed to this office — first by John Adams, twice by Thomas Jefferson and afterwards by Presi- dent Madison. • When he began his adminstration there were but three white settlements in that almost boundless region, now crowded with cities and resounding with all the 1 tumult of wealth and traffic. One of these settlements was on the Ohio, nearly opposite Louisville; one at Vincennes, on the Wabash, and the third a French settlement. The vast wilderness over which Gov. Harrison reigned was filled with many tribes of Indians. About ^v V ^wmm>^ — ^«^ 4^Jf®>^ ii T<^DII^I1D^> V ":2J>^^^ -4?^^^ WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON. f ■^ the year 1806, two extraordinary men, twin brothers, of the Shawnese tribe, rose among them. One of these was called Tecumseh, or " The Crouching Panther;" the other, Olliwacheca, or "The Prophet." Tecumseh was not only an Indian warrior, but a man of great sagacity, far-reaching foresight and indomit- able perseverance in any enterprise in which he might engage. He was inspired with the highest enthusiasm, and had long regarded with dread and with hatred the encroachment of the whites upon the hunting- grounds of his fathers. His brother, the Prophet, was anorator, who could sway the feelings of the untutored Indian as the gale tossed the tree-tops beneath which they dwelt. But the Prophet was not merely an orator : he was, in the superstitious minds of the Indians, invested with the superhuman dignity of a medicine-man or a magician. With an enthusiasm unsurpassed by Peter the Hermit rousing Europe to the crusades, he went from tribe to tribe, assuming that he was specially sent by the Great Spirit. Gov. Harrison made many attempts to conciliate the Indians, but at last the war came, and at Tippe- canoe the Indians were routed with great slaughter. October 28, 1812, his army began its march. When near the Prophet's town three Indians of rank made their appearance and inquired why Gov. Harrison was approaching them in so hostile an attitude. After a short conference, arrangements were made for a meet- ing the next day, to agree upon terms of peace. But Gov. Harrison was too well acquainted with the Indian character to be deceived by such protes- tations. Selecting a favorable spot for his night's en- campment, he took every precaution against surprise. His troops were posted in a hollow square, and slept upon their arms. The troops threw themselves upon the ground for rest; but every man had his accourtrements on, his loaded musket by his side, and his bayonet fixed. The wakeful Governor, between three and four o'clock in the morning, had risen, and was sitting in conversa- tion with his aids by the embers of a waning fire. It was a chill, cloudy morning with a drizzling rain. In the darkness, the Indians had crept as near as possi- ble, and just then, with a savage yell, rushed, with all the desperation which superstition and passion most highly inflamed could give, upon the left flank of the. little army. The savages had been amply provided with guns and ammunition by the English. Their war-whoop was accompained by a shower of bullets. The camp-fires were instantly extinguished, as the light aided the Indians in their aim. With hide- ous yells, the Indian bands rushed on, not doubting a speedy and an entire victor)-. But Gen. Harrison's troops stood as immovable as the rocks around them until day dawned : they then made a simultaneous charge with the bayonet, and swept every thing be- fore them, and completely routing th? foe. Gov. Harrison now had all his energies tasked to the utmost. The British descending from theCan- adas, were of themselves a very formidable force ; but with their savage allies, rushing like wolves from the forest, searching out every remote farm-house, burn- ing, plundering, scalping, torturing, the wide frontier was plunged into a state of consternation which even the most vivid imagination can but faintly conceive. The war-whoop was resounding everywhere in the forest. The horizon was illuminated with the conflagra- tion of the cabins of the settlers. Gen Hull had made the ignominious surrender of his forces at Detroit. Under these despairing circumstances, Gov. Harrison was appointed by President Madison commander-in- chief of the North-western army, with orders to retake Detroit, and to protect the frontiers. It would be difficult to place a man in a situation demanding more energy, sagacity and courage; but General Harrison was found equal to the position, and nobly and triumphantly did he meet all the re- sponsibilities. He won the love of his soldiers by always sharing with them their fatigue. His whole baggage, while pursuing the foe up the Thames, was carried in a valise ; and his bedding consisted of a single blanket lashed over his saddle. Thirty-five British officers, his prisoners of war, supped with him after the batde. The only fare he could give them was beef roasted before the fire, without bread or salt. In 1 816, Gen. Harrison was chosen a member of the National House of Representatives, to represent the District of Ohio. In Congress he proved an active member; and whenever he spoke, it was with force of reason and power of eloquence, which arrested the attention of all the members. In 1819, Harrison was elected to the Senate of Ohio; and in 1824, as one of the presidential electors of that State, he gave his vote for Henry Clay. The same year he was chosen to the Uiiited States Senate. In 1836, the friends of Gen. Harrison brought him forward as a candidate for the Presidency against Van Buren, but he was defeated. At the close of Mr. Van Buren's term, he was re-nominated by his party, and Mr. Harrison was unanimously nominated liy the Whigs, with John Tyler for the Vice Presidency. The contest was very animated. Gen. Jackson gave all his influence to prevent Harrison's election ; but his triumph was signal. The cabinet which he formed, with Daniel Webster at its head as Secretary of State, was one of the most brilliant with which any President had ever been surrounded. Never were the prospects of an admin- istration more flattering, or the hopes of the country more sanguine. In the midst of these bright and joyous prospects. Gen. Harrison was seized by a pleurisy-fever and after a few days of violent sick- ness, died on the 4th of Apnl ; just one month after his inauguration as President of the United States, i G: i ^ ^m^ ^y ^^I1I]§I1I1^1>A i^ 4^^^f® ■ VMK.iL!.V-J!iJJi^-'^Jy.i '' jl'!~/'> ' >- ■.•.:■'. •'i-l'^'J'M-'^" ' i '0 cn^^L. ^^#- -^^K — ^v^^^n *^ n hi>v (h 1=Z ^ ?_ r,,>, Presidentof the United States. He was born in Charles-city Co., Va., March 29, 1790. He was the favored child of af- fluence and high social po- sition. At the early age of twelve, John entered William and Mary College and grad- uated with much honor when but seventeen years old. After graduating, he devoted him- self with great assiduity to the study of law, partly with his father and partly with Edmund Randolph, one of the most distin- guished lawyers of Virginia. At nineteen years of age, ne 11 commenced the practice of law. His success was rapid and aston- ishing. It is said that three months had not elapsed ere there was scarcely a case on the dock- et of the court in which he was not retained. AVhen but twenty-one years of age, he was almost unanimously elected to a seat in the State Legislature. He connected himself with the Demo- cratic party, and warmly advocated the measures of Jefferson and Madison. For five successive years he was elected to the Legislature, receiving nearly the unanimous vote or his county. When but twenty-six years of age, he was elected a member of Congress. Here he acted earnestly and ably with the Democratic party, opposing a national bank, internal improvements by the General Govern- ment, a protective tariff, and advocating a strict con-' struction of the Constitution, and the most careful vigilance over State rights. His labors in Congress were so arduous that before the close of his second term he found it necessary to resign and retire to his estate in Charles-city Co., to recruit his health. He, however, soon after consented to take his seat in the State Legislature, where his influence was powerful in promoting public works of great utility. With a reputation thus canstantly increasing, he was chosen by a very large majority of votes, Governor of his native State. His administration was signally a suc- cessful one. His popularity secured his re-election. John Randolph, a brilliant, erratic, half-crazed man, then represented Virginia in the Senate of the United States. A portion of the Democratic party was displeased with Mr. Randolph's wayward course, and brought forward John Tyler as his opponent, considering him the only man in Virginia of sufficient popularity to succeed against the renowned orator of Roanoke. Mr. Tyler was the victor. In accordance with his professions, upon taking his seat in the Senate, he joined the ranks of the opposi- tion. He opposed the tariff; he spoke against and voted against the bank as unconstitutional ; he stren- uously opposed all restrictions upon slavery, resist- ing all projects of internal improvements by the Gen- eral Government, and avowed his sympathy with Mr. Calhoun's view of nullification ; he declared that Gen. Jackson, by his opposition to the nullifiers, had abandoned the principles of the Democratic party. Such was Mr. Tyler's record in Congress, — a record in perfect accordance with the principles which he had always avowed. Returning to Virginia, he resumed the practice of his profession. There was a split in the Democratic c^: (V •^M'^ o. 44^5f ^4J J A ) 1 J ®^^rl- JOHN TYLER. S,^AHZ!^ party. His friends still regarded him as a true Jef- fersonian, gave him a dinner, and showered compli- ments upon him. He had now attained the age of forty-six. His career had been very brilliant. In con- sequence of his devotion to public business, his pri- vate affairs had fallen into some disorder ; and it was not without satisfaction that he resumed the practice of law, and devoted himself to the culture of his plan- tation. Soon after this he removed to Williamsburg, for the better education of his children ; and he again took his seat in the Legislature of Virginia. By the Southern Whigs, he was sent to the national convention at Harrisburg to nominate a President in 1839. The majority of votes were given to Gen. Har- rison, a genuine Whig, much to the disappointment of the South, who wished for Henry Clay. To concili- ate the Southern Whigs and to secure their vote, the convention then nominated John Tyler for Vice Pres- ident. It was well known that he was not in sympa- thy with the Whig party in the Noith: but the Vice President has but very little power in the Govern- ment, his main and almost only duty being to pre- side over the meetings of the Senate. Thus it hap- pened that a Whig President, and, in reality, a Democratic Vice President were chosen. In 1841, Mr. Tyler was inaugurated Vice Presi- dent of the United States. In one short month from that time. President Harrison died, and Mr. Tyler thus found himself, to his own surprise and that of the whole Nation, an occupant of the Presidential chair. This was a new test of the stability of our institutions, as it was the first time in the history of our country that such an event had occured. Mr. Tyler was at iiome in Williamsburg when he received the unexpected tidings of the death of President Harri- son. He hastened to Washington, and on the 6th of April was inaugurated to the high and responsible office. He was placed in a position of exceeding delicacy and difficulty. All his long life he had been opposed to the main principles of the party which had brought him into power. He had ever been a con- sistent, honest man, with an unblemished record. Gen. Harrison had selected a Whig cabinet. Should he retain them, and thus surround himself with coun- sellors whose views were antagonistic to his own? or, on the other hand, should he turn against the party which had elected him and select a cabinet in har- mony with himself, and which would opppse all those views which the Whigs deemed essential to the pub- lic welfare? This was his fearful dilemma. He in- vited the cabinet which President Harrison had selected to retain their seats. He reccommended a day of fasting and prayer, that God would guide and bless us. The Whigs carried through Congress a bill for the incor])oration of a fiscal bank of the United States. The President, after ten days' delay, returned it with his veto. He suggested, however, that he would approve of a bill drawn up upon such a plan as he proposed. Such a bill was accordingly prepared, and privately submitted to him. He gave it his approval. It was passed without alteration, and he sent it back with his veto. Here commenced the open rupture. It is said that Mr. Tyler was provoked to this meas- ure by a published letter from the Hon. John M. Botts, a distinguished Virginia Whig, who severely touched the pride of the President. The opposition now exultingly received the Presi- dent into their arms. The party which elected him denounced him bitterly. AH the members of his cabinet, excepting Mr. Webster, resigned. The Whigs of Congress, both the Senate and the House, held a meeting and issued an address to the people of the United States, proclaiming that all political alliance between the Whigs and President Tyler were at an end. Still the President attempted to conciliate. He appointed a new cabmet of distinguished Whigs and Conservatives, carefully leaving out all strong party men. Mr. Webster soon found it necessary to resign, forced out by the pressure of his Whig friends. Thus the four years of Mr. Tyler's unfortunate administra- tion passed sadly away. No one was satisfied. The land was filled with murmurs and vituperation. Whigs and Democrats alike assailed him. More and more, however, he brought himself into svmpathy with his old friends, the Democrats, until at the close of his term, he gave his whole influence to the support of Mr. Polk, the Democratic candidate for his successor. On the 4th of March, 1845, he retired from the harassments of office, to the regret of neither party, and probably to his own unspeakable relief. His first wife. Miss Letitia Christian, died in Washington, in 1842; and in June, 1844, President Tyler was again married, at New York, to Miss Julia Gardiner, a young lady of many personal and intellectual accomplishments. The remainder of his days Mr. Tyler passed mainly in retirement at his beautiful home, — Sherwood For- est, Charles-city Co., Va. A polished gentleman in his manners, richly furnished with information from books and experience in the world, and possessing brilliant powers of conversation, his family circle was the scene of unusual attractions. With sufficient means for the exercise of a generous hospitality, he might have enjoyed a serene old age with the few friends who gathered around him, were it not for the storms of civil war which his own principles and policy had helped to introduce. When the great Rebellion rose, which the State- rights and nullifying doctrines of Mr. John C. Cal- houn had inaugurated. President Tyler renounced his allegiance to the United States, and joined the Confed- erates. He was chosen a member of their Congress; and while engaged in active measures to destroy, by force of arms, the Government over which he had once presided, he was taken sick and soon died. V^ (5^ ^ e< C ^ ^^• K^n!i^iiDi>^ ^g/^St,-'— C-<-«^^ ■^v<^^nii^iiii^>T ELEVENTH PRESIDENT. 59 1-^ , T \ AMES K.POLK, the eleventh '^fePresident of the United States, was boni in Mecklenburg Co., C, Nov. 2, 1795. His par- ^^■. ents were Samuel and Jane (Knox) Polk, the former a son of Col. Thomas Polk, who located at the above place, as one of the first pioneers, in 1735. In the year i3o6, with his wife and children, and soon after fol- lowed by most of the members of the Polk famly, Samuel Polk emi- grated some two or three hundred miles farther west, to the rich valley of the Duck River. Here in the midst of the wilderness, in a region which was subsequently called Mau- ry Co., they reared their log huts, and established their homes. In the hard toil of a new farm in the wil- derness, James K. Polk spent the early years of his childhood and youth. His father, adding the pur- suit of a surveyor to that of a farmer, gradually increased in wealth until he became one of the leading men of the region. His mother was a superior woman, of strong common sense and earnest piety. Very early in life, James developed a taste for reading and expressed the strongest desire to obtain a liberal education. His mother's training had made him methodical in his habits, had taught him punct- uality and industry, and had inspired him with lofty [irinciples of morality. His health was frail ; and his father, fearing that he might not be able to endure a AYK fe>y.^s^^^.s« anOmB:^ ^^^"^^D !1 sedentary life, got a situation for him behind the counter, hoping to fit him for commercial pursuits. This was to James a bitter disappointment. He had no taste for these duties, and his daily tasks were irksome in the extreme. He remained in this uncongenial occupation but a few weeks, when at his earnest solicitation his father removed him, and made arrangements for him to prosecute his studies. Soon after he sent him to Murfreesboro Academy. \\\\\\ ardor which could scarcely be surpassed, he pressed forward in his studies, and in less than two and a half years, in the autumn of 1S15, entered the sophomore class in the University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill. Here he was one of the most exemplary of scholars, punctual in every exercise, never allovfc'ing himself to be absent from a recitation or a religious service. He graduated in 1818, with the highest honors, be- ing deemed the best scholar of his class, Ijoth in mathematics and the classics. He was then twenty- three years of age. Mr. Polk's health was at this time much impaired by the assiduity with which he had prosecuted his studies. After a short season of relaxation he went to Nashville, and entered the office of Felix Grundy, to study law. Here Mr. Polk renewed his acquaintance with Andrew Jackson, who resided on his plantation, the Hermitage, but a few miles from Nashville. They had probably been slightly acquainted before. Mr. Polk's father was a Jeffersonian Republican, and James K. Polk ever adhered to the same politi- cal faith. He was a popular public speaker, and was constantly called upon to address the meetings of his party friends. His skill as a speaker was such that he was popularly called the Napoleon of the stump. He was a man of unblemished morals, genial and V© r^ ^ mm .-^i^t-ci. -4^^ lff»»- <>iiii§iini^ T JAMES K. POLK ^:^ ^m^®\'i^^i ) :^ ^) •! !• courteous in his bearing, and with that sympathetic nature in the joys and griefs of others which ever gave him troops of friends. In 1823, Mr. Polk was elected to the Legislature of Tennessee. Here he gave his strong influence towards the election of his friend, Mr. Jackson, to the Presidency of the United States. In January, 1824, Mr. Polk married Miss Sarah Childress, of Rutherford Co., Tenn. His bride was altogether worthy of him, — a lady of beauty and cul- ture. In the fall of 1825, Mr. Polk was chosen a member of Congress. The satisfaction which he gave to his constituents may be inferred from the fact, that for fourteen successive years, until 1S39, he was con- tinued in that office. He then voluntarily withdrew, only that he might accept the Gubernatorial chair of Tennessee. In Congress he was a laborious member, a frequent and a popular speaker. He was always in his seat, always courteous ; and whenever he spoke it was always to the point, and without any ambitious rhetorical display. During five sessions of Congress, Mr. Polk was Speaker of the House. Strong passions were roused, and stormy scenes were witnessed ; but Mr. Polk per- formed his arduous duties to a very general satisfac- tion, and a unanimous vote of thanks to him was passed by the House as he withdrew on the 4th of March, 1839. In accordance with .Southern usage, Mr. Polk, as a candidate for Governor, canvassed the State. He was elected by a large majority, and on the 14th of Octo- ber, 1839, took the oath of office at Nashville. In 1841, his term of office expired, and he was again the can- didate of the Democratic party, but was defeated. On tfie 4th of March, 1845, Mr. P"3lk was inaugur- ated President of the United States. The verdict of the country in favor of the annexation of Texas, exerted its influence upon Congress ; and the last act of the administration of President Tyler was to affix his sig- nature to a joint resolution o£ Congress, passed on the 3d of March, approving of the annexation of Texas to the American Union. As Mexico still claimed Texas as one of her provinces, the Mexican minister, Almonte, immediately demanded his passports and left the country, declaring the act of the annexation to be an act hostile to Mexico. In his first message, President Polk urged that Texas should immediately, by act of Congress, be re- ceived into the Union on the same footing with the other States. In the meantime. Gen. Taylor was sent with an army into Texas to hold the country. He was sent first to Nueces, which the Mexicans said was the western boundary of Texas. Then he was sent nearly two hundred miles further west, to the Rio Grande, where he erected batteries which commanded the Mexican city of Matamoras, which was situated on the western banks. The anticipated collision soon took place, and war was declared against Mexico by President Polk. The war was pushed forward by Mr. Polk's administration with great vigor. Gen. Taylor, whose army was first called one of "observation," then of "occupation," then of " invasion, "was sent forward to Monterey. The feeble Mexicans, in every encounter, were hopelessly and awfully slaughtered. The day of judgement alone can reveal the misery which this war caused. It v/as by the ingenuity of Mr. Polk's administration that the war was brought on. 'To the victors belong the spoils." Mexico was prostrate before us. Her capital was in our hands. We now consented to peace upon the condition that Mexico should surrender to us, in addition to Texas, •i". all of New Mexico, and all of Upper and Lower Cal- = ifornia. This new demand embraced, exclusive of 'i^ Texas, eight hundred thousand square miles. This =1 was an extent of territory equal to nine States of the size of New York. Thus slavery was securing eighteen majestic States to be added to the Union. There were some Americans who thought it all right : there were others who thought it all wrong. In the prosecution of this war, we expended twenty thousand lives and more than a hundred million of dollars. Of this money fifteen millions were paid to Mexico. On the 3d of March, 1849, Mr. Polk retired from office, having served one term. The next day was Sunday. On the 5th, Gen. Taylor was inaugurated as his successor. Mr. Polk rode to the Capitol in the same carriage with Gen. Taylor; and the same even- ing, with Mrs. Polk, he commenced his return to Tennessee. He was then but fifty-four years of age. He had ever been strictly temperate in all his habits, and his health was good. With an ample fortune, a choice library, a cultivated mind, and domestic ties of the dearest nature, it seemed as though long years of tranquility and hapi^iness were before him. But the cholera — that fearful scourge — was then sweeping up the Valley of the Mississippi. This he contracted, and died on the 15th of June, 1S49, ''"> the fifty-fourth year of his age, greatly mourned by his countrymen. k -vj: imN^^^^^^ ^ s h ^ t I^S^^v^-'Va: ACHARY TAYLOR, twelfth President of the United States, w.-is born on the 24th of Nov., 1 7 84, in Orange Co., Va. His father. Colonel Taylor, was a Virginian of note, and a dis- tinguished patriot and soldier of the Revolution. When Zachary was an infant, his father with his wife and two children, emigrated to Kentucky, where he settled in the pathless wilderness, a few miles from Louisville. In this front- %^j ier home, away from civilization and j all its refinements, young Zachary could enjoy but few social and educational advan- tages. When six years of age he attended a common school, and was then regarded as a bright, active boy, rather remarkable for bluntness and decision of char- acter He was strong, fearless and self-reliant, and manifested a strong desire to enter the army to fight the Indians who were ravaging the frontiers. There is little to be recorded of the uneventful years, of his childhood on his father's large but lonely plantation. In 1S08, his father succeeded in obtaining for him the commission of lieutenant in the United States army ; and he joined the troops which were stationed at New Orleans under Gen. Wilkinson. Soon after this he married Miss Margaret Smith, a young lady from one of the first families of Maryland. Immediately after the declaration of war with Eng- land, in 18 1 2, Capt. Taylor (for he had then been promoted to that rank) was put in command of Fort Harrison, on the Wabash, about fifty miles above Vincwines. This fort had been built in the wilder- ness by Gen. Harrison, on his march to Tippecanoe. It was one of the first points of attack by the Indians, led by Tecumseh. Its garrison consisted of a broken ^^^ Sj^gjT^ @r^>DII company of infantry numbering fifty men, many of whom were sick. Early in the autumn of i8ij, the Indians, stealthily, and in large numbers, moved upon the fort. Their approach was first indicated by tjie murder of two soldiers just outside of the stockade. Capt. Taylor made every possible preparation to meet the antici- pated assault. On the 4th of September, a band of forty painted and plumed savages came to the fort, waving a white flag, and informed Capt. Taylor that in the morning their chief would come to have a talk with him. It was evident that their object was merely to ascertain the state of things at the fort, and Capt. Taylor, well versed in the wiles of the savages, kept them at a distance. The sun went down ; thg savages disappeared, the garrison slept upon their arms. One hour before midnight the war whoop burst from a thousand lips in the forest around, followed by the discharge of musketry, and the rush of the foe. Every man, sick and well, sprang to his post. Every man knew that defeat was not merely death, but in the case of cap- ture, death by the most agonizing and prolonged tor- ture. No pen can describe, no immagination can conceive the scenes which ensued. The savages suc- ceeded in setting fire to one of the block-houses- Until six o'clock in the morning, this awful conflict continued. The savages then, baffled at every point, and gnashing their teeth with rage, retired. Capt. Taylor, for this gallant defence, was promoted to tire rank of major by brevet. Until the close of the war, MajorTaylor was placed in such situations that he saw but little more of active service. He was sent far away into the depths of the wilderness, to Fort Crawford, oa Fox River, which empties into Green Bay. Here there was but little to be done but to wear away the tedious hours as one best could. There were no books, no society, no in- c^ i V) i 5jj€^*i^ eV<^iDD ^ D Ds>r^^ 71^^^ -«#^€^5((g ZACHARY TAYLOR. tellectual stimulus. Thus with him the uneventful years rolled on Gradually he rose to the rank of colonel. In the Black-Hawk war, which resulted in the capture of that renowned chieftain, Col Tayit* took a subordinate but a brave and efticient part. ' For twenty-four years Col. Taylor was engaged' h the defence of the frontiers, in scenes so remote, an i in employments so obscure, that his name was unknown beyond the limits of his own immediate acquaintance. In the year 1836, he was sent to Florida to compel the Seminole Indians to vacate that region and re- tire beyond the Mississippi, as their chiefs by treaty, had promised they should do. The services rendered here secured for Col. Taylor the high appreciation of the Government; and as a reward, he was elevated to the rank of brigadier-general by brevet ; and soon after, in May, 1838, was appointed to the chief com- mand of the United States troops in Florida. After two years of such wearisome employment amidst the everglades of the peninsula. Gen. Taylor obtained, at his own request, a change of command, and was stationed over the Department of the South- west. This field embraced Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama and Georgia. Estabhshing his headquarters at Fort Jessup, in Louisiana, he removed his family to a plantation which he purchased, near Baton Rogue. Here he remained for five years, buried, as it were, from the world, but faithfully discharging every duty imposed upon him. In 1846, Gen. Taylor was sent to guard the land between the Nueces and Rio Grande, the latter river being the boundary of Texas, which was then claimed by the United States. Soon the war with Me.xico was brought on, and at Palo Alto and Resaca de la Palma, Gen. Taylor won brilliant victories over the Me.xicans. The rank of major-general by brevet was then conferred upon Gen. Taylor, and his name was received with enthusiasm almost everywhere in the Nation. Then came the battles of Monterey and Buena Vista in which he won signal victories over forces much larger than he commanded. His careless habits of dress and his unaffected simplicity, secured for Gen. Taylor among his troops, \k\t sobriquet of "Old Rough and Ready.' The tidings of the brilliant victory of Buena Vista spread the wildest enthusiasm over the country. The name of Gen. Taylor was on every one's lips. The Whig party decided to take advantage of this wonder- ful pojiularity in bringing forward the unpolished, un- lettered, honest soldier as their candidate for the Presidency. Gen. Taylor was astonished at the an- nouncement, and for a time would not listen to it; de- claring that he was not at all qualified for such an office. So little interest had he taken in politics that, for forty years, he had not cast a vote. It was not without chagrin that several distinguished statesmen , who had been long years in the public service found their claims set aside in behalf of one whose name had never been heard of, save in connection with Palo Alto, Resaca de la Palma, Monterey and Buena Vista. It Is said that Daniel Webster, in his haste re- marked, " It is a nomination not fit to be made." Gen. Taylor was not an eloquent speaker nor a fine writer. His friends took possession of him, and pre- pared such few communications as it was needful should be presented to the public. The popularity of the successful warrior swept the land. He was tri- umphantly elected over two opposing candidates, — Gen. Cass and E.x-President Martin Van Buren. Though he selected an excellent cabinet, the good old man found himself in a very uncongenial position, and was, at times, sorely perplexed and harassed. His mental sufferings were very severe, and probably tended to hasten his death. The pro-slaveiy party was pushing its claims with tireless energy , expedi- tions were fitting out to capture Cuba ; California was pleading for admission to the Union, wliile slavery stood at the door to bar her out. Gen. Taylor found the political conflicts in Washington to be far more trying to the nerves than battles with Mexicans or Indians. In the midst of all these troubles, Gen. Taylor, after he had occupied the Presidential chair but little over a year, took cold, and after a brief sickness of but little over five days, died on the glh of July, 1850. His last words were, " I am not afraid to die. I am ready. I have endeavored to do my duty." He died universally respected and beloved. An honest, un- pretending man, he had been steadily growing in the affections of the people ; and the Nation bitterly la- mented his death. Gen. Scott, who was thoroughly acquainted with Gen. Taylor, gave the following graphic and truthful description of his character: — " With a good store of common sense, Gen. Taylor's mind had not been en- larged and refreshed by reading, or much converse with the world. Rigidity of ideas was the conse- quence. The frontiers and small military posts had been his home. Hence he was quite ignorant for his rank, and quite bigoted in his ignorance. His sim- plicity was child-like, and with innumerable preju- dices, amusing and incorrigible, well suited to the tender age. Thus, if a man, however respectable, chanced to wear a coat of an unusual color, or his hat a little on one side of his head ; or an officer to leave a corner of his handkerchief dangling from an out- side pocket, — in any such case, this critic held tlie offender to be a co.Kcomb (perhaps something worse), whom he would not, to use his oft repeated phrase, 'touch with a pair of tongs.' "Any allusion to literature beyond good old Dil- worth's spelling-book, on the part of one wearing a sword, was evidence, with the same judge, of utter unfitness for heavy marchings and combats. In short, few men have ever had a more comfortable, labor- saving contempt for learning of every kind." (5 ( 11 »sgs»- ■^TN^nn.^niif^'r^- rC-iHa^Cll^^v- cr THIRTEENTH PRESIDENT. #^f !^ '^ <^$>:g-*s;s-#$;;:$#$;;s*^":$*sis«>i;::$««'$:L^*$;K$«#'$;:c$>s»-SK€<^$;:s>*$^^^^ ,\i« ^■MILLftRn FILLfflnHE.<4 4»$;T&#-S;C$#$i^#$i^*«'S:£<*$;;S-#^is-#$;i^'#^;tS-^^;:C$*$;;;$«^>s-#-E;:$*^^^ ILLARD FILLMORE, thir- teenth President of the United States, was born at Summer Hill, Cayuga Co., N. Y ., on the 7th of January, 1800. His father was a farmer, and ow- ing to misfortune, in humble cir- cumstances. Of his mother, the daughter of Dr. Abiathar Millard, of Pittsfield, Mass., it has been said that she possessed an intellect of very high order, united with much personal loveliness, sweetness of dis- position, graceful manners and ex- quisite sensibilities. She died in 1831 ; having lived to see her son a young man of distinguished prom- ise, though she was not permitted to witness the high dignity which he finally attained. In consequence of the secluded home and limited means of his father, Millard enjoyed but slender ad- vantages for education in his early years. The com- mon schools, which he occasionally attended were very imperfect institutions; and books were scarce and expensive. There was nothing then in his char- acter to indicate the brilliant career upon which he was about to enter. He was a plain farmer's boy ; intelligent, good-looking, kind-hearted. The sacred influences of home had taught him to revere the Bible, and had laid the foundations of an upright character. When fourteen years of age, his father sent him some hundred miles from home, to the then wilds of Livingston County, to learn the trade of a clothier. Near the mill there was a small villiage, where some enterprising man had commenced the collection of a village library. This proved an inestimable blessing to young Fillmore. His evenings were spent in read- ing. Soon every leisure moment was occupied with books. His thirst for knowledge became insatiate ; and the selections which he made were continually more elevating and instructive. He read history, biography, oratory, and thus gradually there was en- kindled in his heart a desire to be something more than a mere worker with his hands; and he was be- coming, almost unknown to himself, a well-informed, educated man. The young clothier had now attained the age of nineteen years, and was of fine personal appearance and of gentlemanly demeanor. It so happened that there was a gentleman in the neighborhood of ample pecuniary means and of benevolence, — Judge Walter Wood, — who was struck with the prepossessing ap- pearance of young Fillmore. He made his acquaint- ance, and was so much impressed with his ability and attainments that he advised him to abandon his trade and devote himself to the study of the law. The young man replied, that he had no means of his own, no friends to help him and that his previous educa- tion had been very imperfect. But Judge Wood had so much confidence in him that he kindly offered to take him into his own office, and to loan him such money as he needed. Most gratefully the generous offer was accepted. There is in many minds a strange delusion about a collegiate education. A young man is supposed to be liberally educated if he has graduated at some col- lege. But many a boy loitefs through university halls and then enters a law office, who is by no means as V I ^ X^ If^^^- ■^^c^ys|i I^Jta •wmi r^^&K aV^?IID^|ID^>7^ TT" Z^^^^K" 4?^^ 68 •0 <^ ^ s h f^ MILLARD FILLMORE. well prepared to prosecute his legal studies as was Millard Fillmore when he graduated at the clothing- mill at the end of four years of manual labor, during which every leisure moment had been devoted to in- tense mental culture. In 1823, when twenty-three years of age, he v;as admitted to the Court of Common Pleas. He then went to the village of Aurora, and commenced the practice of law. In this secluded, peaceful region, his practice of course was limited, and there was no opportunity for a sudden rise in fortune or in fame. Here, in the year 1826, he married a lady of great moral worth, and one capable of adorning any station she might be called to fill, — Miss Abigail Powers. His elevation of character, his untiring industr)^, his legal acquirements, and his skill as an advocate, gradually attracted attention ; and he was invited to enter into partnership under highly advantageous circumstances, with an elder member of the bar in Buffalo. Just before removing to Buffalo, in 1829, he took his seat in the House of Assembly, of the State of New York, as a representative from Erie County. Though he had never taken a very active part in politics, his vote and his sympathies were with the Whig party. The State was then Democratic, and he found himself in a helpless minority in the Legislature , still the testimony comes from all parties, that his courtesy, ability and integrity, won, to a very unusual degree the respect of his associates. In the autumn of 1832, he was elected to a seat in the United States Congress. He entered that troubled arena in some of the most tumultuous hours of our national history. The great conflict respecting the national bank and the removal of the deposits, was then raging. His term of two years closed ; and he returned to his profession, which he pursued with increasing rep- utation and success. After a lapse of two years he again became a candidate for Congress ; was re- elected, and took his seat in 1837. His past expe- rience as a representative gave him strength and confidence. The first term of service in Congress to any man can be but little more than an introduction. He was now prepared for active duty. All his ener- gies were brought to bear upon the pubhc good. Every measure received his impress. Mr. Fillmore was now a man of wide repute, and his popularity filled the State, and in the year 1847, he was elected Comptroller of the State. ^€^^ i®»- ^^'^^ ^tK^OII^ Mr. Fillmore had attained the age of forty-seven years. His labors at the bar, in the Legislature, in Congress and as Comptroller, had given him very con- siderable fame. The Whigs were casting about to find suitable candidates for President and Vice-Presi- dent at the approaching election. Far away, on the waters of the Rio Grande, there was a rough old soldier, who had fought one or two successful battles with the Mexicans, which had caused his name to be proclaimed in trumpet-tones all over the land. But it was necessary to associate with him on the same ticket some man of reputation as a statesman. Under the influence of these considerations, the namesof ZacharyTaylor and Millard Fillmore became the rallying-cry of the Whigs, as their candidates for President and Vice-Peesident. The Whig ticket was signally triumphant. On the 4th of March, 1849, Gen. Taylor was inaugurated President, and Millard Fillmore Vice-President, of the United States. On the gth of July, 1850, President Taylor, but about one year and four months after his inaugura- tion, was suddenly taken sick and died. By the Con- stitution, Vice-President Fillmore thus became Presi- dent. He appointed a very able cabinet, of which the illustrious Daniel Webster was Secretary of State. Mr. Fillniore had very serious difficulties to contend with, since the opposition had a majority in both Houses. He did everything in his power to conciliate the South ; but the pro-slavery party in the South felt theinadequacyof all measuresof transient conciliation. The population of the free States was so rapidly in- creasing over that of the slave States that it was in- evitable that the power of the Government should soon pass into the hands of the free ■ States. The famous compromise measures were adopted under Mr. Fillmore's adminstration, and the Japan Ex[)edition was sent out. On the 4th of March, 1853, Mr. Fill- more, having served one term, retired. In 1856, Mr. Fillmore was nominated for the Pres- idency by the " Know Nothing " party, but was beaten by Mr. Buchanan. After that Mr. Fillmore lived in retirement. During the terrible conflict of civil war, he was mostly silent. It was generally supposed that his sympathies were rather with those who were en- deavoring to overthrow our institutions. President Fillmore kept aloof from the conflict, without any cordial words of cheer to the one party or the other. He was thus forgotten by both. He lived to a ripe old age, and died in Buffalo. N. Y., March 8, 1874. vfc (); ^ -?> /.•:%■ Mi. 4 l^sjisSisi''" ■ Fourteenth president. feff''"^''!l?*lJ?g'»pi]?»J»>^^^ c^ ^'FHflNKLIN FIERCE.'^ €l< ^'•^ryifiy**'*^*^"^^ %*i:ojfe**:At*f ;!a»t.*%tn*jyj**4**j* .t.,.t. A.. %f/'^0=^=^ %.pj)?trss*^ ■..■)S=: iS^'' «"^5^ IP^( RANKLIN PIERCE, the fourteenth President of the S'' United States, was born in Hillsborough, N. H., Nov. 23, 1804. His father was a Revolutionary soldier, who, wirth his own strong arm, hewed out a home in the wilderness. He was a man of inflexible integrity; of strong, though uncultivated mind, and an uncompromis- Democrat. The mother of Franklin Pierce was all that a son could desire, — an intelligent, pru- dent, affectionate, Christian wom- an. Franklin was the sixth of eight children. Franklin was a very bright and handsome boy, gen- erous, warm-hearted and brave. He won alike the love of old and young. The boys on the play -ground loved him. His teachers loved him. The neighbors looked upon him with pride and affection. He was by instinct a gentleman; always speaking kind words, doing kind deeds, with a peculiar unstudied tact which taught him what was agreeable. Without de- veloping any precocity of genius, or any unnatural devotion to books, he was a good scholar ; in body, in mind, in affections, a finely-developed boy. When sixteen years of age, in the year 1820, he entered Bowdoin College, at Brunswick, Me. He was one of the most popular young men in the college. The purity of his moral character, the unvarying courtesy of his demeanor, his rank as a scholar, and v^ «■> genial nature, rendered him a universal favorite. There was something very peculiarly winning in his address, and it was evidently not in the slightest de- gree studied : it was the simple outgushing of his own magnanimous and loving nature. Upon graduating, in the year 1824, Franklin Pierce commenced the study of law in the office of Judge Woodbury, one of the most distinguished lawyers of the State, and a man of great private worth. The eminent social qualities of the young lawyer, his father's prominence as a public man, and the brilliant political career into which Judge Woodbury was en- tering, all tended to entice Mr. Pierce into the faci- nating yet perilous path of political life. With all the ardor of his nature he espoused the cause of Gen. Jackson for the Presidency. He commenced the practice of law in Hillsborough, and was soon elected to represent the town in the State Legislature. Here he served for four years. The last two years he was chosen speaker of the house by a very large vote. In 1833, at the age of twenty-nine, he was elected a member of Congress. Without taking an active part in debates, he was faithful and laborious in duty, and ever rising in the estimation of those with whom he was associatad. In 1837, being then but thirty-three years of age, he was elected to the Senate of the United States; taking his seat just as Mr. Van Buren commenced his administration. He was the youngest member in the Senate. In the year 1834, he married Miss Jane Means Appleton, a lady of rare beauty and accom- plishments, and one admirably fitted to adorn every station with which her husband was honoied. Of the tJI]i^)>Z^ ^^^^ (^ ^ i< iSisri^^#- PRAI^KLIN PJMCM. "Z^^kr-^^ -«®t? three sons who were bom to them, all now sleep with their parents in the grave. In the year 1838, Mr. Pierce, with growing fame and increasing business as a lawyer, took up his residence in Concord, the capital of New Hampshire. President Polk, upon his accession to office, appointed Mr. Pierce attorney-general of the United States ; but the offer was declined, in consequence of numerous professional engagements at home, and the precariuos state of Mrs. Pierce's health. He also, about the same time declined the nomination for governor by the Democratic party. The war with Mexico called Mr. Pierce in the army. Receiving the appointment of brigadier-general, he embarked, with a portion of his troops, at Newport, R. I., on the 27th of May, 1847. He took an important part in this war, proving him- self a brave and true soldier. When Gen. Pierce reached his home in his native State, he was received enthusiastically by the advo- cates of the Me.xican war, and coldly by his oppo- nents. He resumed the practice of his profession, very frequently taking an active part in political ques- a tions, giving his cordial support to the pro-slavery fii wing of the Democratic party. The compromise a measures met cordially with his approval ; and he strenuously advocated the enforcement of the infa- mous fugitive-slave law, which so shocked the religious sensibilities of the North. He thus became distin- guished as a "Northern man with Southern principles.'' The strong partisans of slavery in the South conse- quently regarded him as a man whom they could safely trust in office to carry out their plans. On the i2th of June, 1852, the Democratic conven- tion met in Baltimore to nominate a candidate for the Presidency. For four days they continued in session, and in thirty-five ballotings no one had obtained a two-thirds vote. Not a vote thus far had been thrown for Gen. Pierce. Then the Virginia delegation brought forward his name. There were fourteen more ballotings, during which Gen. Pierce constantly gained strength, until, at the forty-ninth ballot, he received two hundred and eighty-two votes, and all other candidates eleven. Gen. Winfield Scott was the Whig candidate. Gen. Pierce was chosen with great unanimity. Only four States — Vermont, Mas- sachusetts, Kentucky and Tennessee — cast their electoral votes against him. Gen. Franklin Pierce was therefore inaugurated President of the United States on the 4th of March, 1853. > V ) ^ ^ His administration proved one of the most stormy our country had ever experienced. The controversy be- tween slavery and freedom was then approaching its culminating point. It became evident that there was an " irrepressible conflict " between them, and that this Nation could not long exist " half slave and half free." President Pierce, during the whole of his ad- ministration, did every thing he could to conciliate the South ; but it was all in vain. The conflict every year grew more violent, and threats of the dissolution of the Union were borne to the North on every South- ern breeze. Such was the condition of affairs when President Pierce approached the close of his four-years' term of office. The North had become thoroughly alien- ated from him. The anti-slavery sentiment, goaded by great outrages, had been rapidly increasing; all the intellectual ability and social worth of President Pierce were forgotten in deep reprehension of his ad- ministrative acts. The slaveholders of the South, also, unmindful of the fidelity with which he had advo- cated those measures of Government which they ap- proved, and perhaps, also, feeling that he had rendered himself so unpopular as no longer to be able acceptably to serve them, ungratefully dropped him, and nominated James Buchanan to succeed him. On the 4th of March, 1857, President Pierce re- tired to his home in Concord. Of three children, two had died, and his only surviving child had been killed before his eyes by a railroad accident ; and his wife, one of the most estimable and accomplished of ladies, was rapidly sinking in consumption. The hour of dreadful gloom soon came, and he was left alone in the world, without wife or child. When the terrible Rebellion burst forth, which di- vided our country into two parties, and two only, Mr. Pierce remained steadfast in the principles which he had always cherished, and gave his sympathies to that pro-slavery party with which he had ever been allied. He declined to do anything, either by voice or pen, to strengthen the hand of the National Gov- ernment. He continued to reside in Concord until the time of his death, which occurred in October, 1869. He was one of the most genial and social of men, an honored communicant of the Episcopal Church, and one of the kindest of neighbors. Gen- erous to a fault, he contributed liberally for the al- leviation of suffering and want, and many of his towns- people were often gladened by his material bounty. Vi < ::s^%^ ^ "- ^ -^Jw'x?^!^ ,^.- ^Z^T^lCtf ,,^ I ^ AMES BUCHANAN, the fif- teenth President of the United States, was born in a small frontier town, at the foot of the eastern ridge of the Allegha- nies, in Franklin Co., Penn., on the 23d of April, 1791. The place where the humble cabin of his father stood was called Stony Batter. It was a wild and ro- mantic spot in a gorge of the moun- tains, with towering summits rising grandly all around. His father was a native of the north of Ireland ; a, poor man, who had emigrated in 1783, with little property save his own strong arms. Five years afterwards he married Elizabeth Spear, the daughter of a respectable farmer, and, with his young bride, plunged into the wilder- ness, staked his claim, reared his log-hut, opened a clearing with his axe, and settled down there to per- form his obscure part in the drama of life. In this se- cluded home, where James was born, he remained for eight years, enjoying but few social or intellectual advantages. When James was eight years of age, his father removed to the village of Mercersburg, where his son was placed at school, and commenced a course of study in English, Latin and Greek. His progress was rapid, and at the age of fourteen, he entered Dickinson College, at Carlisle. Here he de- veloped remarkable talent, and took his stand among IT' the first scholars in the institution. His application ^ to study was intense, and yet his native powers en- abled him to master the most abstruse subjects with facility. In the year 1809, he graduated with the liighest honors of his class. He was then eighteen years of age; tall and graceful, vigorous in health, fond of athletic sport, an unerring shot, and enlivened with an exuberant flow of animal spirits. He immediately commenced the study of law in the city of Lancaster, and was admitted to the bar in 1812, when he was but twenty-one years of age. Very rapidly he rose in his profession, and at once took undisputed stand with the ablest lawyers of the State. When but twenty-six years of age, unaided by counsel, he suc- cessfully defended before the State Senate one of the judges of the State, who was tried upon articles of impeachment. At the age of thirty it was generally admitted that he stood at the head of tire bar; and there was no lawyer in the State who had a more lu- crative practice. In 1820, he reluctantly consented to run as a candidate for Congress. He was elected, and for ten years he remained a member of the Lower House. During the vacations of Congress, he occasionally tried some important case. In 1831, he retired altogether from the toils of his profession, having ac- quired an ample fortune. Gen. Jackson, upon his elevation to the Presidency, appointed Mr. Buchanan minister to Russia. The duties of his mission he performed with ability, which gave satisfaction to all parties. Upon his return, in 1833, he was elected to a seat in the United States Senate. He there met, as his associates, Webster, Clay, Wright and Calhoun. He advocated the meas- ures proposed by President Jackson, of making repri- r^ u^ <>iin§iinf^^ ') i JAMES BUCHANAN. ^^ sals against France, to enforce the payment of our claims against that counti-y ; and defended the course of the President in his unprecedented and wholesale removal from office of those who were not the sup- porters of his administration. Upon this question he was brought into direct collision with Henry Clay. He also, with voice and vote, advocated expunging from tlie journal of the Senate the vote of censure against Gen. Jackson for removing the deposits. Earnestly he opposed the abolition of slavery in the District of Columbia, and urged the prohibition of the circulation of anti-slavery documents by the United States mails. As to petitions on tlie subject of slavery, he advo- cated that they should be respectfully received; and that the reply should be returned, that Congress had no power to legislate upon the subject. " Congress," said he, " might as well undertake to interfere with slavery under a foreign government as in any of the States where it now e.xists." Upon Mr. Polk's accession to the Presidency, Mr. Buchanan became Secretary of State, and as such, took his share of the responsibility in the conduct of the Mexican War. Mr. Polk assumed that crossing the Nueces by the American troops into the disputed territory was not wrong, but for the Mexicans to cross the Rio Grande into that territory was a declaration of war. No candid man can read with pleasure the account of the course our Government pursued in that movement. Mr. Buchanan identified himself thoroughly with the party devoted to the perpetuation and extension of slavery, and brought all the energies of his mind to bear against the Wilmot Proviso. He gave his cordial approval to the compromise measures of 1S50, which included the fugitive-slave law. Mr. Pierce, upon his election to the Presidency, honored Mr. Buchanan with the mission to England. In the year 1856, a national Democratic conven- tion nominated Mr. Buchanan for the Presidency. The political conflict was one of the most severe in which our country has ever engaged. All the friends of slavery were on one side; all the advocates of its re- striction and final abolition, on the other. Mr. Fre- mont, the candidate of the enemies of slavery, re- ceived 114 electoral votes. Mr. Buchanan received 174, and was elected. The iwpular vote stood r, 340, 6x8, for Fremont, 1,224,750 for Buchanan. On March 4th, 1857, Mr. Buchanan was inaugurated. Mr. Buchanan was far advanced in life. Only four years were wanting to fill up his threescore years and ten. His own friends, those with whom he had been allied in political principles and action for years, were seeking the destruction of the Government, that they might rear upon the ruins of our free institutions a nation whose corner-stone should be human slavery. In this emergency, Mr. Buchanan was hopelessly be- wildered. He could not, with his long-avowed prin- ciples, consistently oppose the State-rights party in their assumptions. As President of the United States, bound by his oath faithfully to administer the laws, he could not, without perjury of the grossest kind, unite with those endeavoring to overthrow the repub- lic. He therefore did nothing. The opponents of Mr. Buchanan's administration nominated Abraham Lmcoln as their standard bearer in the next Presidential canvass. The pro-slavery party declared, that if he were elected, and the con- trol of the Government were thus taken from their hands, they would secede from the Union, taking with them, as they retired, the National Capitol at Washington, and the lion's share of the territory of the United States. Mr. Buchanan's sympathy with the pro-slavery party was such, that he had been willing to offer them far more than they had ventured to claim. All the South had professed to ask of the North was non- intervention upon the subject of slavery. Mr. Bu- chanan had been ready to offer them the active co- operation of the Government to defend and extend the institution. As the storm increased in violence, the slaveholders claiming the right to secede, and Mr. Buchanan avow- ing that Congress had no power to prevent it, one of the most pitiable exiiibitions of governmental im- becility was exhibited the world has ever seen. He declared that Congress had no [)Ower to enforce its laws in any State which had withdrawn, or which was attempting to withdraw from the Union. This was not the doctrine of Andrew Jackson, when, with his hand upon his sword-hilt, he exclaimed, " The Union must and shall be preserved!" South Carolina seceded in December, i860; nearly three months before the inauguration of President Lincoln. Mr. Buchanan looked on in listless despair. The rebel flag was raised in Charleston: Fort Sumpter was be^neged ; our forts, navy-yards and arsenals were seized; our de])Ols of military stores were plun- dered ; and our custom-houses and post-offices were appropriated by the rebels. The energy of the rebels, and the imbecility of our Executive, were alike marvelous. The Nation looked on in agony, waiting for the slow weeks to glide away, and close the administration, so terrible in its weak- ness At length the long-looked-for hour of deliver- ance came, when Abraham Lincoln was to receive the scepter. The administration of President Buchanan was certainly the most calamitous our country has ex- perienced. His best friends cannot recall it with pleasure. And still more deplorable it is for his fame, that in that dreadful conflict which rolled its billows of flame and blood over our whole land, no word came from his lips to indicate his wish that our country's banner should triumph over the flag of the rebellion. He died at his Wheatland retreat, June i, 1868. £ 0) (^. ^r^^- •#s®- -K^D!I^tltlit> ^^' 'M: c//\'a'i'^^*^>(7Vft/ ■t^ SIXTEENTH PRESIDENT. ^ 1=3 lg> i O^^^!^^^^ ABRAHAM > ?||>f ^ Jp < LINCOLN. >'^ I I BRAHAM LINCOLN, the sixteenth President of the ^United States, was born in Hardin Co., Ky., Feb. 12, 1809. About the )'ear 1780, a °. man by the name of Abraham ' Lincohi left Virginia with his family and moved into the then wilds of Kentucky. Only two years after this emigration, still a young m*n, while working one day in a field, was stealthily approached by an Indian and shot dead. His widow was left in extreme poverty with five little children, three boys and two girls. Thomas, the youngest of the boys, was four years of age at his father's death. This Thomas was the father of Abraham Lincoln, the President of the United States whose name must henceforth forever be enrolled with the most prominent in the annals of our world. Of course no record has been kept of the life of one so lowly as Thomas Lincoln. He was among' the poorest of the poor. His home was a wretched log-cabin ; his food the coarsest and the meanest. Education he had none; he could never either ^■ead or write. As soon as he was able to do anything for himself, he was compelled to leave the cabin of his starving mother, and push out into the world, a friend- less, wandering boy, seeking work. He hired him- self out, and thus spent the whole of his youth as a laborer in the fields of others. When twenty-eight years of age he buill a log- cabin of his own, and married Nancy Hanks, the daughter of another family of poor Kentucky emi- grants, who had also come from Virginia. Their second child was Abraham Lincoln, the subject of this sketch. The mother of Abraham was a noble woman, gentle, loving, pensive, created to adorn a palace, doomed to toil and pine, and die in a hovel. "All that I am, or hope to be," exclaims the grate- ful son "I owe to my angel-mother. When he was eight years of age, his father sold his cabin and small farm, and moved to Indiana. Where two years later his mother died. Abraham soon became the scribe of the uneducated community around him. He could not have had a better school than this to teach him to put thoughts into words. He also became an eager reader. The books he could obtain were few ; but these he read and re-read until they were almost committed to memory. As the years rolled on, the lot of this lowly family was the usual lot of humanity. There were joys and griefs, weddings and funerals. Abraham's sister Sarah, to whom he was tenderly attached, was mar- ried when a child of but fourteen years of age, and soon died. The family was gradually scattered. Mr. Thomas Lincoln sold out his squatter's claim in 1830, and emigrated to Macon Co., 111. Abraharn Lincoln was then twenty-one years of age. With vigorous hands he aided his father in rearing another log-cabin. Aliraham worked diligently at this until he saw the family comfortably settled, and their small lot of enclosed prairie planted with corn, when he announced to his father his intention to leave home, and to go out into the world and seek his for- tune. Little did he or his friends imagine how bril- liant that fortune was to be. He saw the value of education, and was intensely earnest to improve his mind to the utmost of his power. He saw the ruin which ardent spirits were causing, and became strictly temperate; refusing to allow a drop of intoxi- cating liquor to pass his lips. And he had read in God's word, "Thou shall not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain ;" and a profane expression he was never heard to utter. Religion he revered. His morals were pure, and he was uncontaminated by a single vice. Young Abraham worked for a time as a hired laborer among the farmers. Then he went to Springfield, where he was employed in building a large flat-boat. In this he took a herd of swine, floated them down the Sangamon to the Illinois, and thence by the Mis- sissippi to New Orleans. Whatever Abraham I,in- coln undertook, he performed so faithfully as to give great satisfaction to his employers. In this adven- (^ ^ ^^>&^ — %M>im §SB>— • -o- <}? ABE AH AM LINCOLN. -«5^ i?t^ tare his employers were so well pleased, that upon his return they placed a store and mill under his care. In 1832, at the outbreak of the Black Hawk war, he enlisted and was chosen captain of a company. He returned to Sangamon County, and although only 23 years of age, was a candidate for the Legislature, but was defeated. He soon after received from Andrew Jackson the appointment of Postmaster of New Salem, His only post-office was his hat. All the letters he received he carried there ready to deliver to those he chanced to meet. He studied surveying, and soon made this his business. In 1834 he again became a candidate for the Legislature, and was elected. Mr. Stuart, of Springfield, advised him to study law. He walked from New Salem to Springfield, borrowed of Mr. Stuart a load of books, carried them back and began his legal studies. When the Legislature as- sembled he trudged on foot with his pack on his back one hundred miles to Vandalia, then the capital. In 1836 he was re-elected to the Legislature. Here it was he first met Stephen A. Douglas. In 1839 he re- moved to Springfield and began the practice of law. His success with the jury was so great that he was soon engaged in almost every noted case in the circuit. In 1S54 the great discussion began between Mr. Lincoln and Mr. Douglas, on the slavery question. In the organization of the Republican party in Illinois, in 1856, he took an active part, and at once became one of the leaders in that party. Mr. Lincoln's' speeches in opposition to Senator Douglas in the con- test in 1858 for a seat in the Senate, form a most notable part of his history. The issue was on the slavery question, and he took the broad ground of the Declaration of Independence, that all men are created equal. Mr. Lincoln was defeated in this con- test, but won a far higher prize. The great Republican Convention met at Chicago on the i6th of June, i860. The delegates and strangers who crowded the city amounted to twenty- five thousand. An immense bliilding called "The Wigwam," was reared to accommodate the Conven- tion. There were eleven candidates for whom votes were tlirown. William H. Seward, a man whose fame as a statesman had long filled the land, was the most prominent. It was generally supposed he would be the nominee. Abraham Lincoln, however, received the nomination on the third ballot. Little did he then dream of the weary years of toil and care, and the bloody death, to which that nomination doomed him: and as little did he dream that lie was to render services to his country, which would fi.x upon him the eyes of the whole civilized world, and which would give him aplaceinthe affections of his countiynien, second only, if second, to that of Washington. Election day came and Mr. Lincoln received 180 electoral votes oat of 203 cast, and was, therefore, constitutionally elected President of the United States. The tirade of abuse that was poured upon this good and merciful man, especially by the slaveholders, was greater than upon any other man ever elected to this high position. In February, 1861, Mr. Lincoln started for Washington, stopping in all the large cities on his way making speeches. The whole journey was frought with much danger. Many of the Southern States had already seceded, and several attempts at assassination were afterwards brought to light. A gang in Balti- more had arranged, upon his arrival to "get up a row," and in the confusion to make sure of his death with revolvers and hand-grenades. A detective unravelled the plot. A secret and special train was provided to take him from HarrisL-urg, through Baltimore, at an unexpected hour of the night. The train started at half-past ten ; and to prevent any possible communi- cation on the part ol the Secessionists with their Con- federate gang in Baltimore, as soon as the train had started the telegraph-wires were cut. Mr. Lincoln reached Washington in safety and was inaugurated, although great anxiety was felt by all loyal people. In the selection of his cabinet Mr. Lincoln gave to Mr. Seward the Department of State, and to other prominent opponents before the convention he gave important positions. During 110 other administration have the duties devolving upon the President been so manifold, and the responsibilities so great, as those which fell to the lot of President Lincoln. Knowing this, and feeling his own weakness and inability to meet, and in his own strength to cope with, the difficulties, he learned early to seek Divine wisdom and guidance in determining his plans, and Divine comfort in all his trials, both personal and national. Contrary to his own estimate of himself, Mr. Lincoln was one of the most courageous of men. He went directly into the rebel capital just as the retreating foe was leaving, with no guard but a few sailors. From the time he had left Springfield, in 1861, however, plans had been made for his assassination, and he at last fell a victim to one of them. April 14, 1865, he, with Gen. Grant, was urgently invited to attend Fords' Theater. It was announced that they would be present. Gen. Grant, however, left the city. President Lincoln, feel- ing, witli his characteristic kindliness of heart, that it would be a disappointment if he should fail them, very reluctantly consented to go. While listening to the play -an actor by the name of John Wilkes Booth entered the box where the President and family were seated, and fired a bullet into his brains. He died the next morning at seven o'clock. Never before, in the history of the world was a nation plunged into such deep grief by the death of its ruler. Strong men met in the streets and wept in speechless anguish. It is not too much to say that a nation was in tears. His was a life which will fitly become a model. His name as tlie savior of his country will live with that of Washington's, its father; hiscountrv- men being unable to decide which is the greater. (:. 4) i^os- .<^ A^^tlll^!infi>A^ 4^^ % ,?>:••'• "C VCjiili^IID^^v SEVENTEENTH PRESIDENT. WV (^ ^Mj^Mi^w ^T) rtc^r^s^^iM.. NDREW JOHNSON, seven- teenth President of the United States. The early life of Andrew Johnson contains but ^ the record of poverty, destitu- tion and friendlessness. He was born December 29, 180S, in Raleigh, N. C. His parents, belonging to the class of the "poor whites " of the South, were in such circumstances, that they could not confer even the slight- est advantages of education upon their child. When Andrew was five years of age, his father accidentally lost his life while heiorically endeavoring to save a friend from drowning. Until ten years of age, Andrew was a ragged boy about the streets, supported by the labor of his mother, who obtained her living with her own hands. He then, having never attended a school one day, and being unable either to read or write, was ap- prenticed to a tailor in his native town. A gentleman was in the habit of going to the tailor's shop occasion- ally, and reading to the boys at work there. He often read from the speeches of distinguished British states- men. Andrew, who was endowed with a mind of more than ordinary native ability, became much interested in these speeches ; his ambition was roused, and he was inspired with a strong desire to learn to read. He accordingly applied himself to the alphabet, and with the assistance of some of his fellow-workmen, learned his letters. He then called upon the gentle- man to borrow the book of speeches. The owner, pleased with his zeal, not only gave him the book, but assisted him in learning to combine the letters into words. Under such difficulties he pressed on- ward laboriously, spending usually ten or twelve hours at work in the shop, and then robbing himself of rest and recreation to devote such time as he could to reading. He went to Tennessee in 1826, and located at Greenville, where he married a young lady who pos- sessed some education. Under her instructions he learned to write and cipher. He became prominent in the village debating society, and a favorite with the students of Greenville College. In 1828, he or- ganized a working man's party, which elected him alderman, and in 1830 elected him mayor, which position he held three years. He now began to take a lively interest in political affairs ; identifying himself with the working-classes, to which he belonged. In T835, he was elected a member of the House of Representatives of Tennes- see. He was then just twenty-seven years of age. He became a very active member of the legislature, gave his adhesion to the Democratic party, and in 1840 "stumped the State," advocating Martin Van Buren's claims to the Presidency, in opposition to those of Gen. Harrison. In this campaign he acquired much readiness as a speaker, and extended and increased his reputation. In 1841, he was elected State Senator; in 1843, he was elected a member of Congress, and by successive elections, held that important post for ten years. In 1853, he was elected Governor of Tennessee, and was re-elected in 1855. In all these res])onsible posi- tions, he discharged his duties with distinguished abil- Vfc: A V 0) ^s^^^L — ^^a^niigtiii^^z,;^ — ^^^ -#^ ANDRE W JOHNSON. ^ s h ity, and proved himself the warm friend of the work- ing classes. In 1857, Mr. Johnson was elected United States Senator. Years before, in 1845, he had warmly advocated the annexation of Texas, stating however, as his reason, that he thought this annexation would prob- ably prove " to be the gateway out of which the sable sons of Africa are to pass from bondage to freedom, and become merged in a population congenial to themselves." In 1850, he also supported the com- promise measures, the two essential features of which were, that the white people of the Territories should be permitted to decide for themselves whether they would enslave the colored people or not, and that the free States of the North should return to the South persons who attempted to escape from slavery. Mr. Johnson was neverashamedof his lowly origin: on the contrary, he often took pride in avowing that he owed his distinction to his own exertions. "Sir,'" said he on the floor of the Senate, " I do not forget that I am a mechanic ; neither do I forget that Adam was a tailor and sewed fig-leaves, and that our Sav- ior was the son of a carpenter." In the Charleston-Baltimore convention of i860, he V7as the choice of the Tennessee Democrats for the Presidency. In 186 1, when the purpose of the South- ern Democracy became apparent, he took a decided stand in favor of the Union, and held that " slavery must be held subordinate to the Union at whatever cost." He returned to Tennessee, and repeatedly imperiled his own life to protect the Unionists of Tennesee. Tennessee having seceded from the Union, President Lincoln, on March 4th, 1862, ap- pointed him Military Governor of the State, and he established the most stringent military rule. His numerous proclamations attracted wide attention. In 1864, he was elected Vice-President of the United States, and upon the death of Mr. Lincoln, April 15, 1865, became President. In a speech two days later he said, " The American people must be taught, if they do not already feel, that treason is a crime and must be punished; that the Government will not always bear with its enemies ; that it is strong not only to protect, but to punish. * * The people must understand that it (treason) is the blackest of crimes, and will surely be punished." Yet his whole administration, the history of which is so well known, was in utter inconsistency with, and the most violent opposition to, the principles laid down in that speech. In his loose policy of reconstruction and general amnesty, he was opposed by Congress ; and he char- acterized Congress as a new rebellion, and lawlessly defied it, in everything possible, to the utmost. In the beginnirig of 1868, on account of "high crimes and misdemeanors," the principal of which was the removal of Secretary Stanton, in violation of the Ten- ure of Office Act, articles of impeachment were pre- ferred against him, and the trial began March 23. It was very tedious, continuing for nearly three months. A test article of the impeachment was at length submitted to the court for its action. It was certain that as the court voted upon that article so would it vote upon all. Thirty-four voices pronounced the President guilty. As a two-thirds vote was neces- sary to his condemnation, he was pronounced ac- quitted, notwithstanding the great majority against him. The change of one vote from the net guilty side would have sustained the impeachment. The President, for the remainder of his term, was but little regarded. He continued, though impotently, iiis conflict with Congress. His own party did not think it expedient to renominate him for the Presi- dency. The Nation rallied, with enthusiasm unpar- alleled since the days of Washington, around the name of Gen. Grant. Andrew Johnson was forgotten. The bullet of the assassin introduced him to the President's chair. Notwithstanding this, never was there presented to a man a better opportunity to im- mortalize his name, and to win the gratitude of a nation. He failed utterly. He retired to his home in Greenville, Tenn., taking no very active part in politics until 1875. On Jan. 26, after an exciting struggle, he was chosen by the Legislature of Ten- nessee, United States Senator in the forty-fourth Con- gress, and took his seat in that body, at the special session convened by President Grant, on the 5th of March. On the 27th of July, 1875, the ex-President made a visit to his daughter's home, near Carter Station, Tenn. When he started on his journey, he was apparently in his usual vigorous health, but on reach- ing the residence of his child the following day, was stricken with paralysis, rendering him unconscious. He rallied occasionally, but finally passed away at 2 A.M., July 31, aged sixty-seven years. His fun- eral was attended at Geenville, on the 3d of August, with every demonstration of respect, V^ (^ ^^^ u^ ^M%W^>^^ ^^^^ "5SS«s*- ■>!. S*^ JlgSSfei^'^- ^^f^^^e^^^ 1 ca: ^ ?_ LYSSES S. GRANT, the eighteenth President of the ^* United States, was born on the 29th of April, 1822, of Christian parents, in a humble ' home, at Point Pleasant, on the banks of the Ohio. Shortly after his father moved to George- town, Brown Co., O. In this re- mote frontier hamlet, Ulysses received a common-school edu- cation. At the age of seven- teen, in the year 1839, he entered the Military Academy at West Point. Here he was regarded as a solid, sensible young man of fair abilities, and of sturdy, honest character. He took respectable rank as a scholar. In June, 1843, he graduated, about the middle in his class, and was sent as lieutenant of in- fantry to one of the distant military posts in the Mis- souri Territory. Two years he past in these dreary solitudes, watching the vagabond and exasperating Indians. The war with Mexico came. Lieut. Grant was sent with his regiment to Corpus Christi. His first battle was at Palo Alto. There was no chance here for the exhibition of either skill or heroism, nor at Resaca de la Palma, his second battle. At the battle of Monterey, his third engagement, it is said that he performed a signal service of daring and skillful horsemanship. His brigade had exhausted its am- munition. A messenger must be sent for more, along a route exposed to the bullets of the foe. Lieut. Grant, adopting an expedient learned of the Indians, grasped the mane of his horse, and hanging upon one side of the animal, ran the gauntlet in entire safety. From Monterey he was sent, with the fourth infantry, to aid Gen. Scott, at the siege of Vera Cruz. In preparation for the march to the city of Mexico, he was appointed quartermaster of his regiment. At the battle of Molino del Rey, he was promoted to a first lieutenancy, and was brevetted captain at Cha- pultepec. At the close of the Mexican War, Capt. Grant re- turned with his regiment to New York, and was again sent to one of the military posts on the frontier. The discovery of gold in California causing an immense tide of emigration to flow to the Pacific shores, Capt. Grant was sent with a battalion to Fort Dallas, in Oregon, for the protection of the interests of the im- migrants. Life was wearisome in those wilds. Capt. Grant resigned his commission and returned to the States; and having married, entered upon the cultiva- tion of a small farm near St. Louis, Mo. He had but little skill as a farmer. Finding his toil not re- munerative, he turned to mercantile life, entering into the leather business, with a younger brother, at Ga- lena, 111. This was in the year i860. As the tidings of the rebels firing on Fort Sumpter reached the ears of Capt. Grant in his counting-room, he said, — " Uncle Sam has educated me for the army ; though I have served him through one war, I do not feel that I have yet repaid the debt. I am still ready to discharge my obligations. I shall therefore buckle on my sword and see Uncle Sam through this war too." He went into the streets, raised a company of vol- unteers, and led them as their captain to Springfield, the capital of the State, where their services were offered to Gov. Yates. The Governor, impressed by the zeal and straightforward executive ability of Capt. Grant, gave him a desk in his office, to assist in the volunteer organization that was being formed in the State in behalf of the Government. On the 15th of ^niif^ A-d- -4^^^ 5(^T#^ ULYSSES S. GRANT. ■^^ A ?>; ■ > :) ~\ June, 1 86 1, Capt. Grant received a commission as Colonel of the Twenty-first Regiment of Illinois Vol- unteers. His merits as a West Point graduate, who had served for 15 years in the regular army, were such that he was soon promoted to the rank of Brigadier- General and was placed in command at Cairo. The rebels raised their banner at Paducah, near tlie mouth of the Tennessee River. Scarcely had its folds ap- peared in the breeze ere Gen. Grant was there. The rebels fled. Their banner fell, and the star and stripes were unfurled in its stead. He entered the service with great determination and immediately began active duty. This was the be- ginning, and until the surrender of Lee at Richmond he was ever pushing the enemy with great vigor and effectiveness. At Belmont, a few days later, he sur- prised and routed the rebels, then at Fort Heniy won another victory. Then came the brilliant fight at Fort Donelson. The nation was electrified by the victory, and the brave leader of the boys in blue was immediately made a Major-General, and the military district of Tennessee was assigned to him. Like all great captains. Gen. Grant knew well how to secure the results of victory. He immediately pushed on to the enemies' lines. Then came the terrible battles of Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, and the siege of Vicksburg, where Gen. Pemberton made an unconditional surrender of the city with over thirty thousand men and one-hundred and seventy-two can- non. The fall of Vicksburg was by far the most severe blow which the rebels had thus far encountered, and opened up the Mississippi from Cairo to the Gulf. Gen. Grant was next ordered to co-operate with Gen. Banks in a movement upon Texas, and pro- ceeded to New Orleans, where he was thrown from his horse, and received severe injuries, from which he was laid up for months. He then rushed to the aid of Gens. Rosecrans and Thomas at Chattanooga, and by a wonderful series of strategic and tactical meas- ures put the Union army in fighting condition. Then followed the bloody battles at Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain and Missionary Ridge, in which the rebels were routed with great loss. This won for him un- bounded praise in the North. On the 4th of Febru- ary, 1864, Congress revived the grade of lieutenant- general, and the rank was conferred on Gen. Grant. He repaired to Washington to receive his credentials and enter upon the duties of his new office. Gen. Grant decided as soon as he took charge of the army to concentrate the widely-dispersed National troops for an attack upon Richmond, the nominal capital of the Rebellion, and endeavor there to de- stroy the rebel armies which would be promptly as- sembled from all quarters for its defence! The whole continent seemed to tremble under the tramp of these majestic armies, rushing to the decisive battle field. Steamers were crowded with troops. Railway trains were burdened with closely packed thousands. His plans were comprehensive and involved a series of campaigns, which were executed with remarkable en- ergy and ability, and were consummated at the sur- render of Lee, April 9, 1865. Tlie war was ended. The Union was saved. The almost unanimous voice of the Nation declared Gen. Grant to be the most prominent instrument in its sal- vation. The eminent services he had thus rendered the country brought him conspicuously forward as the Republican candidate for the Presidential chair. At the Republican Convention held at Chicago, May 21, 1868, he was unanimously nominated for the Presidency, and at the autumn election received a majority of the popular vote, and 214 out of 294 electoral votes. The National Convention of the Republican party which met at Philadelphia on the 5th of June, 1872, placed Gen. Grant in nomination for a second term by a unanimous vote. The selection was emphati- cally indorsed by the people five months later, 292 electoral votes being cast for him. Soon after the close of his second term. Gen. Grant started upon his famous trip around the world. He visited almost every country of the civilized world, and was everywhere received with such ovations and demonstrations of respect and honor, private as well as public and official, as were never before bestowed upon any citizen of the United States. It is not too much to say that his modest, courteous, and dignified demeanor in the presence of the most dis- tinguished men in the different nations in the world, reflected honor upon the Republic which he so long and so faithfully served. The country felt a great pride in his reception. Upon his arrival in San Fran- cisco, Sept. 20, 1879, the city authorities gave him a fine reception. After lingering in the Golden State for a while, he began his tour through the States, which extended North and South, everj'where mark- ed by great acclamation and splendid ovations. vi I C->: ^' .J*-**--" ^M^, '&^ (q> NINETEENTH PRESIDENT. RUTHERl'ORB Be HAYES. UTHERFORD B. HAYES, the nineteenth President of ff the United States, was born in Delaware, O., Oct. 4, 1822, al- most three months after the death of his father, Rutherford Hayes. His ancestry on both the paternal and maternal sides, was of the most honorable char- acter. It can be traced, it is said, as far back as 1280, when Hayes and Rutherford were two Scottish chief- tains, fighting side by side with Baliol, William Wallace and Robert Bruce. Both families belonged to the nobility, owned extensive estates, and had a large following. Misfor- tune overtaking the family, George Hayes left Scot- land in 1680, and settled in Windsor, Conn. His son George was bom in Windsor, and remained there during his life. Daniel Hayes, son of the latter, mar- ried Sarah Lee, and lived from the time of his mar- riage until his death in Simsbury, Conn. Ezekiel, son of Daniel, was born in 1724, and was a manufac- turer of scythes at Bradford, Conn. Rutherford Hayes, son of E/.ekiel and grandfather of President Hayes, was born inNew Haven, in August, 1756. He was a farmer, blacksmith and tavern-keeper. He emigrated to Vermont at an unknown date, settling in Brattleboro, where he established a hotel. Here his son Ruth- erford Hayes, the father of President Hayes, was born. He was married, in September, 1813, to Sophia Birchard, of Wilmington, Vt, whose ancestors emi- grated thither from Connecticut, they having been among the wealthiest and best famlies of Norwich. Her ancestry on the male side are traced back to 1635, to John Birchard, one of the principal founders of Norwich. Both of her grandfathers were soldiers in the Revolutionary War. The father of President Hayes was an industrious, frugal and opened-hearted man. He was of a me- chanical turn, and could mend a plow, knit a stock- ing, or do almost anything else that he choose to undertake. He was a member of the Church, active in all the benevolent enterprises of the town, and con- ducted his business on Christian principles. After the close of the war of 181 2, for reasons inexplicable to his neighbors, he resolved to emigrate to Ohio. The journey from Vermont to Ohio in that day, when there were no canals, steamers, nor railways, was a very serious affair. A tour of inspection was first made, occupying four months. Mr. Hayes deter- mined to move to Delaware, where the family arrived in 1817. He died July 22, 1822, a victim of malarial fever, less than three months before the birth of the son,of whom we now write. Mrs. Hayes, in her sore be- reavement, found the support she so much needed in her brother Sardis, who had been a member of the household from the day of its departure from Ver- mont, and in an orphan girl whom she had adopted some time before as an act of charity. Mrs. Hayes at this period was very weak, and the Kiiiif^ :t|«*- ■^^^ <>I1II^DI1<> MUTHERFORD £. HAYES. subject of this sketch was so feeble at birth that he was not expected to live beyond a month or two at most. As the months went by he grew weaker and weaker, so that the neighbors were in the habit of in- quiring from time to time " if Mrs. Hayes' baby died last night." On one occasion a neighbor, who was on familiar terms with the family, after alluding to the boy's big head, and the mother's assiduous care of him, said in a bantering way, " That's right ! Stick to him. You have got him along so far, and I shouldn't wonder.if he would really come to something yet." " You need not laugh," said Mrs. Hayes. "You wait and see. You can't tell but I shall make him President of the United States yet." The boy lived, in spite of the universal predictions of his speedy death; and when, in 1825, his older brother was drowned, he became, if possible, still dearer to his mother. The boy was seven years old before he went to school. His education, however, was not neglected. He probably learned as much from his mother and sister as he would have done at school. His sports were almost wholly within doors, his playmates being his sister and her associates. These circumstances j< tended, no doubt, to foster that gentleness of dispo- Ap. sition, and that delicate consideration for the feelings of others, which are marked traits of his character. His uncle Sardis Birchard took the deepest interest in his education ; and as the boy's health had im- ^ proved, and he was making good progress in his v' studies, he proposed to send him to college. His pre- paration commenced with a tutor at home; but he was afterwards sent for one year to a professor in the Wesleyan University, in Middletown, Conn. He en- tered Kenyon College in 1838, at the age of sixteen, and was graduated at the head of his class in 1842. Innnediately after his graduation he began the study of law in the office of Thomas Sparrow, Esq., in Columbus. Finding his opportunities for study in Columbus somewhat limited, he determined to enter the Law School at Cambridge, Mass., where he re- mained two years. In 1845, after graduatmg at the Law School, he was admitted to the bar at Marietta, Ohio, and shortly afterward went into practice as an attorney-at-law with Ralph P. Buckland, of Fremont. Here he re- mained three years, acquiring but a limited practice, and apparently unambitious of distinction in his pro- fession. \\\ 1S49 he moved to Cincmnati, where his ambi- tion found a new stimulus. For several years, how- ever, his progress was slow. Two events, occurring at this period, had a powerful influence upon his subse- quent life. One of these was his marrage with Miss Lucy Ware Webb, daughter of Dr. James Webb, of Chilicothe; the other was his introduction to the Cin- cinnati Literary Club, a body embracing among its members such men as Chief Justice Salmon B. Chase, '() ^ h Gen. John Pope, Gov. Edward F. Noyes, and many others hardly less distinguished in after life. The marriage was a fortunate one in every respect, as everybody knows. Not one of all the wives of our Presidents was more universally admired, reverenced and beloved than was Mrs. Hayes, and no one did more than she to reflect honor upon American woman- hood. The Literary Club brought Mr. Hayes into constant association with young men of high char- acter and noble aims, and lured him to display the qualities so long hidden by his bashfulness and modesty. In 1856 he was nominated to the office of Judge of the Court of Common Pleas; but he declined to ac- cept the nomination. Two years later, the office of city solicitor becoming vacant, the City Council elected him for the unexpired term. In 1S61, vi^hen the Rebellion broke out, he was at the zenith of his professional life. His rank at the bar was among the the first. But the news of the attack on F"ort Sunipter found him eager to take up arms for the defense of his country. His military record was bright and illustrious. In October, 186 1, he was made Lieutenant-Colonel, and in August, 1862, promoted Colonel of the 79th Ohio regiment, but he refused to leave his old comrades and go among strangers. Subsequently, however, he was made Colonel of his old regiment. At the battle of .South Mountain he received a wound, and while faint and bleeding displayed courage and fortitude that won admiration from all. Col. Hayes was detached from his regiment, after his recovery, to act as Brigadier-General, and placed in command of the celebrated Kanawha division, and for gallant and meritorious services in the battles of Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, he was promoted Brigadier-General. He was also brevetted Major-General, "for gallant and distinguished services during the campaigns of 1864, in West Virginia." In the course of his arduous services, four horses were shot from under him, and he was wounded four times. In 1864, Gen. Hayes was elected to Congress, from the Second Ohio District, which had long been L)em- ocratic. He was not present during the campaign, and after his election was importuned to resign his commission in the army ; but he finally declared, " I shall never come to Washington until I can come by the way of Richmond." He was re-elected in 1866. In 1867, Gen Hayes was elected Governor of Ohio, over Hon. Allen G. Thurman, a popular Democrat. In 1869 was re-elected over George H. Pendleton. He was elected Governor for the third term in 1875. In 1876 he was the standard bearer of the Repub- lican Party in the Presidential contest, and after a hard long contest was chosen President, and was in augurated Monday, March 5, 1875. He served his full term, not, however, with satisfaction to his party, but his administration was an average one. I ^. %- <^>nii^in^^r ->#& 'V ^ JAMES A. GARFIELD. -*#%^ I " President Garfield was more than a man of strong moral and religious convictions. His whole history, from boyhood to the last, shows that duty to man and to God, and devotion to Christ and life and faith and spiritual commission were controlling springs of his being, and to a more than usual degree. In my judgment there is no more interesting feature of his character than his loyal allegiance to the body of Christians in which he was trained, and the fervent sympathy which he ever showed in their Christian communion. Not many of the few 'wise and mighty and noble who are called' show a similar loyalty to the less stately and cultured Christian communions in which they have been reared. Too often it is true that as they step upward in social and political sig- nificance they step upward from one degree to another in some of the many types of fashionable Christianity. President Garfield adhered to the church of his mother, the church in which he was trained, and in which he served as a pillar and an evangelist, and yet with the largest and most unsec- larian charity for all 'who love our Lord in sincerity."" Mr. Garfield was united in' marriage with Miss Lucretia Rudolph, Nov. ii, 1858, who proved herself worthy as the wife of one whom all the world loved and mourned. To them were born seven children, five of whom are still living, four boys and one girl. Mr. Garfield made his first political speeclies in 1856, in Hiram and the neighboring villages, and three years later he began to speak at county mass-meet- ings, and became the favorite speaker wherever he was. During this year he was elected to the Ohio Senate. He also began to study law at Cleveland, and in 1861 was admitted to the bar. The great Rebellion broke out in the early part of this year, and Mr. Garfield at once resolved to fight as he had talked, and enlisted to defend the old flag. He re- ceived his commission as Lieut.-Colonel of the Forty- second Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Aug. 14, 1861. He was immediately put into active ser- vice, and betore he had ever seen a gun fired in action, was placed in command of four regiments of infantry and eight companies of cavalry, charged with tlie work of driving out of his native State the officer (Humphrey Marshall) reputed to be the ablest of those, not educated to war whom Kentucky had given to the Rebellion. This work was bravely and speed- ily accomplished, although against great odds. Pres- ident Lincoln, on his success commissioned him Brigadier-General, Jan. 10, 1862; and as "he had been the youngest man in the Ohio Senate two years before, so now he was the youngest General in the army." He was with Gen. Buell's army at Shiloh, in its operations around Corinth and its march througli Alabama. He was then detailed as a member of the General Couit-Martial for the trial of Gen. Fitz-John Porter. He was then ordered to report to Gen. Rose- crans, and was assigned to the " Chief of Staff" The military history of Gen. Garfield closed with his brilliant services at Chickamauga, where he won the stars of the Major-General. Without an effort on his part Gen. Garfield was elected to Congress in the fall of 1862 from the Nineteenth District of Ohio. This section of Ohio had been represented in Congress for si.xty years mainly by two men — Elisha Whittlesey and Joshua R. Giddings. It was not without a struggle that he resigned his place in the army. At the time he en- tered Congress he was the youngest member in that body. There he remained by successive re- elections until he. was elected President in 1880. Of his labors in Congress Senator Hoar says : " Since the year 1864 you cannot think of a question which has been debated in Congress, or discussed before a tribunel of the American people, in regard to which you will not find, if you wish instruction, the argu- ment on one side stated, in almost every instance better than by anybody else, in some speech made in the House of Representatives or on the hustings by Mr. Garfield." Uixm Jan. 14, 1880, Gen. Garfield was elected to the U. S. Senate, and on the eighth of June, of the same year, was nominated as the candidate of his party for President at the great Chicago Convention. He was elected in the following November, and on March 4, 1881, was inaugurated. Probably no ad- ministration ever opened its existence under brighter auspices than that of President Garfield, and every day it grew in favor with the people, and by the first of July he had completed all the initiatory and pre- liminary work of his administration and was prepar- ing to leave the city to meet his friends at Williams College. While on his way and at the depot, in com- pany with Secretary Blaine, a man stepped behind him, drew a revolver, and fired directly at his back. The President tottered and fell, and as he did so the assassin fired a second shot, the bullet cutting the left coat sleeve of his victim, but inflicting no farther injury. It has been very truthfully said that this was " the shot that was heard round the world " Never liefore in the history of the Nation had anything oc- curred which so nearly froze the blood of the people for the moment, as this awful deed. He was smit- ten on the brightest, gladdest day of all his life, and was at the summit of his power and hope. For eighty days, all during the hot months of July and August, he lingered and suffered. He, however, remained master of himself till the last, and by his magnificent bearing was teaching the country and the world the noblest of human lessons — how to live grandly in the very clutch of death. Great in life, he was surpass- ingly great in death. He passed serenely away Sept. ig, 1S83, at Elberon, N. J., on the very bank of the ocean, where he had been taken shortly previous. The world wept at his death, as it never had done on the death of any other man who had ever lived upon it. The murderer was duly tried, found guilty and exe cuted, in one year after he committed the foul deed ^: ^ ( ^ i®9- X^ A<|>IlD^DDf^'r^ -e^ ^^ / ^^ ^,^& <>|]U:5^Iillr>v (3; i ■'■■*■ •rr-T^ TWBNTY-FIRST PRESIDENT. (cS HESTER A. ARTHUR, twenty-first President of the United States, was born in Franklin County, Vermont, on thefifthof October, 1830, and is the oldest of a family of two sons and five daughters. His father was the Rev. Dr. William Arthur, a Baptist clergyman, who emigrated to this country from the county Antrim, Ireland, in his 18th year, and died in 1S75, in Newtonville, near Albany, after a long and successful ministry. Young Arthur was educated at Union College, Schenectady, where he excelled in all his studies. Af- ter his graduation he taught school in Vermont for two years, and at the expiration of that time came to New York, with $500 in his pocket, WM. and entered the office of ex- Judge ^(ir E. D. Culver as student. After I being admitted to the bar he formed a partnership with his intimate friend and room-mate, Henry D. Gardiner, with the intention of practicing in the West, and for three months they roamed about in the Westecn States in search of an eligible site, but in the end returned to New York, where they hung out their shingle, and entered upon a success- ful career almost from the start. General Arthur soon afterward married the daughter of Lieutenant Herndon, of the United States Navy, who was lost at sea. Congress voted a gold medal to his widow in recognition of the bravery he displayed on that occa- sion. Mrs. Arthur died shortly before Mr. Arthur's nomination to the Vice Presidency, leaving two children. Gen. Arthur obtained considerable legal celebrity in his first great case, the famous Lemmon suit, brought to recover possession of eight slaves who had been declared free by Judge Paine, of the Superior Court of New York City. It was in 1852 that Jon, athan Lemmon, of Virginia, went to New York with his slaves, intending to ship them to Texas, when they were discovered and freed. The Judge decided that they could not be held by the owner under the Fugitive Slave Law. A howl of rage went up from the South, and the Virginia Legislature authorized the Attorney General of that State to assist in an appeal. Wm. M. Evarts and Chester A. Arthur were employed to represent the People, and they won their case, which then went to the Supreme Court of the United States. Charles O'Conor here espoused the cause of the slave-holders, but he too was beaten by Messrs. Evarts and Arthur, and a long step was taken toward the emancipation of the black race. Another great service was rendered by General Arthur in the same cause in 1856. Lizzie Jennings, a respectable colored woman, was put off a Fourth Avenue car with violence after she had paid her fare. General Arthur sued on her behalf, and secured a verdict of $500 damages. The next day the compa- ny issued an order to admit colored persons to ride on their cars, and the other car companies quickly ^ / A ^: 0) ^:^-^r^ — ^^^^ -#^^ (^ I II CHESTER A. ARTHUR. ~:;i^&sr #^f followed their example. Before that the Sixth Ave- nue Company ran a few special cars for colored per- sons and the other lines refused to let them ride at all. General Arthur was a delegate to the Convention at Saratoga that founded the Republican party. Previous to the war he was Judge-Advocate of the Second Brigade of the State of New York, and Gov- ernor Morgan, of that State, appointed him Engineer- in-Chief of his staff. In 1861, he was made Inspec- tor General, and soon afterward became Quartermas- ter-General. In each of these offices he rendered great service to the Government during the war. At •the end of Governor Morgan's term he resumed the practice of the law, forming a partnership with Mr. Ransom, and then Mr. Phelps, the District Attorney of New York, was added to the firm. The legal prac- tice of this well-known firm was very large and lucra- tive, each of the gentlemen composing it were able lawyers, and possessed a splendid local reputation, if not indeed one of national extent. He always took a leading part in State and city politics. He was appointed Collector of the Port of New York by President Grant, Nov. 21^ 1872, to suc- ceed Thomas Murphy, and held the office until July, 20, rSyS, when he was succeeded by Collector Merritt. Mr. Arthur was nominated on the Presidential ticket, with Gen. James A. Garfield, at the famous National Republican Convention held at Chicago in June, 1880. This was perhaps the greatest political convention that ever assembled on the continent. It was composed of the leading politicians of the Re- publican party, all able men, and each stood firm and fought vigorously and with signal tenacity for their respective candidates that were before the conven- tion for the nomination. Finally Gen. Garfield re- ceived the nomination for President and Gen. Arthur for Vice-President. The campaign which followed was one of the most animated known in the history of our country. Gen. Hancock, the standard-bearer of the Democratic party, was a popular man, and his party made a valiant fight for his election. Finally the election came and the country's choice was Garfield and Arthur. They were inaugurated March 4, 1881, as President and Vice-President. A few months only had passed ere the newly chosen President was the victim of the assassin's bullet. Then came terrible weeks of suffering, — tliose moments of anxious suspense, when the hearts of all civilized na- k C T tions were throbbing in unison, longing for the re- covery of the noble, the good President. The remark- able patience that he manifested during those hours and weeks, and even months, of the most terrible suf- fering man has often been called upon to endure, was seemingly more than human. It was certainly God- like. During all this period of deepest anxiety Mr. Arthur's every move was watched, and be it said to his credit that his every action displayed only an earnest desire that the suffering Garfield might recover, to serve the remainder of the term he had so auspi- ciously begun. Not a selfish feeling was manifested in deed or look of this man, even though the most honored position in the world was at any moment likely to fall to him. At last God in his mercy relieved President Gar- field from further suffering, and the world, as never before in its history over the death of any other man, wept at his bier. Then it became the duty of the Vice President to assume the responsibilities of the high office, and he took the oath in New York, Sept. 20, i88t. The position was an embarrassing Ai'. one to him, made doubly so from the facts that all ^ eyes were on him, anxious to know what he would do, V^ what policy he would pursue, and who he would se- = lect as advisers. The duties of the office had been S^ greatly neglected during the President's long illness, |^ and many important measures were to be immediately ( y decided by him ; and still farther to embarrass him he did not fail to realize under what circumstances he became President, and knew the feelings of many on this point. Under these trying circumstances President Arthur took the reins of the Government in his own hands ; and, as embarrassing as were the condition of affairs, he has happily surprised the Nation, acting so justly, so wisely, so well, that but few have criticised his administration. Should he continue during the remainder of his term to pursue the wise policy he has followed thus far, we believe President Arthur's administration will go down in history as one of the wisest and most satisfactory our country has ever enjoyed. His highest ambition seems to be to do his ^p) duty to the whole Nation, even to the sacrifice of his warmest personal friends. With the good of the people at heart, and guided by the wisdom already displayed, he will surprise his opponents, gratify his friends, and bless the American Republic, during the years he occupies the Presidential chair. -^^^^ — ©v<^iatisnii^>r^ -*#^^^ (h ) 2 c^ 9 i 1 ^^ .^5^,g^>«»i — ^^sflg^nnf^A;© — s,^^,^- Iff- -a^^fc: 'rn<-:BD^IlD^> -l^^(<®M^ I 1^ VL 1 :^ ^^^t>^^^ ^^^^-^ ^1 -^i^ K 6^v 4:n •^llls>r'^ :J^Kr &;(®^ I I S-vg))«^^ ■^5««'^ @^A<^I1 !1 f^ DDr->=^-^ -^^5(@/« ■^^^^ — 6v<^iiiii§iini^v^ ,,') > ^ <5; :sjH|f?^iri. A<^i] ^ ntift>A-^ — ^^m^ >•..-' f *'i^■^.^ :v-^/'/ -* # GO VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. :aJ%^%r i ex ^ TEPHEN T. MASON, the first Governor of Michigan, was a son of Gen. John T. Mason, of Kentucky, but was born in Virginia, in 1812. At the age ■^ of 19 he was appointed Secre- /a tary of Michigan Territory, and served in that capacity during the administration of Gov. George B. Porter. Upon the death of Gov. Porter, which occurred on the 6tb of July, 1834, Mr. Mason became Act- ing Governor. In October, 1835, he was elected Governor under the State organization, and immediately en- tered upon the performance of the duties of the office, although the State was not yet admitted into the Union. After the State was admitted into the Union, Governor Mason was re-elected to the position, and served with credit to himself and to the advantage of the State. He died Jan. 4, 1843. The principal event during Governor Mason's official career, was that arising from the disputed southern boundary of the State. Michigan claimed for her southern boundary aline running east across the peninsula from the extreme southern point of Lake Michigan, extending through Lake Erie, to the Pennsylvania line. This she claimed as a vested right — a right accruing to her by compact. This compact was the ordinance of 1787, the parties to which were the original 13 States, and the territory northwest of the Ohio ; and, by the suc- cession of parties under statutory amendments to the ordinance and laws of Congress — the United States on the one part, and each Territory northwest of the Ohio, as far as affected by their provisions, on the ^(^t^^ ^^ ^^ QJ^ ^M other. Michigan, therefore, claimed it under the prior grant, or assignation of boundary. Ohio, on the otherhand,claimed that the ordinance had been superseded by the Constitution of the United States, and that Congress had a right to regu- late the boundary. It was also claimed that the Constitution of the State of Ohio having described a different line, and Congress having admitted the State under that Constitution, without mentioning the sub- ject of the line in dispute. Congress had thereby given its consent to the line as laid down by the Constitu- tion of Ohio. This claim was urged by Ohio at some periods of the controversy, but at others she ap- peared to regard the question unsettled, by the fact that she insisted upon Congress taking action in re- gard to the boundary. Accordingly, we find that, in 1812, Congress authorized the Surveyor-General to survey a line, agreeably to the act, to enable the people of Ohio to form a Constitution and State government. Owing to Indian hostilities, however, the line was not run till i8r8. In 1820, the question in dispute underwent a rigid exanrination by the Committee on Public Lands. The claim of Ohio was strenuously urged by her delegation, and as ably opposed by Mr. Woodbridge, the then delegate from Michigan. The result was that the committee decided unanimously in favor of Michigan; but, in the hurry of business, no action was taken by Congress, and the question remained open till IVIichigan organized her State gov- ernment. The Territory in dispute is about five miles in width at the west end, and about eight miles in width at the east end, and extends along the whole north- ern line of Ohio, west of Lake Erie. The line claimed by Michigan was known as the " Fulton line," and that claimed by Ohio was known as the" Harris line," < eV^?DD^DDf> STEPHEN T. MASON. -ziii&sr -^#1^ I from the names of the surveyors. The territory was valuable for its rich agricultural lands; but the chief value consisted in the fact that the harbor on the Maumee River, where now stands the flourishing city of Toledo, was included within its limits The town originally bore the name of Swan Creek, afterwards Port Lawrence, then Vestula, and then Toledo. In February, 1835, the Legislature of Ohio passed an act extending the jurisdiction of the State over the territory in question; erected townships and directed them to hold elections in April following. It also directed Governor Lucus to appoint three com- missioners to survey and re-mark the Harris line ; and named the first of April as the day to commence the survey. Acting Governor Mason, however, anticipated this action on the part of the Ohio Legislature, sent a special message to the Legislative Council, appris- ing it of Governor Lucas' message, and advised imme- diate action by that body to anticipate and counteract the proceedings of Ohio. Accordingly, on the 12th of February, the council passed an act making it a crimmal offence, punishable by a heavy fine, or im- prisonment, for any one to attempt to exercise any official functions, or accept any office within the juris- diction of Michigan, under or by virture of any au- thority not derived from the Territory, or the United States. On the 9th of March, Governor Mason wrote General Brown, then in command of the Michigan militia, directing him to hold himself in readiness to meet the enemy in the field in case any attempt was made on the part of Ohio to carr)' out the provisions of that act of the Legislature. On the 31st of ALirch, Governor Lucus, with his commissioners, arrived at Perrysburgh, on their way to commence re-surveying the Harris line. He was accompanied by General Bell and staff, of the Ohio Militia, who proceeded to muster a volunteer force of about 600 men. This was soon accomplished, and the force fully armed and equipped. The force then went into camp at Fort Miami, to await the Governor's orders. In the meantime, Governor Mjson, with General Brown and staff, had raised a force 800 to 1200 strong, and were in possession of Toledo. General Brown's Staff consisted of Captain Henry Smith, of Monroe, Inspector; Major J. J. Ullman, of Con- stantine. Quartermaster; AVilliam E. Broadman, of Detroit, and Alpheus Felch, of Monroe, Aids-de- camp. When Governor Lucas observed the deter- mined bearing of the Michigan braves, and took note oPtheir number, he found it convenient to content himself for a time with " watching over the border." Several days were passed in this exhilarating employ- ment, and just as Governor Lucas had made up his mind to do something rash, two commissioners ar- rived from Washington on a mission of peace. They remonstrated with Gov. Lucus, and reminded him of the consequences to himself and his State if he per- sisted in his attempt to gain possessiondf the disputed territory by force. After several conferences with both governors, the commissioners submitted proposi- tions for their consideration. Governor Lucas at once accepted the propositions, and disbanded his forces. Governor Mason, on the other hand, refused to accede to the arrangement, and declined to compromise the rights of his people by a surrender of possession and jurisdiction. When Gov- ernor Lucus disbanded his forces, however, Governor Mason partially followed suit, but still held himself in readiness to meet any emergency that might arise. Governor Lucus now supposed that his way was clear, and that he could re-mark the Harris line -with- out being molested, and ordered the commissioners to proceed with their work. In the meantime. Governor Mason kept a watch- ful eye upon the proceedings. General Brown sent scouts through the woods to watch their movements, and report when operations were commenced. When the surveying party got within the county of Lena- wee, the under-sheriff of that county, armed with a warrant, and accompanied by a posse, suddenly made his appearance, and succeeded in arresting a portion of tlie party. The rest, including the commissioners, took to their heels, and were soon beyond the dis- puted territory. They reached Perrysburgh the fol- lowing day in a highly demoralized condition, and reported they had been attacked by an overwhelm- ing force of Michigan malitia, under command of General Brown. This summary breaking up of the surveying party produced the most tremendous excitement throughout Ohio. Governor Lucas called an extra session of the Legislature. But little remains to be said in reference to the " war." The question continued for some time to agitate the minds of the opposing parties; and the action of Congress was impatiently awaited. Michigan was admitted into the Union on the condition that she give to Ohio the disputed territory, and accept in return the Northern Peninsula, which she did. ^^m^ ^7^>DIl^lin<>^r^ -•^^^fj y^\ vC^DPi^IiIl^>^r^7 5i*^ta%: SECOND GO VERNOR OF MICHIGAN. William ^oodbridgb.^— ^fe- (^ ILLIAM WOODBRIDGE, 'ksecond Governor of Michigan, was born at Norwich, Conn., Aug. 20, 1780, and died at Detroit Oct. 20, 1861. He was of a family of three brothers and two sisters. His father, Dudley VVoodbridge, removed to Marietta, Ohio, about 1790. The life of Wm. Woodbridge, by Chas. Lauman, from which this sketch is largely com piled, mentions noth- ing concerning his early education beyond the fact that it was such as was afforded by the average school of the time, except a year with the French colonists at Gallipolis, where he acquired a knowledge of ,1] the French language. It should be borne in mind, however, that home education at that time was an indispensable feature in the training of the young. To this and and to a few studies well mastered, is due that strong mental discipline which has served as a basis for many of the grand intellects that have adorned and helped to make our National history. Mr. Woodbridge studied law at Marietta, having as a fellow student an intimate personal friend, a young man subsequently distinguished, but known at that time simply as Lewis Cass. He graduated at the law school in Connecticut, after a course there of nearly three years, and began to practice at Marietta in 1806. In June, r 806, he married, at Hartford, Con- necticut, Juleanna, daughter of John Trumbell, a distinguished author and judge ; and author of the peom McFingal, which, during a dark period of the Revolution, wrought such a magic change upon the spirits of the colonists. He was happy in his domes- ricrelationsuntilthedeathofMrs. W., Feb. 2,19, i860. Our written biographies necessarily speak more fully of men, because of their active participation in public affairs, but human actions are stamped upon the page of time and when the scroll shall be unrolled the influence of good women upon the history of the world will be read side by side with the deeds of men. How much success and renown in life many men owe to their wives is probably little known. Mrs. W. en- joyed the best means of eariy education that the country afforded, and her intellectual genius enabled her to improve her advantages. During her life, side by side with the highest type of domestic and social graces, she manifested a keen intellectuality that formed the crown of a faultless character. She was a natural poet, and wrote quite a large number of fine verses, some of which are preserved in a printed memorial essay written upon the occasion of her death. In this essay, it is said of her "to contribute even in matters of minor importance, to elevate the reputation and add to the well being of her husband in the various stations he was called upon to fill, gave her the highest satisfaction." She was an invalid during the latter portion of her life, but was patient and cheerful to the end. In 1807, Mr. W. was chosen a representative to the General Assembly of Ohio, and in 1809 was elected to the Senate, continuing a member by re-election until his removal from the State. He also held, by ap- pointment, during the time the office of Prosecuting Attorney for his county. He took a leading part in the Legislature, and in 181 2 drew up a declaration and resolutions, wliich passed the two houses unamiuously V^ Pi A c^: ^^^^ — ^Ae^n mu'^>^ — ^^€^^ -^ i^5f ■^V4>llll^li(l^>r ry zai^&s: WILLIAM WOOD BRIDGE. I *®» ■^ and attracted great attention, endorsing, in strongest and most emphatic terms, the war measures of Presi- dent Madison. During the period from 1804 to 18 14 the two law students, Woodbridge and Cass, had be- come widely separated. The latter was Governor of the Territory of Michigan under the historic "Governor and Judges" plan, with the indispensable requisite of a Secretary of the Territorry. This latter position was, in 18 1 4, without solicitation on his part, tendered to Mr. W. He accepted the position with some hesita- tion, and entered upon its duties as soon as he could make the necessary arrangements for leaving Ohio. The office of Secretary involved also the duties of collectorof customs at the port of Detroit, and during the frequent absences of the Governor, the dischargeof of his duties, also including those of Superintendent of Indian Affairs. Mr. W. officiated as Governor for about two years out of the eight years that he held the office of Secretary. Under the administration of "Gov- ernor and Judges," which the people of the Territory preferred for economical reasons, to continue some time after their numbers entitled them to a more popular representative system, they were allowed no delegate in Congress. Mr. W., as a sort of informal agent of the people, by correspondence and also by a visit to the National capital, so clearly set forth the demand for representation by a delegate, that an act was passed in Congressin iSipauthorizingone tobechosen. Under this act Mr. W. was elected by the concurrence of all parties. His first action in Congress was to secure ^^ the passage of a bill recognizing and confirming the old French land titles in the Territory according to the terms of the treaty of peace with Great Britain at the close of the Revolution ; and another for the construction of a Government road through the "black swamps" from the Miami River to i:)etroit, thus open- ing a means of land transit between Oliio and Mich- igan. He was influential in securing the passage of bills for the construction of Government roads from Detroit to Chicago, and Detroit to Fort Gratiot, and for the improvement of La Plaisance Bay. The ex- pedition for the exploration of the country around Lake Superior and in the valley of the Upper Mis- sissippi, projected by Governor Cass, was set on foot by means of representations made to the liead of the department by Mr. AV. While in Congress he stren- uously maintained the right of Michigan to the strip of territory now forming the northern boundary of Ohio, which formed the subject of such grave dispute between Ohio and Michigan at the time of the ad- mission of the latter into the Union. He served but one term as delegate to Congress, de- clining further service on account of personal and family considerations. Mr. W. continued to discharge the duties of Secretary of the Territory up to the time its Government passed into the "second grade." In 1824, he was appointed one of a board of commissioners for adjusting private land claims in 'o ^ <^nii^ the Territory, and was engaged also in the practice of his profession, having the best law library in the Ter- ritory. In 1828, upon the recommendation of the Governor, Judges and others, he was appointed by the President, J. Q. Adams, to succeed Hon. James W ith- erell, who had resigned as a Judge of what is conven- tionally called the "Supreme Court" of the Territory. This court was apparently a continuation of the Terri- torial Court, under the "first grade" or "Governor and Judges" system. .Although it was supreme in its ju- dicial functions within the Territory, its powers and duties were of a very general character. In 1832, the term of his appointment as Judge ex- piring. President Jackson appointed a successor, it -is supposed on political grourids,muchto the disappoint- ment of the public and the bar of the Territory. The partisan feeling of the time extended into the Terri- tory, and its people began to think of assuming the dignity of a State government. Party lines becom- ing very sharply drawn, he identified himself with the Whigs and was elected a member of the Conven- tion of 1835, which formed the first State Constitution. In 1837 he was elected a member of the State Senate. This sketch has purposely dealt somewhat in detail with what may be called Judge W's. earlier career, because it is closely identified with the early his- tory of the State, and the development of its politi- cal system. Since the organization of the State Gov- ernment the history of Michigan is more familiar, and hence no review of Judge W's career as Governor and Senator will be attempted. He was elected Gov- ernor in 1839, under a popular impression that the affairs of the State had not been prudently adminis- tered by the Democrats. He ser\'ed as Governor but little more tlian a year, when he was elected to the Senate of the United States. His term in the Senate practically closed his polit- ical life, although he was strongly urged by many prominent men for the Whig nomination for Vice President in 1848. Soon after his appointment as Judge in 1828, Gov- ernor W. took up ins residence on a tract of land which he owned in the township of Spring Wells, a short distance below what was then the corporate lim- its of Detroit, where he resided during the remainder of his life. Both in his public papers and private communications, Governor W. shows himself a mas- ter of language; he is fruitful in simile and illustra- tion, logical in aiTangement, happy in the choice and treatment of topics, and terse and vigorous in expres- sion. Judge W. was a Congregationalist. His opinions on all subjects were decided ; he was earnest and energetic, courteous and dignified, and at times ex- hibited a vein of fine humor that was the more at- tractive because not too often allowed to come to the surface. His letters and addresses show a deep and earnest affection not only for his ancestral home, but the home of his adoption and for friends and family. m>^ — ^^^^ 4^;^C( V ^' '-^r ■^v<^iiii>^Bn^^v GO VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. "«« >— »>» tJO HK e. BARRY <««; ►— ) ^ OHN STEWARD BARRY, Governor of Michigan from Jan. 3, 1842, to Jan. 5, 1846, and from Jan. 7, 1850, to Jan. I, 1852, was born at Amherst, N. H., Jan. 29, 1802. His par- «) ents, John and Ellen (Steward) Barry, early removed to Rocking- ham, Vt., where he remained until i> he became of age, working on his father's fann, and pursuing his studies at the same time. He mar- ried Mary Kidder, of Grafton, Vt., and in 1824 went to Georgia, Vt., where he had charge of an academy for two years, meanwhile studying law. He afterward practiced law in that State. While he was in Georgia he was for some time a member of the Governor's staff, with the title of Governor's Aid, and at a somewhat earlier period was Captain of a company of State militia. In 183 1 he removed to Michigan, and settled at White Pigeon, where he engaged in mercantile business with I. W. Willard. Four years after, 1834, Mr. Barry removed to Con- stantine and continued his mercantile pursuits. He became Justice of the Peace at White Pigeon, Mich.) in 1831, and held the office until the year 1835. Mr. Barry's first public office was that of a member of the first constitutional convention, which assembled and framed the constitution upon which Michigan was admitted into the Union. He took an important and prominent part in the proceedings of that body, and showed himself to be a man of far more than ordinary ability. Upon Michigan being admitted into the Union, Mr. Barry was chosen State Senator, and so favorably were his associates impressed with his abilities at the first session of the Legislature that they looked to him as a party leader, and that he should head the State ticket at the following election. Accordingly he re- ceived the nomination for Governor at the hands of his party assembled in convention. He was elected, and so popular was his administration that, in 1842, he was again elected. During these years Michigan was embarrassed by great financial diffi- culties, and it was through his wisdom and sound judg- ment that the State was finally placed upon a solid financial basis. During the first year of Gov. Barr)''s first term, the University at Ann Arbor was opened for the reception y ®^^^^ ^<^C!l^Dnf>A f '4^ t I- JOHN STEWARD BARRY. ■^afi^^ivi^ ■^^ of students. The Michigan Central and Michigan Southern railroads were being rapidly constructed, and general progress was everywhere noticeable. In 1842, the number of pupils reported as attending the public schools was nearly fifty-eight thousand. In 1843, ^ State land office was established at Marshall, which was invested with the charge and disposition of all the lands belonging to the State. In 1844, the ta.x- able property of the State was found to be over twenty-eight millions of dollars, the tax being at the rate of two mills on the dollar. The expenses of the State were only seventy thousand dollars, while the income from the railroads was nearly three hundred thousand dollars. At this time the University of Michigan had become so prosperous that its income was ample to pay the interest on the University debt ; and the amount of money which the State was able to loan the several progressing railroads was one hundred and twenty thousand dollars. Efforts were made to increase the efficiency of the common schools with good results In 1845, when Gov. Barry's sec- ond term expired, the population of the State was more than three hundred thousand. The constitution of the State forbade more than two consecutive terms, but he was called upon to fill the position again in 1850 — the only instance of the kind in the history of the State. He was a member of the Territorial Legislature, of the Constitutional Conven- tion, and afterward of the State House of Represent- atives. During Mr. Barry's third term as Governor the Nor- mal School was established at Ypsilanti, which was endowed with lands and placed in charge of a board of education consisting of six persons. A new con- stitution for the government of the State was also adopted and the "Great Railway Conspiracy Case " was tried. This grew out of a series of lawless acts which had been committed upon the property of the Michigan Central Railroad Company, along the line of their road, and finally the burning of the depot at Detroit, in 1850. At a setting of the grand jury of Wayne County, April 24, 1851, 37 men of the 50 under arrest for this crime were indicted. May 20, following, the accused parties appeared at the Circuit Court of Wayne, of which Warner Wing was resident judge. The Rail- road Company employed ten eminent lawyers, in- cluding David Stuart, John Van Arman, James A. Van Dyke, Jacob M. Howard, Alex. D. Fraser, Dan- iel Goodwin and William Gray. The defendants were represented by six members of the State bar, led by William H. Seward, of New York. The trial occupied four months, during which time the plaintiffs exam- ined 246 witnesses in 27 days, and the defendants 249 in 40 days. Mr. Van Dyke addressed the jury for the prosecution; William H. Seward for the defense. The great lawyer was convinced of the innocence of his clients, nor did the verdict of that jury and the sentence of that judge remove his firm belief that his clients were the victims of purchased treachery, rather than so many sacrifices to justice. The verdict of " guilty " was rendered at 9 o'clock p. M., Sept. 25, 185 1. On the 26th the prisoners were put forward to receive sentence, when many of them protested their entire innocence, after which the pre- siding judge condemned 12 of the number to the fol- lowing terms of imprisonment, witli hard labor, within the State's prison, situate in their county : Ammi Filley, ten years; Orlando L. Williams, ten years; Aaron Mount, eight years; Andrew J. Freeland, eight years; Eben Farnham, eight years; William Corvin, eight years ; Richard Price, eight years; Evan Price, eight years; Lyman Champlin, five yeare ; Willard W. Champlin, five years; Erastus Champlin, five years; Erastus Smith, five years. In 1840, Gov. Barry became deeply interested in the cultivation of the sugar beet, and visited Europe to obtain information in reference to its culture. He was twice Presidential Elector, and his last public service was that of a delegate to the National Democratic Convention held in Chicago in 1864. He was a man who, throughout life, maintained a high character for integrity and fidelity to the trusts bestowed upon him, whether of a public or a private nature, and he is acknowledged by all to have been one of the most efficient and popular Governors the State has ever had. Gov. Barry was a man of incorruptible integrity. His opinions, which he reached by the most thorough investigation, he held tenaciously. His strong con- victions and outspoken honesty made it impossible for him to take an undefined position when a principle was involved. His attachments and prejudices were strong, yet he was never accused of favoritism in his administration of public affairs. As a speaker he was not remarkable. .Solidity, rather than brilliancy, char- acterized his oratory, which is described as argument- ative and instructive, but cold, hard, and entirely wanting in rhetorical ornament. He was never elo- quent, seldom humorous or sarcastic, and in manner rather awkward. Although Mr. Barry's educational advantages were so limited, he was a life-long student. He mastered both ancient and modern languages, and acquired a thorough knowledge of history. No man owed less to political intrigue as a means of gaining posi- tion. He was a true statesman, and gained public es- teem by his solid worth. His political connections were always with the Democratic party, and his opin- ions were usually extreme. Mr. Barry retired to private life after the beginning of the ascendency of the Republican party, and car- ried on his mercantile business at Constantine. He died Jan. 14, 1870, his wife's death having occurred a year previous, March 30, 1869. They left no children. vS K/ (' )^^#*- J^^^!^^ .O^L <^na^nDn> ^u:^ SS»f^'^>'^ jUjv i^f M^Z^Jhc/_ (9> e! -M ^.\^ **■ "Jrt^ VF ^/i^ -6V<>IllJgtinv>:^^^ >j^C^fe: GC VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. ^:^lS&^-:^:^. LPHEUS FELCH, the third Governor of Michigan, was born in Limerick, Maine, Sep- tember 28, 1806. His grand- father, Abijah Felch, was a sol- dier in the Revolution ; and when a young man, having with others obtained a grant of land be- tween the Great and Little Ossipee Rivers, in Maine, moved to that re- gion when it was yet a wilderness. The father of Mr. Felch embarked in mercantile life at Limerick. He was the first to engage in that business in that section, and continued it until his death. The death of the father, followed within a year by the death of the mother, left the subject of this sketch, then three years old, to the care of relatives, and he found a home with his paternal grandfather, where he re- mained until his death. Mr Felch received his early education in the district school and a neighboring academy. In 182 1 he became a student at Phillips Exter Academy, and, subsequently, entered Bowdoin College, graduated with the class of 1827. He at once began the study of law and was admitted to practice at Bangor, Me., in 1830. He began the practice of his profession at Houlton, Me., where he remained until 1833. The severity of the climate impaired his health, never very good, and he found it necessary to seek a change of climate. He dis[X)sed of his library and started to seek a new home. His intention was to join his friend, Sargent S. Prentiss, at Vicksburg, Miss., but on his arrival at Cincinnati, Mr. Felch was attacked by cholera, and when he had recovered sufficiently to permit of his traveling, found that the danger of the disease was too great to permit a journey down the river. He therefore determined to come to Michi- gan. He first began to practice in this State at Mon- roe, where he continued until 1843, when he removed to Ann Arbor. He was elected to the State Legisla- ture in 1835, and continued a member of that body during the years 1836 and 1837. While he held this office, the general banking law of the State was enact- ed, and went into operation. After mature delibera- tion, he became convinced that the proposed system of banking could not prove beneficial to the public interests ; and that, instead of relieving the people from the pecuniary difficulties under which they were laboring, it would result in still further embarrass- ment. He, therefore, opposed the bill, and pointed out to the House the disasters which, in his opinion, were sure to follow its passage. The public mind, however, was so favorably impressed by the measure that no other member, in either branch of the Legisla- ture, raised a dissenting voice, and but two voted with him in opposition to the bill. Early in 1838, he was appointed one of the Bank Commissioners of the State, and held that office for more than a year. Dur- ing this time, the new banking law had given birth to that numerous progeny known as "wild-cat" banks. Almost every village had its bank. The country was flooded with depressed "wild-cat" money. The ex- aminations of the Bank Commissioners brought to light frauds at every point, which were fearlessly re- 9 i (^ ALPHEUS FELCH. ■^iJ^S^S •Sv" #^ > i ESC ported to the Legislature, and were followed by crim- inal prosecutions of the guilty parties, and the closing of many of their institutions. The duties of the of- fice were most laborious, and in 1839 Mr. Felch re- signed. The chartered right of almost every bank had, in the meantime, beeii declared forfeited and the law repealed. It was subsequently decided to be constitutional by the Supreme Court of the State. In the year 1S42 Governor Felch was appointed to the office of Auditor General of the State ; but after holding the office only a few weeks, was com- missioned by the Governor as one of the Judges of the Supreme Court, to fill a vacancy caused by the resig- nation of Judge Fletcher. In January, 1843, he was elected to the United States Senate for an unexpired term. In 1845 he was elected Governor of Michigan, and entered upon his duties at the commencement of the next year. In 1847 he was elected a Senator in Congress for six years ; and at once retired from the office of Governor, by resignation, which took effect March 4, 1847, when his Senatorial term com- menced. While a member of the Senate he acted on the Committee on Public Lands, and for four years was its Chairman. He filled the honorable position of Senator with becoming dignity, and with great credit to the State of Michigan. During Governor Felch's administration the two railroads belonging to the State were sold to private corporations, — the Central for $2,000,000, and the Southern for $500,000. The exports of the State amounted in 1846 to 114,647,608. The total capacity of vessels enrolled in the collection district at Detroit was 26,928 tons, the steam vessels having 8,400 and the sailing vessels 18,528 tons, the whole giving em- ployment to 18,000 seamen. In 1847, there were 39 counties in the State, containing 435 townships ; . and 275 of these townships were supplied with good libra- ries, containing an aggregate of 37,000 volumes. At the close of his Senatorial term, in March, 1853, Mr. Felch was appointed, by President Pierce, one of the Commissioners to adjust and settle the Spanish and Mexican land claims in California, under the treaty of Gaudalupe Hidalgo, and an act of Congress passed for that purpose. He went to California in May, 1853, and was made President of the Commis- sion. The duties of this office were of the most im- portant and delicate character. The interest of the new State, and the fortunes of many of its citizens, both the native Mexican population and the recent American immigration ; the right of the Pueblos to their common lands, and of the Catholic Church to the lands of the Missions, — the most valuable of the State, — wereinvolved in the adjudications of this Com- mission.- In March, 1856, their labors were brought to a close by the final disposition of all the claims which were presented. The record of their proceed- ings, — the testimony which was given in each case, and the decision of the Commissioners thereon, — consisting of some forty large volumes, was deposited in the Department of the Interior at Washington. In June of that year. Governor Felch returned to Ann Arbor, where he has since been engaged princi- pally in legal business. Since his return he has been nominated for Governor and also for U. S. Sen- ator, and twice for Judge of the Supreme Court. But the Democratic party, to which he has always been attached, being in the minority, he failed of an elec- tion. In 1873 he withdrew from the active practice of law, and, with the e,xception of a tour in Europe, in 1875 has since led a life of retirement at his home in Ann Arbor. In 1877 the University of Michigan conferred upon him the degree of LL. D. For many years he was one of the Regents of Michigan University, and in the spring of 1879 was appointed Tappan Professor of Law in the same. Mr. Felch is the oldest surviving member of the Legislature from Monroe Co., the oldest and only surviving Bank Com- missioner of the State, the oldest surviving Auditor General of the State, the oldest surviving Governor of the State, the oldest surviving Judge of the Supreme Court of Michigan, and the oldest surviving LTnited States Senator from the State of Michigan. ca: (D ^m ®^ ^<^'S '>rTr«^^Ot>'»)j^,|IJjK -^^DO^DIIv^^ .) (ig* ^ GOVERNORS. Jl/, 5i? "11*1/ W"B ILLIAM L. GREENLY ^Governor of Michigan for the year 1847, was born at Hamil- ton, Madison Co., N. Y., Sept. 1 8, 1 8 1 3. He graduated at Un- Wl ion College, Schenectady, in 1831, studied law and was ad- mitted to the bar in 1834. In 1836, having removed to Michi- gan, he settled in Adrian, where he has since resided. The year following his arrival in Michigan he was elected State Senator and served in that capacity until 1839. In 1845 he was elected Lieut. Gov- ernor and became acting Governor by the resignation of Gov. Felch, who was elected to the United States Senate. The war with Mexico was brought to a successful termination during Gov. Greenly 's administration. We regret to say that there are only few records extant of the action of Michigan troops in the Mexican war. That many went there and fought well are points conceded ; but their names and nativity are hidden away in United States archives and where it is almost impossible to find them The soldiers of this State deserve much of the ( >" credit of the memorable achievements of Co. K, 3d •; ' Dragoons, and Cos. A, E, and G of the U. S. Inf ^ The two former of these companies, recruited in this State, were reduced to one-third their original num- ber. 0) In May, 1846, the Governor of Michigan was noti- W fied by the War Department of the United States to enroll a regiment of volunteers, to be held in readi- ness for service whenever demanded. At his sum- mons 13 independent volunteer companies, 11 of infantry and two of cavalry, at oflce fell into line. Of the infantry four companies were from Detroit, bear- ing the honored names of Montgomery, Lafayette, Scott and Brady upon their banners. Of the re- mainder Monroe tendered two, Lenawee County three, St. Clair, Berrien and Hillsdale each one, and Wayne County an additional company. Of these alone the veteran Bradys were accepted and ordered into ser- vice. In addition to them ten companies, making the First Regiment of Michigan Volunteers, springing from various parts of the State, but embodying to a great degree the material of which the first volunteers was formed, were not called for until October follow- ing. This regiment was soon in readiness and pro- ceeded by orders from Government to the seat of war. (*>3«^ -^^^^ r^'v^WmU'f^r •rr -4?t^((sV#g| yj " ^5 i 4) « !• /Si i))«^# §99- -^^^^'^ ^^rA<>gtl^Il(lf^ ^^ . ^^ ^rl -t;^^;>«^^ - %;l 5J«t^N< cnr<'^[lIJ^|iIlv">'r-6 ■:isf^^ GO VERNORS. " EP^PPODITUS PIJSOEQ. | eS^ V^ HE HON. EPAPHRODI- TUS RANSOM, the Seventh Governor of Michigan, was a native of Massachusetts. In that State he received a col- legiate education, studied law, and was admitted to the bar. Removing to Michigan about the time of its admission to the Union, he took up his residence at Kalamazoo. Mr. Ransom served with marked ability for a number of years in the State Legislature, and in 1837 he was appointed As- sociate Justice of the Supreme Court. In 1843 he was promoted to Chief Justice, which office he re- tained until 1845, when he resigned. Shortly afterwards he became deeply interested in the building of plank roads in the western portion of the State, and in this business lost the greater portion of the property which he had accumulated by years of toil and industry. Mr. Ransom became Governor of the State of Michigan in the fall of 1847, and served during one term, performing the duties of the office in a truly statesmanlike manner. He subsequently became President of the Michigan Agricultural Society, in which position he displayed the same ability that shone forth so prominently in his acts as Governor. He held the office of Regent of the Michigan Univer- sity several times, and ever advocated a liberal policy in its management. Subsequently he was appointed receiver of the land office in one of the districts in Kansas, by Pres- ident Buchanan, to which State he had removed, and where he died before the expiration of his term of office. We sum up the events and affairs of the State un- der Gov. Ransom's administration as follows : The Asylum for the Insane was establised, as also the Asylum for the Deaf, Dumb and Blind. Both of these institutes were liberally endowed with lands, and each of them placed in charge of a board of five trustees. The appropriation in 1849 for the deaf and dumb and blind amounted to $81,500. On the first of March, 1848, the first telegraph line was com- pleted from New York to Detroit, and the first dis- patch transmitted on that day. The following figures show the progress in agriculture : The land reported as under cultivation in 1S48 was 1,437,460 acres; of wheat there were produced 4,749,300 bushels; other grains, 8,197,767 bushels; wool, 1,645,756 pounds; maple sugar, 1,774,369 pounds; horses, 52,305 ; cat- tle, 210,268; swine, 152,541; sheep, 610,534; while the flour mills numbered 228, and the lumber mills amounted to 730. 1847, an act was passed removing the Legislature from Detroit to Lansing, and tempo- rary buildings for the use of the Legislature were im- mediately erected, at a cost of $12,450. ^: (' > ^^^ ■^^V<^Iin^DDi^ TT >£*;*a^ ^» ^ I i r> ^ ►^9»- .^^^jr: @;,^;tltirA:]lIi;>i^9 ^^^ ^^^C<^/« #■ 'JW '•i^ J*" '"^.. "■ ^?=^*-*^^^r:::> »)^tl^ ■^VC>I1I1§III1^>:^ GOVERNORS OF MICHIGAN. 129 3i(^ i^^&S^^^ <^ j.v'r# w**^f¥"r*T¥ TW"*** ^ ^t<^^!^-.t,.t...t„.t..t.,.t..t^Vt..tv.t^A.A.t-AA^^ OBERT McClelland, Governor of Michigan from Jan. 1, 1852, to March 8,1853, was born at Greencastle, Frank- '^ Hn Co., Penn., Aug. i, 1807. Among his ancestors were several officers of rank in the Revolution- ary war, and some of his family con- >^ nections were distinguished in the war of 1812, and that with Mexico. His father was an eminent physician and surgeon who studied under Dr. Benj. Rush, of Pinladelphia, and practiced his profession successfully until six months before his death, at the age of 84 years. Although Mr. McClelland's family had been in good circum- stances, when he was 17 years old he was thrown upon his own resources. After taking the usual pre- liminary studies, and teaching school to obtain the means, he entered Dickinson College, at Carlisle, Penn., from which he graduated among the first in ^ his class, in 1829. He then resumed teaching, and having completed the course of study for the legal profession, was admitted to the bar at Chambersburg, Penn., in 1831. Soon aflenvard he removed to the city of Pittsburgh, where he practiced for almost a year. the Territory of Michigan, where, after a severe ex- amination, he became a member of the bar of Michi- gan, and engaged in practice with bright prospect of success. In 1835, a convention was called to frame a constitution for the proposed State of Michigan, of which Mr. McClelland was elected a member. He took a prominent part in its deliberations and ranked among its ablest debaters. He was appointed the first Bank Commissioner of the State, by Gov. Mason, and received an offer of the Attorney Generalship, but declined both of these offices in order to attend to his professional duties. In 1838, Mr. McClelland was elected to the State Legislature, in which he soon became distinguished as the head of several important committees. Speaker pro tempore, and as an active, zealous and efficient member. In 1840, Gen. Harrison, as a candidate for the Presidency, swept the country with an overwhelm- ing majority, and at the same time the State of Michi- gan was carried by the Whigs under the popular cry of " Woodbridge and reform " against the Democratic party. At this time Mr. McClelland stood among the acknowledged leaders of the latter organization ; was elected a member of the State House of Representa- tives, and with others adopted a plan to regain a lost authority and prestige. This party soon came again into power in the State, and having been returned to the State Legislature Mr. McClelland's leadership was acknowledged by his election as Speaker of the House of Representatives In 1833, Mr. McClelland removed to Monroe, in I C (. -4^^ ^ p. ■ ^ :-<§ •:?^ 130 TSSiiCS^ ■7 4^nii:^iiD^> v ROBERT McClelland, in 1843. Down to this time Michigan had consti- tuted one congressional district. The late Hon. Jacob M. Howard had been elected against Hon. Alpheus Felch by a strong majority ; but, in 1 843, so thoroughly had the Democratic party recovered from its defeat of 1840 that Mr. McClelland; as a candidate for Con- gress, carried Detroit district by a majority of about 2,500. Mr. McClelland soon took a prominent posi- tion in Congress among the veterans of that body During his first term he was placed on Committee on Commerce, and organized and carried through what were known as the " Harbor bills." The continued confidence of his constituency was manifested in his election to the 29th Congress. At the opening of this session he had acquired a National reputation, and so favorably was he known as a parlimentarian that his name was mentioned for Speaker of the House of Rep- resentatives. He declined the offer in favor of J. W. Davis, of Indiana, who was elected. During this term he became Chairman of Committee on Commerce, in which position his reports and advocacy of important measures at once attracted public attention. The members of this committee, as an evidence of the es- teem in which they held his services and of their personal regard for him, presented him with a cane which he retains as a souvenir of the donors, and of his labors in Congress. In 1847, Mr, McClelland was re-elected to Con- gress, and at the opening of the 30th Congress be- came a member of the Committee on Foreign Rela- tions. While acting in this capacity, what was known as the " French Spoliation Bill" came under his spe- cial charge, and his management of the same was such as to command universal approbation. While in Congress, Mn McClelland was an advocate of the right of petition as maintained by John Q. Adams, when the petition, was clothed in decorous language and presented in the proper manner. This he re- garded as the citizens'constitutional right which should not be impaired by any doctrines of temporary expe- diency. He also voted for the adoption of Mr. Gid- dings's bill for the abolishing of slavery in the District of Columbia. Mr. McClelland was one of the few Democrats associated with David Wilmot, of Penn- sylvania, in bringing forward the celebrated "Wilmot Proviso,'' with a view to prevent further extension of slavery in new territorj' which might be acquired by the United States. He and Mr. Wilmot were to- gether at the time in Washington, and on intimate and confidential terms. Mr. McClelland was in sev- eral National conventions and in the Baltimore con- vention, which nominated Gen. Cass for President, in 1848, doing valiant service that year for the elec- tion of that distinguished statesman. On leaving Congress, in 1848, Mr. McClelland returned to the practice of his profession at Monroe. In 1850 a convention of the State of Michigan was called to revise the State constitution. He was elected a member and was regarded therein as among the ablest and most experienced leaders. His clear judgment and wise moderation were conspicuous, both in the committee room and on the floor, in debate. In 1850, he was President of the Democratic State convention which adopted resolutions in support of Henry Clay's famous compromise measures, of which Mr. AlcClel- land was a strong advocate. He was a member of the Democratic National convention in 1852, and in that year; in company with Gen^ Cass and Governor Felch) he made a thorough canvass of the State. He continued earnestly to advocate the Clay com- promise measures, and took an active part in the canvass which resulted in the election of Gen. Pierce to the Presidency. In 1851, the new State constitution took effect and it was necessary that a Governor should be elected for one year in order to prevent an interregnum, and to bring the State Government into operation under the new constitution. Mr. McClelland was elected Governor, and in the fall of 1852 was re-elected for a term of two years, from Jan. i, 1853. His admin- istration was regarded as wise, prudent and concilia- tory, and was as popular as could be expected at a time when party spirit ran high. There was really no op[X)sition,and when he resigned, in March, 1853, the State Treasury was well filled, and the State otherwise prosperous. So widely and favorably had Mr. McClelland become known as a statesman that on the organization of thecabinet by President Pierce, in March, 1S53, he was made Secretary of the Interior, in which capacity he served most creditably during four years of the Pierce administration. He thoroughly re-organized his department and reduced the expend- itures. He adopted a course with the Indians which relieved them from the impositions and annoyances of the traders, and produced harmony and civilization among them. During his administration there was neither complaint from the tribes nor corruption among agents, and he left the department in perfect order and system. In 1867, Michigan again called a con- vention to revise the State constitution. ]\Ir. McClel- land was a member and here again his long experi- ence made him conspicuous as a prudent adviser, a sagacious parliamentary leader. As a lawyer he was terse and pointed in argument, clear, candid and im- pressive in his addresses to the jury. His sincerity and earnestness, with which was occasionally mingled a pleasant humor, made him an able and effective advocate. In speaking before the people on political subjects he was especially forcible and happy. In 1870 he made the tour of Europe, which, through his extensive personal acquaintance with European dip- lomates, he was enabled to enjoy much more than most travelers. Mr. McClelland married, in 1837, Miss Sarah E. Sabin, of Williamstown, Mass. They have had six children, two of whom now survive. vi (^ ^ ®))^# m^y^^'^'^^ '^mM\ii>^ .isl^f^^ ^>^ i i GO VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. NDREW PARSONS, Gover- nor of Michigan from March 8, 1853 to Jan. 3, 1855, was born in the town of Hoosick, a County of Rensselaer, and "^^ State of New York, on the 22d day of July, 1817, and died June 6, 1855, at the early age of 38 years. He was the son of John Parsons, born at Newbury port, |Mass., Oct. 2, 1782, and who was the son of Andrew Parsons, a Revolutionary soldier, who was the son of Phineas Parsons, the son of Samuel Parsons, a descendant of Walter Parsons, born in Ireland in 1290. Of this name and family, some one hundred and thirty years ago. Bishop Gilson remarked in his edi- tion of Camden's Britannia: "The honorable family of Parsons have been advanced to the dignity of Viscounts and more lately Earls of Ross." The following are descendants of these families : Sir John Parsons, born i48i,was Mayor of Hereford; Robert Parsons, born in 1546, lived near Bridgewater, England. He was educated at Ballial College, Ox- ford, and was a noted writer and defender of the Romish faith. He established an English College at Rome and another at Valladolia. Frances Parsons, born in T556, was Vicar of Rothwell, in Notingham; Bartholomew Parsons, born in 1618, was another noted member of the family. In 1634, Thomas Parsons was knighted by Charles i. Joseph and Benjamin, brothers, were born in Great Torrington, England, and accompanied their father and others to New England about 1630. Samuel Parsons, born at Salis- bury, Mass., in 1707, graduated at Harvard College in 1730, ordained at Rye, N. H.,Nov. 3, 1736, married Mary Jones, daughter of Samuel Jones, of Boston, Oct. 9, 1739, died Jan. 4, 1789, at the age of 82, in the 53rd year of his ministry. The grandfather of Mary Jones was Capt. John Adams, of Boston, grandson of Henry, of Braintree, who was among the first set- tlers of Massachusetts, and from whom a numerous race of the name are descended, including two Presi- dents of the United States. The Parsons have be- come very numerous and are found throughout New England, and many of the descedants are scattered in all parts of the United States, and especially in the Middle and Western States. Governor Andrew Parsons came to Michigan in 1835, at the age of 17 years, and spent the first summer at Lower Ann Arbor, where for a few months he taught school which he was compelled to abandon from ill health. He was one of the large number of men of sterling wor*, who came from the East to Michigan when it was an infant State, or, even prior to its assuming the dignity of a State, and who, by their wisdom, enterprise and energy, have developed its wonderful natural resources, until to-day it ranks with the proud- est States of the Union. These brave men came to Michigan with nothing to aid them in the conquest of the wilderness save courageous hearts and strong and willing hands. They gloriously conquered, how- ever, and to them is due all honor for the labors so nobly performed, for the solid and sure foundation which they laid of a great Commonwealth. ( eA<^Ilfl^ ^vciimsiiii^^T^ ^i^^ ANDREW PARSONS. ,0 > In the fall of 1835, he explored the Grand River Valley in a fraii canoe, the whole length of the river, from Jackson to Lake Michigan, and spent the following winter as clerk in a store at Prairie Creek, in Ionia, County, and in the spring went to Marshall, where he resided with his brother, the Hon. Luke H. Parsons, also now deceased, until fall, when he went to Shia- ■wasseCounty,then with Qinton County, and an almost unbroken wilderness and constituting one organized township. In 1837 this territory was organized into a county and, at the age of only 19 years, he (An- drew) was elected County Clerk. In 1840, he was elected Register of Deeds, re-elected in 1842, and also in 1844. In 1846, he was elected to the State Senate, was appointed Prosecuting Attorney in 1848, and elected Regent of the University in 185 1, and Lieutenant Governor, and became acting Governor, in 1853, elected again to the Legislature in 1854, and, *• overcome by debilitated health, hard labor and the responsibilities of his office and cares of his business, retired to his farm, where he died soon after. He was a fluent and persuasive speaker and well ^ calculated to make friends of his acquantances. He vi ) was always true to his trust, and the whole world could not persuade nor drive him to do what he con- ceived to be wrong. When Governor, a most power- ful railroad influence was brought to bear upon him, to induce him to call an e.xtra session of the Legisla- ture. Meetings were held in all parts of the State for that purpose. In some sections the resolutions were of a laudatory nature, intending to make him do their bidding by resort to friendly and flattering wferds. In other places the resolutions were of a demanding nature, while in others they were threatening beyond measure. Fearing that all these influences might (g> fail to induce him to call the e.xtra session, a large sum of money was sent him, and liberal offers ten- ^ dered him if he would gratify the railroad interest of the State and call the extra session, but, immovable, he returned the money and refused to receive any favors, whether from any party who would at- tempt to corrupt him by laudations, liberal offers, or Y, by threats, and in a short letter to the people, after giving overwhelming reasons that no sensible man could dispute, showing the circumstances were not "e.xtraordinary," he refused to call the extra session. This brought down the wrath of various parties upon his head, but they were soon forced to acknowledge the wisdom and the justice of his course. One of his greatest enemies said, after a long acquaintance : "though not always coinciding with his views I never doubted his honesty of purpose. He at all times sought to perform his duties in strict accordance, with the dictates of his conscience, and the behests of his oath." The following eulogium from a politcal op- ponent is just in its conception and creditable to its author: "Gov. Parsons was a politician of the Dem- ocratic school, a man of pure moral character, fixed and exemplary habits, and entirely blameless in every public and private relation of life. As a politician he was candid, frank and free from bitterness, as an ex- ecutive officer firm, constant and reliable." The highest conrmendations we can pay the deceased is to give his just record, — that of being an honest man. In the spring of 1854, during the administration of Governor Parsons, the Republican party, at least as a State organization, was first formed in the United States " under the oaks " at Jackson, by anti-slavery men of both the old parties. Great excitement pre- vailed at this time, occasioned by the settling of Kansas, and the issue thereby brought up, whether slavery should exist there. For the purpose of permit- ting slavery there, the "Missouri compromise" (which limited slavery to the south of 36° 30') was re- repealed, under the leadership of Stephen A, Douglas. This was repealed by a bill admitting Kansas and Nebraska into the Union, as Territories, and those who were opposed to this repeal measure were in short called "anti-Nebraska" men. The epithets, "Ne- braska" and "anti-Nebraska," were temporally em- ployed to designate the slavery and anti-slavery parties, pending the desolution of the old Democratic and Whig parties and the organization of the new Democratic and Republican parties of the present. ') \ ^ < d (?) ^ i S3C 6> GO VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. ■:2««y%c- s>=s«^ a KiNBLKY ©. BiNQHAM. M INSLEY S. BINGHAM, Governor of Michigan from 1855 to 1859, and United States Senator, was born in Camillus, Onondaga County, N. Y., Dec. 16, 1808. His father was a farmer, and his own early life was consequently de- voted to agricultural pursuits, but notwithstanding the disadvan- tages related to the acquisition y of knowledge in the life of a farmer he managed to secure a good aca- demic education in his native State and studied law in the office of Gen. James R. Lawrence, now of Syracuse, N. Y. In the spring of 1833, he married an estimable lady who had recently arrived from Scot- land, and obeying the impulse of a naturally enterprising disposition, he emigrated to Michigan and purchased a new farm in company with his brother-in-law, Mr. Robert Worden, in Green Oak, Livingston County. Here, on the border of civilization, buried in the primeval for- est, our late student commenced the arduous task of preparing a future home, clearing and fencing, put- ting up buildings, etc., at such a rate that the land ()^ EH V) ^«^^ #»- ^^^^^ — ^^^^M.'WiO'^ — ^""C^ chosen was soon reduced to a high state of cultivation. Becoming deservedly prominent, Mr. Bingham was elected to the office of Justice of the Peace and Post- master under the Territorial government, and was the first Probate Judge in the county. In the year 1S36, when Michiga:i 1 ecame a State, he was elected to the first Legislature. He was four times re-elected, and Speaker of the House of Representatives three years. In 1846 he was elected on the Democratic ticket, Reii- resentative to Congress, and was the only practical farmer in that body. He was never forgetful of the interest of agriculture, and was in particular opposed to the introduction of " Wood's Patent ("ast Iron Plow " which he completely prevented. He was re- elected to Congress in 1848, during which time he strongly opposed the extension of slavery in the territory of the United States and was committed to and voted for the AVilmot Proviso. In 1854, at the first organization of the Republican party, in consequence of his record in Congress as a Free Soil Democrat, Mr. Bingham was nominated and elected Governor of the State, and re-elected in 1856. Still faithful to the memory of his own former occupation, he did not forget the farmers during his administrition, and among other profits of his zeal in their behalf, he became mainly instrumental in the establishment of the Agricultural College at Lansing. In 1859, Governor Bingham was elected Senator in ^i Congress and took an active part in the stormy cam- (^ paign in the election of Abraham Lincoln. He wit- ^ 138 -:^^&K ^:7V^?Iiai^DDv>yi rr KINSLEY S. BINGHAM. nessed the commencement of the civil war while a member of the United States Senate. After a com- paratively short life of remarkable promise and pub- he activity he was attacked with apijoplexy and died suddenly at his residence, in Green Oak, Oct. 5, 1861. The most noticable event in Governor Bingham's first term was the completion of the ship canal, at the Falls of St. Mary. In 1852, Angust 26, an act of Congress was approved, granting to the State of Mich- igan seven hundred and fifty thousand acres of land for the purpose of constructing a ship canal between Lakes Huron and Superior. In 1853, the Legislature accepted the grant, and provided lor the appointment of commissioners to select the donated lands, and to arrange for building the canal. A company of enter- prising men was formed, and a contract was entered into by which it was arranged that the canal should be finished m two years, and the work was pushed rapidly forward. Every article of consumption, ma- chinery, working implements and materials, timber for the gates, stones for the locks, as well as men and supplies, had to be transported to the site of the canal from Detroit, Cleveland, and other lake ports. The rapids which had to be surmounted have a fall of ' seventeen feet and are about one mile long. The I length of the canal is less than one mile, its width one hundred feet, depth twelve feet and it has two locks of solid masonary. In May, 1SS5, the work was com- pleted, accepted by the commissioners, and formally delivered to the State authorities. The disbursements on account of the construction of the canal and selecting the lands amounted to one million of dollars ; while the lands which were as- signed to the company, and selected through the agency at the Sault, as well as certain lands in the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, filled to an acre the Government grant. The opening of the canal was an important event in the history of the improvement of the State. It was a valuable link in the chain of lake commerce, and particularly important to the interests of the Upper Peninsula. There were several educational, charitable and re- formatory institutions inaugurated and opened during Gov. Bingham's administrations. The Michigan Ag- ncultural College owes its establishment to a provision of the State Constitution of 1850. Article 13 says, "The Legislature shall, as soon as practicable, prol vide for the establishment of an agricultural school." For the purpose of carying into practice this provision, legislation was commenced in 1855, and the act re- quired that the school should be within ten miles of Lansing, and that not more than $15 an acre should be paid for the farm and college grounds. The col- lege was opened to students in May, 1857, the first of exisdng argricultural colleges in the United States Until the spring of i86i,it was under the control of the State Board of Education; .since that time it has been under the management of the State Board ^^ -^sts^^jjTi— — -a_A^^ of Agriculture, which was created for that purpose. In Its essential features, of combining study and labor, and of uniting general and professional studies in Its course, the college has remained virtually un- changed from the first. It has a steady grow'th in number of students, in means of illustration and efficiency of instruction. The Agricultural College is three miles east of Lansing, comprising several fine buildings ; and there are also very beautiful, substantial residences for the professors. There are also an extensive, well-filled green-house, a very large and well-equipped chemical laboratory, one of the most scientific apiaries in the United States, a general museum, a meseum of me- chanical inventions, another of vegetable products, extensive barns, piggeries, etc., etc., in fine trim for the purposes designed. The farm consists of 676 acres, of which about 300 are under cultivation in a systematic rotarion of crops. Adrian College was established by the Wesleyan Methodists in 1859, now under the control of the Methodist Church. The grounds contain about 20 acres. There are four buildings, capable of accom- modating about 225 students. Attendance in 1875 was 179; total number of graduates for previous year, 121 ; ten professors and teachers are employed. Ex- clusive of the endowment fund ($80,000), the assets of the institution, including grounds, buildings, furni- ture, apparatus, musical instruments, outlying lands, etc., amount to more than $137,000. Hillsdale College was established in 1855 % t'le Free Baptists. The Michigan Central College, at Spring Arbor, was incorporated in 1845 It was kept in operation until it was merged into the present Hillsdale College. The site comprises 25 acres, beautifully situated on an eminence in the western part of the city of Hillsdale. The large and impos- ing building first erected was nearly destroyed by fire 111 1874, and in its place five buildings of a more modern style have been erected. They are of brick, three stories with basement, arranged on three sides' of a quadrangle. The size is, respectively, 80 by 80. 48 by 72, 48 by 72, 80 by 60,52 by 72, and thev con- tain one-half more room than the original building. The State Reform School. This was established at Lansing in 1855, in the northeastern portion of the city, as the House of Correction for Juvenile Of- fenders, having about it many of the features of a prison. In 1859 the name was changed to the State Reform School. The government and dicipline, have undergone many and radical changes, until all the prison features have been removed except those that remain in the walls of the original structure, and which remain only as monuments of instructive his- tory. No bolts, bars or guards are employed. The inmates are necessarily kept under the surveillance of officers, but the attempts at escape are much fewer than under the more rigid regime of former days v|) X=I <^ ^^ >» ^3i^ -«^ ■m m ■h (^c)-e^ ^^^^L^^,^. l^>/^)^«^ll^- <-^iiii.^;jilis>-^ GO VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. 141 tg; ) ^7s > ^ I :'^l^^ B^ msis ^ ■,'*!iS ■ ''^"1 r -jg r^® v/i \/ te i ■ttV ■ i . - . OSES WISNER, Governor of Michigan from 1859 to 1861, was born in Springport, Cayu- ga Co., N Y., June 3, 1815. His early education was only Z"*^ what could be obtained at a Dcommon school. Agricultural labor and frugality of his parents gave him a physical constitution of unus- > ual strength and endurance, which (was ever preserved by temperate hab- its. In 1837 he emigrated to Michi- K^ gan and purchased a farm in Lapeer County It was new land and he at once set to work to clear it and plant crops. He labored diligently at his task for two years, when he gave up the idea of being a farmer, and removed to Pontiac, Oakland Co. Here he commenced the study of law in the office of his brother, George W. Wisner, and Rufus Hosmer. In 1841 he was admitted to the bar and established himself in his new vocation at the village of Lapeer. While there he was apppointed by Gov. Woodbridge Prosecuting Attorney for that county, in which capacity he acquitted himself well and gave promise of that eminence he afterward at- tained in the profession. He remained at Lapeer but a short time, removing to Pontiac, where he became a member of a firm and entered fully upon the practice. In politics he was like his talented brother, a Whig of the Henry Clay stamp, but with a decided anti- slaverybias. His practice becoming extensive, he r took little part in politics until after the election of Mr. Pierce to the Presidency in 1852, when he took an active part against slavery. As a lawyer he was a man of great ability, but relied less upon mere book learning than upon his native good sense. Liberal »^ and courteous, was he yet devoted to the interest of /N his client, and no facts escaped his attention or his memory which bore upon the case. He was no friend of trickery or artifice in conducting a case As an ad- vocate he had few equals. When fully aroused by the merits of his subject his eloquence was at once grace- ful and powerful. His fancies supplied the most original, the most pointed illustrations, and his logic became a battling giant under whose heavy blows the adversary shrank and withered. Nature had be- stowed upon him rare qualities, and his powers as a popular orator were of a high order. On the passage of the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854, repealing the Missouri compromise and opening the Territories to slavery, he was among the foremost % in Michigan to denounce the shamful scheme. He actively participated in organizing and consolidating the elements opposed to it in that State, and was a member of the popular gathering at Jackson, in July, 1854, which was the first formal Republican Conven- tion held in the United States. At this meeting the ^ name " Republican " was adopted as a designation of §^ the new party consisting of Anti-slavery, Whigs, \ Liberty men. Free Soil Democrats and all others op- "iy posed to the extension of slavery and favorable to its expulsion from the Territories and the District of Columbia. At this convention Mr. W. was urged to accept the nomination for Attorney General of the ' iin-> ^^^^^ ^ :255|^^i^ 142 MOSES WISNER. ^^^^m^®\m ^ :) "^ State, but declined. An entire State ticket was nom- inated and at the annual election in November was elected by an average majority of nearly 10,000. Mr. W. was enthusiastic in the cause and brought to its support all his personal influence and talents. In his views he was bold and radical. He believed from the beginning that the political power of the slave- holders would have to be overthrown before quiet could be secured to the country. In the Presidential canvass of 1856 he supported the Fremont, or Re- publican, ticket. At the session of the Legislature of 1857 he was a candidate for United States Senator, and as such received a very handsome support. In 1858, he was nominated for Governor of the State by the Republican convention that met at De- troit, and at the subsequent November election was chosen by a very large majority. Before the day of the election he had addressed the people of almost every county and his majority was greater even than that of his popular predecessor, Hon. K. S. Bingham. He served as Governor two years, from Jan. i, 1859, to Jan. I, 1861. His first message to the Legislature was an able and statesman-like production, and was read with usual favor. It showed that he was awake to all the interests of the State and set forth an en- lightened State policy, that had its view of the rapid settlement of our uncultivated lands and the devel- opment of our immense agricultural and mineral re- sources. It was a document that reflected the highest credit upon the author. His term having expired Jan. i, 1861, he returned to his home in Pontiac, and to the practice of his profession. There were those in the State who counselled the sending of delegates to the peace con- ference at Washington, but Mr. W. was opposed to all such temporizing expedients. His counsel was to send no delegate, but to prepare to fight. After Congress had met and passed the necessary legislation he resolv ed to take part in the war. In the spring and summer of 1862 he set to work to raise a regiment of infantry, chiefly in Oakland County, where he resided. His regiment, the 2 2d Michigan, was armed and equipped and ready to march in September, a regiment whose solid quali- ties were afterwards proven on many a bloody field. Col. W's. commission bore the date of Sept. 8, 1862. Before parting with his family he made his will. His regiment was sent to Kentucky and quartered at Camp Wallace. He had at the breaking out of the war turned his attention to military studies and be- came proficient in the ordinary rules and discipline. His entire attention was now devoted to his duties. His treatment of his men was kind, though his disci- pline was rigid. He possessed in an eminent degree the spirit of command, and had he lived he would no doubt have distinguished himself as a good officer. He was impatient of delay and chafed at being kept in Kentucky where there was so little prospect of getting at the enemy. But life in camp, so different from the one he had been leading, and his incessant labors, coupled with that impatience which was so natural and so general among the vol- unteers in the early part of the war, soon made their influence felt upon his health. He was seized with typhoid fever and removed to a private house near Lexington. Every care which medical skill or the liand of friendship could bestow was rendered him. In the delirious wanderings of his mind he was dis- ciplining his men and urging them to be prepared for an encounter with the enemy, enlarging upon the jus- tice of their cause and the necessity of their crush- ing the Rebellion. But the source of his most poig- nant gnet was the prospect of not being able to come to a hand-to-hand encounter with the "chivalry." He was proud of his regiment, and felt that if it could find the efiemy it would cover itself with glory, — a distinction it afterward obtained, but not until Col. W. was no more. The malady baffled all medical treat- ment, and on the 5th day of Jan., 1863, he breathed his last. His remains were removed to Michigan and interred in the cemetery at Pontiac, where they rest by the side of the brave Gen. Richardson, who re- ceived his mortal wound at the battle of Antietam. Col. W. was no adventurer, although he was doubtless ambitious of military renown and would have striven for it with characteristic energy. He went to the war to defend and uphold the principles he had so much at heart. Few men were more familiar than he with the causes and the underlying principles that led to the contest. He left a wife, who was a daughter of Gen. C. C. Hascall, of Flint, and four children to mourn his loss. Toward them he ever showed the tenderest regard. Next to his duty their love and welfare engrossed his thoughts. He was kind, gen- erous and brave, and like thousands of others he sleeps the sleep of the martyr for his cotintry. '^ c>: Si/ r ^ '■\ ) ^^c- ^) ^VC>B tlS H Qy^^r^^^^ :2^€»s: -#^^®vS GOVERNORS OF MICHIGAN. US \^J>.yi-,^^ •'«->^ £5*-i_v^fisa:^^ t:-:-. •K-^ -»'>_.•> mUSTIM BI*i£IK. ;=St— '"-"ir^^'P^ USTIN BLAIR, Governor of Michigan from Jan. 2, 1861, to Jan. 4, 1865, and kown as the War Governor, is and illustration of the benifi- cent influence of republican in- stitutions, having inherited neith- er fortune nor fame. He was born in a log cabin at Caroline, Tomp- kins Co., N. Y., Feb. 8, 18 18. His ancestors came from Scot- land in the time of George I, and for many generations followed the pursuit of agriculture. His father, George Blair, settled in Tompkins County in 1809, and felled the trees and erected the first cabin in the county. The last 60 of the four- score years of his life were spent on that spot. He married Rhoda Beackman, who now sleeps with him in the soil of the old homestead. The first 17 years of Mr. Blair's life were spent there, rendering his father what aid he could upon the farm. He then spent a year and a half in Cazenovia Seminary pre- paring for college ; entered Hamilton College, in Clinton, prosecuted his studies until the middle of the junior year, when, attracted by the fame of Dr. Nott, he changed to Union College, from which he graduated in the class of 1839. Upon leaving col- lege Mr. Blair read law two years in the office of Sweet & Davis, Oswego, N. Y., and was admitted to practice in 1841, and the same year moved to Michigan, locat- ing in Jackson. During a temporary residence in Eaton Rapids, in 1S42, he was elected Clerk of Eaton County. At the close of the official term he returned to Jackson, and as a Whig, zealously espoused the cause of Henry Clay in the campaign of 1844. He was chosen Representative to the Legislature in 1845, at which session, as a member of the Judiciary Committee, he rendered valuable service in the revision of the gen- eral statutes ; also made an able support in favor of abolishing the color distinction in relation to the elec- tive franchise, and at the same session was active in securing the abolition of capital punishment. In 1848 Mr. Blair refused longer to affiliate with the Whig party, because of its refusial to endorse in convention any anti-slavery sentiment. He joined the Free-soil movement, and was a delegate to their convention which nominated Van Buren for President that year. Upon the birth of the Republican party at Jackson, in 1854, by the coalition of the Whig and Free-soil elements, Mr. Blair was in full sympathy with the movement, and acted as a member of the Committee on Platform. He was elected Prosecuting Attorney of Jackson County in 1852 ; was chosen State Senator two years later, taking his seat with the incoming Re- publican administration of 1855, and holding the position of parliamentary leader in the Senate. He was a delegate to the National Convention which nominated Abraham Lincoln in i860. Mr. Blair was elected Governor of Michigan in i860, and re- elected in 1862, faithfully and honorably discharging the arduous duties of the office during that most mo- ( ®>)«^€=^ <^\ m A-o- -Sn^^ ^ifs® 146 4 /?s I . ..^ ^ ^ mentous and stormy period of the Nation s life. Gov. (^J Blair possessed a clear comprehension of the perilous '"'^ situation from the inception of the Rebellion, and his J inaugural address foreshadowed the prompt executive y policy and the administrative ability which charac- terized his gubernatorial career. Never perhaps in the history of a nation has a brighter example been laid down, or a greater sacri- fice been made, than that which distinguished Mich- igan during the civil war. All, from the " War Gov- ernor." down to the poorest citizen of the State, were animated with a patriotic ardor at once magnificiently sublime and wisely directed. Very early in 1861 the coming struggle cast its shadow over the Nation. Governor Blair, in his mes- sage to the Legislature in January of that year, dwelt (' ^ very forcibly upon the sad prospects of civil war; and as forcibly pledged the State to support the principles of the Republic. After a review of the conditions v» of the State, he passed on to a consideration of the = relations between the free and slave States of the •^ Republic, saying: " While we are citizens of the State ^ of Michigan, and as such deeply devoted to her in- ) terests and honor, we have a still prouder title. We are also citizeas of the United States of America. By this title we are known among the nations of the earth. In remote quarters of the globe, where the names of the States are unknown, the flag of the great Republic, the banner of the stars and stripes, honor and protect f her citizens. In whatever concerns the honor, the \ prosperity and the perpetuity of this great Govern- ment, we are deeply interested. The people of Mich- igan are loyal to that Government — faithful to its con- stitution and its laws. Under it they have had peace and prosperity; and under it they mean to abide to ■''"^ the end. Feeling a just pride in the glorious history j of the past, they will not renounce the equally glo- • •''.j rious hopes of the future. But they will rally around i' the standards of the Nation and defend its integrity J^ and its constitution, with fidelity." The final para- ■ Vi graph being: ^ " I recommend you at an early day to make mani- T V li-^^,.:-- AUSTIN BLAIR. 'I^\®^^^<^ ^^^4^- j=-^ fest to the gentlemen who represent this State in the two Houses of Congress, and to the country, that Michigan is loyal to the Union, the Constitution, and the laws and will defend them to the uttermost ; and to proffer to the President of the United States, the whole military power of the State for that purpose. Oh, for the firm, steady hand of a Washington, or a Jackson, to guide the ship of State in this perilous storm ! Let us hope that we will find him on the 4th of March. Meantime, let us abide in the faith of our fathers — 'Liberty and Union, one and inseparable, now and forever. How this stirring appeal was responded to by the people of Michigan will be seen by the statement that the State furnished 88,1 11 men during the war. Money, men, clothing and food were freely and abun- dantly supplied by this State during all these years of darkness and blood shed. No State won a brighter record for her devotion to our country than the Pen- insula State, and to Gov. Blair, more than to any other individual is due the credit for its untiring zeal and labors in the Nation's behalf, and for the heroism manifested in its defense. Gov. Blair was elected Representative to the Fortieth Congress, and twice re-elected, to the Forty- first and Forty-second Congress, from the Third Dis- trict of Michigan. While a member of that body he was a strong supporter of reconstruction measures, and sternly opposed every form of repudiation. His speech upon the national finances, delivered on the floor of the House March 21, 1868, was a clear and convincing argument. Since his retiretnent from Con- gress, Mr. Blair has been busily occupied with his ex- tensive law practice. Mr. Blair married Sarah L. Ford, of Seneca County N. Y., in February, T849. Their family consists of 4 sons — George H., a law partner of A. J. Gould ; Charles A., a law partner with hir father, and Fred. J. and Austin T. Blair, at home. Governor Blair's religion is of the broad type, and centers in the "Golden Rule." In 1883, Gov. Blair was nominated for Justice of the Supreme Court of the State by the Republican party, but was defeated. VL <^^. I ^-?#?i'^5:si^r A,^^' s^^^ 'y'^'C^^ M &^aJz V<^I1I]^DI1^>T^ GO VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. V^ . . .''.ir^'. ^ ^ . ®l' '^"^^ r^ 0' if ^1 1 f^ sr- Lviri^J -x? A :) ENRY HOWLAND CRAPO, Governor of Michigan from 1865 to 1869, was born May 24, 1804, at Dartmouth, Bris- tol Co., Mass., and died at Flint, Mich., July 22, 1869. was the eldest son of Jesse and Phoebe (Howland) Crape. His father was of French descent and was very poor, sustaining his family by the cultivation of a farm in Dartmouth township, which yielded nothing beyond a mere livelihood. His early life was consequently one ^^|) of toil and devoid of advantages for intellectual culture, but his desire for an education seemed to know no bounds. The in- cessant toil for a mere subsistence upon a compara- tively sterile farm, had no charm for him ; and, longing for greater usefulness and better things, he looked for them in an education. His struggles to secure this end necessitated sacrifices and hardships that would have discouraged any but the most courageous aud persevering. He became an ardent student and worker from his boyhood, though the means of carry- ing on his studies were e.xceedingly limited. He sorely felt the need of a dictionary; and, neither having ^ money wherewith to purchase it, nor being able to procure one in his neighborhood, he set out to compile one for himself. In order to acquire a knowledge of the English language, he copied into a book every word whose meaning he did not comprehend, and upon meeting the same word again in the newspapers and Ijooks, which came into his hands, from the context, would then record the definition. Whenever unable otherwise to obtain the 'signification of a word in which he had become interested he would walk from Dartmouth to New Bedford for that purpose alone, and after referring to the books at the library and satisfying himself thoroughly as to its definition, would walk back, a distance of about seven miles, the same night. This was no unusual circumstance. Under such difficulties and in this manner he com- piled quite an extensive dictionary in manuscript which is believed to be still in existence. Ever in pursuit of knowledge, he obtained posses- sion of a book upon surveying, and applying himself diligently to its study became familiar with this art, which he soon had an opportunity to practice. The services of a land surveyor were wanted, and he was called upon, but had no compass and no money with which to purchase one. A compass, however, he must and would have, and going to a blacksmith shop near at hand, upon the forge, with such tools as he could find in the shop, while the smith was at dinner, he constructed the compass and commenced life as a surveyor. Still continuing his studies, he fitted him- self for teaching, and took charge of the village school at Dartmouth. When, in the course of time and un- der the pressure of law, a high school was to be opened, he passed a successful examination for its principalship and received the appointment. To do this was no small task. The law required a rigid examination in various subjects, which necessitated days and nights of study. One evening, after con- cluding his day's labor of teaching, he traveled on foot to New Bedford, some seven or eight miles, called upon the preceptor of Friend's Academy and passed Vi^ ( ^ ^< r ^ J ®^^^t -1. <-D!ir^:niii> ^4s-.5^@ 45X <>iiii§iinf^ .^:^:^ is« HENRY HOWLAND CRAPO. -«^ iJ^f ) ^ a severe examination. Receiving a certificate that he was qualified, he walked back to his home the same night, highly elated in being possessed of the acquirements and requirements of a master of the high school. In 1832, at the age of 28 years, he left his native town and went to reside at New Bedford, where he followed the occupation of land surveyor, and oc- casionally acted as an auctioneer. Soon after becom- ing a citizen of this place, he was elected Town Clerk, Treasurer, and Collector of taxes, which office he held until the municipal government was changed, — about fifteen years, — when, upon the inauguration of the city government, he was elected Treasurer and Collector of taxes, a position which he held two or three years. He was also Justice of the Peace for many years. He was elected Alderman of New Bedford; was Chairman of Council Committee on Education, and as such prepared a report upon which was based the order for the establishment of llie free Public Library of New Bedford. On its organization, Mr. Crapo was chosen a member of the Board of Trustees. This wastlie first free public library in Massachusetts, if not in the worid. The Boston Free Library was es- tablished, however, soon afterwards. While a resident in New Bedford, he was much interested in horticul- ture, and to obtain the land necessary for carrying out his ideas he drained and reclaimed several acres of rocky and swampy land adjoining his garden. Here he started a nursery, wliich he filled with almost every description of fruit and ornamental trees, shrubs, flowers, etc. \\\ this he was 'very successful and took great pride. He was a regular contributorto the New England Horticultural Journal, a position he filled as long as he lived in Massachusetts. As an indica- tion of the wide reputation he acquired in that field of labor, it may be mentioned that after his death an affecting eulogy to liis memory was pronounced by the President of the National Horticultural Society at its meeting in Philadelphia, in 1869. During his resi- dence in New Bedford, Mr. Crapo was also engaged in the whaling business. A fine barque built at "Dart- mouth, of which he was part owner, was named tlie "H. H. Crapo" in compliment to him. Mr. C. also took part in the State Militia, and for several years held a commission as Colonel of one of the regiments. He was President of the Bristol County Mutual Fire Insurance Co., and Secretary of the Bedford Commercial Insurance Company in New Bedford; and while an officer of the municipal gov- ernmenthecompiled and published, between the years 1836 and 1845, five numbers of the New Bedford Directory, the first work of the kind ever published there. Mr. C. removed to Michigan in r856, having been induced to do so by investments made principally m pine lands, first in 1837 and subsequently in 1856. He took up his residence in the city of Flint, and en- gaged largely in the manufacture and sale of lumber at Flint, Fentonville, Holly and Detroit, becoming one of the largest and most successful business men of the State. He was mainly instrumental in the construction of the Flint & Holly R. R., and was President of that corporation imlil its consolidation with the Flint & Pere Marquette R. R. Company. He was elected Mayor of that city after he had been a resident of the place only five or six years. In 1862 he was elected State Senator. In the fall of 1864 he received the nomination on the Republican ticket for Governor of the State, and was elected by a large majority. He was re-elected in 1866, holding the office two terms, and retiring in January, 1869, having given tlie greatest satisfaction to all parties. While serving his last term he was attacked with a disease which terminated his life within one year afterwards. During much of this time he was an in- tense sufferer, yet often while in great pain gave his attention to public matters. A few weeks previous to his death a successful surgical operation was per- formed which seemed rapidly to restore him, but he overestimated his strength, and by too much exertion in business matters and State affairs suffered arelapse from which there was no rebound, and he died July li, 1869. In the early part of his life. Gov. Crapo affiliated with the Whig party in politics, but became an active member of the Republican party after its organization. He was a member of the Christian (sometimes called the Disciples') Church, and took great interest in its welfare and prosperity. Mr. C. married, June 9, 1825, Mary A. Slocum, of Dartmouth. His marriage took place soon after he had attained his majority, and before his struggles with fortune had been rewarded with any great meas- ure of success. But his wife was a woman of great strength of character and possessed of courage, hope- fulness and devotion, qualities which sustained and encouraged her husband in the various pursuits of his early years. For several years after his marriage he was engaged in teaching school, his wife living with her parents at the time, at whose home his two older children were born. While thus situated he was accustomed to walk home on Saturday to see his family, returning on Sunday in order to be ready for school Monday morning. As the walk for a good part of the time was 20 miles each way, it is evident that at that period of his life no common obstacles deterred him from performing what he regarded as a duty. His wife was none the less consci- entious in her sphere, and with added responsibilities and increasing requirements she labored faithfully in the perfomiance of all her duties. They had ten children, one son and nine daughters. His son, Hon, Wm. W. Crapo, of New Bedford, is now an honored Representative to Congress from the First Congressional District of Massachusetts. Vto) ^5 <^ nn-» ■'4 ^^tT-^^^ ty: o^iPci^/;^^ GO VKRNORS OF MICHIGAN. ^ (9^ I l^ ;j ENRY p. BALDWIN, Gov- ernor of Michigan from Jan. 4, 1869, to Jan. I, 1873, is a lineal descendant of Nathan- 3* iel Baldwin, a Puritan, of Buck- V: ''.:,:';■ ^' inghamshire, England, who set- tled at Milford, Conn., in 1639. His father was John Baldwin, a graduate of Dartmouth Col- lege. He died at North Provi- dence, R. I., in 1826. His paternal grandfather was Rev. Moses Baldwin, a graduate of Princeton College, in 1757, and the first who received collegiate hon- ors at that ancient and honored institution. He died at Parma, Mass., in 1813, where for more than 50 years he had been pastor of the Presbyterian Church. On his mother's side Governor B. is descended from Robert Williams, also a Puritan, who settled in Rox- bury, Mass., about 1638. His mother was a daughter of Rev. Nehemiah Williams, a graduate of Harvard College, who died at Brimfield, Mass., in 1796, where for 21 years he was pastor of the Congregationalist Church. The subject of this sketch was born at Coventry, R. I., Feb. 22, 1814. He received a New England common-school education until the age of 12 years, when, both his parents having died, he be- came a clerk in a mercantile establishment. He re- mained there, employing his leisure hours in study, until 20 years of age. At this early period Mr. B. engaged in business on his own account. He made a visit to the West, in 1837, which resulted in his removal to Detroit in the spring of 1838. Here he established a mercantile house which has been successfully conducted until the present time. Although he successfully conducted a large business, he has ever taken a deep interest in all things affecting the prosperity of the city and State of his adoprion. He was for several years a Director and President of the Detroit Young Men's Society, an institution with a large library designed for the benefit of young men and citizens generally. An Episcopalian in religious belief, he has been prominent in home matters connected with that de- nomination. The large and flourishing parish of St. John, Detroit, originated with Governor Baldwin, who gave the lot on which the parish edifice stands, and also contributed the larger share of the cost of their erection. Governor B. was one of the foremost in the establishment of St. Luke's Hospital, and has always been a liberal contributor to moral and relig- ious enterprises whether connected with his own Church or not. There have been, in fact, but few- public and social improvements of Detroit during the past 40 years with which Governor B.'s name is not in some way connected. He was a director in the Michigan State Bank until the expiration of its char- ter, and has been President of the Second National Bank since its organization. In 1S60, Mr. Baldwin was elected to the State Senate, of Michigan ; during the years of i86i-'2 he was made Chairman of the Finance Committee, a member of Committee on Banks and Incorporations, Chairman of the Select Joint Committee of the two Houses for the investigation of the Treasury Depart- ment and the official acts of the Treasurer, and of the letting of the contract for the improvement of Sault St. Marie Ship Canal. He was first elected Governor in 1868 and was re-elected in 1870, serving from 1S69 to 1872, inclusive. It is no undeserved eulogy to say that Governor B.'s happy faculty of es- timating the necessary means to an end — the knowing of how much effort or attention to bestow upon the thing in hand, has been the secret of the uniform i I (p) f^#. ■%7 ^\imm>^ m 154 JIEJVJ? V p. BALD WIN. iS, V /7S V > :) 1 success that has attended his efforts in all relations of life. The same industry and accuracy that dis- tinguished him prior to this term as Governor was manifest in his career as the chief magistrate of the State, and while his influence appears in all things with which he has had to do, it is more noticeable in the most prominent position to which he was called. With rare exceptions the important commendations of Governor B. received the sanction of the Legislat- ure. During his administration marked improve- ments were made in the charitable, penal and reforma- tory institutions of the State. The State Public School for dependent children was founded and a permanent commission for the supervision of the several State institutions. The initiatory steps toward building the Eastern Asylum for the Insane, the State House of Correction, and the establishment of the State Board of Health were recommended by Governor B. in his message of 1873. The new State Capitol also owes its origen to him. The appropriation for its erection was made upon his recommendation, and the contract for the entire work let under this administration. Governor B. also appointed the commissioners under whose faithful supervision the building was erected in a manner most satisfactory to the people of the State. He advised and earnestly urged at different times such amendments of the constitution as would per- mit a more equitable compensation to State officers and judges. The law of 1S69, and prior also, permitting municipalities to vote aid toward the construc- tion of railroads was, in 1870, declared imconstitu- tional by the Supreme Court. Many of the munici- palities having in the meantime issued and sold their bonds in good faith. Governor B. felt that the honor and credit of the State were in jeopardy. His sense of justice impelled him to call an extra session of the Legislature to propose the submission to the people a constitutional amendment, authorizing the payment of such bonds as were already in the hands of io/ia- fide holders. In his special message he says : "The credit of no State stands liigher than that of Michigan, and the people can not afford, and I trust will not consent, to have her good name tarnished by the repu- diation of either legal or moral obligations." A spe- cial session was called in March, 1872, principally for the division of the State into congressional districts. A number of other important suggestions were made, however, ard as an evidence of the Governor's la- borious and thoughtful care for the financial condition of the State, a series of tables was prepared and sub- mitted by him showing, in detail, estimates of receipts, expenditures and appropriations for the years 1872 to 1878, inclusive. Memorable of Governor B.'s admin- istration were the devastating fires which swept over many portions of the Northwest in the fall of 1871. A large part of the city of Chicago having been re- duced to ashes, Governor B. promptly issued a proc- lamation calling upon the people of Michigan for liberal aid in behalf of the afflicted city. Scarcely had this been issued when several counties in his State were laid waste by the same destroying, element. A second call was made asking assistance for the suf- fering people of Michigan. The contributions for these objects were prompt and most liberal, more than $700,000 having been received in money and supplies for the relief of Michigan alone. So ample were these contributions during the short period of about 3 months, that the Governor issued a proclamation expressing in behalf of the people of the State grate- ful acknowldgment, and announcing that further aid was unnecessary. Governor B. has traveled extensively in his own country and has also made several visits to Europe and other portions of the Old World. He was a pas- senger on the Steamer Arill, which was captured and bonded in the Carribean Sea, in December, 1862, by Capt. Semmes, and wrote a full and interesting ac- count of the transaction. The following estimate of Governor B. on his retirement from office, by a leading newspaper, is not overdrawn: "The retiring message of Governor B., will be read with interest. It is a characteristic document and possesses the lucid statement, strong, and clear practical sense, which have been marked features of all preceding documents from the same source. Governor B. retired to private life after four years of unusually successful adminis- tration amid plaudits that are universal throughout the State. For many years eminent and capable men have filled the e-xecutive chair of this State, but in painstaking vigilance, in stern good sense, in genuine public spirit, in thorough integrity and in practical capacity, Henry P. Baldwin has shown himself to be the peer of any or all of them. The State has been un- usually prosperous during his two terms, and the State administration has fully kept pace with the needs of the times. The retiring Governor has fully earned the public gratitude and confidence which he to-day possesses to such remarkable degree," I ( m \ i«** Ju. i^ '.i^^^^ I -ri'..«it.^-*?<^.^r?, _■,, ^?Iji]^IiD^^vr7 >s4J^ GO VERNORS OF MICHIGAN. 157 ^^ 1; ^^^^^^^^S^^^^^^ V (.0 OHN JUDSON BAGLEY, Governor of Michigan from 1873 to 1877, was born in Medina, Orleans Co., N. Y., July 24, 1832. His father, John Bagley, was a native of New Hampshire, his mother, Mary M. Bagley, of Connecticut. He at- tended the district school of Lock- port, N. Y., until he was eight years old, at which time his father moved to Constantine, Mich., and he at- tended the common schools of that village. His early experience was like that of many country boys whose parents removed from Eastern States to the newer portion of the West. His father being in very poor circum- I stances, Mr. B. was obliged to work as soon as he was able to do so. Leaving school when 13 years of age he entered a country store in Constan- tine as clerk. His father then re- tjjvj) moved toOwosso, Mich.,and he again 1 engaged as clerk in a store. From early youth Mr. B. was extravagantly fond of reading and devoted every leisure moment to the perusal of such books, papers and periodicals as came within his reach. In 1847, he removed to Detroit, where he secured employment in a tobacco manufactory and remained in this position for about five years. In 1853, he began business for himself in theman- ufacturingof tobacco. His establishment has become V' ^: ■^T^^I L^: one of the largest of the kind in the West. Mr. B. has also been greatly interested in other manufactur- ing enterprises, as well as in mining, banking and in- surance corporations. He was President of the Detroit Safe Company for several years. He was one of the organizers of the Michigan Mutual Life Insur- ance Company of Detroit, and was its President from 1867 to 1872. He was a director of the Amer- ican National Bank for many years, and a stock- holder and director in various other corporations. Mr. B. was a member of the Board of Education two years, and of the Detroit Common Council the same jf length of time. In 1865 he was appointed by Gover- nor Crapo one of the first commissioners of the ^ ' Metropolitian police force of the city of Detroit, serv- ing six years. In November, 1872, he was elected Governor of Michigan, and two years later was re- elected to the same office, retiring in January, 1877. He was an active worker in the Republican party, and for many years was Chairman of the Republican State Central committee. Governor Bagley was quite liberal in his religious views and was an attendant of the Unitarian Church. He aimed to be able to hear and consider any new thought, from whatever source it may come, but was not bound by any religious creed or formula. He held in respect all religious opinions, believing that no one can be injured by a firm adherence to a'^aith or de- nomination. He was married at Dubuque, Iowa, Jan. 16, 1855, to Frances E. Newberry, daughter of Rev. Samuel Newberry, a pioneer missionary of Michigan, who took an active part in the early educational mat- ters of the State and in the establishment of its ex- cellent system of education. It was principally i^^f ^ '^^ r^^K ^^V^ntl ^ li D^>ir V 158 JOHN J. BAGLEY. through his exertions that the State University was founded. Mr. B.'s family consists of seven children. As Governor his administration was charac- terized by several important features, chief among which were his efforts to improve and make popular the educational agencies of the State by increasing the faculty of the University for more thorough in- struction in technical studies,by strengthening the hold of the Agricultural College upon the public good will and making the general change which has manifested itself in many scattered primary districts. Among others were an almost complete revolution in the management of the penal and charitable institutions of the State; the passage of the liquor-tax law, taking the place of the dead letter of prohibition; the estab- lishing of the system of dealing with juvenile oftend- ers through county agents, which has proved of great good in turning the young back from crime and plac- ing the State in the attitude of a moral agent ; in se- curing for the militia the first time in the histoiy of Michigan a systematized organization upon a service- able footing. It was upon the suggestion of Gov. B. in the earlier part of his administration that the law creating the State Board of Health, and also the law creating a fish commission in the inland waters of the State, were passed, both of which have proved of great benefit to the State. The successful representation of Michigan at the Centennial Exhibition is also an honorable part of the record of Gov. B.'s adminis- tration. As Governor, he felt that he represented the State — not in a narrow, egotistical way, but in the same sense that a faithful, trusted, confidential agent rep- resents his employer, and as the Executive of the State he was her " attorney in fact." And his intelli- gent, thoughtful care will long continue the pride of the people he so much loved. He was ambitious — ambitious for place and power, as every noble mind is ambitious, because these give opportunity. How- ever strong the mind and powerful the will, if there be no ambition, life is a failure. He was not blind to the fact that the more we have the more is required of us. He accepted it in its fullest meaning. He had great hopes for his State and his country. He had his ideas of what they should be. With a heart as broad as humanity itself; with an intelligent, able and cultured brain, the will and the power to do, he asked his fellow citizen to give him the opportunity to labor for them. Self entered not into the calculation. g9»- ^^^^ — ^tK^uh His whole life was a battle for others ; and he entered the conflict eagerly and hopefully. His State papers were models of compact, busi- ness-like statements, bold, original, and brimful of practical suggestions, and his administrations will long be considered as among the ablest in this or any other State. His noble, generous nature made his innumerable benefactions a source of continuous pleasure. Liter- ally, to him it was " more blessed to give than to receive." His greatest enjoyment was in witnessing the com- fort and happiness of others. Not a tithe of his char- ities were known to his most intimate friends, or even to his family. Many a needy one has been the recipi- ent of aid at an opportune moment, who never knew the hand that gave. At one time a friend had witnessed his ready re- sponse to some charitable request, and said to him : "Governor, you give away a large sum of money ; about how much does your charities amount to in a year?" He turned at once and said: "I do not know, sir; I do not allow myself to know. I hope I gave more this year than I did last, and hope I shall give more next year than I have this." This expressed his idea of charity, that the giving should at all times be free and spontaneous. During his leasure hours from early life, and espe- cially during the last few years, he devoted much time to becoming acquainted with the best authors. Biog- raphy was his delight; the last he read was the "Life and Woik of John Adams," in ten volumes. In all questions of business or public affairs he seemed to have the power of getting at the kernel of the nut in the least possible time. In reading he would spend scarcely more time with a volume than most persons would devote to a chapter. After what seemed a cursory glance, he would have all of value the book contained. Rarely do we see a business man so familiar with the best English authors. He was a generous and intelligent patron of the arts, and his elegant home was a study and a pleasure to his many friends, who always found there a hearty welcome. At Christmas time he would spend days doing the work of Santa Claus. Every Christmas eve he gathered his children about him and, taking the youngest on his lap, told some Christmas story, closing the entertainment with "The Night Before Christmas," or Dickens's "Christmas Carol." i o V) ■,>••- :--.- ; waB tf% " (Fl«l W«j, cWfcy M^uk, %i. A^V^AA/ttCj ^ M CHARLES^ ^y^' ii<- „ , '^ •.>7.i c^ f HARLES M. CROSWELL, ^^^Governor of Michigan from ' Jan. 3, 1877 to Jan. i, i88r, was born at Newburg, Orange County, N. Y., Oct. 31, 1825. He is the only son of John and SalHe (Hicks) Croswell. His father, who was of Scotch-Irish extraction, was a paper-maker, and carried on business in New York City. His ancestors on his mother's side were of Knicker- bocker descent. The Croswell family may be found connected with prominent events, in New York and Connecticut, in the early exis- tence of the Republic. Harry Cros- well, during the administration of President Jefferson, published a pa- per called the Balance, and was prosecuted for libeling the President under the obnoxious Sedition Law. He was defended by the celebrated Alexander Hamilton, and the decis- ion of the case establised the important ruling that the truth might be shown in cases of libel. Another member of the family was Edwin Croswell, the fam- ous editor of the Albany Argus ; also. Rev. William Croswell, noted as a divine and poet. When Charles M. Croswell was seven years of age, his father was accidentally drowned in the Hudson River, at Newburg ; and, within three months preced- ing that event, his mother and only sister had died, — thus leaving him the sole surviving member of the family, without fortune or means. Upon the death of his father he went to live with an uncle, who, in 1837, emigrated with him to Adrain, Michigan. At sixteen years of age, he commenced to learn the car- penter's trade, and worked at it very diligently for four years, maintaining himself, and devoting his spare time to reading and the acquirement of knowledge. In 1846, he began the study of law, and was ap- pointed Deputy Clerk of Lenawee County. The du- ties of this office he performed four years, when he was elected Register of Deeds, and was re-elected in 1852. In 1854, he took part in the first movements for the formation of the Republican party, and was a member and Secretary of the convetion held at Jack- son in that year, which put in the field the first Re- publican State ticket in Michigan. In 1855, he formed a law partnership with the present Chief-Jus- tice Cooley, which continued until the removal of Judge Cooley to Ann Arbor. » In 1862, Mr. Croswell was appointed City Attorney of Adrian. He was also elected Mayor of the city in the spring of the same year; and in the fall was chosen to represent Lenawee County in the State Senate. He was re-elected to the Senate in 1864, and again in 1866, during each term filling the posi- tions above mentioned. Among various reports made by him, one adverse to the re-establishment of the death penalty, and another against a proposition to pay the salaries of State officers and judges in coin, which then commanded a very large premium, may be mentioned. He also drafted the act ratifying the Thirteenth Amendment to the Federal Constitution, for the abolishment of slavery, it being the first amendment to the instrument ratified by Michigan. In 1863, from his seat in the State Senate, he de- livered an elaborate speech in favor of the Proclama- 9 i "^ 162 T2l4^5Kr TCtllIl"^litlr->^ rr CHARLES M. CRO SWELL. ) > :) t i\ tion of Emancipation issued by President Lincoln, and of his general policy in the prosecution of the war. This, at the request of his Republican associ- ates, was afterwards published. In 1867, he was elected a member of the Constitutional Convention, and chosen its presiding officer. This convention was composed of an able body of men ; and though, in the general distrust of constitutional changes which for some years had been taking possession of the people, their labors were not accepted by the pop- ular vote, it was always conceded that the constitu- tion they proposed had been prepared with great care and skill. In 1868, Mr. Croswell was chosen an Elector on the Republican Presidential ticket; in 1872, was elected a Representative to the State Legislature from Lenawee County, and was chosen Speaker of the House of Representatives. At the close of the session of that body his abilities as a parliamentarian, and the fairness of his rulings were freely and form- ally acknowledged by his associates ; and he was pre- sented with a superb collection of their portraits handsomely framed. He was, also, for several years, Secretary of the State Board for the general supervis- ion of the charitable and penal institutions of Michi- gan ; in which position, his propositions for the amel- ioration of the condition of the unfortunate, and the reformation of the criminal classes, signalize the be- nevolence of his nature, and the practical character of his mind. In 1876, the general voice of the Republicans of the State indicted Mr. Croswell as their choice for Governor; and, at the State Convention of the party in August of the same year, he was put in nomination by acclamation, without the formality of a ballot. At the election in November following, he was chosen to the high position for which he had been nominated, by a very large majority over all opposing candidates. His inaugural message was received with general favor; and his career as Governor was marked with the same qualities of head and heart that have ever distinguished him, both as a citizen and statesman. Governor Groswell has always prepared his ad- dresses with care ; and, as his diction is terse, clear, and strong, without e.xcess of ornament, and his de- livery impressive, he is a popular speaker; and many of his speeches have attracted favorable comment in the public prints, and have a permanent value. He has always manifested a deep interest in educational matters, and was for years a member and Secretary of the Board of Education of Adrain. At the formal opening of the Central School building in that city, on the 24th day of April, 1869, he gave, in a public address, an " Historical Sketch of the Adrian Public Schools." In his private life, Governor Croswell has been as exemplary as in his public career he has been suc- cessful and useful. In February, 1852, he was mar- ried to a daughter of Morton Eddy, Lucy M. Eddy, a lady of many amiable and sunny qualities. She suddenly died, March 19, 1868, leaving two daugh- ters and a son. Governor Croswell is not a member of any religious body, but generally attends the Pres- byterian Church. He pursues the profession of law, but of late has been occupied mainly in the care of his own interests, and the quiet duties of advice in business difficulties, for which his unfailing pru- dence and sound judgment eminently fit him. Gov- ernor Croswell is truly popular, not only with those of • like political faith with himself, but with those who differ from him in this regard. During Gov. Croswell's administration the public debt was greatly reduced ; a policy adopted requiring the State institutions to keep within the limit of ap- propriations; laws enacted to provide more effectually for the punishment of corruption and bribrery in elec- tions; the State House of Correction at Ionia and the Eastern Asylum for the Insane at Pontiac were opened, and the new capital at Lansing was completed and occupied. The first act of his second term was to pre- side at the dedication of this building. The great riot at Jackson occured during his administration, and it was only bv his promptness that great distraction of both life and property was prevented at that time. ■^'"' DAVID H. JEROME, Gover- rknor of from Jan. i, 1881, to W Jan. I, 1883, was born at De- ' troit, Mich., Nov. 17, 1829. '^^J^^W'^ft©;® His parents emigrated to ^' Michigan from Trumansburg, Tompkins Co., N. Y., in 1828, locating at Detroit. His father died March 30, 1831, leaving nine children. He had been twice married, and four of the children living at the time of his death were grown up sons, the off- spring of his first union. Of the five children by his second marriage, David H. was the youngest. Shortly after Mr. Jerome's death, his widow moved back to New York and settled in Onondaga County near Syracuse, where they remained until the fall of 1834, the four sons by the first wife continuing their residence in Michigan. In the fall of 1834, Mrs. Jerome came once more to Michigan, locating on a farm in St. Clair County. Here the Governor formed those habits of industry and ster- ling integrity that have been so characteristic of the man in the active duties of life. He was sent to the district school, and in the acquisition of the funda- mental branches of learning he displayed a precocity and an application which won for him the admiration **• of his teachers, and always placed him at the head fof his classes. In the meantime he did chores on the farm, and was always ready with a cheerful heart and willing hand to assist his widowed mother. The heavy labor of the farm was carried on by his two ©^ (9^ older brothers, Timothy and George, and when 13 years of age David received his mother's permission to attend school at the St. Clair Academy. While attend- ing there he lived with Marcus H. Miles, now de- ceased, doing chores for his board, and the following winter performed the same service for James Ogden, also deceased. The next summer Mrs. Jerome moved into the village of St. Clair, for the purpose of continuing her son in school. While attending said academy one of his associate students was Sena- tor Thomas W. Palmer, of Detroit, a rival candidate before the gubernatorial convention in 1880. He completed his education in the fall of his i6th year, and the following winter assisted his brother Timothy in hauling logs in the pine woods. The next summer he rafted logs down the St. Clair River to Algonac. In 1847, M. H. Miles being Clerk in St. Clair Coun- ty, and Volney A. Ripley Register of Deeds, David H. Jerome was appointed Deputy to each, remaining as such during 1848-49, and receiving much praise from his employers and the people in general for the ability displayed in the discharge of his duties. He spent his summer vacation at clerical work on board the lake vessels. In 1849-50, he abandoned office work, and for the proper development of his physical system spent several months hauling logs. In the spring of 1B50, his brother "Tiff" and himself chartered the steamer "Chautauqua," and "Young Dave" became her mas- ter. A portion of the season the boat was engaged in the passenger and freight traffic between Port Huron and Detroit, but during the latter part was used as a tow boat. At that time there was a serious obstruction to navigation, known as the "St. Clair Flats," between Lakes Huron and Erie, over which 9 <-^llllSIIII<>Va 'o Z*^ r/Z» Zr. JEROME. vessels could carry only about 10,000 bushels of grain. Mr. Jerome conceived the idea of towing vessels from one lake to the other, and put his plan into operation. Through the influence of practical men, — among them the subject of this sketch, — Congress removed the obstruction above referred to, and now vessels can pass them laden with 60,000 or 80,000 bushels of grain. During the season, the two brothers succeeded in making a neat little sum of money by the sum- mer's work, but subsequently lost it all on a contract to raise the "Gen. Scott," a vessel that had sunk in Lake St. Clair. David H. came out free from debt, but possessed of hardly a dollar of capital. In the spring of 185 i, he was clerk and acting master of the steamers "Franklin Moore" and "Ruby," plying be- tween Detroit and Port Huron and Goderich. The following year he was clerk of the propeller "Prince- ) ton," running between Detroit and Buffalo. ;» In January, 1853, Mr. Jerome went to California, ^^ by way of the Isthmus, and enjoyed extraordinary ° success in selling goods in a new place of his selec- ^ tion, among the mountains near Marysville He re- ^E mained there during the summer, and located the ^X Live Yankee Tunnel Mine, which has since yielded •^ millions to its owners, and is still a paying investment. He planned and put a tunnel 600 feet into the mine, but when the water supply began to fail with the dry season, sold out his interest. He left in tlie fall of 1853, and in December sailed from San Francisco for New York, arriving at his home in St. Clair County, about a year after his departure. During his absence his brother "Tiff" had located at Saginaw, and in 1854 Mr. Jerome joined him in his lumber operations in the valley. In 1S55 the brothers bought Black- mer & Eaton's hardware and general supply stores, at Saginaw, and David H. assumed the management of the business. From 1855 to 1S73 he was also e.\- tensively engaged in lumbering operations. Soon after locating at Saginaw he was nominated for Alderman against Stewart B. Williams, a rising young man, of strong Democratic principles. The ward was largely Democratic, but Mr. Jerome was elected by a handsome majority. When the Repub- lican party was born at Jackson, Mich., David H. Jerome was, though not a delegate to the convention, one of its "charter members." In 1862, he was com- missioned by Gov. Austin Blair to raise one of the six regiments apportioned to the State of Michigan. Mr. Jerome immediately went to work and held meetings at various points. The zeal and enthusiasm displayed by this advocate of the Union awakened a feeling of patriotic interest in the breasts of many brave men, and in a short space of time the 23d Regiment of Michigan Volunteer Infantry was placed in the field, and subsequently gained for itself a bril- liant record. In the fall of 1862, Mr. Jerome was nominated by the Republican party for State Senator from the 26th district, Appleton Stevens, of Bay City, being his op- ponent. The contest was very exciting, and resulted in the triumphant election of Mr. Jerome. He was twice renominated and elected both times by in- creased majorities, defeating George Lord, of Bay City, and Dr. Cheseman, of Gratiot County. On tak- ing his seat in the Senate, he was appointed Chair- man of the Committee on State Aff'airs, and was ac- tive in raising means and troops to carry on the war. He held the same position during his three terms of service, and introduced the bill creating the Soldiers' Home at Harper Hospital, Detroit. He was selected by Gov. Crapo as a military aid, and in r865 was appointed a member of the State Military Board, and served as its President for eight consecutive years. In 1873, he was appointed by Gov. Bagley a member of the convention to prepare a new State Constitution, and was Chairman of the Committee on Finance. In 1875, Mr. Jerome was appointed a member of the Board of Indian Commissioners. In I876 he was Chairman of a commission to visit Chief Joseph, the Nez Perce Indian, to arrange an amicable settlement of all existing difficulties. The commission went to Portland, Oregon, thence to the Blue Hills, in Idaho, a distance of 600 miles up the Columbia River. At the Republican .State Convention, convened at Jackson in August, 1880, Mr. Jerome was placed in the field for nomination, and on the 5th day of the month received the highest honor the convention could confer on any one. His opponent was Freder- ick M. Holloway, of Hillsdale County, who was sup- ported by the Democratic and Greenback parties. The State was thoroughly canvassed by both parties, and when the polls were closed on the evening of election day, it was found that David H. Jerome had been selected by the voters of the Wolverine State to occupy the highest position within their gift. ^^ ^ 0) r^j 9r ^^^^ r^^^^ ferv4>Il U :^: imi->r -:2«%#!sr -4^^f GOVERNORS OF MICHIGAN A^8$-^^aM^A^ .rosiAH w, aiiiiiii ^fTTI^.yr^ :^ ;:i'rt:fM:.^.y -^'-''^' i i \^ OSIAH W. BEGOLE, the present (1S83), Governor of Michigan was born in Living- ston, County, N. Y., Jan. 20, 18 15. His ancestors were of ^.,1^ French descent, and settled at F-|v an early period in the State of 1 Maryland. Hisgrandfather,Capt. P-^i^^f Bolles, of that State, was an offi- j cer in the American army during H^^ the war of the Revolution. About the beginning of the present cent- ury both his grandparents, having become dissatisfied with the insti- tution of slavery, although slave- holders themselves, emigrated to Livingston County, N. Y., then a new country, taking with them a number of their former slaves, who volunteered to accompany them. His father was an officer in the American array, and served during the war of 18 12. Mr. B. received his early education in a log school- house, and subsequently attended the Temple Hill Academy, at Geneseo, N. Y. Beirfg the eldest of a family of ten children, whose parents were in moder- ate though comfortable circumstances, he was early taught habits of industry, and when 2 1 years of age, being ambitious to better his condition in life, he re- solved to seek his fortune in the far West, as it was. n g«9- then called. In August, 1S36, he left the parental roof to seek a home in the Territory of Michigan then an almost unbroken wilderness. He settled in Genesee County, and aided with his own hands in building some of the early residences in what is now known as the city of Flint. There were but four or five houses where this flourishing city now stands when he selected it as his home. In the spring of 1S39 he married Miss Harriet A. Miles. The marriage proved a most fortunate one , and to the faithful wife of his youth, who lives to en- joy with him the comforts of an honestly earned com- petence, Mr. Begole ascribes largely his success in life. Immediately after his marriage he commenced work on an unimproved farm, where, by his perse- verance and energy, he soon established a good home, and at the end of eighteen years was the owner of a well improved farm of five hundred acres. Mr. Begole being an anti-slaverj' man, became a member of the Republican party at its organization. He served his townsmen in various offices, and was in r856, elected County Treasurer, which office he held for eight years. At the breaking out of the Rebellion he did not carry a musket to the front, but his many friends will bear witness that he took an active part in recruiting and furnishing supplies for the army, and in looking after the interests of soldiers' families at home. The death of his eldest son near Atlanta, Ga., by a Confed- rate bullet, in 1864, was the greatest sorrow of his life. When a few years later he was a member in Congress .x:^ ^4^5f e-^7<:IlD^IiDf>v JOSIAH W. BEGOLE. Gov. Begole voted and worked for the soldiers' bounty equalization bill, an act doing justice to the soldier who bore the burden and heat of the day, and who should fare equally with him who came in at the eleventh hour. That bill was defeated in the House on account of the large appropriation that would be required to pay the same. In 1870, Gov. Begole was nominated by acclama- tion for the office of State Senator, and elected by a large majority. In that body he served on the Com- mittees of Finance and Railroads, and was Chairman of the Committee on the Institute for the Deaf and Dumb and Blind. He took a liberal and public- spirited view of the importance of a new capitol building worthy of the State, and was an active mem- ber of the Committee that drafted the bill for the same. He was a delegate to the National Republi- can Convention held at Philadelphia in 1872, and was the chosen member of that delegation to go to Washington and inform Gen. Grant and Senator Wilson of their nominations. It was while at that convention that, by the express wish of his many friends, he was induced to offer himself a can- didate for the nomination of member to the 43d Con- gress, in which he was successful, after competing for the nomination with several of the most worthy, able and experienced men in the Sixth Congressional Dis- trict, and was elected by a very large majority. In Congress, he was a member of the Committee on Agricultural and Public Expenditures. Being one of the 17 farmers in that Congress, he took an active part in the Committee of Agriculture, and was ap- pointed by that committee to draft the most impor- tant report made by that committee, and upon the only subject recommended by the President in his message, which he did and the report was printed in records of Congress ; he took an efficient though an unobtrusive part in all its proceedings. He voted for the currency bill, remonetization of silver, and other financial measures, many of which, though defeated then, have since become the settled policy of the country. Owing to the position which Mr. Begole occupied on these questions, he became a "Greenbacker." In the Gubernatorial election of 1882, Mr. Begole was the candidate of both the Greenback and Dem- ocratic parties, and was elected by a vote of 154,269, the Republican candidate, Hon. David H. Jerome, receiving 149,697 votes. Mr. Begole, in entering upon his duties as Governor, has manifested a spirit that has already won him many friends, and bids fair to make his administration both successful and pop- ular. The very best indications of what a man is, is what his own townsmen think of him. We give the fol- lowing extract from the Flint Globe, the leading Re- publican paper \\\ Gov. Begole's own county, and it, too, written during the heat of a political campaign, which certainly is a flattering testimonial of his ster- ling worth : " So far, however, as Mr. Begole, the head of the ticket, is concerned, there is nothing detrimental to his character that can be alleged against him. He has sometimes changed his mind in politics, but for sincerity of his beliefs and the earnestness of his pur- pose nobody who knows him entertains a doubt. He is incapable of bearing malice, even against his bit- terest political enemies. He has a warm, generous nature, and a larger, kinder heart does not beat in the bosom of any man in Michigan. He is not much given to making speeches, but deeds are more signif- icant of a man's character than words. There are many scores of men in all parts of the State where Mr. Begole is acquainted, who have had practical demonstrations of these facts, and who are liable to step outside of party lines to show that they do not forget his kindness, and who, no doubt, wish that he was a leader in what would not necessarily prove a forlorn hope. But the Republican party in Michigan is too strong to be beaten by a combination of Demo- crats and Greenbackers, even if it is marshaled by so good a man as Mr. Begole." This sketch would be imperfect without referring to the action' of Mr. B. at the time of the great calamity that in 1881 overtook the people of Northeastern Michigan, in a few hours desolating whole counties by fire and destroying the results and accumulations of such hard work as only falls to the lot of pioneers. While the Port Huron and Detroit committees were quarreling over the distribution of funds, Mr. Begole wrote to an agent in the "]bumt district " a letter, from which we make an extract of but a single sentence: " Until the differences between the two committees are adjusted and you receive your regular supplies from them, draw on me. Let no man suffer while I have money." This displays his true character, $^: \ U=^^ ^ ^ -*#^ ^S/^®>)^tf-- ■rr^ v'r- 4^^((®V§^) ■') 1 f r^' --2)^' i:\r f\i! E^iCEIGlH I t 1 9y^mm^<>^ ^^€3^^ -«e§ tfSS^ ■T7 ■7-4:lili^0i3>>^ %m(^>^ '.) C)) ^ ^ (' ^^^ — ^7K>li 3 :< iiD>> ^i^ ''5^ ^t|^ r^^ — ^V<>l]li;t:iiii>>-r^ #^c(®vii (h ?• V W: ^^^^^i "^i\^ -i.rf-Stoi- Tnn :(^ ;?^i ifs *p^"Cp'* VS.' C ' 1=3 3^ ^ ■^i.^ ^i-^^j^^^- "^^'C^*'^^^ — %7^.W !1 :^: lll]r>^r^ — ^^^^ -«®ii^ fc>/^^^^^ <:I1II^I]I1>^' >i^V 9 5^ c^: "i^ (^ .®^^r|- -^ai^gjn. -^^^Dfl^DDf^ >^- ^ -.4^^5^/w^ $€^^ ^rr^ ^mm^ rrrr -:2#y^ 4^^5((sViS e ^ SANILAC COUNTY. Vto; ^ ^S/^®»«^#- -^^^K — ©v<^iin^nnf> •^T^ rS^^ ^^w (h ^ ) :^:> s> <) ^ & I c C< ( g«&- .>5^jg^#!^ ^^^H [|,^,[|||;'^-a^ ^s^^^ -4^^^^ 1 m SANILAC COUNTY. 179 V :<' V % n .*2^r^^>^^t^n^(?^vs(^5nJin^:^^ S^^^^^_jj^ lTli'^t^'g&'^'^'^'i?ja'^Vj'^'')'?a^^'5^t;igit^i^i'<;a>:iiS^(i3r.n'V.H ]jDMAN mills, of Cros- well, farmer and dealer ;j« in real estate, was born Sept. 17, 1831,111 the town- ship of Portland, Erie Co., Ohio. He has been a resi- dent of Croswell since his re- movil hither in 1866, and has been and still i-, one of the most prominent factors in the development of Sanilac County. The characteristic traits of Mr. Mills are of the type which have wrought out within the past half century the most marvelous de- 1^^ velopment known to mankind in the portion of the United States territory designated " The West." He was born on the Western Reserve in Ohio, a fact which in itself almost establishes his character, when considered jointly wilh his descent. His an- cestral lineage was purely Yankee, and in its origin combined the sturdy traits of the English and Hol- landers. His immediate progenitors were trained under the uncompromising regime of New England and were imbued with the calculating, practical spirit of this inventive and enterprising age. The course of Mr. Mills' business life may be regarded as manifest destiny. He inherited his predominating traits of acumen, far-sightedness and persistency, but the calm, dispassionate judgment which marks all his movements, together with the rare quality which gives instant recognition to oppor- tunity, and another, still rarer, which grasps and moulds it to his purpose, are the outgrowth of e.\- perience. Cool, practical, persistent, imperturbable and alert, Mr. Mills is fearless to an extraordinary degree in the e.xercise of his power to overcome obstacles and achieve his purpose. He possesses in no sense or degree the interested selfishness which rests in complacent satisfaction in its own small achievements. To him opportunity is but the clue to far-reaching and wide-spread promise. His predominating traits have been and are of inestima- ble value to Sanilac County. He came here in the prime of his manhood. The favorable location of the county, its proximity to the main routes of travel, and its agricultural outlook assured him that it held splendid possibilities, which needed but the intelligent application of effort and energy to develop results in every way equal to those of the remoter sections, whither the tide of immigration was flowing in frantic haste. At that date the lumber interest of the Huron peninsula was entering its decadence, a condition which was pre- cipitated by the fire five years later. The specula- tive fraternity, the vitality of whose interest was spent where the lumbering resources were practi- cally exhausted, had no concern in the agricultural development or future well-being of this portion of © d ^A t •ii 1 80 SANILAC COUNTY. 72*^^^^ -^4?t§^ ro V^ > q\ the State. They sought other worlds to conquer ; the farms, whose broad acres and fair fields speak in such glowing language of the effects which have brought Ihem to their present fine condition and bear a promise of further development in the imme- diate future, p3rpetuate neither their names nor their deeds. The achievements of Mr. Mills in Sanilac County will be a lasting monument to his citizenship and career therein. On coming to Croswell (then Davis- ville), he engaged in lumbering. He had a repre- sentative interest in the business of Moss Brothers, the senior member of the firm being his father-in-law. In 1868 the firm became Moss & Mills, and con- tinued its lumbering and mercantile operations. Products found their way to market by the water thoroughfare of the lakes, and supplies came hither by the same route. Lexington was the point of shipment and the harbor of supply, merchandise and provisions of all varieties being brought in here chiefly from Ohio. (One year the lumber product of Moss & Mills reached an aggregate of 6,000,000 feet, and it was all drawn to Lexington for ship- ment.) Meanwhile, the interior of Sanilac County remained undeveloped. The remote, inaccessible location of the county seat was a great hindrance to the progress of the county, and retarded every va- riety of improvement. Mr. Mills moved actively and vigorously in securing the transfer to the geo- graphical center of the township. That point was exceptionally unfavorable, as common opinion went, as it lay in a region of swamps; but the fact was patent that many of the swamps in the eastern part of the county had been reclaimed and constituted farming land of the most valuable character. Noth- ing could be urged against the project on that score; the proof was before the people. Finally the ultimatum was reached and the neces- sary buildings constructed. That point settled beyond change, Mr. Mills gave his attention to se- curing through Croswell the main line of the Port Huron & Northwestern Railroad, then under consid- eration ; and as a result it threads its way from Port Huron through Sanilac County, with the towns loca- ted along its line like beads on a thread, among which Croswell stands [jrominent. The storm of vilification and aspersion that assailed Mr. Mills from the people of Sanilac County where local inter- ests were unavoidably affected by the changes in the county through his instrumentality, was such as might perhaps have been expected under the cir- cumstances; but the future will determine the wis- dom and forethought which secured an immense advantage to the development of the county. The benefit secured by the location of the line of railroad was manifest after the fire of 1881, when the county would have been practically depopulated had there been no ready means of transit for relief suppHes. Mr. Mills is the most extensive agriculturist in Sanilac County. He has improved about 2,000 acres, and the immense farms lying on the western borders of Lexington Township which have been brought to a typical perfection under his manage- ment are leading attractions in Sanilac County. They contain hundreds of acres in single fields, level as a house floor; and at this writing the mam- moth barns seem bursting with the wealth of the garnered harvests. It seems hardly creditable that many of these glowing acres were a few years ago unsightly and noisome swamps. Soon after Mr. Mills came to the county he deter- mined to bring into |3ractical application an idea he had conceived while traveling in the State of New York. On a previous journey ten years earlier his attention was arrested by a tamarack swamp within the line of vision from the cars. To his surprise it had been converted into a seeming Paradise, and it was an achievement which made a strong impression on his practical nature, with its predominating. New England trait of discovering opportunity close at hand and utilizing whatever of resource it held. He bought 73 acres, which he drained and "scratched in " a seeding. The hay crop he harvested sold for $1,560, and the initial agricultural development of Sanilac County was an- established fact. He has reclaimed an immense acreage of swamp land, and his barns cover nearly six acres. The work he lias accomplished for Sanihic County can hardly be portrayed in the scope of a sketch. It must suffice to say that lie has rendered the most effective service as a citizen and a property owner, and has never been unmindful of the public interests. He subscribed $20,000 to the railroad project, and he raised by subscription a large sum for the same pur- pose. He gave the land on which the depot at Cros- well is located, including about 12 acres, built the \^ V <; 0) ._V.--.Sffl^, -^<^^tlll^IlIi;i>A^ ^^^^ (h ro /^ 1 f SANILAC COUNTY. r^i^^^^ depot and furnished the material for the elevator, which was the first in the county; also gave the right of way wherever the survey for the track passed through liis land. He has been largely instrumental in building up Croswell,and several handsome build- ings testify to his public interest. The earliest recorded ancestor of Mr. Mills in the paternal line is Sir Peter Vander Meulen, of Amster- dam, Holland, who distinguished himself in the public works of that country and received his title from his sovereign as a token of appreciation of his services. His son Peter came with the refugees from Leyden to America, and in later life he adopted the Anglicized form of his name, its significance in Eng- lish being, "of the mills." His adoption of the name of Mills is registered in the Colonial Records of Con- necticut. The line of descent is recorded to Judge Isaac Mills, grandfather of Wildman Mills, who was born March 7, 1767, in Huntington, Fairfield Co., Conn. He attained distinction at Yale College, where he was graduated in 1786, studied law at New Haven, where he opened the practice of his profes- sion and identified himself with the advancement and prosperity of the City of Elms. His phenomenal success as an advocate and expounder of law made him prominent, and he passed through the grades of advancement to Chief Judge, to which he was appointed in 1825. He married the daughter of Judge Phelps, of Connecticut, Abigail Richardson Phelps. In 1805 he went to Northern Ohio, in the interests of the Connecticut Fire Lands Company, of which he was secretary, to secure a treaty with the Indians for the extinguishment of their claim, which he accomplished. Among other memorable things which he did was the laying out of the city of San- dusky, in 1817, and he named its avenues and thor- oughfares. His son, Isaac Augustus Mills, was born in 1802, in New Haven, Conn., and was educated at Yale College. He married Sophia Lyman, of San- dusky, Ohio, about 1828, and they had 1 1 children. Three died in infancy. Eight attained adult age and are living at this writing (1884). The fatlier died Aug. 9, 1852, of cholera, at Sandusky. Tlie mother died June 24, 1881, at the same place. Mr. Mills grew to manhood in his native township. He received a substantial elementary education, which was supplemented by a course of advanced study at the High School at Sandusky. His father intended that he should enter the regular army of the United Slates and an appointment at West Point was secured for him. Every preparation had been made to that purpose when his health failed, and on the declaration of his physicians that the plan could only be consummated at the cost of his life, it was abandoned, and lie was placed in charge of his father's farm. It was a large estate and he was but 18 years old, but he continued in personal control of the property until the death of his father, which occurred about five weeks before he reached his legal manhood. On attaining his majority he was appoint- ed administrator of the estate, with his mother as administratrix, and he passed five years in the ad- justment of its extensive and complicated relations. Meanwhile, he studied law with Homer Goodwin, an eminent lawyer of Sandusky, who is still engaged in the prosecution of his profession in that city. He read law about two years, but his business relations and ideas expanded while he was engaged in the labors attendant upon the settlement of his father's estate, and he adandoned his purpose, in order to give undivided attention to real-estate transactions and other avenues of business which enlisted his interest. The shipments of the products of the West to the European markets attracted his notice, and he re- solved upon an experiment, which is one of the best possible exponents of his peculiar traits, and exempli- fy his strong predilection for experiment. In 1859, associated with William S. Pierson, a lawyer and capitalist of the Buckeye State, he built and equipped a three-masted barque, named in honor of Mr. Pier- son. She was of 460 tons burthen, and carried a a cargo of oak staves and long oak ship planks. She was built at Sandusky, and laden at the mouth of Black River, Ohio. One name for the spirit which instigated and developed the project is Yankee enter- prise ; the other is the blindness to exigencies which grows out of inexperience and the natural belief a man of energy possesses in himself to do what others have done. The crew numbered 13 men, the captain was skilled in the lake service, and the force of sailors included but one "old salt." The " William S. Pier- son " left her moorings June 20, 1859, and made her way to the sea. Mr. Mills accompanied as super- cargo. It was expected to obtain a chronometer at )k Vto, 9 ^ fV i»^» (•) ^iDasiitif^ .^^^^ -*^^ m ^^H^^^^^ W T<: 182 TT-T SANILAC COUNTY. J Quebec, but the plan failed and the one experienced ocean sailor became the fac-totum as to pilotage. The '"J* voyage consumed 28 days, and was stormy and cal- T culated to produce uneasiness and discomfort to the (^ inexperienced company aboard. The original des- tination was Liverpool, but on learning of the prox- imity of the English coast from unexpectedly entering a bank of fog, to their dismay they found themselves storm-tossed and in danger of stranding on the rocky coasts which seemed to environ them. At last they found themselves in what seemed to them to be a fleet of vessels, and, inexpressibly relieved, they cast anchor, went ashore and found that they were in Bristol Channel. On attempting to dispwse of the cargo, Mr. Mills found that the ship planks were not marketable for the purpose designed. The American oak lacked tenacity and the other qualities which rendered the live oak of England peculiarly valuable, and Mr. Mills sold the plank to the col- lieries for building purposes. The staves found ready market, and the barque was loaded with merchandise for Detroit and Cleveland, and started on her return voyage, plus a chronome- ter and minus the personal attendance of Mr. Mills, who was quite satisfied with his experience in Bristol Channel. He proceeded to Liverpool by rail, where he lingered two weeks, going thence to London and two weeks later to Paris. After a week in the gayest city in the world, he set out for America by steamer. The " William S. Pierson " made a safe passage, but in making the transit through the Lachine and Beauharnois Canals, she experienced difficulties from her lading, which necessitated a draught of 11 feet of water. The unloading and reloading conse- quent upon existing condition of things, and the final catastrophe of becoming ice-locked in the Wel- land Canal, wrought disaster to the expedition, and the owners found, on effecting a settlement of ac- counts, that the debits exceeded the credits by about $4,000. But to Mr. Mills, the unique expe- rience and the subsequent realization of the risks J^ were events of some moment. He next interested himself in the well known ^* grape scheme on the islands of Lake Erie adjacent ^ to Northern Ohio, and he planted 45 acres of the ^ vine at Sandusky. He was connected with the (^ enterprise three years, and in 1866 sold his entire ^ interest therein and disposed of the bulk of his prop- A^^nn erty in Ohio, for the purpose of going South in charge of a plantation project of considerable extent, the paid-up capital being $100,000. But, instead, he came to Croswell, in accordance with the wishes and plans of Truman Moss, his father-in-law. The unexpected nomination of Mr. Mills for Gov- ernor of Michigan by the Anti-Monopolists in 1884, would imply in him an active interest in politics which is entirely remote from the facts in the case. He has never taken more than a passing interest in politics, as they have been in no sense auxiliary to his purposes in life. But he is a man of opinions and has always possessed decided political bias. He was originally a Democrat of the Jackson type, and during the progress of the civil war was a Doug- las Democrat. He voted with that party until the nomination of Mr. Tilden, when he took a final leave of the party. He voted for Mr. Hayes. On the organization of the National Greenback party he adopted what he considered its sole issue, — the right of the United States to represent her possessions by her promise to pay, and that such promises were equivalent to any other representative of value. The action of the Supreme Court of the United States removed the obstacle in the way of the na- tional greenback as money, and the necessity for the party, as he comprehended it, expired. The reasons of his prompt declination of the nomination tendered him by the Anti-Monopolists are set forth in his letter, which is here given : Croswell, Mich., Sept. 6, r884. Hon. Horatio Pr.\tt, Secretary of the Anti- Monopoly organization of Michigan: Dear Sir: — Your letter informing me that the late Anti-Monopoly State Convention had named me as their candidate for Governor was duly re- ceived. Permit me through tlie committee to assure the Anti-Monopolists of Michigan that I appreciate their confidence and good-will. I have, on all fitting occasions, and by every appropriate means, dis- couraged the use of my name in connection with any nomination whatever, and supposed I had made my position so clear that it could not be misunder- stood ; but learn from correspondents and otherwise that it is still in doubt. I am not and have never been an aspirant for political honors. But even if the nomination had been desired, I ought not to accept it, as the present is no time for a division of effort. The Anti-Monopoly sentiment of Michigan, in whatever organization it may be found, should §lllly>^^9 ^^ v^ C) •■r • ( f^ — ®e»>^j*TS' ^^m^ fS^ f SANILAC COUNTY. ^^m\M 183 ^?^ ;s) present an unbroken front to the common enemy, and by unity and harmony of action lay well the foundation for the coming " People's Party," which will "fuse" into one homogeneous, irresistible na- tional organization all opponents of monopoly rule. Entertaining these views, I must respectfully decline the nomination so unanimously tendered me, believ- ing it my duty to do so for the promotion of the present and future success of the people's cause. With best wishes for the advancement of the principles we advocate, believe me, as ever, an earn- est worker in the cause of humanity and just gov- ernment. W1LDM.4N Mills. In 1882 he was nominated by the convention at Port Huron for Congress, but peremptorily declined. The political bias of Mr. Mills is based upon and guided by the interests of the laboring class. Mrs. Julia H. (Moss) Mills was born Oct 2, 1836, at West Burlington, Otsego Co., N. Y. She is the daughter and only surviving child of Truman Moss (see sketch), and was married to Wildman Mills in the village where she was born, Dec. 27, 1858. Five children constitute the issue of this union, three of whom are deceased. They were born in the follow- ing order: Elizabeth Moss was born Sept. 28, 1861 ; Truman Moss was born July 2, 1866, and died Nov. 7 of the same year; Isaac Augustus, born Oct. 4, 1867, died Feb. 10, 1869; Wildman Ambler was born July 2, 1872, and died on the first day of Sep- tember following; Julia Harriet was born Nov. 7, 1866. The daughters survive. The same fatality which deprived Truman Moss of his sons seems to have pursued the male children of his daughter, all of them dying in infancy. Mrs. Mills is the lady Bountiful of Croswell. She has been a partaker and sharer in all tlie joys and griefs of its people. She has rejoiced in their well- being and prosperity, and has sorrowed with them when affliction has laid upon them its merciless rod. She has been ever ready with her resources of kind- ness, of sympathy, of counsel, to aid as occasion has required. The sick and dying have been the grate- ful recipients of her sympathetic ministrations, and she has guided all her social relations with a solici- tude and judgment which has created for her an influence that cannot be portrayed with words. It is best understood in the regrets which her absence from Croswell creates, and in the warmth of the wel- come which greets her return. [n 1883 Mr. Mills purchased a residence at 507 Woodward Avenue, Detroit, where the family spend the winter seasons. Alternately, the old home at Croswell, which is always open and in readiness for their occupancy, receives them. The family attend the Episcopal Church. Mrs. Mills was one of the earliest to move effectively in the establishment of Christ's Church at Croswell, and has continued to e.xercise a substantial and sustaining interest in its welfare. The family from which Mr. Mills is descended was prominent in its connection with Church affairs in the East and in Ohio. The portrait of Mr. Mills, presented on a preced- ing page, is the likeness of an eminent man which must give satisfaction to all readers of this volume. -v4j2£a;!S^» g4— ^^^i^azOTv latter, ames Anderson, farmer, section 10, Wash- ington Township, has been a resident of '" Sanilac County since 1864. He was born in Halton Co., Ont., Sept. 21, 1830, and is the fifth in order of birth of 12 children, of whom his father and mother were the parents. The John and Elizabeth (Campbell) Anderson, were natives of Scotland. They reached mature life in their native country, were there married, and at once set out to begin the world in America. They came to Canada, where they became land-holders, reared their family, and there their worthy, useful lives were terminated. All their children are living save one : John died when he was eight years old. They were born in the following order : Duncan, John, Christy, Archibald, James, Jeannette, Eliza, Mary, Catherine, John, Alexander and Joseph. Each received a fair common-school education, and the sons were reared to the calling of their father. In the summer of 1864 Mr. Anderson disposed of his interests in the Dominion, and removed to Lex- ington, in Sanilac County, where he remained one year, engaged in teaming and farming. The next six years he passed in similar occupations in Cros- well, then Davisville. He settled on 40 acres of land in Washington Township, in the spring of 187 t. He has since purchased 40 acres additional, and has about 75 acres cleared and otherwise improved. ^ \ ^ J ^. ( ®>^ ^ 184 SANILAC COUNTY. Mr. Anderson is a man of inlelligence and ability. He is an adherent to the principles of the National Greenback party. He has officiated two years as Supervisor of his township, two years as Treasurer, and in the spring of 1883 was elected Justice of the Peace, a position to which he was re-elected in the spring of 1884. He is a member of Charity Grange, No. 417, P. of H., and belongs to the Knights of Labor and Knights of Maccabees. Mrs. Jane (Innis) Anderson, his wife, was born in Canada, and is the daughter of Alexander Innis. Her parents were born in Scotland. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Anderson occurred July 7, 1858, in Huron Co., Ont., and they have had five children — Eupheniia C, Priscilla J., Elizabeth _C., Marcelien and Herbert J. The latter died at the age of 14 years. Mrs. Anderson's demise occurred Jan. 10, 1884, at her home in this township. ;ltve(t'i brahara W. Willits, deceased, a former ^ fclJs' "iS resident of Worth Township, was born ''4^ March 17, 1808, in Columbiana Co., Ohio. He 1!?^ was a son of George and Rebecca Willits, who 1 died in the county where the son was born. The latter attained his majority in his native place, and before that period acquired the trade of cabinet- making. He went to Akron, Ohio, where he re- mained until 1832, and came thence to Sanilac County. He purchased 80 acres of land in Worth Township, to which he added 40 acres by later pur- chase. The entire estate is under cultivation. He was married June 19, 1832, in Detroit, Mich., to Samantha Champin, who was born Oct. 17, 1809, in Genesee Co., N. Y. Of this marriage eight chil- dren have been born : Melissa, Seymour, Maria, Ada, Rebecca, Charles W., Stafford and Amanda. The three last named are deceased. Stafford enlisted in the 22d Reg. Mich. Vol. Inf. He was captured by the rebels at Chattanooga, Tenn., and sent to the stockade prison at Andersonville, Ga., where he died a victim of horrors of the most contagious charac- ter, that have made the very name the synonym of the most ingenious cruelties of which human dia- bolism is capable. Mr. Willits died March, 28, 1876. He was a mem- ber of the M. E. Church, to which liis widow now belongs. \^ k ^ eorge W. Weston, farmer, located on sec- tion -J I, Fremont Township, was born near Champlain, in Vermont, May 7, 1853. He ^ is the son of Alexander and Ruth (New- ton) Weston. His mother died July 20, 1852, ' in Sarnia, Ont., of cholera. Mr. Weston was brought up on a farm, in the de- tails of which vocation he was instructed, as well as in brick-making and lumbering. On reaching his majority, he engaged in carpentry, in which he passed nearly two years. At the end of that time he inter- ested himself in the rearing of horses, which was his occupation four years. In 1859 he came to St. Clair Co., Mich., where he went to work by the month as a lumberman. He came thence to Fremont Township, in 1861, when he bought the farm where he has since resided. He was married in the spring of 1862, to Mar- garet A., daughter of Roger and Jane A. (Taylor) Miliken, who was born in Canada in 1844. Her pa- rents are both deceased. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Weston, as follows: Roger A., July 20,1863; May J., Dec. 23, 1866; Carrie A., June 26, 1869; Kittie, May 7, 1872; Ada, Feb. 13, 1874; Gordon, June 20, 1877 ; Thomas, Feb. i, 1881, and Ruth, April 19, 1884. ^#^ m in Port Hope, Ont. His parents, WiUiani '\§:^ wm>^ 9m wJ omHii^&Tcles Whitaker, farmer, section 29, Wash- !^ ington Township, was born Feb. 28, 1837^ yfS and Ann (Weatman) Whitaker, were born in n\ England and emigrated to Canada, where their death occurred. Mr. Whitaker received as good an education as the location where he grew ■ev<>iio^ni]fi>-r -:2««^^^ SANILAC COUNTY. up admitted, and at the age of 14 years he came to Michigan, and has been a resident of the Peninsular State since that time with the exception of 18 months, which he passed in the Dominion. He came to San- (^. ilac County in 1873, first settling in Buel Township. A year later, he bought his present estate in Wash- ington Township, consisting of 80 acres of land. Of this tract, about 55 acres nre now under the plow and in a creditable condition. Mr. Whitaker is a Demo- crat in his political views. Mrs. Emmeline (Good- ing) Whitaker was born April 18, 1839, in New York, and was married in St. Clair Co., Mich., April 7, 1857. Ten children, which constitute the issue of this union, are all living but one, who died in infancy. They were born in the following order: Mary A., Jesse W., Frederick J., Ellen A., Franklin C, Sarah A., George N., Emma A. and Eva J. eorge Pack, deceased, a former resident of Washington Township, Sanilac County, was born in 1800, in the State of New Jer- sey. He was the son of George and Rebecca (Greene) Pack, the former of direct English lineage, the latter a niece of Gen. Natiianiel Greene, of Revolutionary fame. Mr. Pack, the subject of this sketch, grew to man- hood in New Jersey, and married Maria Lathrop, daughter of Abram and Sarah Lathrop, born April 6, 1810. They became the parents of 13 children, 10 of whom are yet living. Louisa M is the wife of J. J. Tlrornton (see sketcli), of Washington Township. George W. is a heavy dealer in lumber in Cleveland, Ohio. Lorinda and Angeline reside in Lexington. Helen is the wife of Robert Wilson, a lumberman of Seattle, Washington Territory. Albert is a lumber- man at Alpena, Mich., is welt known in political cir- cles and has been a member of the Legislature of Michigan. Green is a lumberman and salt manu- facturer of Oscoda. Josephine resides at Lexington. Arthur is a lumberman at Oscoda. Herbert E. resides at Durango, Col. Mr. Pack exchanged his property in the State of New York for pine land in Washington Township. He bought 80 acres of land situated on the edge of the village of Lexington, where his family resided until 1861. Mr. Pack and his son George W. went to Washington Township, where they personally superintended their lumber and agricultural interests. They continued to buy tracts of land until they held an enormous acreage. They cut and prepared for market the first lumber shipped from Washington Township. A saw and a grist mill were erected on the Black River, and a large amount of land was placed under improvement, to which the family re- moved in 1861. Mr. Pack died there April 5, 1875; the mother died in Lexington, Jan. 28,1883. The father was an important factor in the history of San- ilac County, and was active in local politics. He was a man of more than ordinary ability and pos- sessed inventive genius of no common order. He was the inventor of a valuable stave-cutting machine. He lived a life of usefulness, and is remembered as a trustworthy and enterprising citizen. 9 "! ^ ■m ll^aniel Hay ward, farmer, section 36, Fre- ) mont Township, has been a resident of r^^ Michigan since 1856, his parents, Charles 'jlHsi and Margaret (Dougherty) Hayward, remov- ^ ing from Collingwood, Ont., to St. Clair County \ when he was but one year old. On the advent of civil war his father enlisted in the Union service, and died of fever in the hospital in 1862. He was a carpenter. His widow afterward married Joseph Nelson. Mr. Hayward lived in St. Clair County until he was ten years old. He was brought up on a farm and has pursued the vocation of farmer all his life, with the exception of five years, which he spent in the lumber woods of Northern Michigan, with head- quarters at Saginaw. He has followed lumbering during the winter seasons, and for many years has engaged in threshing after the crops have been harvested. In 1881 he became the owner of a steam thresher. In 1879 he purchased 60 acres of land on section 36, on which he has since resided and labored. He is a Republican in political views and action. Mr. Hayward was married Feb. 2, 1878, to Jane ^ •^niif^v^- 5^J!g«|«S^ •^v<^niisiiii^>r -2if%^^ i86 SANILAC COUNTY. , ) > >^ Sweetser. Of their union four children have been born, whose record is as follows: John, born June 8, 1879, in Fremont; Maggie, born June 8, 1880, died Dec. 18, 1882 ; Ella was born Dec. 31, 188 t ; Charles Edwin was born March 24, 1884. Mrs. Hayward is the daughter of John and Phebe (Dixon) Sweetser. Her father died March 22, 1884, aged 85 years. Her mother resides with her. — sSi- wjii^feavid Simmons, deceased, formerly a farmer \' \:^W'V .. on section 26, Worth Township, was born It'^SV' Sept. 15, 1815, in the Dominion of Can- *)Ki ada, and was there reared to manhood. His parents, John and Jane Simmons, were natives of the State of New York. Mr. Simmons came to Sanilac County in 1S54. He bought 160 acres of land in tlie township of Worth, where he operated as a farmer until his death, which took place July 22, 1879. His marriage to Emily Hicks occurred in Canada, Oct. 7, 1838. Her parents, Peter and Mar- garet Hicks, were of French origin. Mrs. Simmons was born Oct. 4, 1819, in Lower Canada. The chil- dren born to her and her husband were eight in number, viz.: Martha, Mary and William W. are the names of tlie survivors. Miles, Warner, Samuel, William (2d) and Jane deceased. Mrs. S. is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, as was also her husband. -; — ^^^S|"^^s-vv — H oseph Galbraith, farmer, section 30, Worth Township, is the son of Robert and Alice ' (Denniston) Galbraith. The parents were natives of Ireland, and emigrated thence to It Canada, where they passed the remainder of \ their lives. M'r. Galbraith, of this sketch, was born in Ireland, Oct. I, 1836. He was nearly 11 years old when he accompanied his parents to Canada, where he lived until the spring of 188 1. He was there engaged in agriculture, and at the date named he came to Sani- lac County. He bought 560 acres of land in Worth Township, and has placed 300 acres under cultiva- tion. He is a member of the Republican party. He was married in Canada, Nov. 7, 1862, to Maria, daughter of John and Eleanor (Johnson) Canton. She was born Jan. 8, 1839, in Livingston Co., N. Y. The ten children of which she has been the mother were named as follows : Alice, Joseph, James I., Robert, Eleanor I., Wellington, David W., Maria S., John W. and Franklin. The two last named are deceased. The parents of Mrs. Galbraith were born in Ireland and emigrated to the United States. In October, 1854, they went from the State of New York to Canada, where the father died, in the fall of 1865. >!?^.,.,-t. rrin A. Munn, merchant at Anderson (Washington Township), has been a resi- dent of Sanilac County and township from infancy. He became master of his own for- tunes at the age of 20 years, and passed the 10 years succeeding in various pursuits. In 1879 he located in the village of Anderson, and in 1880 he formed an association with George Madi- son in mercantile business. The building in which they operated was destroyed by fire in 1881, and in the fall of that year their relations were dissolved. Mr. Munn rebuilt the store and again established himself in trade. In the summer of 1883 he asso- ciated John S. Sherman with himself, and the busi- ness has since been carried on by their joint efforts. In July, 1880, Mr. Munn was appointed Postmaster, and has since discharged the duties of the position. He has been active in the general affairs of his township, and has officiated four years as Township Clerk, three years as Notary Public and a number of terms in the different school offices. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity, and is a Republican in politi- cal sentiment. Mr. Munn was born Nov. 19, 1852, in Cook Co., 111., whence his parents, Otis and Cordelia (Sherman) Munn, removed to Sanilac County within the same year. They are natives respectively of Massachu- setts and Pennsylvania. They resided some years () ^ >^^' ^^^ z^^K — 6^vC>D n i^ n Dr^T^ rr ";2i»'^^i'%r' (h V ^ O SANILAC COUNTY. 187 in Cook Co., 111., and since the date named have been and still are living in Sanilac County. Their family inchides five children, Mr. Munn of tliis sketch being the eldest. His marriage to Rhoda J. Mattison occurred March 25, 1877, at Port Sanilac. Her father, James Mattison, was born in the State of New York, and married Emma Heritage, who was born in England. Mrs. Munn was born Dec. 23, 1853, in Sanilac t'ounty. Of this marriage three children have been born, — ^Herbert M., Emma C. and Bessie. The sec- ond cliild died when she was about a year old. -^ ~T^ =ei- ; PlPfjjpiles Simmons, farmer, section 26, Worth Ji,, T^'' ii /a^ _ Township, is the son of David and Emily fM^te: (Hicks) Simmons, natives of Canada, y^ \ where they were married and spent many ■1^ years of their lives. In the fall of 1853 Ihey ( settled in Worth Township, where Mr. S. died, in July, 1879. Their family included four sons and three daughters. Mr. Simmons is the eldest child of his parents, and was born Aug. 28, 1839, in Hastings Co., Ont. He received a fair education in the schools of Can- ada and Michigan, whither he accompanied his par- ents. In December, 1861, he enlisted in the loth Reg. Mich. Vol. Inf, in which he served three years and two months. He received an honorable discharge at Detroit, and returned to his father's in Worth Township. In 1867 he bought 40 acres of wild land, to which he added 60 acres by later pur- chase. On this he has expended his energies and efforts, until he has placed the entire track under cultivation. The place is supplied with good farm buildings and improvements generally, and is a val- uable possession. He is a Republican of decided type, and has served his townsmen in several official capacities. He has been Justice of the Peace, and is present Township Treasurer. He is a member of Post H .H. Nims, G. A. R. Mr. Simmons, junior, was married June 16, 1866, in St. Clair Co., Mich., to Mary A., daughter of John and Eleanor (VVaite) Losie. The parents were natives of Canada, where the daughter was born June 30 1838. David E., Sarah E. and Warner Blaine are the children now included in the family of Mr. Sim- mons. 'vfa:i2/©-^-*— S|-^^ W§!—^''^%eusvtv. eldon A. Englehart, farn\er, section 27, Washington Township, has been a resident jlKi*:^ °^ Michigan since he was a lad. He be- Vi|f5^ came a citizen of Buel Township, in Sanilac County, in 1863, where he lived about 10 years, operating as a farmer. In 1873 he sold his place there and bought 80 acres of land, where he has since lived. Half of the farm is now cultiva- ted. He is independent in political views, and has served his generation in the capacities of Justice of the Peace, School Treasurer, and, while a resident of Buel, was Township Treasurer one year. Mr. Englehart was born Dec. 13, 1835. His par- ents, Peter and Margaret Englehart, were born in Germany. They emigrated to the United States and settled in the State of New York, where Mrs. E. died. The father came to Michigan, whence he en- listed, at Detroit, as a soldier in the Mexican War in 1847, and died at Cincinnati on his way home. The subject of this sketch was married at Croswell (Davisville), Jan. 4, 1864, to Margaret A. Gaffney. She was born Feb. 14, 1S44, in Ontario. An only child died in infancy. <:f^|ieholas Wolfel, of the firm of Wolfel & i ^i'Qif Saety, proprietors of the Lexington Flour- lif^S?^ ing Mills, was born June 21, 1832, in Bo- •^''^ hemia. He is the son of John and Elizabeth 1^ (Wunderlig) Wolfel, and his parents were also natives of Boheinia. He learned the trade of mill- wright in his native country, and in 1852 emigrated thence to the United States. He first located in St. Clair Co., Mich., where he remained six years, working at his trade. At the expiration of that time I © 0) ®r^^t A <.m^^ W>^rB — ^«»^ ^^B -5t?€^*^ v4:DIi:^IiD^i>v 1 88 "CT SANILAC COUNTY. ) he came to Lexington, and formed an association with Charles Decker, in company with whom he erected a flouring mill of limited capacity. They conducted its interests together about nine years, when Mr. Wolfel became sole owner and managed his milling business singly four years. In 1873 he formed his present connection witii Gustave Saety. The old mill was torn down and replaced by their present establishment, which has a capacity of 80 barrels per day, and is chiefly devoted to custom work. The mill is located on three-fourths of an acre of ground. Mr. Wolfel owns a considerable amount of village real estate, and is a member of the Ma- sonic Order. He has been a member of the Village Board several years, and has officiated as its Presi- dent ; he has also served as Assessor of real estate. His marriage to Barbara Snapp occurred at Port Huron, Oct. 16, 1859. She was born Jan. i, 1839, in Bavaria. Eddy, born Sept. 29, i860, and Emily Louisa, born Feb. 4, 1863, are the children that have been born of this union. The parents are commu- nicants of the Episcopal Church. ^^sfriHSH^-o '^sJt^jf^ . ulius A. Hosmer, merchant at Carsonville, is the son of L. B. and Asenath L (Cum- mings) Hosmer, natives respectively of Connecticut and New York. After their mar- riage they settled in the northern part of Ohio, where Mrs. H. died: Mr. H. is still living. They had 12 children. Mr. Hosmer, of this sketch, is the i ith in order of birth, and was born Jan. 22, 1859, in Cuyahoga Co., Ohio. He received a good education in the common and high schools. His mother died when he was eight years old, and since that time the responsi- bility of self-maintenance has been upon himself In the fall of 1878 he came from the Buckeye State to Sanilac County, and passed the time until the spring of 1883 in clerking and teaching. At the time named he built a store, where he established his hardware business, in which he has since been successfully engaged, having the only trade in that line at Carsonville. He is a Republican in political principles. He was married June 2, 1880, at Port Sanilac, to Ellen F., daughter of Henry and Mary (Ferguson) Oldfield. She was born in Sanilac County, June 2, 1861. Herbert O., born June 13, i88i,and Bessie M., born April 16, 1884, are the only children of Mr. and Mrs. Hosmer. fcarvey W. Smith, M. D., physician and surgeon, located at Carsonville, was born Oct. 24, 1855, in Went worth Co., Ont. His parents, George F. and Mary (Rathbone) Smith, are natives of Canada, and are still residents of the Dominion. They had four children. Dr. Smith is the youngest. He obtained a good practical common-school education, and later stud- ied at the High School at Coburg. He determined on the profession of medicine as a vocation, and passed the preliminary examination necessary to enter upon the course of study prescribed in the Trinity Medical College of Ontario. He matricu- lated at the Kingston branch, entering Trinity Medi- cal School of Toronto, where he studied three years, leaving that institution with first-class credentials. He was admitted to a Fellowship in the Medical Department of Trinity Medical School at Toronto, and graduated with the degrees of M. B. at Toronto University, M. D. and C. M. at Trinity College. He passed successful examinations before the Col- lege of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario, and opened his career as a medical practitioner at Cale- donia, Ont., in company with J. M. Forbes, M. D., with whom he continued in business one year. In the spring of 1881 he came to Sanilac County, and located at Carsonville, where he has since resided and established his business as a medical practitioner. Dr. Smith is neutral in [xilitical views. He is a member of the Masonic Order and belongs to the Knights of Maccabees. He was married in Ontario, Feb. 22, 1879, to Phebe A., daughter of David and Mary A. Smith. The parents are natives of Ontario, where the daughter was born, April 21, 1854. Mrs. Smith is a graduate from the Wesleyan Female College at Hamilton. She is the mother of two children Reginald G. and Alpha C. She and her husbanc are members of the Methodist Church. C< (V ^ ^^iiii^nnfi>- -4^^ SANILAC COUNTY. ■ >. «1 ohn Beekton, farmer, located on section ^§^:7 26, Flynn Township, was born Feb. 28, cv-i- ;> jgg j^ jj^ Dinnfrieshire, Scotland. When he was 18 years old his parents emigrated to j^ America and became residents of Middlesex I Co., Ont., where they have since resided. The first event in tlie life of Mr. Beekton, out of the common routine of his youth and early manhood, was his marriage to Anna E. Lodge, which occurred May 9, 1878, in Middlese-x Co., Ont. She was born Jan 17, 1S59, in England. She was 16 when her parents removed from their native land to America, and she remained with them in Ontario until her marriage. Mary E. and George H. are the names of the children which have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Beekton. The year following their union in wedlock, they came to Michigan and located on a tract of 80 acres of land which Mr. Beekton had purchased the previous year. He has placed 25 acres in fine till- able condition. In political sentiment he is in sympa- thy with the Republican party, but is not yet a citizen of his adopted country. He and his wife are mem- bers of the Methodist Episcojjal Church. 'ohn W. Cook, farmer, located on section 16, Marlette Township, was born in Whit- by, Ontario Co., Ont., May 2, 1S58. His mother died a few days after his birth, and he ]L vvas under the care of his father until he was II years of age, when he found himself under the necessity of making exertions, not only for him- self, but for the maintenance of his father. He be- gan to operate aj a farm laborer, receiving $10 per month for six months. He was once more occupied at home at the expiration of that period, and a short time afterward set about making his own way in the world in good earnest, and since that time has earned his living without assistance. In 1878 he came to Sanilac County and became a farm laborer for Alvero Collins (see sketch), of Buel Township. Two years later, he returned to Ontario and was tliere married Nov. 19, 1880, to Sarah, daughter of James and Adaline (Drinkwater) Mills. Her mother is still living, in Ontario. Her father died when she was nine years old, and a little before that event she was adopted by Mr. and Mrs. Ensign, of Ontario Co., Ont., with whom she lived until her marriage. Jus- tus, born Jan. 30, 1883, and Nora, born Jan. 30, 1884, are the children that have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Cook. Soon after their marriage they came to Michigan and Mr. Cook returned to the service of his former employer, where he continued nearly a year. He went thence to Lexington and operated as a farm as- sistant for Peter C-enette. In the month of Octo- ber, 1883, he came into possession of the property which he now occupies, by bequest from his aunt, Mrs. Orilla Bennett. It consists of 100 acres of land, mostly under advanced improvements, having 90 acres in a finely cultivated condition. Mr. Cook is in sympathy with the principles and issues of the Republican party. C^^i'i amuel Moore, farmer and breeder of stock, y»l ^>,_ resident on section 32, Moore Township, 1 ^' was born Oct. 22, 1842, in Brant Co., Bur- ford Tp,, Can., and is the son of James and Sarah (Kinsey) Moore. The father was born in Canada, Oct. 24, 1800, and died Sept. 29, 1879. The mother was also born in the Dominion, Aug. 15, i8io, and yet resides there. Mr. Moore left home when he was 15 years of age and engaged in lumbering, in whicli he was interested about 18 years, after which he bought a saw and grist mill, and contmued the business of a lumber- man about the same length of time, when he sold his property in Canada and settled in Sanilac County. He became the proprietor of 70 acres of land, to which he has added by later purchases until he owns about 900 acres. The farm is in first-class condition, with large and well constructed barns and dwellings. Mr. Moore was married Sept. 19, i86g, to Eliza- beth S., daughter of Peter and Jane (Chant) Fox. Her mother was born in 1827, in England, and died Sept. II, 1881. The father was born in 1817, in Can- ada, and died in 1856. Tlie children of Mr. and Mrs. Moore are five in number and were born as V© I A c^: < (') ^^^ii!i^iiD;>i^9 — ^^ca^ <®^^^ follows: William J., Aug. 21, 1870; Sarah J., May 9, 1872, died Sept. 11, 1873; John P., Sept. 26, 1874; Wildman A., Oct. i, 1879; Andrew S., Sept. 1 1, 1883. In political connection Mr. Moore is a Republican. He lias been Supervisor of his township two terms and School Superintendent five terms. ^ V s 'O ohn McGill, merchant and Postmaster at Marlette, was born Aug. 18, 1825, in Scot- land, of which country his parents, Qiientin and Jeanette (Wilson) McGill, were also na- tives. They passed the entire course of their lives in their native land, where the mother died in 1848 and the father in 1872. Their children were six in number — four sons and two daughters. (( ) Mr. McGill is the youngest son, and resided in ^ Scotland until July, 1845. He received a common- school education, and at the date named came to Canada. He spent two years in the Dominion, in %jft various places and variously employed, coming thence to Detroit, where he spent a winter workmg at his trade of shoemaking, which he had learned in his native land. He went next to Mt. Clemens in Macomb County, and after a stay there of si.\ months proceeded to Romeo, a village in the same county, where he resided nearly 18 years, devoting his time to the prosecution of the shoe business. In the fall of 1866 he located at Marlette, where he built the first grist and saw mill in this section of the county, in which enterprise he was associated with George H. Fenner. The saw-mill was in running order in the summer of 1867, and the grist mill was ready for business at Christmas following. In the spring of 1868 he removed his family hither, and has since been engaged in the active prosecution of his busi- ness interests. The mills first alluded to were both burned the spring after being built; the grist-mill was never rebuilt, but the saw-mill was immediately re- erected. In 1869 lie disposed of his mill property, and established himself in trade. In 187 i he again be- came the proprietor of the mill interest he had vfy previously sold and continued its management in ^^ connection with his other business until 1883, when f® he leased it to other parties to secure opportunity to ^ prosecute more effectively liis other business interests. He received his appointment as Postmaster of Mar- lette in 1869, during the first administralion of Presi- dent Grant. He is the owner of considerable real estate in the township of Marlette, which comprises about 700 acres of land with 250 acres under good cultivation. He is the senior member of the banking firm known as McGill & Co., which was established in 1882, with a capital of $10,000. Mr. McGill has worked his way to competency by the sure route of industry and frugality, combined with correct judg- ment and the sort of perseverance which always wins in a newly settled region possessing the resources of this section of the Peninsular Stale. He came to Canada in company with his brother and had only sufficient means to ensure a comfortable journey there, having only his manly strength and purpose and a knowledge of shoe-making. He is a Repub- lican in political connection, but lias never been an aspirant to official prominence. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity. His residence, which he began to erect in the fall of 1882 and completed in the spring of 1884, is one of the finest and most substantial in this jiart of the county and is an ornament to the place where it is located. Mr. McGill was married March 8, 1849, in Al- mont, Lapeer Co., Mich., to Caroline, daughter of Joshua (Goldthorpe) Smith. The parents were na- tives of England and the daughter was born in the State of Connecticut Nov. 14, 1829. Flora E. and William B. are the children which have been born to Mr. and Mrs. McGill. 'W^l eter Banks, farmer, section 26, Flynn Town- |fc|^; ship, was born June 29, 1846, in Caithness- p7-I^ shire, in the north of Scotland, and is the and remained in his native land two years after he obtained his majority. He then emigrated to Amer- ica, and for a time was a resident of Middlesex Co., Can., coming thence to Lapeer Co., Mich., where he remained but a brief period. He went next to To- ronto, Out., where he was married July 14, 1873, to Annie Nicholson, a native of Scotland and daughter of William and Isabella (Nichols) Nicholson. She 9 S ^ ca: ^, «*j- ii^®>>^^#- .^ A<^II!l^Iltlf>^ ,'®?l w :2#€^&: 6v4itl n^ B>t i (&, :<^ <> (i) TT SANILAC COUNTY. 191 1^ was 22 years of age when she came with her two sisters to Canada, where she was married soon after. Mr. and Mrs. Banks have seven cliildren, born in the order named : Georgiana, June 28, 1S74; James A., July 9, 1875; Margaret E., Sept. 16, 1876; Minnie C, May 24, 1878 ; Jessie, Sept. 16, 1S79; Annie, June I, 1881 ; William John, Oct. 28, 1882. Soon after marriage, Mr. Banks rented a farm in the township of Eckfiied, Middlesex Co., Ont., where he operated until his removal to Michigan, in October, 1879, when he located on 80 acres of land in Flynn Township, of which he became the proprietor by pur- chase. This has since been the home of the family, and there is now 35 acres of the place under credit- able cvltivation. In political belief Mr. Banks favors the views of the Republican element. In religious sentiment he and his wife are Presbyterians. , ohn L. Fitch, lumberman and farmer on section 25, Marlette Township, was born March 10, 18^3, in Canada. He is the fourth child of Thomas and Margaret (Bea- ]C^ com) Fitch (see sketch), and accompanied his parents to Sanilac County when he was about four years of age. He has grown to man's estate in the county where he now resides, and has interested him- self in the calling common to this section of Mich- igan. He has spent 14 winters in the various details of lumbering, and has devoted the remaining seasons of the years to the improvement and culti- vation of 160 acres of land which he owns in Mar- lette Township. He has placed 75 acres in a profitable and creditable condition. In political affiliation he is a Democrat. ff (i Mi'i illiam W. Kerr, farmer, section 7, Flynn .i»^.^^\|i 'Pownship, was born Oct. 7, 1843, m '' Old xp Cambridge," Mass. His parents, Joseph and 'iff^ Ann (Campbell) Kerr, were born respectively in Ireland and Scotland. The father was a farmer, and when the son was but a few months old the family removed to Huron Co., Ont , where the senior Kerr was again engaged in that pursuit until his death, Dec. 7, 1883, at the age of 80 years. The mother is 68 years of age and is a resi- dent of Ontario. Mr. Kerr was reared to the vocation of farmer, and obtained a good education in the district schools. He remained with his parents until he was 24 years of age, when he was married to Tabitha E. Ervin. She was born June 21, 1851, in Oxford Co., Can., and remained with her parents until her mar- riage. Her father and mother, Alfred and Anna E. (Carroll) Ervin, were born in Ontario and Germany, and descended from German and Irish parentage. The father died about 1873, in Marlette, Mich., when he was 47 years of age. The mother resides in Mar- lette and is 53 years of age. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Kerr, in the following order: Mary J., James D., Alfred A., Anna E., Joseph, William G. and Ogle V. C. At the expiration of the first year of their marriage the parents removed to the village of Marlette, then in its incipiency, where they resided 12 years, the father being engaged in farming. In 1880 he exchanged his property for 160 acres of land, on which some improvements had been made, on sections 7,12 and 18, in Flynn Township, of which he at once took possession and entered vig- orously into the work of putting the property in first- class condition. He now has 60 acres under the plow. Mr. Kerr is a Republican in political connec- tion and has held the minor offices in his township. He and his wife are members of the Baptist Church. |^^^^•»®i^a<^JZT^rav. i ||l!!;| raneis 1 lg£3><5; A. Scribner, proprietor of the El- u mer House, Elmer village, Moore Tovvn- "^ ship, is the son of Solomon L. and Ursula (Tibbetts) Scribner. The former was born June ^^^ 6, 1820, in London, Can. He is a mechanic I and worked as such while a resident of the Dominion. He removed to Elmer in 1882. The mother was born Dec. i, 1826, in the city of Montreal. Mr. Scribner was born Dec. 9, 1849, •" Macomb Co., Mich. He received a common-school education and was an inmate of the paternal home until he was 26 years of age. He was then engaged in farmingin St. Clair Co., Mich., and in the year 1876 he was married to Laura L., daughter of George. H. and Jelaina (Putnam) Dingman. She was born May 6, 1859, in Imlay City, Lapeer Co , Mich. Her parents v§) ^^ C'.' K 192 SANILAC COUNTY. ■:sr % f :^^ ) ^ are natives of Delaware, Can., where her fatlier en- gaged in farming and kimbering. They now reside in St. Clair Co., Mich., whitl.er they removed in 187 i. Mr. Scribner remained in St. Clair County four years after his marriage, when he moved to Elmer and embarked in tlie business which he has since . prosecuted. Three children are now included in the family household, who were born as follows : Adelia J., May 30, 1877 ; Townsend T., Dec. 19, 1879; George L., July 6, 1881. Mr. Scribner is a Repub- lican in political sentiment and connection, and has officiated as Constable of his township since his re- moval hither. nasisisifi^^r «^5!/Zl2OTv>- \\ ellington Parker, Treasurer of Lamotte Township, was born May 22, 18 19, in jil^^rT^ the township of Yarmouth, Elgin Co., j|^> Can. He is the son of William and Nancy Parker, and is of mixed Irish and German descent. His paternal grandfather, John Parker, was born in Cork, and married Mary Watson, a native of the city of Dublin. They emigrated to Nova Scotia, and after a short residence there went to Pennsyl- vania and settled on the banks of the Susquehanna River, where they secured a proprietary claim of 200 acres of land, and also a title to an island in the river, where they had a residence. The occupancy of the island was a source of much discomfort at the season of the year when the stream was swollen, and often of danger, as the river rises sometimes with great rapidity, and on more than one occasion the family were in imminent peril, barely escaping with their lives to the main land. John Parker was a Tory, and, disgusted with the result of the Revolution, he abandoned his property and went back to Nova Scotia. He removed thence to Canada, and settled in Welland County, on the Chippewa River, thirty miles from its mouth, where he remained until 181 6, when he removed his family to Elgin Co., Can., into a dense wilderness. The trials and privations they encountered may be estimated from the fact that they were obliged to go 70 miles to mill. They car- ried their grain on their backs to the water's edge, about a mile from their home, and placed it in a small canoe, which they rowed to Port Ryerse in Simcoe. In ,9 ^^^ ^ r -#^(<®V^ SANILAC COUNTY. Great Britain. (See sketch of Dr. S. W. Bedford.) Mr. Parker was wholly in sympathy with the reform party, but saw no possible chance for the success of the movement. He remained a resident of the Do- minion until iS8i,when he came to Sanilac County, and settled on i6o acres of land situated on sections 29 and 30, Lamotte Township. It is a valuable piece of real estate, conveniently situated, and he and his two sons, Wellington and Frank, have placed 80 acres under advanced cultivation. They took possession of the place with courage, and during the spring and summer of 1881 accomplished a wonder- ful change. They built a good house and had fair prospects of speedy prosperity when the ill-fated fifth of September arrived. The air was thick and dis- mal with the smoke of the fires in adjacent townships, and on that day it became a certainty in Lamotte. The cinder blew from a piece of woods about 30 rods from the dwelling of Mr. Parker and the house was soon in flames. There was no help or relief, only to save life. Everything was parched from the long continued dry weather. Mr. Parker and the children found safety from the flames at a point some rods from their home protected by a piece of woods which did not take fire. Mr. parker stayed with his con- suming house and managed to make a slight saving. He obtained breath by throwing himself flat on the ground, face downward, his clothing frequently taking fire. The details are told in full in another ])art of this book. Mr. Parker's loss was about $1,200. He and his sons again set to work to re-establish their fortunes, and have put the farm in valuable and promising condition. A suitable and convenient house has been built, at an expense of $1,500, and at this writing the fair fields are like gold with the waiting harvest. The first shock of the sharp and sudden loss having passed, time and effort have brought reward that sheds a softer remembrance over tlie sore affliction of Sept. 5, 1881. Wellington Parker, Jr., was born Feb. 8, 1S57, in Elgin Co., Can. He has always lived with his father, and is one of the substantial young men upon whom is placed the hope and reliance for the future development and prosperity of Sanilac County. They are well founded in this instance, Mr. Parker possess- ing the sturdy traits of perseverance and wholesome judgment which characterize the nationalities from which he is descended. He and his brother Frank have all the characteristics which develop men under the fostering influences of a republican form of government. Industrious, honest, intelligent and con- siderate, they have an assured future and their town and county is fortunate in the promise of their citi- zenship. Father and sons are Republicans of no un- certain type. Wellington is a member of the M. E. Church. He has an excellent education, and in the spring of 1884 was elected School Inspector. V3; -^-•<-^^4#>-^>-^ ■ASii p[-^r. James A. Watson, physician and sur- k^^ll geon, resident at Brown City, was born 1£ Aug. 2, 1862, in Greenwood Township, St. jnA Clair Co., Mich. His parents, William and ^ Ellen (Crocker) Watson, were natives of Ontario S and were farmers all their lives. They became residents of Michigan about 1850, settling in St. Clair County. The father became a soldier in the Union Army and died of disease at Murfreesboro, Tenn., after a year's service. The mother is a resident of the township of Grant, St. Clair County. J. A. Watsoii was scarcely beyond infancy when his father died. His mother cared for and reared him to the age of 16 years. He became skilled in agriculture and obtained a fair education in the com- mon schools. When he was 17 years old, he became a district school teacher, and a year later he entered the Medical Department of the University at Ann Arbor. He was graduated there in 1883, and not long after receiving tlie authority of the institution he established himself as a practitioner at Brown City. His business is already satisfactory, and he is steadily advancing in the confidence and esteem of his patrons. He is an adherent and supporter of the principles of the Republican party. ^^$^*|^ Can., Jan Dominion. Mr. Pitcher was born March 2, 1S46, in O.xford (^ ^ lilansing D. Pitcher, agriculturist, located ^y J'-- (111 sec;tion -js, Moore Township, is the son V',^ of Archibald and Hannah (Rock) Pitcher. ■Jiff The father was born Feb. 5, 1820, in Queens- iji bury, Warren Co., N. Y., and died Jan. 28, 1882; the mother was born in Wetland Co., 18, 1823, and died March 8, 1856, in the ii m ®>)^#«- ¥^ Mi f ;■' ) A 194 SANILAC COUNTY. -€S- Co., Can. When he was 24 years of age he engaged in threshing and saw-milling, alternating in their pursuits until 1879, when he came to Sanilac County and settled on the farm he has since conducted, which includes 40 acres of land, with 23 acres im- proved, and supplied with good buildings. He is in prosperous circumstances, notwithstanding the fact that he sustained a loss of $1,800 by the burning of his saw-mill, a quantity of logs, his barn, stables and grain in the fire of 1881. In 1878, he was married to Sarah J., daughter of James and Sarah (Chambers) Rounds. The father was born in Staffordshire, Eng., and died March 9, 1882. The mother resides in Sanilac County. Mrs. Pitcher was born Oct. 3, 1858, in Canada. Ada A. and Clarence A., born respectively Oct. 18, 1879, and Sept. 22, 1883, are the children of Mr. and Mrs. Pitcher. The parents are members of the Inde- pendent Order of Good Templars, in which work they are ardently interested. ?'&"^'^ orris Rockwell, farmer, section 19, Flynn Ij^S^ia^'- Township, was born Nov. 13, 1830, in ^S''" Ridgefield, Fairfield Co., Conn. His par- '^^^\ ents, Charles and Sarah A. (Brotherton) ^^'* Rockwell, were also natives of the same section I of the "land of steady habits," Yankees by birth but of a line of descent which originated in the "land of the shamrock." The father was a farmer in his native State, and in 1849 removed with his family to Oakland Co., Mich., where the parents resided the remaining portion of their lives ; the demise of the father occurred June 9, 185 i, that of the mother, Oct. I, 1882. Their family comprised ten children, all of whom are still living, and eight of them are residents of the Peninsular State. Mr. Rockwell is the eldest son and second child of his parents. He was reared to the vocation of farm- ing, and obtained a reasonably fair education in the common school. He was 19 years of age when his par- ents became residents of Michigan, and he remained under their control until the period of his majority. He then entered upon the contest of life in his own behalf, engaging at first as a common laborer on a farm. He continued to operate in that manner un- til his marriage, Dec. 10, 1862, in Washtenaw Co., Mich., to Eunice Eaton. She was born in that county, and was the daughter of Hosea Eaton. She died in her native county May 29. 1865. Mr. Rockwell was again married Jan. i., 1868, in Oakland Co., Mich., to Mary E. Beaumont, daughter of Francis and Maria (Rosebone) Beaumont. Her parents were natives respectively of England and New York, and of English and Gemian descent. They are still liv- ing in Oakland County, and are actively engaged in farming. They are aged 74 and 70 years. Mrs. Rockwell is the eldest daughter of her parents, whose family included nine children. She is the fourth in order of birth and was born in Highland, Oakland County, Aug. 26, 1845. She was reared and educated in her native county. Five children are now included in the household of Mr. Rockwell, who were born as follows: Charles G., April 7, 1870; Walter L., Sept. 16, 1872; Elsie, June 28, 1874; Elmer A., Jan. 24, 1880; Harry H., June 25, 1883. • After marriage Mr. and Mrs. R. remained two years on a farmin Oakland (bounty, and in December, 1875, they removed to Sanilac County and entered a claim of 142 acres of land on section 19 of Flynn Town- ship. To this they have added 40 acres by later purchase. The place is now in prosperous condition, with 40 acres under the plow and a fine young orchard. It is supplied with a good house and suit- able farm buildings. In social standing the family rank with the community of which they are members, and they are an influential element in the local mat- ters of the township. Mr. Rockwell is a Republican and has been Justice of the Peace eight years. -J — "'^^^P-^^-i'^ s allace B. Brooks, merchant at Novesta Evergreen Township, was born Dec. 14, 1848, in Canada, and is the son of Henr}' and Ann (Reynolds) Brooks, both of whom were born in Troy, N. Y., the former in 1813, the latter in 1821. The father is a farmer near Memphis, Macomb Co., Mich. ''p) At the age of 14 years, Mr. Brooks became an as- 1 sistant in a bakery and confectionery establishment, ^"^ in wliich he was employed two years. He was 16 ~ years old when he became steward on a boat which plied on the river St. Lawrence, called the "Butcher Boy," and he operated thereon five seasons. At the A ^: (v DDf^^^- ^r®^ :©#« SANILAC COUNTY. 4^^( H '^1 sji S^il enj amin Gamble, "mine host" of the ^iiLffiJF Brown City Hotel, was born Sept. 6, 185 1, DI]^IiIl>>v ->sW^ SANILAC COUNTY. ^ he joined there aiid assisted in his business by driv- ing a team. He was employed five years. His mar- riage to Mary A. Morris occurred in Huron Co.,Ont., June 28, 1875. She was born June 3, 1854, in Ox- ford Co., Ont. Her parents are in advanced years and reside in this township. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Gamble located at Grand Bend, Ont., where they resided until December, 1879, when they came to Michigan and engaged in agriculture two years in Lapeer County. In January, 1S83, they came to Brown City and purchased the hotel property which they have since managed, belonging then to Isaac Swan. They have been successfully engaged and have more than doubled their hotel facilities. Tlie establishment is comfortably furnished and equipped, with a capacity for accommodating 30 guests. Mr. Gamble also owns an improved lot within the village limits. ames S. Denton, farmer, section 10, Moore .. iGi>.'l Townshii), is the son of Darius and Electa j^5 • ' (Lynch) Denton, both of whom were na- W lives of the State of New York. The former was born in 1809, and died June 18, 1882 ; the \ latter was born in 1S15, and resides in Memphis, Macomb Co., Mich. Mr. Denton was born Aug. 24, 1845, in Macomb Co., Mich. He passed the years of his minority in the home of his parents, and on reaching the period of his legal freedom he engaged in farming in his own behalf and for his father also. His marriage occurred in 1867, when Miss Celia Canfield became his wife. She was born Dec. 27, 1845, in the town- ship of Columbus, St. Clair Co., Mich., and is the daughter of C. R. and Mary A. (Palmer) Canfield, natives of Connecticut. The mother was born in 1817, the father in 1821. Mr. Canfield was a lawyer by profession and was appointed Revenue officer by President Johnson. Mr. Denton came to Sanilac County in 1880 and settled on 80 acres of land, on which he has since resided and which is in a well-improved condition. He is a Republican in political faith and action. He has been School Inspector, and in 1884 was elected to his present office of Highway Commissioner. He is a member of Memphis Lodge, No. 142, F. & A. M. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Denton were born as follows : Jennie E., Oct. 30, 1871 ; May, Aug. 18, 1874; Cecil C, Oct. II, 1883. The parents are members of the Congregational Church. iehard Pearson, farmer, section 4, Moore Township, was born Oct. 6, 1853, in Whit- by Township, Canada. He is the son of ;^Bartholomew and Emily J. (Hudson) Pearson. The parents were born respectively in York- shire, England, and County Wexford, Ireland. They now belong to the agricultural class of Sanilac County. When he was 18 years old, Mr. Pearson left home to make his own way in the world, and spent si.\ years as a lumberman and saw-mill assistant. In the fall of i860 he came to Sanilac County with his parents, and in 1875 he was married to Addie M. Pope. She was born Oct. 17, 1S57, in Oceana Co. Mich., and is the daughter of Alfred and Nancy J. (Brown) Pope. The former was born July i, 1830, in London, Eng. He was a sailor in early life and is now a carpenter and joiner by trade. The mother was born June 16, 1837, in Enfield, N. Y. One child has been born to Mr. and Mrs. Pearson : Lillian, June 6, 1879. Mr. P. is a Republican, and has been Justice of the Peace and School Moderator. Mrs. Pearson is an artist in taste and practice and exhibits fine results of her skill and genius. j'homas H. Mahaffy, farmer, section 9, Flynn Township, was born July 26, 185 1, in ^ County Armagh, Ireland. His parents, William and M. A. Mahaffy, were also natives of the " Green Isle," where tiiey passed their entire lives. When he was 23 years of age he came to America and at first located in Ontario, Dominion of Canada. He went thence to Romeo, Macomb Co., Mich., where he entered the employ of E. W. Giddings, a banker of that place. He came to Sanilac County in the fall of 1879, and purchased the property where he has since resided and operated as a farmer, on 160 acres of land. He has cleared and improved about 20 acres. C 1 — r l'\®))f^f|^ A <^nti:^:illi;t>A^ ^^ A ; ■" '. ^' P^^^ft ev<>nD^ua^^v -:a?€^%^ ^\m SANILAC COUNTY. 199 I : I )>^^t#5 T<^iiii^iia^^ — «#?@^ \ (^ 1 SANILAC COUNTY. the Peace in Washington, Bridgehampton and Water- town Townships, and is the incumbent of that posi- tion in the latter. He has been Supervisor in the two first-named, and has discharged the duties of numerous minor offices. He is a Democrat in poHt- ical connection, and a member of the Masonic Order. He became connected with the fraternity in his native country, and now belongs to the blue lodge, No. 231, at Port Sanilac. He is a member of the Commandery at Lexington, and is connected with the Order of Knights Templars at that place. The record of Mr. Carson in Sanilac County entitles him to a position in the collection of por- traits of prominent citizens in the County Album. He is widely known through his business interests, and through the relations of his past active life will be remembered as a prominent factor in the history of the county. i obert Legear, farmer, section 9, Elmer Township, was born in Limerick, Ireland, and came to America with his parents when he was 13 years of age. The family settled at St. Mary's, Ontario. He was brought up on his father's farm, where he re- mained until he was 25 years of age. He passed the succeeding two years in varied occupations, and was united in marriage, Aug. 29, 1854, to Jane Stephens, of Ontario. She is of mixed Scotch and English descent, and was under the care of her par- ents until her marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Legear came to Niles, Mich., soon after their marriage, where they lived three years, after which they went to Huron Co., Ont., and re- mained there resident 15 years. At the end of that time they came to Elmer Township, in Sanilac ("ounty. Mr. Legear purchased his homestead of 80 acres, which was then in a wholly wild state. He has improved 35 acres, and is still continuing his efforts on the place. He was the possessor of little save his manly vigor and determination to succeed in establishing his family in a comfortable and cred- itable home. In this he has achieved a success which reflects a large degree of credit on his manage- ment and judgment. In political connection he is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He and Mr. Coon, a neigiibor, were the first to hold a prayer-meeting at Elmer City. Mr. and Mrs. Legear have become the parents of II children, ten of whom are yet living, namely: Mary J., Barbara, Jacob A., William N., John F., Jeannette L., Walter R., Edwin, George E. and Bertie F. Margaret is deceased. Barbara is now the wife of Walter Hyslop, of Elmer (see sketch); Mary J. is the wife of the Rev. J. G. Falis, of the London (Ontario) Conference. ,^ ilas J. Sloat, merchant at Marlette, was ;>?^r C born in Canada. He was in early youth ^\C^' '''' when his parents, Geo. W., and Sarah i\^ (Best) Sloat, removed from Canada and set- tled in Sanilac Co., Mich. The father was a native of Canada, and died when his son was about nine years old. The mother was a native of New York. Soon after the death of his father, Mr. Sloat began the warfare of life, working as he could for the first few years to obtain a livelihood. He was variously occupied until he was 18 years of age. On the out- break of the Southern Rebellion, he became deeply interested in the issues which involved the nation, and he resolved to enter the war. He enlisted Oct. 8, 186 1, in the loth Mich. Vol. Inf, and re- mained in active service until July 19, 1865. In the campaign of 1864, he was in the field and under fire every day save ten, for four months, he being on the skirmish line. He passed the entire period without harm from the chances of war, but was injured near Columbia, Tenn., by a wagon passing over his foot, the casualty causing a disability which laid him up for four months. On receiving his discharge after the war closed he returned to the home of his mother in St. Clair County, where he became interested in lumbering, operating one year on the river and in the woods. At the end of that time he engaged in mer- cantile affairs in Lapeer County, and continued to manage his business there two years. Selling out his commercial interests, in the fall of 1870, he came to Marlette, where he established him- self in similar pursuits, which he carried on until the spring of 187 1. He proceeded to Bay City, where ^ 9 A c^: ( ^na^oof^ )^fl«»- SANILAC COUNTY. -^^f(®V^ I lie operated three years as a salesman in a store, re- turiiing in 1S74 to Marlette. He leased the Rush House, which he conducted one year, before selling his interest therein. His next employment was in the saw-mill of John McGill. For several years he was variously occupied, until February, 1S84, when he opened a store wliich he has since continued to manage. Mr. Sloat was married Aug. 13, 1868, at Almont, Lapeer Co., Mich , to Harriet C. Hewitt. She is a native of Almont, and has become the mother of five children, one of whom is deceased — Amos Grant — who died when he was eight months old. Minnie L., Grace H., Edith M. and OUie are the names of the surviving children. Mr. Sloat is a man who has made his way in the world despite adverse circumstances. The question of self-maintenance absorbed his time and abilities to the exclusion of all chances of obtaining an edu- cation in early life, but, being possessed of practical habits of observation and reflection, he made ample amends in the culture he was able to acquire at a later period. In iiolitical faitli he is a staunch Re- publican. P. Boughner, farmer, section 34, Maple Valley Township, is of mixed En'g- Mich.. lish and German ancestry, and was botn April 2g, 1846, in Norfolk Co., Ont. He was an inmate of the paternal home until he was 20 years old, when he came to St. Clair Co., and engaged in the labors of a farm assistant for a time, after which he worked at his trade of car- penter, to which he had been trained in his native county. He was married in St. Clair County, Sept. 13, J 871, to Phebe Brooks. She was born Sept. ig, 1853, in the province of Ontario, and accompanied her parents to Michigan when she was 13 years old. Soon after marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Boughner settled in Sanilac County, on a farm of 80 acres, which the husband purchased the previous year. The wife and mother died April 28, 1S80, on the homestead, leav- ing four children — Alberta L., Andrew A., William E. and Floyd. The second marriage of Mr. Boughner occurred Oct. 5, 1882, at Brockway Center, St. Clair Co., Mich., to Eleanor Bullock. She was born July 19, 1855, in Elgin Co., Ont. Her parents became residents of Michigan when she was 1 1 years old, and she was under their guidance until her marriage. Mr. Boughner is a Republican in political affilia- tion ; has been Justice of the Peace four years and officiated in the minor local offices. He has dis- charged the duties pertaining to the school offices of his district. He is a progressive farmer and has cleared and otherwise improved 50 acres of his farm. f >: ^X >Ssharles J. French, Postmaster at Sandusky, ' J a and Treasurer of VVatertown Township, ^'jW was born Dec. 13, 1844, in the township of ^i^ Whitchurch, York Co., Ont., and is the son of William J. and Mary (Johnson) French. The parents were born in the Province of Ontario. The father was a farmer, and in 1853 removed his family and business interests to Worth Township, Sanilac Co., Mich., where he pursued the same voca- tion about 17 years, then removed to Macomb Coun- ty ; he died in that county in 1879. The mother died there in 1876. Their family included 13 chil- dren — -seven sons and six daughters; four of the former and four of the latter are now living. Mr. French is the oldest child of his parents. He first came to Michigan when he was eight years of age, with his grandparents. A year later he joined his parents. He spent the years of his minority in obtaining a substantial education, and on attaining his legal freedom he operated through two seasons as a farm laborer in Macomb County. He resumed his attendance at school, becoming a pupil in the educational institutions at Romeo. He next engaged in teaching, and followed that vocation one year in Lapeer County. He passed the ensuing three years in the same calling in Sanilac County, and in 1873 went to the Business College of Bryant, Stratton & Goldsmiths, at Detroit, to fit himself for active busi- ness life. He completed a full course of study there, and in 1874 obtained employ in the Register's office at Lexington, then the county seat of Sanilac County. His next engagement was as book-keeper in the em- ploy of Moss, Mills & Gaige, lumbermen and real- estate dealers at Davisville, now Croswell. The name was changed at the instigation of Mr. French. C)) ^ c^: mM^m^ z^^^ '■^ w r mmm>r I I i NTS) ) y§ (^ i SANILAC COUNTY. After operating in their employ four years, he entered that of C. \V. Arnot, in the same capacity. A year later he came to Sandusky to manage the lumber in- terests of his former employers, Messrs. Moss, Mills & Gaige. When the question of the location of the county seat becam3 prominent, Mr. French exerted all his energies to secure its being fixed at the geo- graphical center of Sanilac County. Soon after, he was appointed Postmaster and has since retained the position. He conducts the affairs of the office in connection with a stationery store, and is also the manager of the Telephone Exchange. Mr. French is a Republican in political connection, and has al- ways been active in public life in the different sec- tions where he has resided. He was Superintendent of Scliools at Lexington, has been Treasurer of Watertown Township four terms and officiated in numerous minor offices. He belongs to the Knights of Maccabees. He was married June i, 1875, at Lexington, to Arabella T. Miller. She was born Aug. 11, 1852, in Ontario, Canada, and when one year old accompa- nied her parents, Bernhard and Sarah (Johnson) Miller, to this county. Of this union, two children have been born, as follows: Homer B., March 27, 1876, and Marion E., June 2g, 1877. Mrs. French belongs to the Episcopal Church. —5- #-# iClt eorge Notley, farmer, section 34, Marlette j^ Township, is a native of Ireland, which "^i^s^ '~ was also the birth-place of his parents, '^^ Phinneas and Phebe (Wilson) Notley, and where they passed their entire lives. At the age of 25 he emigrated from the land of his nativity, where he had been engaged in agriculture, to Amer- ica, which seemed to his hopeful imagination to be the land where the inherent ambitions common to humanity could be attained. He spent three years in the State of New York. In the fall of 1859 he re- solved to test the reputed agricultural possibilities of the Lake State, and came to Sanilac County, where he entered a claim of 160 acres of unimproved land, which had been placed in market subject to the con- ditions of the Graduation Act. He has since dis- posed of a considerable portion of this claim, and is now the owner of 85 acres in Sanilac County, of which ten acres are improved and under cultivation. Mr. Notley has been a useful and active member of the community to which he belongs, and has re- sponded to the call of his fellow townsmen in the conscientious discharge of the duties pertaining to the offices of Township and School Treasurer, serv- ing in the first capacity five years and in the last three years. He is independent in political faith and action. His marriage to Jane Walker occurred in Lapeer Co., Mich., Sept. 19, 1856. Mrs. Notley is the daughter of William and Ann (Keyes) Walker, and was born in Canada, Feb. i, 1835. The family circle includes two adopted children — I^avinia and Jere- miah. ■t9s»— r^;;; vj. .avid Mitchell, farmer, section 16, Maple ( 5^ /[^'^ \'alley Township, was born in August, ~;S-3ir ' 1S37, in the county of Wentworth, Out. Xf^ His parents, James and Elizabeth (Brown) ql Mitchell, were born and married in Scotland, \ and emigrated to Canada in 1853. The father became a farmer in the county «here the son was born, and died there in November, 1868, aged 68 years. The mother, at the age of 85 years, is still living on the family homestead. Eight of eleven children, of which she has been the mother, are de- ceased. Mr. jNIitchell is the seventh in order of liivth of the children born to his parents, and he was a member of the paternal household until he was 26 years of age, when he was married, in Fiamborough Township, in his native county, to Janet Nicklin, eldest daugh- ter of Richard and Helen (Caldwell) Nicklin. The event took place Dec. 30, 1863. The parents of Mrs. Mitchell were natives, respectively, of England and Scotland, and came to Canada in early youth. They were married in Wellington County in the Dominion, and removed to Wentworth County, where the father is still actively engaged in farming and lumbering; he is 74 years old. The mother died in 1859, at the age of 38 years. Mrs. Mitcjiell was born Nov. 3, 1846, in Wentworth County. Siie was reared to womanhood in her native place and se- cured a fair education in the better class of schools, to which she had access.' She has become the A w '\®.^m^^ JL <^[ia^iini> ^s^^ ^m^ #s®- ■T^rC>tlti:^:iil]^> •r (b >5 SANILAC COUNTY. 203 mother of four cliildren : Richard N. was born Oct. 29, 1864; James E., Aug. 6, 1867; David R., Aug. 7, 1872; Lavinia O., Dec. 13, 1S75. On the occurrence of his marriage, Mr. Mitchell located on 103 acres of land, willed to him by his father in tlie county where he was born. With the exception of nine months, during which he was a resident at Gait, Waterloo County, in the Dominion, he lived on and managed this farm, until his re- moval to Michigan, in February, 1879. He settled ui)on his present estate, which comprised 160 acres, with some improvements, of which he became the proprietor by purchase. He is a thorough-going and practical farmer, and has 75 acres of his farm in a finely improved and cultivated condition, and sup- plied with a good stock and grain barn of recent con- struction. He is a Republican in political adherence. Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell are ardent members of the Church of Christ or God. Mr. Mitchell has given up his farm to his sons and is now engaged in manu- facturing wooden pumps. He takes the greatest care to make a good pump, using only the best material. • — ^>-5— =? — o^$^({Bi..^.o — g=— j<-^ ■\ hilip H. Learn, farmer, section 7, Marlette |!^Sl^ Township (town 1 1), was born in Yarmouth, Elgin Co., Ont., May 8, 1836, and is the ^^ son of John and Catherine (Collver) Learn. >ij\ His paternal grand-parents were natives of Germany, and became residents of America a few years previous to 1800, as -nearly as can be ascer- tained. His grandfather was an officer in the British army in the war of 18 12, and was killed at the battle of Lundy's Lane, or Niagara, as it is more commonly designated. Six officers were riding along and he was shot from behind by a spy: some thought it was by one of his own men. John Learn, born Jan. 18, 1797, was in the same service as a private, and foLiglit for the king of Great Britain during the entire course of the war. After its close he bougln a farm in Malahide, Ontario, on which he resided four years. He removed thence to Yarmouth, where he became the proprietor of 240 acres of land by pur- chase. He remained a resident of Yarmouth until 1872, when his house and nearly all its contents were destroyed by fire. He had purchased 550 acres of land besides his original claim, which he had dis- tributed among his sons. They were all established in comfort and independence, and, on the occurrence of the misfortune referred to, he removed to St. Thomas. His death took place in that city in 1882, when he had attained the ripe age of 85 years. Catherine (Collver) Learn, his wife, was born Aug. 30, 1799, in Townsend, Norfolk Co., Ont. She was and is a woman of sterling character, possessing the traits most valuable in pioneer life. She and her husband were among the first settlers of Yarmouth, where they lived more than 50 years. That section was infested by the Lidians of the " Si.x Nations." and were at times troublesome to a degree ihat re- quired the exercise of unusual bravery and deter- mination. She became the mother of nine children — George, Andrew McF., Jane, Lyman W., John, Edwin v., Philip H., Charles O. and Catherine E. Lyman, Jane and Catherine are deceased. Mrs. Learn is still living at Port Stanley, Ont. Her par- ents, Jabez and Anna Collver, were born in New- York, whence the families of each removed to Can- ada. They were married in Townsend, settled there on a farm, and after a residence there of some years went to Yarmouth, where they were members of the agricultural community. Mr. Collver died there. His wife became a member of the family of his daughter, Mrs. Learn, and died in Yarmouth at the age of 83 years Mr. Learn of this sketch is the seventh child of his parents, and the sixth son. In early life he ob- tained a common-school education, and acquired a thorough knowledge of practical farming, which has been the business of his life. On attaining to the period of his legal independence, he acceded to the possession of 80 acres of land, by deed of gift from his father, and he afterwards increased his estate by the purchase of 30 acres additional. He applied himself to the improvement and cultivation of his property in Yarmouth until April, 1878, when he sold it and came to Michigan. He settled on his present homestead, located as stated, which includes 160 acres. At the date of its purchase it was under partial improvements, and at this writing rr5 acres are in a most creditable and valuable condition. The industry, skill and judgment exercised by Mr. Learn in the improvement and management of his farm place him among the leading and prominent agriculturists of Sanilac County. He is an earnest zealous Republican. Vto; mi \^^^^k^ ./i^ Mmm^<>^ '^ i>)^#^ • 204 SAN/LAC COUNTY. ^^^^®\!^ (h He was married Feb. 19, 1856, in Elgin Co., Can., to Sarah Smith, the eldest daughter of Rev. Abram Smith, a preacher of the Baptist denomination. He was born in 1819, in CharlotteviUe, Norfolk Co., Ont., and was married in 1S36 to Jane, daughter of Hosea and Racliel Ann (StuU) Baker. Mrs. Smith was born in Yarmouth in 1818 and died in 1875. Eljven children were born to her, are all living and in pros- perous circumstances, save one. They are named Hosea B., Joseph J., Sarah, Rachel A. (deceased), Abram J., Julia, Salemma J., Naomi, Hannah E., Arthur A. and Minnie P. Abram Smith, Sr., pater- nal grandsire of Mrs. Learn, was of American origin, and died in :866, aged 82 years. Her grandmother, Sarah (Baker) Smith, died in 1829. Mrs. Learn was born March 23, 1840, in Elgin Co., Ont. Following is the record of the children born of her marriage : Mynetta J. — Mrs. Wm. G. Churchill — was born April 8, 1857, and resides in Groton, Dakota. John H. was born Aug. 31, 1858, married Mary Newman, and resides in Maryland. Viletta A. was born July 27, i860. She is the wife of A. J. Lynd, graduate of Ypsilanti Normal School and a school- teacher by profession — present Principal of the school at Bad Axe, Huron County. William H. was born Feb. 20, 1863; Kittie P., Oct. 14, 1865 ; Claude A. R., May 27, 1876. Mr. Learn, in character and position, is one of the class of men who are fast redeeming Sanilac County from the burden of disaster under which it has staggered since 187 i. Upright, straightforward, tire-- less in energy and purpose, he is justly ranked among the representative men and citizens of his county and township. He possesses the culture and training be- stowed by a life of earnest devotion to the worthy plans lie formed in early years and which have proved the merits of his character. ITohn H. Welch, farmer, section 25, Maple 11^ Valley Township, was born Dec. 25, 1832, in Perth Co., Ont., and is of Irish extrac- tion. He became responsible for his own main- tenance when he was 15 years old, and was a resident of his native county until May, i860, operating as a common laborer. At that date he came to Michigan and settled in the eastern part of Sanilac County, where he began to operate as a lum- berman. He went thence to Oakland. County, where he spent two years as a farm laborer. Meanwhile, he was married in Detroit, Jan. 8, 1S61, to Bridget Foley. She was born about the year 1830 in County Kerry, Ireland, and was 20 years of age when she left the Green Isle. She landed at New Orleans. Later on she went to Cincinnati, where she spent a year, going thence to Columbus, Ohio. Two years later she went to Detroit, where, after a residence of eight years, she was married. After that event, she went with her husband to Oakland County, where they passed two years on a farm. In March, 1863, they came to- Sanilac County and purchased at first 40 acres of wild land on section 25, in Maple Valley Township. This has been the homestead ever since. A later purchase has increased their acreage to 1 20 acres, and the estate now includes 80 acres of well improved and cultivated land. Mr. Welch is a Democrat in political connection and the family be- long to the Catholic Church. The four children of Mr. and Mrs. Welch were born as follows : William T., Oct. 16, 1861; James T., May 10, 1863; Mary A., Aug. 29, 1866; John H., May 9, 1868. '■bel B. Sumner is a merchant at Sandusky ^- '-'-^zt:^ sMMm ' m^Sp^ and a teacher by profession. He was born '^^M Feb. 27, 1834, in Delaware, Middlesex Co., '■^ijoT Ont. His parents, Thomas H. and Margaret 'P (Springer) Sumner, were natives respectively of Addison Co., Vt., and New York. (The father belongs to the same lineage as the late Senator Sumner of Massachusetts.) He was a farmer and went to Ontario when he was 28 years old. He be- longed to the British army and held the rank of Corporal. His death occurred Oct. 4, 1880, when he was 90 years old. The mother died in Ontario, in 1867, at the age of 67 years. She was connected with the Springer family of Wilmington, Del., and her father was a militia Captain in Canada. Their family included ten children, all of whom reached mature age. Mr. Sumner is the second son and seventh in order of birth of liis parents' children He remained with them until he was 32 years of age, passing his youth vl (V t ^^ fsSH. .^::^^ <^II!l§Iltlf^ SANILAC COUNTY. '^ 6 in obtaining his education in the common schools and the hiter years in farming. In 1865 he came to Michigan, locating in Macomb County, where he be- gan his career as a teacher. He was married in Chesterfield, in that county, in December, 1867, to Mrs. Sarah Pratt, a native of Cotterville, St. Clair Co., Mich. The second marriage of Mr. Sumner oc- curred Dec. 28, 1881, in London, Ont., to Mrs. Amelia (Jenkins) Jackson. Her parents, Warren A. and Margaret Jenkins, were natives of Ireland and her father was a physician. He died in London, Ont., where the mother is still living. In 1874 Mr. Sumner came to Sanilac County, in 1878 made the first permanent settlement on the site of Sandusky, where he built the first residence within the limits of the present village. In 1879 he en- gaged in keeping a boarding-house. In 1884 he es- tablished his mercantile business at Sandusky. He has been a teacher since 1865, and taught the graded schools in Fairhaven, St. Clair County, and Marys- ville four years. He owns two improved lots in the village of Sandusky. He is a Republican in political sentiment, has held the office of Justice of the Peace two years, has been School Inspector three years and is present Chairman of the Board of Inspectors. He is a member of a temperance organization, and is a zealous, outspoken advocate of the principles of the Order. ^-$S>|^ ames Keys, farmer, section 36, Marlette ^ Township, is a native of the Dominion of Canada, where he was born Aug. 25, 185 i. His parents, David and Jane (Beacon) Keys, were born in Ireland, and emigrated thence to Canada, afterwards becoming residents of San- ilac Co., Mich., where the mother died March 7, 1869. Mr. Keys obtained a fair degree of elementary education, and removed with his father's family to this county when he was seven years old. An in- heritance of 80 acres of land in Marlette Township came into his possession in 1872. It was wholly unimproved, and although comparatively few years have elapsed he has already placed 55 acres under creditable cultivation. Mr. Keys is a Democrat in political persuasion, and is a member of the Metho- dist Episcopal Church. He was first married in Marlette Township, April 15, 1872, to Sarah A. McGinnis, who was born in Kentucky, and two cliildren, Nancy J. and David T., constituted the issue of their union. The youngest child died when he was seven months old; the mother's decease occurred March 19, 1874. The second marriage of Mr. Keys took place Nov. 15, 1877, when he espoused ■ Mary A. Curley, who was born March 12, 1859, in Michigan, and is the daugh- ter of Thomas and Susanna (Everson) Curley, na- tives of Ireland. Thomas J., Maud M. and Susan A. are the names of the children born of this mar- obert Bryce, farmer, located on section 6, Maple Valley Township, was born April 24, 1840, in Lambton Co., Ont., and is the ,^ son of James and Elizabeth (Fenner) Bryce. 5? The former was a native of' Scotland, the lat- ter of Ireland. They became residents of Ontario when they were young, and were married in Lambton County. They belonged to the agricultural class in the Dominion, and in 1858 came to Mich- igan. They settled in Lynn Township, St. Clair County, wliere the father engaged in farming until his death, which occurred in 1875, when he was 63 years of age. The mother resides with two unmar- ried sons on the family homestead, and is 68 years old. Of II children of whom she is the mother, two are deceased. Mr. Bryce is the second son and fourth child in order of birth. He was 18 years of age when his parents removed to Michigan. He remained on the home farm until he was 27 years old, engaged in as- sisting his father in the work of clearing and improv- ing his father's farm. On reaching that age he determined to change his course of life and was mar- ried Aug. 18, 1867, in the township of Brockway, 8t. Clair County, to Elizabeth Stonehouse, a native of Ontario, of English parentage. Her father, Isaac Stonehouse, is a retired farmer residing at Toronto. Her mother, Ann (Stonehouse) Stonehouse, died near the city of Toronto, when her daughter was a young girl. Mrs. Bryce was born Dec. 24, 1836, and re- mained at home until she was 29 years old, at which age she came to Michigan, She was married the following year and is now the mother of three chil- dren, born as follows: James H., May 16, 1869 9 <• ^ glIK> :2»Cb*^ 206 SANILAC QOUJVTY. (^ I I'® Annetta, March 16, 1876; Isaac N,, Dec. 20, 1871. The latter died Feb. 12, 1883. .\fter their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Bryce came to this township and settled on 60 acres of land, winch was in a wholly wild condition and in the depths of the wilderness. The work of improvement has pro- I'ressed without intermission until 50 acres are under creditable cultivation. The energetic proprietor has recently completed a valuable and commodious family residence and the place is supplied with other creditable farm buildings. He also owns 40 acres of improved land on section t, Burnside Township, La- peer County. Mr. Bryce is a Republican in political connection and has held various township offices. He and his wife are prominent and influential mem- bers of the Methodist Ciuirch, of which Mr. Bryce is a Trustee; he is also a Class-leader. ^»H^ ohn Isles, farmer, section 24, Flynn Town- ship, was born Feb. 7, 185 i, in the city of '€W^ Hamilton, Ontario. His parents, James and Mary (Scott) Isles, were natives of Scot- ^r land, whence they came to Ontario in early life, afterwards settling in Hamilton. They re- moved at a later date to Luther, Wellington County, wiiere they reside at present, and are respectively 70 and 69 years old. Mr. Isles is the second son and child of a family of 12 children, eight of whom (five sons and three daughters) are still living. He was but four years of a^e when his father removed to Luther, where he was brought up to the period of his majority under the charge of his parents. A year later he became a farmer on his own responsibility, and rented a place which he continued to manage four years. During this lime he was married, March 31, 1875, in the township of Liither, to Susan, daughter of George and Elizabeth (Carson) Coe. (See sketch of George Coe.) She was born May 24, 1857, near Paris, Oxford Co., Can. Mr. and Mrs. Isles have had four children, all of whom are living save one. They were born as follows: Mary E., Feb. 19, 1876; John H., April 22, 1877; Frederick J., Dec. 25, 1879, died March 7, 1880; James Scott, May 16, 1884. After his marriage Mr. Isles remained a resident on the farm he had rented nearly four years, and in the fall of 1877 ])Q came with his family to Michigan and took possession of a farm he had purchased a short time previous. It comprised 80 acres of land in an unbroken, unimproved state, and he has labored and managed to such good pari)Ose that he has now 65 acres in most creditable agricultural condition, with first-class arrangements for the successful prose- cution of his chosen calling. He is a Republican in political views and action, and has discharged the duties of the minor officiat positions of his township. ms 1^ ^v>.-*^ |Cohn H. Beckett, farmer, section 26, Maple 1 Valley Township, was born Feb. 2, 1830, ■■' in Middlesex Co., Ont. His father, Ed- ward Beckett, was of English descent, and was born in New Jersey. His mother, Mary (Hill) Beckett, was of mixed Irish and Welsh descent, and was born in Ontario. They settled in early life in the Dominion of Canada and belonged to the agri- cultural class of Middlesex County until their deaths, which occurred respectively in 1876 and 1S54. The father was 89 years of age when he died, the mother 65 years old. Their family included seven sons and two daughters. One of the former is deceased. Mr. Beckett has passed his entire life as a practi- cal farmer, obtaining in his boyhood a knowledge of every detail of that business. He remained with his parents until he was 24 years of age. He was first married Jan. i, 1854, in Middlesex County, to Sarah J. York. She was born Feb. 14, 1835, in Oxford Co., Ont. She was reared to pioneer life, and eminently fitted for the life to which she was introduced in Michigan by her removal to Sanilac County in 1854. She died March 14, 1868. Of four children of whom she became the mother, one — Stephen — is deceased. Peter M., Edward William (see sketch), and Mary L. still survive. The latter is a teacher in Speaker Township. Mr. Beckett purchased 120 acres of land, when he became a settler in Maple Valley Township, on which lie has since resided. He was the tliird to make a permanent settlement within the limits of the township, and his farm was located three miles from any neighbor. They encountered all the hardships incident to pioneer life, and enjoyed its many pleasures. The management and good judg- ment of Mr. Beckett is plainly manifest in the fine ■«; ^, g«»- ^ 26, Elk Township. He was born Aug. 10, 1847, in Orleans Co., N. Y. His p;rents, R. L. and Ann (Foote) Doane, were descended from New England ancestry. His mother died in June, 1883, in the village of Peck, where his father is still living. Mr. Doane was reared to manhood by his parents. He became a salesman in a mercantile establishment, where he remained until the advent of the Civil War. He responded to the first call for three-years volunteers, and enlisted in Co. D, 35th N. Y. Vol. Inf. He enrolled as a private, but reached the posi- tion of Second Lieutenain for bravery in action. He escaped capture and injury from the usual chances'of war, but never recovered from the effects of the hard- ships he endured. On receiving his honorable dis- charge, he was appointed sutler of the Soldiers' Rest at Washington, a position he retained until the close of the war. During the time he was married to Mary E. Shear, who was born in Newfield Tp., Tomp- kins Co., N. Y., April 20, 1840, and is the_ daughter of John and Mirah (VanTown) Shear. The parents were natives of Tompkins County, in the Empire State, where the father was a shoemaker by vocation. They were of German descent and had nine chil- dren. The father died in 'PJC^ Township, Sept. 12, 1878; the mother died Sept. 14, 1880. Mrs. Doane is the third child and third daughter. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Doane resided in the city of Washington until 1865, when they came to Michigan. Mr. Doane located 160 acres of land on section 26, after which he went to Ontario, and dur- ing the oil excitement there established a store in Wyoming County. Three years later he returned to Peck and established himself in mercantile business, wliich he continued to manage in connection with his farm until his death, which took place Sept. 22, 1882, and was the result of disease consequent upon the injury he received in the army. He was a shrewd business man, possessed of sound judgment, and was regarded as a valuable citizen and a man of worth in his social and domestic relations. He ac- cumulated an estate of $30,000. He was a Repub- lican, and for years was in active political life, hold- ing local offices and aiding in every way in the advancement of the township and community where he lived. Mrs. Doane is a member of the Adventist Church. She owns the farm, the store and two lots in the vil- lage, and an undivided interest in 200 acres of land belonging to the estate. She has reared three adopted children, two of whom reside with her. Guy B., who was born Sept. 23, 1875, died July 20, 1876; Ella is married and resides at St. Ingnis; Mabel P. was born Jan. 20, i88r. C^; ^< A k\ §^^k ««9- A<-^D!l^lltly>A;9 ^^^ #^^ <^iiii^nii^^v TT -«#@§^ i i i SANILAC COUNTY. """ 5So~ I'^aniel A. Brooks, farmer, section i8, Flynn Township, was born June 2, 1850, in Elgin VlS^^ Co., Ont., and is the son of Daniel and \x Mary (Chase) Brooks, both of whom are still living. He was an inmate of the paternal house- hold until he was 22 years of age. On leaving home to make his first effort toward independent ex- istence, he engaged as a farm assistant, in which em- ploy he remained until his marriage to Olive L. Bates, May 25, 1 87 2. She was born in Ontario, Aug. 10, 185 1, and is the daughter of George A. and Rose (Muncill) Bates. Her parents were natives respect- ively of New York and Ontario, and of New England ancestry on both sides. They now reside in Elgin County, and belong to the agricultural class. Their respective ages are 67 and 62 years. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Brooks includes three children — Benj. L., Charlotte E. and Earl William. Ettie, third child in order of birth, is deceased. They remained in Ontario until November, 1880, when they removed to Sanilac County and settled on the place on which they have since resided. Mr. Brooks purchased 160 acres of land and has improved 70 acres, built a large barn, 40 .x 68 feet in dimen- sions, and supplied the place with other good and suitable farm fixtures. He is a Republican in politi- cal sentiment. ,i % tugh Dale, farmer, section t,t,, Marlette =^ Township, was born March 16, 1822, in Scotland. His father, William Dale, was a native of Scotland and was there married to Agnes Glover. She died in her native country, and after that event, her father emigrated to Canada, where he is now residing. Mr. Dale is the third son of ten children, four of whom are now living, — two daughters in Canada and one son in Glasgow, Scotland. He was 20 years of age when he came to Canada, and he resided there II years. In 1853 he came to Lapeer Co., Mich., and bought a farm in the township of Dryden, on which he operated three years. In 1855 he bought 320 acres of land in Marlette Township, under the regulations of the Graduation Act, and in 1856 he took possession of the property. He has resided thereon ever since, excepting six years during which time he resided in Lapeer County. His farm com- prises 240 acres of land, which includes 130 acres under cultivation. He is a Republican in political connection, and has been active in the local matters of his township, having officiated as Treasurer, Su- pervisor, Justice of the Peace and in the different school offices. He was married Feb. 27, 1850, in Oxford Co., Ont., to Emily Pierce, who was born Aug. i, 1828, in New Brunswick, and is the daughter of Henry and Sarah Pierce, who were natives of the same province. Eight children have been born to them, in the fol- lowing order: William, Sarah, Hugh, Benjamin, Emma J., Robert, Charles and David. The latter died when he was three years old. The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. V© I pilCanies Cook, fanner, section 24, Maple Val- ^^11? ley Township, was born Sept. 13, 1817, in 1^^^^ the vicinity of Napanee Mills, Province of Ontario. When he was 15 years old, his par- ents removed with their family to the head of \ Lake Ontario, where they passed the remain- ing years of tiieir lives in the care of, and supported by, their son. He devoted many years of his life to the task of making them comfortable, and no better manifestation of his character can be made than a statement of the fact that he assumed the entire ex- pense and responsibility of supporting, clothing and educating four orphan children, rearing them from infancy to a period when they could maintain them- selves. At the age of 40 years, after the deatli of his father and mother, he was married to Mary Bond, at Hamilton, Out. The event occurred Jan. 5, 1856. Mrs. Cook was born March 29, 1826, in Staffordshire, Eng., where she was reared and obtained a common- school education. Her parents passed their lives in England. Her father died in 1S72, aged 84 years; her molher died at the same period of life, in 1S83. When she was 23 years old, she began to work at millinery and dress-making, and was thus employed until the age of 29 years, when she came to America and made her first stay at Hamilton, where she was Cm ( ^ '^; ■^^v SANILAC COUNTY. 211 i% >J V ©> married. Four children have been born to her and her husband— John, Ruth, Ella A. and Andrew J. About five years after their marriage, Mr. and Mrs. Cook removed to Sanilac County and purchased 120 acres of wild land on section 23, in this township. Five years later, after improving and putting in cred- itable conditTon a considerable part of the property, Mr. Cook sold it and bought 80 acres where he has since lived. He has improved 35 acres. He has been an adherent of the ]jrinciples and a supporter of the issues of the Republican party since his re- moval to Michigan, and he has held several of the local official positions in the township. He and his wife are active and zealous members of the Method- ist Episcopal Church. — ^ ^^^f^S-vx/--^- — JT!fe-5r|^r ames Lynd, farmer, section 3, Marlette "^"''iJ Township, was born Aug. 10, 1S52, in '^ ^ Canada. James Lynd, his father, was born in the State of New York, and emigrated to Canada, where he married Margaret Lynd> a native of Ireland. Mr. Lynd resided in the place of his nativity until October, 1869, when he came with his parents to Sanilac County. His father died June 5, 1S75, and he purchased the family homestead, which included 167 acres of land, on which he has since resided. He has placed 65 acres under cultivation, and is en- gaged in successful and prosperous farming. In political connection, Mr. Lynd is a Repulilican. He is a member of the Masonic Order. His marriage to Margaret Duff occurred in Can- ada, Dec. 25, 1882. She is a daughter of James and Nancy Duff, who were natives of Ontario. Edwin L., only child, was bom March 5, T884. Mr. and Mrs. Lynd are members of the Presbyterian Church. *^^-^^<^^#* : Ibert Beals, farmer, section 25, Flynn Town- ;lp-Sr&^ ship, was born Nov. 13, 1842, in Ontario, ^j^^ Can. His parents, Samuel and Sarah Beals, were natives of New Brunswick, of English descent. They were members of the agricul- tural community all their lives. In May, 1859, they came to Michigan, and setded in this township in the fall of i860, with their family. Both parents died in Flynn Township. Mr. Beals is the eldest son and fifth in order of birth of ten children. He was married Sept. 19, 1867, in this township, to Sarah J., daughter of William and Margaret (Pomeroy) Dimond. The former died in 1853, in Pine River Mich. The latter is now a resident of this township. (See sketch of Amos Babcock.) The daughter was born July 8, 1850, in Ontario, and came with her parents to Michigan when she was four years old. They were among the earliest settlers in the township. Nine children have been born of her marriage, as 'follows : Warren F., June 7, 1S69; Samuel H., Nov. 17, 1S70; Mercy J., Aug. 30, 1872; Amos R., Sept. 10, 1874; George E., Sept. 14, 1876; WilHam W., Feb. 22, 1878; Grade, Feb. 2, 1880; Maggie, July 11, 1881; Robert, June 10, 1S83. After marriage they settled on 80 acres of land which Mr. Beals had purchased some years previous. It was wholly unimproved, and he has placed about three-fourths of the tract in creditable cultivation, besides having erected farin buildings of first-class order. He is a Republican of decided type and has held the offices of Treasurer and Road Commissioner several years. Mrs. Beals is a member of the Meth- odist Episcopal Church. ~ "'|||;i illiam McLeod, farmer, section 27, Maple 'j!^ Valley Township, was born in 1827, near "ill 'ii'j~) " " Kingston, Out. He was reared to the If ■ill' calling of a farmer and continued to assist on the home place until he was 25 years of age, when he set out on an independent career, following the same vocation. About 1853, he came to Michigan, locating at Port Huron, where he was a laborer in a saw-mill two years. Later he came to Sanilac County, and purchased 80 acres of wild land, where he has since expended his energies and labors in making a home for his family. He has since bought 40 acres more and has now 120 acres. He was married at Port Huron, Jan. i, 1865, to Jane "Earls, a native of that place and born about 1837. Soon after the marriage, Mr. and Mrs. McLeod lo- cated on the farm, which now comprises 80 acres, ^' C>i mk®^^#- A-~N ^ tlsS"^-'^ 7<^I]D^I1I]>> T" ^f^^^\% 212 SANILAC COUNTY. with 75 acres under first-class improvements, includ- /w ing fine, large and commodious farm buildings. Mr. '%\ McLeod is independent in political views and actions % and has officiated in several local offices. The par- i ents are Presbyterians. They have had six children ^ — John, Alexander, Archibald, William, Jane and Eliza A. ■^fMi^ -^ =DI- V fo\ . ohn Scott, farmer, section 8, Maple Valley '£y' ; Township, was born May i, 1847, in ■" Quebec, Ontario. His parents, Mark and Margaret (Little) Scott, were natives of Ire- land, of Scotch-Irish origin. They came to Ontario early in life. The father was a tailor by profession and followed that calling in the city of Quebec for some years, afterwards removing to ) Megantic Co., Prov. of Quebec. There he became a ^ farmer and followed agriculture in connection with /\ his trade until his death in 1859, at the age of 69 i=i years. The mother died in 1872, near Lawrence, >^ Kansas, aged 60 years. Five sons and four daugh- ==£ ters were born to them; one of the former and one of the latter are deceased. Mr. Scott is the eldest son and second child. He was an infant but one year old when his father re- moved to the farm, and he was reared to the calling of an agriculturist under the peculiar circumstances incident to pioneer experience. At the age of 17 he became his own master and engaged in lumbering. Two years later he went to New England and passed two summers as a farm laborer. In the spring of 1864 he set out for the mining district of Idaho, and made the route thither across the plains. He spent two years in the mines, returning thence to Ontario. His marriage to Mary J. Morgan occurred Jan. 3, 1868, in Barry, Frontenac Co., in the Province of Ontario. She was born Jan. i, 1848, in Camden, in that county, and is the daughter of Daniel and Mary J. (Webb) Morgan. Her parents are natives of Ontario, and descjnded from English and Irish ancestors. They are yet living, in Frontenac County, and are respectively 65 and 59 years of age. Mrs. Scott is the second daughter and second in order of birth of 14 children born to her parents, 11 of whom are still living. Nine children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Scott, two of whom ai:e deceased. Mary E. was born Nov. 6, 1868; Walter M.,Dec. 27, 1869; Maggie J., May 17, 1871 ; John W., May 26, 1872; Anna B., Sept. 26, 1875; Jessie E., May 6, 1877; Ella, Jan. 22, 1879. Robert and Ella died in infancy. In the year following their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Scott came to Michigan and purchased *o acres of land on section 8, Maple Valley Township, on which some slight improvements had been made. On this they resided five years when, on account of failing health, they went to Petoskey, Emmett Co., Mich., where they resided three years. At the end of that time they returned to their farm. They have added 80 acres by later purchase, and placed 75 acres under the plow. In political views and connections Mr. Scott is a Republican ; and is serving his second term as Treasurer of his township. i)S!I?saae Cragg, farmer, section 18, Evergreen Township, was born Dec. 24, 1849, in the 'i^ town of Reach, Canada. He is the son of ^ij David and Christiana (Phoeni.x) Cragg, the former of whom was born Sept. 16, 1822, in Lancashire, England, and now resides in Can- ada. The latter was born in Scarborough, Can., in 1824. On attaining his majority, Mr. Cragg went to work as a stone mason, in which business and as a carpen- ter he was occupied five years. At the end of that time he bought a farm in Middlesex Co., Can., which he managed three years. In 1879 he came to Sani- lac County and purchased 80 acres of land, which has since been his field of operation, and in the few years that have elapsed he has placed 24 acres under good improvements. Politically, he is a Re- publican. His first official position was that of Supervisor of his township, to which he was elected in 1882. He has been twice re-elected, and is still holding the same position. Mr. Cragg was married in 1873 to Beatrice A. Wells. She was born Sept. 5, 1853, in the town of Reach, Canada, and is the daughter of John and Susannah (Thompson) Wells. Her father was born in 1822 in England; the mother is a native of Can- ada and was born May 13, 1827. The family resided in Canada until 1S81, when they removed to their \^ s^-.a I^V®)>|^^ mmi>^ 9 1 % T f 'I' -^agtggi w.-- 6>/ C^ll >: n n^^-r-e :2«^^ SANILAC COUNTY. 213 present location in Sanilac County. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Cragg were born as follows: Lottie M., Dec. 20, 1873; Edith C, July 23, 1877; Flora S., Nov. 25, 1882. (b A V rtiK prJIjUgh Mahaffy, farmer, section 9, Flynn Tp. I iii^/iJj was born Aug. 29, 1852, in Ireland, and is y^w" " the son of William and Mary Ann Mahafify. z. -^^C(®>^:^ '0m'^^^^^ m 214 SANILAC COUNTY. 8»s,=iis: t (0 ^ business in buying grain. In October, 1883, he be- came the station agent at this point in the interests of the Port Huron & Northwestern Railroad. He is also Postmaster, and has been either principal or deputy official in that position since the office was established. He also owns 40 acres on section 15 in this town- ship, and a house and lot where he resides. He was first married March 10, 1868, in Brockway Township, St. Clair Co., to Helen Manning. She was born Aug. 13, 1847, '" Yates Co., N. Y., and came to Michigan in the fall of 1867. She was a person of fine mental acquirements and liberal edu- cation. She died Aug. 30, 1880. The only child born of this marriage is deceased. Mr. Makelim was again married April 7, 1S81, in Valley Center, to Emma, daughter of Alpheus and Ann Keyes. She is a native of Ontario, of English parentage, and came to Michigan in 1879 with her parents, who are mem- bers of the agricultural community. She was born March 18, i860, in Leeds Co., Ont. Arthur, only issue of the second marriage, was born Nov. 12, 1882. Mr. Markelim is an adherent of the Repub- lican party. He is serving his second term as Supervisor and has been Justice of the Peace, and Superintendent of the Public Schools three years. W' '--ff)fo\in Donald, farmer, section 33, Marlette 'IL'^-'^/l Township, was born Aug. 9, 1840, in Scot- land. His father, James Donald, was born in Scotland, and married Margaret Tun- jF nah, a native of England. She died in Scot- land, in 1846. The father and his two sons came to America in 1856 and went to Wisconsin. The father lived there two years and then came to Michigan. Mr. Donald was but 16 years of age when he came to the United States, and he lived in the Badger State four years. In i860, in the month of February, he came to Sanilac County and settled in the township of Marlette. He owns a fine farm of 160 acres, with 100 acres in advanced cultivation. He has proven a valuable acquisition to the county of which he has been a resident nearly a ([uarter of a century, and is an influential member of the local political element. He is a Republican in sentiment. and has been Supervisor one year; he is now School Trustee. His marriage to Catherine Murray took place in Lapeer, Mich., June 22, 1865. Siie is a native of Scotland. The household includes four children — Margaret A., Belle, Nettie and Catherine C. The parents are prominent members of the Presbyterian Church, of which Mr. Donald has been Trustee since the local body to which he belongs was organ- ized. ohn M. Brown, resident at Brown City> (which perpetuates his patronymic), is a rep- resentative pioneer settler of Sanilac Coun- ty. He was born March 17, 1826, in Scotland. In his native land he was a shepherd by vo- cation, which was also the calling of his father, William Brown. His parents came to America in 1850, removing hither with their entire family. They settled in Orleans Co., N. Y. where they be- came engaged in agriculture. Mr. Brown remained with his father, rendering him every possible assist- ance in getting comfortably settled in life, until he was 29 years of age, when, with three brothers, he came to Michigan. In the fall of 1854 each of the four entered a claim of 320 acres in this township and in Burnsides Township in Lapeer County. That belonging to Mr. Mrown of this sketch was all sit- uated on section 7, this township. It was located in the depths of the forest, no permanent settlers being within ten miles. Mr. Brown cut the road to obtain access to his farm all that distance. A por- tion of his land, designated by the title of the Indian Sugar Bush, was inhabited by the red-skins about three years after the tract became his property. Native game was abundant and hunting was a com- mon pastime, as well as employ, for many years. In January, 1881, the Pt. H. & N. W. railroad (Saginaw Division), was run through his farm and Brown City was platted on the estate. Mr. Brown owns 175 village lots located on his landed estate. He owns besides, 260 acres of land, with 200 acres improved. He is a Republican in political connection and has lieen in active local official positions since he became a resident of the township. Mr. Brown was married Oct. 11, 1859, in Speaker Township, to Mary Bryce. She was born Aug. 18, c 0; ^s»- .^^lJL <>Il!]^Illlf^A^- >)^#*- z^^K 6V4:I]I]^IlIl>i>^ rr- -^&^ SANILAC COUNTY. J «'» 1 1829, in Warwick, Lambton Co., Ont., and when she was 19 years of age she came to Michigan with her parents, who were among the pioneers of this town- ship. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Brown, as follows : William C, Tames B., Walter M., Robert G., John H., Margaret E., George E. and Mary J- The mother is a member of the M. E. Church. •~^'*^\^\/X,\ 'V/X/VN. S I ||i amuel E, Herbert, wagon-maker, located at Brown City, was born March 24, 1856, W^''^^ in Blenheim, Oxford County, Ont. His parents, Joseph and Ann (Kerrison) Herbert, are natives of England, who emigrated to America in early life and settled in Oxford Co., Ont., where they are now resident, aged respect- ively 72 and 50 years. Mr. Herbert obtained his education in the common schools of his native place, and assisted his father until he was 16 years old. In 1872 he came to Old Brockway, St. Clair County, and when he was 18 years of age he became an apprentice in the wagon- shop of W. & J. Harris, of that place. After serv- ing about three years he was employed as regular workman. Four years later, he came to Brown City, purchased two lots and erected his dwelling and wagon-shop. He is a skillful and reliable workman and is engaged in an extensive and profitable busi- ness. His marriage to Anna Mason occurred Dec. 25, 1879, at Old Brockway. She was born Dec. 25, i860, in St. Clair County. Two children have been born to her and her husband, Mabel and Edwin. Mr. Herbert is a member of the Order of Maccabees. if^Lartin W. Moore, druggist at Sandusky, '■'St,/ w, vas born in Burford Co., Ont., Feb. 23, ^el''*^ 1842. His parents, Martin and Mary A. M\ Moore, were natives of Ontario, and of '"* Canadian parentage. They had a family of six children. His father was a farmer, and in 1858 came to Michigan, locating in Sanilac County, in a township which, upon its organization, was named Moore, in his honor. Mr. Moore was the fourth child of his parents in 'MS>J2J2/IS-§Q^'-il ' <4^^!;Zi2W4v ''^^ 215 order of birth, and remained with them until he was 26 years old. When he arrived at that age he came to Speaker Township, Sanilac County, where he in- terested himself extensively in lumbering, and also mercantile pursuits, in which he was occupied until May, 1 88 1, when he came to Sandusky and continued his commercial business here for some time, finally converting his establishment into a drug store. Mr. Moore is a Republican in political connection. He owns 137 acres of partly improved land on section 14, Speaker Township, and 80 acres, respectively, in the townships of Watertown, Custer, Elmer and Moore, mostly unimproved land. He was married in Port Huron, Aug. 31, i88[, to Rebecca M. Long, born in Haldimand Co., Ont., Dec. 7, 1856. She was brought up on a farm and educated in the schools of her native province. Her father died in Coburg, in i860. The mother died in Haldimand County, in 1880. Mrs. Moore is a communicant in the Episcopal C'hurch. homas Fitch is a prominent and prosper- |j ous farmer of Sanilac County, and is resi- kM^W dent on section 25, of Marlette Township. ''fey^ He was born in Ireland, where he resided tt) imtil he was 24 years old, when he accompa- nied his parents to America. His father, Wil- liam Fitch, died on the ocean. His mother settled in Canada, where she spent the remainder of her life. Mr. Fitch left the Dominion of Canada in the fall of 1857, when he settled in Sanilac County, locating on 160 acres of land in Marlette Township, which he had purchased the previous year. He is now the proprietor of 240 acres, having made a subsequent purchase of 80 acres additional. His tillable estate now includes 100 acres. In political connection he is a Republican, and has been active in the local official positions of his township, having served in the capacities of Justice of the Peace and School Director. He was married in February, 1846, in Ireland, to Margaret Beacom, a native of that country. Seven children of nine born of this marriage survive. They m I ^ () ;^i|s8- u^n. ■^.\imB<>^ x^ -seS 1?^^ ^m $ (L 216 >5 '^ ^<) (^ SANILAC COUNTY. are William M., Mary, Robert W., John L., Jennie E., Thomas R. and Edward W. The deceased were named Rosanna and George. The parents belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. t'l'pr^' rrison J. Wethy, farmer, section 29, Ever- reen Township, was born Feb. 2, i84i,in fe)^ Dryden Township, Lapeer Co., Mich. His father, Rufus Wethy, married Sarah A. How- ard, who was born in 1822, in Vermont, and died in 1849. He was born April 7, 1799, in the State of New York, in the vicinity of the St. Lawrence River. He was a resident of Canada many years, where he followed farming until 1S36, in which year he removed to Romeo, Macomb Co., Mich. One year later he took his family to Lapeer County, where his life terminated. The son grew to mature life under the supervision of his parents. He acquired a good education in the common schools of his native place, to which he added materially by .a course of study in a select school under the direction of Professor John A. Tribe. He was married at the age of 22 years, to Laura A. Tibbals, who was born in 1845, in Troy, OaWand Co., Mich., and was the daughter of Brad- ford K. and Julia A. (Babcock) Tibbals, both of whom were natives of Cattaraugus Co., N. Y. The father was heavily interested in lumbering. The young wife died Jan. 9, 1S64, a year after her mar- riage, leaving one child, Elmer, whose life was the price of that of the mother. Mr. Weihy continued to reside on his farm for six years, during which time he was married to Harriet A., daughter of Al- bert W. and Harriet D. (Wilcox) Spencer. Her par- ents were natives respectively of Canada and Vermont. Her father was born in 1823 ; her mother in 1826, and died in 1849. Mrs. Wethy was born in Attica, Lapeer Co., Mich., in 1846. Nine children have been born of the second marriage: Edwin E., May 23, i866; Nola J., Oct. 28, 1867; Harriet E., Nov. 24, 1870; Laura A., Jan. 24, 1872 ; Albert R., May 10, 1874; Freddie, June 7, 1877 (died soon after birth); Francis C, July 10, 1878; Sarah A., April I, i88o; Alice V., March 28, 1882. In 1870 Mr. Wethy removed with his family to Sanilac County, and located on a tract of i6o acres of land, on which he has since resided. It was in its original, natural condition, and now includes 65 acres of first-class improvements after the best mod- ern plan. His history is parallel with that of the multitudes of citizens of the county, most of whom encountered the fiery scourges which make the years of 187 I and 188 r of historic interest. In the latter year Mr. Wethy lost about $1,500. He is a Republican in i)jlitical affinity and rela- tions. He has discharged his pioportioij of the official obligations of his township, having held the positions of Supervisor in 1874, i88o and 1881, Highway Coiumissioner and School Inspector several years each, and Justice of the Peace, which office he is still filling. He is a member of the Board of Review, a body constituted for the purpose of re- viewing the actions of the Board of Supervisors. •■i^S'v»^' — ^ jlj obert Herbert, blacksmith at Brown City, ^i: was born March 3r, 1853, in Blenheim, *|^?J(^" O^'ord Co., Ont. He is the son of Joseph t 'Y^ a.nd Ann (Kerrison) Herbert. (See sketch of

^ -«iii=»; |?f^^^((® f') 1 (^ SANILAC COUNTY. '^^i^% (b entage. Her father and mother are still living on a farm in Lapeer Co , Mich. Sarah J., Robert L., Daisy D. and Lizzie May, are the names of the chil- bren of Mr. and Mrs. Herbert. The father is a Re- publican in political sentiment and is at present Highway Commissioner. '^'C® Siiugustus Davis, farmer, section 5, Elmer -: ^'--? % Township, was born Dec. 9, 1831, in Brant Sl^ Co., Ont. His parents, David and Delilah (ieT (Sherwood) Davis, were natives of New Eng- 'p l_and, and descended from ancestors who were residents 01 the same section. After their marriage they removed to Canada, where they reared their children and passed the remaining years of their lives. The father was a farmer and brought up his sons to the same calling. Mr. Davis commenced working as a carpenter when he was 24 years of age. He pursued that business, which he alternated with farming, in his native county, until 1878, when he joined the agri- cultural community of Michigan. On arriving in Sanilac County he entered a claim of 160 acres of land, where he has since resided and apijlied his efforts and energies to the best purpose in the im- provement of his land, which, at the time he became resident, was in a natural condition. He has placed 50 acres already under first-class cultivation. Mr. Davis was married in Elgin Co., Ont., to Mary Moore, a native of Canada. Six children have been born of their union,^George A., Almira J., Joseph H., James D., Samuel W. and Phineas A. Mr. Davis, in political matters, acts with the Republi- can party. ^dward W. Beckett, miller and farmer, resi- mmi} dent at Valley Center, was born in Maple Valley Township, May 31, 1858, and is the !^^ son of John H. and Sarah (York) Beckett (see sketch). Mr. Beckett entered upon his single- handed contest with life when he was 19 years old. He purchased 80 acres of land on section 21 in this township, the entire tract being in an entirely unimproved condition. After putting it into a some- \f what more valuable state, he e.tchanged the property for 80 acres of land on section 16 having some im- provements. He has since purchased an additional 80 adjoining on section 15, and has greatly added to to the improvements on the estate. In August, 1883, he entered into a partnership with his father in a steam grist and shingle mill. The joint capacity is about two tons of flour and 20,000 shingles daily. He also owns an improved lot in the village limits. He was married March 15, 1880, at Brockway Center, to Susan M. Makelim. She was born Feb. 9, i860, in Wellington Co., Ont. When she was 17 years old she accompanied her parents to Michigan. William I., only child of Mr. and Mrs. Beckett, was born Oct. 8, 1882. Mr. Beckett is a Republican in political views and has been actively interested in school affairs in the township since his residence therein. #^ ■■ enry W. Wilson, farmer and dealer in grain and produce at Marlette, was born Feb. 8, ii^ 1850, in Durham Co., Ont. He is the son ot j^ Robert and Mary (Scott) Wilson, who were na- 1 tives of Ireland. They grew to mature years in the "Green Isle," and after their marriage in 1844 they came to Canada. In 1S60 they removed to Michigan and settled in the township of Marlette. The father died in June, 1876. Mr. Wilson is the youngest of eight children born to his parents, and he was ten years of age when his parents came to this county. He obtained a good education in the common schools, and was a mem- ber of his father's household until he was 23 years of age. The first important event in his life was his marriage to Mary E. Haskins, which took place Aug. 7, 1873. She was born in November, 1851, and is the daughter of John and Betsey (Wilson) Haskins. Two children, Wesley R. and Clarence H., have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Wilson. In 1878-9 Mr. Wilson was engaged in the milling business at Chesaning, Saginaw County. He is the owner of a fine farm of 295 acres of land in Sanilac County, which includes 80 acres cleared and im- Droved and under profitable cultivation. In 1880 he built a steam elevator near the depot at Marlette, # 9 T — f T I ^m^-- Mmnmi>^ (»v>4^tt=® "7<^liil^llilr> SANILAC COUNTY. ^ ) which has a capacity of 14,000 bushels. He was also interested in building the steam saw-mill near ;t:; the same locality, which is now owned by Messrs. Bolton & McGill. alter Hyslop, farmer, section ri, Elmer Township, was born March 29, 1832, in p Dumfrieshire, Scotland, of which country his H^^ parents, John and Mary (Brownridge) Hys- lop, were natives. The family of the senior Hyslop included eight children, six of whom were born of a prior marriage. Four yet survive. Two brothers of Mr. Hyslop, William and Adam, re- side respectively in England and Scotland. The sole surviving sister, Mrs. Jane Moody, is living in Aus- tralia, in the near vicinity of Melbourne. Mr. Hyslop is the seventh in order of birth of the children born to his father and the first child of the /S second marriage. His mother died when he was i=i five years old; his father died some years later. At V^ the age of 17 years he went to Croydon, England, c=a where he remained three years, returning thence to \1\- Scotland, where he resided a year before coming to Y the New World. He first located at Belleville, Can., where he learned the trade of a stone mason, and there prosecuted his business until the spring of 1864. At that date he came to Lexington, Sanilac Co., Mich., where he worked a short time at his trade. In the fall of the same year he came to Elmer Township, having decided that a change of occupa- tion was imperative to secure his restoration to' health. He sought a location where he could ob- tain the full benefit of a life in the woods, and se- lected the farm which is now his home. He entered a homestead claim of 160 acres, five miles from other settlers, in the dense forest so remote from civilization as to afford secure retreat for wolves and deer, which were very abundant. Mr. Hyslop was the first per- manent settler in the township. On making his location, he had but three months' provisions and no money, which was soon exhausted. He returned to Lexington, where he found employment, and it was his custom, after |laboring six days, to expend his earnings in supplies for his family, and with a load which usually averaged about 70 pounds in weight, traversed the intervening 27 miles on foot, much of I the route lying through unbroken forest. This sort of existence continued one year, when he hired a team to convey his provisions. His native spirit in- ured him to privation, and his thrift and industry enabled him to retain proprietorship of his entire acreage, which now constitutes the best farm in the township, with 80 acres in an unusually fine state of cultivation, and supplied with a good house and creditable farm buildings. The place has three acres of orchard, of a wisely selected variety. On the organization of the township, Mr. Hyslop became first Supervisor, and continued in the posi- tion five years; he has held the office three years subsequently, and has also officiated as Treasurer, Clerk and Road Commissioner, besides having held the minor official trusts. In political faith he is a Republican, and holds the office of School Director. The first marriage of Mr. Hyslop occurred May 24, 185S, when he was joined in wedlock with Maria Sillers, a native of Ontario, Can., and of Scotch de- scent and parentage. She was born in October, 1836, and died in Elmer Township, April 4, 1879, leaving ten cliildren, who were born in the following order: John, Susan, Mary, Elizabeth, Walter, Colin, Joanna, Thomas, Ellen, and Maria. Mr. Hyslop was a second time married, July 3, 1880, at Lexing- ton, to Barbara Legear, who was born at St. Mary's, Ont., March 11, 1856. Her parents were respect- ively of Scotch and Irish nativity. She came to Mich- igan the year previous to her marriage. Robert, Isa- bella and George are the names of the children born ot this union. The family attend the Methodist Epis- copal Church, of which Mrs. Hyslop is a member. John, the eldest son, is present Clerk of Elmer Town- ship. The two eldest daughters, Susan and Mary, are teachers in Sanilac County, and have been en- gaged in that pursuit seven years. ^^shJh*^ I m County. He is the son of John and Barbara (Wixson) McMahon, who were natives ]L respectively of Ireland and Ontario. Mr. Mc- } Mahon was educated in the common schools and passed the first years of his life in study and work on the farm, He passed the remaining years of his ^m> I ^ '^ 1 ^Tohn A. McMahon, attorney at Marlette, ^'y^M'J^ was born July 20, 1853, in Worth, Sanilac '^ ^ ^ &^ n .4. >^ V s (3> ^1 I SANILAC COUNTY. minority in different occupations. On reaching the period of his legal freedom, he entered the law office of his brother, Hon. J. W. McMahon, where he spent 1 8 months in the study of law, after which he entered the Law Department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, where he was graduated two years later, at the spring term of 1877. He at once opened his business as an attorney at Marlette, which he prosecuted there until the fall of 1880, when impaired vision necessitated his temporary withdrawal from active practice. His retirement continued until the summer of 1883, when he resumed labor in the office of George McKay, continuing there until May, 1884. In April, 1882, he was' elected Justice of the Peace, and in x\pril, 18S3, he was elected Township Clerk. In the spring of 1884 he was re-elected to the posi- tion. In Marcli, 1883, he was elected Village Clerk and re-elected the year following. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity. Mr. McMahon was married in Marlette, Aug. 4, 1878, to Ella F. Oakes. She was born in Memphis, Mich., and is the daughter of Charles H. and Bathsheba (House) Oakes, natives of the State of New York. Of three children born of this marriage, but one — -Hattie B. — survives. One child died in early infancy; Zoe died when she was one month old. S 219 -laizae;©!®' •^k^ifinns^f^ rk Turner, merchant, located at Shab- )ona Corners, Evergreen Township, is the son of Richard and Catherine (Bal- lentine) Turner. The former is a native of New Brunswick, the latter of Ireland. They resided in Canada after their marriage until 1864, when thej sought a residence in Michigan, locating first in Port Huron, and later at Brockway, where they now reside.* Mr. Turner was born Jan. 18, 1852, in O.vford Co., Can. He remained there under the paternal super- vision until he was 24 years of age, when he engaged as a hand in a saw-mill and was thus occupied seven years. His next employ was on a farm in Brockway, where he remained three years. In 1884 he came to his present field of operation and established the business which he has since managed, and which affords satisfactory returns for the capital and labor invested. He is a Republican in political tendencies, and is present Township Clerk of Evergreen. He is a member of the Order of Masonry, Lodge No. 316, Brockway, St. Clair Co., Mich. He was married in 1878 to Catherine Pangborn, who was born Aug. 7, i860, in Canada, and is the daughter of John and Barbara (Shier) Pangborn. Her father was born in Canada, her mother in Ire- land. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Turner were born as follows : Mary E., Feb. T April 3, 1882 ; Alton M., Sept. 7, ■ 883. ^ 1879; Burt, fJ4^ 'ens C. Jeuhl, farmer, section 28, Elmer Township, was born April 26, 1826, in Hadersleben, Denmark. His parents, Christian and Ann E. (Erchpen) Jeuhl, were of German descent and born in Denmark. They belonged to the farming community and were the parents of five children. Mr. Jeuhl was the third child of his parents in order of birth, and received the excellent education prescribed by law in his native land. He remained with his parents until he was 25 years old, and from that age until that of 32 years he passed his time as a common laborer; he was then married to Mary Jeuhl, the date of the event being June 19, 1858. Mrs. Jeuhl was born Jan. i, 1838, in Stendemp, Denmark, and received a good education. Of eleven children born of this union, three are deceased. They were born as here named : Christian, Hans, Peter, Anthony, Anna, John, Jens and Mary. Those deceased were named Lena, Jens and Joanna. The children were all born before their parents left the old country and are well educated. The two eldest sons speak and write Danish, German, French and English, and have a thorough knowledge of Latin. The entire family are most accomplished linguists. They lived in Denmark until April, 1882, when they emigrated to America. They remained six months in the city of Detroit, and in the fall of that year came to Sanilac County. They purchased 360 acres of land in this township, all of which was in its primeval condition. Their thrift and energy have already been npplied to such good advantage that c <>,: ( (^ ^ ^^Ofl^Dtlv^ -^■^¥^ \, IM ^|S/^®^^€ .'%aj--v! SANILAC COUNTY. I ^ ) >5 V (5) i they have placed 30 acres in fair tillable condition, and the farm presents a creditable appearance, with good house and other farm buildings. Mr. Jeuhl is a Republican in political belief. His wife died April 25, 1883, of consumption, about one year after her arrival in America. She had won many friends during the brief months she passed in her new home, and in her death she was mourned as if she had been a friend of many long years. She and her husband belonged to the Lutheran Church. ff^'(i,\ illiam P. Webb, farmer, section 22, Maple • \ % (I '■ ■ • l^^aVj Valley Township, has been a resident of 'i'U^ ' Sanilac County since 1858. He settled in i> the township of Worth in March of that year, where he rented a farm of 200 acres, which he continued to manage 14 years. In 1872 he came to Maple Valley Township, where he rented a farm of 120 acres for a term of seven years. At the expiration of that period, he purchased the property of which he is still the owner, consisting of 80 acres of land. It is now in fine condition, with a good house and farm buildings. In addition to his general farming, he is making a specialty of raising blooded stock. He is a member of the Republican party. While in Worth Township, Mr. Webb offi- ciated as Justice of the Peace four years, and has acted in the same capacity in Maple Valley Town- ship during the past 11 years. He has also dis- charged the duties of several school offices. Mr. Webb is a man of energetic and sterling character. In early life he designed to devote his life to the labors of a missionary in India, but was diverted from his purpose by the entreaties of his friends. At this writing (current year, 1884) he is 73 years of age, and looks back to the change of his life purpose with regret. He was born Dec. 15, 1811, in the city of London, England, and is the son of Titus J. and Mary (Bau- den) Webb. In 18 rS the family came to America, landing at Quebec June 5. They resided in that city seven years, the father working as a shoemaker a portion of the time. He removed thence to Odel- town, in close pro.ximity to the line of New York, where he was occupied alternately at fanning and shoemaking until 1844, when he went to Montreal. He resided there until his death in 1856. Mr. Webb remained with his parents until he was 16 years old, when he went to Charlotte, Vt., for the purpose of learning the trade of tanner and currier. He was a resident there until he was 21 years old. In view of the plan he had marked out to go to In- dia, he became a student at the academy of Kings- bury, N. Y., and spent two years in study at that institution. He returned to his father's house, where he passed a year, engaging six months in teaching at Odeltown. He went thence to Mooers, N. Y., where he managed a saw-mill about one year, selling out to go to Champlain, where he interested himself in farming. He was there engaged until the spring of 1838, and was meanwhile married to Jane Spearman, of Champlain, She was born March 2, 1812, in Ire- land, and is the daughter of Simon and Margaret (Napier) Spearman. Her father removed his family to America in 1830. To Mr. and Mrs. Webb the following children have been born, whose record of birth is also given: Titus J., born Jan. 6, 1839; Margaret L., May 22, 1840; Elizabeth M., Feb. 17, 1842; Charlotte A., Aug. 29, 1843 (died Dec. 2, 1870); Susannah L., July 13, 1845; Jane L., Oct. 25, 1846; Lavinia W., Sept. 6, 1S50; Mary M., June 30, 1852; Martha V., July 5, 1857 (died March 30, i860). The parents belong to the Methodist Epis- copal Church. --M ^ ^Ifhomas Walker, farmer, resident on section ^s^ I 2, Marlette Township, is the son of William ■^jppi^ and Ann (Keyes) Walker, natives of County ^^^^ Fermanagh, Ireland. They emigrated to Can- ada respectively in 182S and 1830. They were married in the Dominion and continued to re- side there until February, 1856, when they came to Michigan. The father bought 320 acres of land on sections 23, 24 and 26, Marlette Township, where the family settled and where the parents resided during the remainder of their lives. Their family included seven children, all of whom attained maturity. Their births occurred in the following order : Jane (see sketch of Geo. Notley), Thomas, John and Rebecca (twins), William, James and Samuel. Rebecca is the wife of William Nash. T ^5 A c^: 0) \ I >/.rv^/S„ <^Da^DDf^-^ .:^^:g^ ^m^ ■T^ SAN/LAC COUNTY. -4^^f (h Mr. Walker of this sketch is the eldest son of his parents, and was born Sept. 15, 1837, in Dundas Co., Ont. He obtained his education in the common schools and was reared to the calling of the class to which his parents belonged. He assisted in the labors of the farm in Canada until he was 19 years old, when his parents settled in Sanilac County. He continued to reside with them until he was 38 years old, when he settled upon 280 acres of land in the same township, which he purchased in 1855. He has since sold 120 acres, and has placed 100 acres of the remainder in a finely cultivated condition. Three years previous to his removal to his estate, he was married to Elizabeth Nash. The event took place July 17, 187 i. Mrs. Walker is the daughter of James and Nora (Grenen) Nash, natives respectively of England and New Brunswick. She was born April 23, 1834. Nora J. and William E. are the names of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Walker. Mr. W. is an adherent to the tenets of the Demo- cratic party in his political views. He has spent many consecutive years in the discharge of the duties incumbent upon him as the official in positions of trust and responsibility in his township. He served two years as Supervisor, one year as Clerk and 13 years as Highway Commissioner. He officiated three terms as Justice of the Peace and School Inspector, and in 1880 was appointed Deputy County Surveyor, which position he still holds. He is one of the oldest members of the Masonic Order in the township. Both Mr. and Mrs. Walker are members of the United Presbyterian Church. if ^Ldward Hilborn, farmer, section 5, Elmer ^ Wk Township, was born in March, 1850, in Elgin Co., Out., and is the son of Moide- 4fc>- cai Hilborn. He remained in the Dominion of Canada with his parents until he was 16 years of age, when he came to Sanilac County. He first located in Speaker Township, where he pursued agriculture until 1882, operating on 40 acres of land. In the year named, he removed to Elmer Township and purchased the estate which now constitutes his homestead. It comprises 127 acres, and at the date of purchase was in a wholly unimproved condition. In the brief period in which he has been resident, he has cleared and improved 20 acres and erected suit- able and necessary farm buildings. Mr. Hilborn is a Republican in political sentiment and action. He was married Sept. 22, 1879, in Worth Town- ship, to Josephine Wixson. She was born in the township where she was married, June 25, 1857. Herbert, only child, was born July 13, 1882. The parents are members of the Baptist Church. alvin Davis, farmer, section 15, Elmer ^^ Township, was born March 14, 1837, in Kingston, Canada. His parents, James S. and Nancy (Barrett) Davis, were of New England extraction, born respectively in New York and Vermont. They belonged to the agricultural class, and the father died in Chatham, Ontario, in i88r. The mother still resides there, aged 70 years. Mr. Davis became a sailor boy on the "Great Lakes" when he was 14 years of age. From this position, the most humble in his chosen calling, he gradually advanced by promotion until he became captain. Following are the names of the boats which he managed during the last seven years of his life on the lakes : The " Free Trader," of Montreal ; the " Elizabeth," of Kingston, and the " Cambria," of Hamilton; also the "Shannon," of Kingston, and the " Wave Crest," of Montreal. In 1873 he aban- doned the career of a sailor and spent the ensuing two years in the shipyard of Chatham. His next remove was to this State, when he located at Brock- way Center, St. Clair County, and managed a tan- nery one year. In 1877 he settled in Sanilac County. He purchased the farm which has since been his homestead, and which comprises 120 acres of excellent land. Of this he has improved and cultivated 30 acres. Mr. Davis subscribes to the tenets of the Democratic party, and has officiated four years as Superintendent of Schools. He was married March 24, 1874, at Chatham, Ont., to Clarinda, daughter of William and Permelia (Harris) Walker. The parents were born respect- ively in Scotland and Nova Scotia and were of Scotch descent. The father was a mason by trade, and lost his life in the late Rebellion while in action, from a bayonet wound. The mother resides with ( ^ :s!i^^ JL <>D!]>^iid;^>^ _>T.^jS>«l.jrr_ :^^ (^■v/^>)^t| :#^- SANILAC COUNTY. -:2j€^ vSr^ '^^"1^1 % t :a5 s> b her daughter, and is 75 years of age. Mrs. Davis was born June 18, 1S49, in Ingersoll, Ont. The family of Mr. Davis now includes four children : George W., Charles L., James H. and Lloyd B. oren Cady, liveryman, established at Mar- lette, was bora in the State of Pennsylva- nia, June 2, i860. His parents were also natives of the Key-stone State, and came to A Michigan in 1884, and now reside in the city of .^ Saginaw. Mr. Cady became a resident of Sanilac County in 1882, and engaged about one year in teaming, after which he went to Saginaw and was variously em- ployed for a short time. In the spring of 1884 he came to Marlette and after a brief time purchased the livery business of F. E. Talmadge. His horses, carriages and other fixtures are of a quantity and quality adapted to the extent and character of his patronage, and he is engaged in a satisfactory busi- ness. obert G. Brown, farmer on section i8, Maple Valley Township, resident at Brown :^' City, was born in Scotland near the Che- }v^ viot Hills, April 28, 1834. His parents, Wil- liam and Margaret (Murray) Brown, were born respectively in the Lowlands and Highlands of Scotland, and represent long lines of ancestry who were shepherds from dates going back to remote periods. They were in the same avenue of business until their removal to the United States in 1850, whither they came with their family of four sons and two daughters. They first located in Yates Town- ship, Orleans Co., N. Y., where they remained four years. In 1854 they came to Michigan and pur- chased large tracts of land in Lapeer and Sanilac Counties, including in all 1,200 acres, situated on sections 12 and 13 in Burnsidcs Township, that coun- ty, and on sections 7 and 18 in what is now Maple Valley Township. Comparative data will manifest the primitive condition of the estate, which was ac- cessible only by means of Indian trails and entirely without settlers save the nomadic red men, who roved at their own will wherever wild game most abounded, or their simple desires led them. Markets and sup- plies were 30 miles distant, at Almont and Romeo, a distance rendered doubly tedious by the fact that locomotive facilities were confined to their ox teams. On first settling, they brought in a horse with them, but the following spring it wandered into the woods and was never traced. The existing condition of things involved much hardship for the first few years. Four grown sons made a respectable pioneer working force who accom- plished much necessary improvement of the tract of land within their supervision ; and under the judicious guidance of their father, their labors proved of much value to the location, their improvements and estab- lishment of general interests rendering the surround- ing country attractive to other new comers. Their parents resided on section 12, Burnsides Township, during the remainder of their lives. Their father died June 21, 1883, at the age of 97 years. He adopted and supported the principles of the Re- publican party, and was tlie first Treasurer of his township after the establishment of its municipal regulations. The mother died Nov. 18, 1865. Mr. Brown was a member of the paternal house- hold until his marriage, Feb. 20, 1861, in Maple Valley Township, to Margaret M. Bryce. Her par- ents, James and Elizabeth (Fenner) Bryce, were natives of Scotland and the Province of Ontario, respectively, and were of Scotch and Irish descent. They vvere among the pioneer settlers of Sanilac County and ideiitified with its early history and de- velopment. The father died Dec. 26, 187 1, in St. Clair County. The mother is a resident still on the homestead in Brockway Township in that county. Mrs. Brown was born in Warwick, Hampden Co., Ont., and is one of 11 children born to her parents. They removed to this township when she was 1 1 years of age and she was a member of her father's household until her marriage. Three children, of whom she is the mother, are all living. They were born as follows: Martha E., July 20, 1862 (married April 18, 1881, Geo. W. Smith, a merchant at Clare, in the county of the same name); Mary J., Sept. 15, 1864 (married April 19, 1883, Frank Snyder, Deputy Postmaster at Brown City and dealer in musical in- struments, sewing-machines, and is an insurance V^ C %: f rr -^■ —4^^ ^^-r^^^^ T7^ ^:HIl^:Iln^> "T »^C@V^ SANILAC COUNTY. 223 h m ^ ■<) -5 > V ) V agent); Rebecca E., Nov. 29, 1868, who is still with her parents. Mr. Brown removed his family to Inilay City, La- peer County, where he located March 27, 1873. He engaged in grain traffic, in which he was interested two years, after which he embarked in business as a dealer in general merchandise, which pursuit he fol- lowed until July, 1879, at which date he returned to the life of an agriculturist and took possession of his estate lying on sections 18 and 8 of this township, comprising 520 acres, with 150 acres under advanced culture, with fine farm buildings, and including one of the best assorted and producing orchards in the county. The village which perpetuates the family name and fitly represents its influence, was half platted by Mr. Brown, and he owns 100 lots within its limits. He was the first Township Clerk and re- mained the incumbent of the position some years; he was also Treasurer for a few terms. During the war he served three years as enrolling officer of three town- ships of Sanilac County. He has been Postmaster at Brown City since its organization. He is a Repub- lican of most decided principles. "'"' ?^? athaniel S. Taneher, marketman at Mar- siS'i •'^ttc> is the son of Richard and Betsey (Smith) Fancher. They were natives of the State of New York, where they were mar- ried, and later removed to Michigan, settling in Macomb ('ounty in the pioneer days of the Peninsular State. ' They afterwards removed to La- peer County, where tlie father died July 9, 1849. Their family included four sons and five daughters. Mr. Fancher is the youngest son of his parents, and was born July 28, 1843, in Lapeer Co., Mich. He passed the first 1 8 years of his life in the pa- rental household, in acquiring his 'education in the common schools and as an assistant on his father's farm. He spent the next 12 years in the varied oc- cupations of farmer and lumberman, and in 1869 evened a market at Attica in his native county. After managing his interests in that line three years, he sold out and embarked in the livery business, which he carried on two years. He passed a year at Almont, Lapeer County, and in February, 1879, he came to Marlette, where he opened a meat market, which he has since continued to manage. Mr. Fancher is a Democrat in political faith, and is one of the charter members of Marlette Lodge, No. 1,775, K. of H. He belongs also to the Masonic Order. His marriage to Mary Sanderson occurred Oct. 14, 1863, in Genesee Co., Mich. She was born in 1843, in Canada, and is the daughter of Nelson and Fanny Sanderson. Two of the three children born of this marriage are deceased. Their names were Dora and Nelson. Clara M. was born Sept. 24, 1872. 'i?%^| 5I#?W^ 'ohn J. Robinson, farmer, section 3r, Ever- green Township, was born Feb. 28, 1842, in the Township of Bruce, Macomb Co., Mich. His father, Robert Robinson, was born in 1806, and when he was 18 years old came to America, settling on Long Island. He mar- ried Betsey A. Dunn, who was born in 1822, in the State of New York : she died in 1856. The family removed to Macomb County in 1836 and settled in Bruce Township. A few years later they came to Lapeer County, where the father remained until 1875 when he came to Sanilac County to reside with his son. He died May 24, 1S77. Mr. Robinson was 19 years of age when the civil war engulfed the land, and he enlisted in Co. G, loth Mich. Vol. Lif. He received his discharge for disability before his regiment left the State, and re- turned to Lapeer County, where he engaged in farm- ing. \\\ 1872 he came to Sanilac County and located an estate of 240 acres of wild land, which he still retains, with the e.xception of 80 acres which he sold. The place now includes 74 acres under good improve- ments. Li political sentiment Mr. Robinson adheres to the principles of the Republican party. He has been Township Treasurer two terms, and Highway Com- missioner one term. He has served three terms as School Director, and as Assessor for the same length of time. Mr. Robinson was married in 1863, to Betsey A. Wilcox. She was bom Oct. ri, r84i, in Lapeer Co., Mich., and is the daughter of Harvey and Susan (Burton) Wilcox. The former was born July 5, 1815, <. c^, A <^^ii!i§niiv>A^ -'^Cx^-- "'4 t ®] # 4>IlIl^IiD^j>v ":25^w^ 224 SANILAC COUNTY. the latter Nov. 6, 18 10, both natives of the State of New York. The family of Mr. Robinson includes one adopted son, Harvey Wilco.x, who was born May 9, 1875- T. Dodge, M. D., physician at Mar- , was born April 2, i860, in Barry -■IVVj^V'J^ Co., Mich. He is the son of Winchester J^^r T. and Ann (Craig) Dodge, natives respect- JlXn ivelv of Ontario and .Scotland. They lo- ively of Ontario and .Scotland. > cated in Michigan after their marriage, and are at present residents of Lapeer County. Dr. Dodge is the eldest of five children born to his parents, and passed the first 18 years of his life in ob- taining an education in the con.mon and high schools of his native county. In the fall of 1878, he entered the Medical Department of the University of Mich- igan at Ann Arbor, where he was graduated two years later, having fulfilled the prescribed course of study at that institution. He received his creden- tials in July, 1S80, and came soon afterward to Mar- ietta, where he practiced a year. In 1881 he went to the city of New York, where he spent six months in clinic practice. He resumed his business at Mar- lette, where he has since pursued his calling with satisfactory results. Dr. Dodge is independent in political connections and views, and in the spring of 1S84 was appointed Health Officer of Marlette. He is a member of Lodge No. 343, F. & A. M. rflD^^^^Jienry Smackart, farmer, section i, Elmer ^^ Townsliip, was born in Prussia, June 16, ^ 1823. His father died when he was a child O of four years, and he was reared by his mother, i with whom he remained until his departure from I his native country in 1853. He was 30 years of age when he set out to seek his fortune in the New World. He first settled at Belmont, Waterloo Co., Can., where he passed nine years in farming. He went thence to Huron Co., Ont., and engaged in agriculture. The next 17 years of liis life he passed in the labors of the farm there, and then he came to Michigan to enjoy the privilege of a republican form of government, and to avail himself of the ad- vantages offered by the resources of the Peninsular State. In February, 1879, he purchased the estate of 80 acres he now owns, and whereon he has estab- lished his home. He has improved 22 acres and placed it under good cultivation. His marriage to Henrietta Riake occurred Sept. 21, 1845, in Prussia. She was born in Prussia, June 21, 1825. Ten children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Smackart, four of whom are deceased. They were named Levi, Rebecca, August and Almateria. Those who survive are Christopher, William, Andrew, Min- nie, Barbara and Elizabeth. The family are mem- bers of the religious society known as "Dunkards." Stuart MeClure, attorney at Marlette, mm^V.. was born Sept. 27, 1857, in Madoc, Hast- 3m(j{y ^ ings Co., Ont. His parents, Donald and r)A Flora (Stuart) McClure, were natives of the Isle of Skye. They were born in Sleat, and emigrated to Hastings Co., Can., where the intimacy which began in their earliest years culminated in marriage. Later on, they removed to Middlesex Co., Ont., where they were a number of years resident, going thence to Lambton Co., Ont., where they have since lived. Their family included six children, — three sons and three daughters. One of the latter is deceased. The father of Mr. Mc- Clure has been actively interested in business life, having been successfully engaged in merchant tailor- ing, lumbering and in manufacture and traffic in oil. Mr. McClure is tlie second in order of birth of the children of his father's family. Previous to the age of 16 years he acquired a substantial education in the public schools of Middlesex County, accomplish- ing the entire curriculum of study therein. At the age named he commenced teaching, which vocation he pursued two years. He then attended the Georgetown Academy, where he took one course of study. He resumed teaching, and two years later became a student at Gait Collegiate Institute, enter- ing the. last year of the four years' course prescribed by that institution, and devoting his attention partic- ularly to the classics. He again became a teacher, and devoted the proceeds of his labors to the educa- ^: =^# s^ JL ^ V (j SANILAC COUNTY. ^4)^^ m\Wi 227 tion of his brother, who studied medicine at Ann Ar- bor, graduated, and is now engaged in the successful practice of his profession at Sherman, Texas. The prosecution and accomplishment of this purpose was the cause of the postponement of his own plans for professional study. He had fixed upon the United States as a suitable and feasible field for the devel- opment of his life purposes, and he accordingly de- termined upon pursuing the course of study prepar- atory to his entrance upon a i^rofessional life, at an American institution. In the fall of 1878 he left his native country, and entered the Law Department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, where he was graduated in the spring of 1880. He was elected Poet of his class. In the spring of 1881 he established himself in business at Marlette, in company with the Hon. J. W. McMahon, and has since been engaged in the pros- ecution of his profession. He has already won his way to a prominent position as an attorney, through his industry, integrity and application to his business engagements. In political sentiment and connection he is independent. He was elected Circuit Court Commissioner on the Republican ticket, in the fall of 1882. mj'seterC. Phillips, farmer, section 27, Ever- iMIik green Township, was born Nov. 18, 1838, j^; ^ in Elgin Co , Can., and is the son of Nich- ?.^ olas and Effie (Alward) Phillips. The former was born in 1776, in Schoharie Co., N. Y., was a farmer all his life, and died in 1862. The mother was born in 1793, in Canada. She is still living in the Dominion, at the advanced age of 91 years. Mr. Phillips attained his majority under the super- vision of his father, after which he managed the home farm for five years. He remained in Canada until 1864, when he came to Michigan. He located in Brockway Tp., St. Clair County, where he inter- ested himself in farming and rearing stock. In the fall of 188 1 he came to Sanilac County and settled on 160 acres located on sections 27, 28 and 33. He also owns 80 acres of land on section 35. Politic- ally, he is a Republican, and in the year 1883 was elected Township Treasurer, to which office he was re-elected in 1884. Mr. Phillips was married in i860, to Experience A. McGregor. She was born May 24, 1843, and is the daughter of Philander and Phebe McGregor. The former was born June 9, 181 1, and died June 16, 1876; the latter was born Feb. 28, 1823, and died Sept. 17, 1863. Both were natives of Welling- ton Co., Can. Mr. and Mrs. Phiilii)s are the parents of ten children, recorded as follows : Albert N., born Feb. 9, 1861 ; Francis H., May 22, 1863; Alma A., March 8, 1867; Philander, March 29, 1869; Cyrus M., Dec. 23, 1872; Fidelia E., June 9, 1874; Cadton, May 17, 1876; Sheriff C, June 24, 1878; Charley, July 31, 1880; Peter L., Aug. i, 1883. 'veaae/©^' ^^■^4— »-3|^)/ZWB*>A ames Minard, farmer, resident on section 32, Moore Township, is the son of Samuel and Rebecca (Moore) Minard. The for- mer was born in Ulster Co., N. Y., and re- It moved in 1813 to Canada, where he engaged in the two-fold occupation of farmer and blacksmith. The parents are both deceased. Mr. Minard was born July 31, 1830, in Elgin Co., Can. On reaching his majority he married Hannah Johnson, who was born April i, 1836, in Canada, and is the daughter of Job and Mary (Scott) John- son. Her father was a farmer, and died in 1842. Her mother is living in Sanilac County. In i860 Mr. Minard became a resident of Moore Township. He located on 50 acres of land, where he has since resided, and is one of the heaviest land-owners in the township, owning 680 acres additional to his first purchase. He was the first perniaiienl white settler in Moore Township, where he resided four years be- fore another white man made a location. The near- est neighbor was 12 miles distant in one direction, and fifteen miles away in another. The farm now comprises 140 acres of improved and finely culti- vated land. Mr. Minard is a member of the Masonic Lodge, No. 6.', at Lexington. He has been a Re- publican since the founding of the party, and was Sheriff of the county in 1874. He has been Super- visor 12 terms, Treasurer and Justice of the Peace 12 years, and has held the position of Notary Public c^ O m ( A<^ii g K m>^ — ^€3!^ \. 228 (i) f ■'tii^^ T-<^DB>^DD^>-r ■sr ♦^C(®^-f^ SANILAC COUNTY. 4 d»fe six years, receiving his appointment from Gov. Bag- ley. Mr. Minard is now in the position of local State Commissioner for the Port Sanilac & Tuscola State Road. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Minard are nine in number, and were born as follows: Charles L., Nov. 28, 185s; Phillip, May 5, 1858; Samuel C, March 19, i860; James W., Aug. 21, 1862; Enos, March 16. 1864 ; Mary, Nov. 30, 1867 ; Jacob D., Feb. 27, 1870; Hannah, Sept. 5, 1872; Job, April 3, 1878. Mr. Minard's portrait is presented with those of other leading citizens of Sanilac County. This is eminently fitting from the position he occupies as a pioneer, a developer of the resources of his county and township, and a public-spirited man, possessing a desire to aid in every possible way in the progress of the generation to which he belongs, and to con- tribute all effort needed to secure its permanent well- being. -^^^^ homas Kirkbride, farmer, section 10, Elmer ^^1 Township, was born June 5, 1830, in Cum- * berland County, England. His parents, «^ Thomas and Ann (Hall) Kirkbride, were also natives of England and are now deceased. In 1 83 1 they emigrated with their family to this country and settled in Quebec, Canada. Mr. Kirkbride remained at home with his parents in the Dominion until he was 28 years of age. He acquired the trade of a carpenter, which calling he has pursued many years. He came to Michigan in December, 1858, and located in the township of Flynn, in this county, where he purchased 240 acres of land on section 15, and in addition to his interests as a pioneer farmer he engaged quite extensively in lumbering. A variety of causes precipitated disaster to his business in that direction, and in 1867 he sur- rendered his property. He came to this township in 1867 and entered a claim of 80 acres under the regulations of the Homestead Act. He has placed 20 acres under creditable cultivation, and is again becoming one of the solid citizens of Sanilac County. He is a Republican in political faith and action, and has served his generation ten years as Justice of the Peace; he has also officiated in other positions of ^ trust and responsibility. In 1873 he was appointed Commissioner of the Elmer State Road by the Legis- lature of Michigan, and he is also Township Drain Commissioner. He is an Episcopalian in religious connection. 'ohn W. Councilor, hardware merchant at |t^ Marlette, was born May 28. 1S52, in Dela- >V*^^ ware, of which State his parents, Elisha =§|,g and Rebecca (Dean) Councilor, were also na- tives. They came to Michigan in 1854. His father dying when he was nine years of age, he was thrown upon his own exertions for self-main- tenance, and he passed the years following, until he was 17 years old, as a farm laborer. He then went to Pewamo, Ionia Co., Mich., and attended school three years. He was then on the threshold of man- hood and became a traveling salesman in the inter- ests of Messrs. Wessell & Wheeler, of St. Louis, Gratiot Co., Mich. After a year of effort in their ser- vice he engaged in selling patent rights, in which he passed a similar length of time, when he engaged with the National Copying Company of Kalamazoo, and operated in their behalf two years. Mr. Councilor became a resident of Sanilac Coun- ty in December, [876, when he opened a tinshop at Marlette. He entered into a partnership with Thomas Aldrich, and the relation existed until 1883, when he bought the interest of his partner, and has since managed his business interests with success. He owris his place of business and other village property. He was married May 29, 1883, in Saginaw Co., Mich., to Ella Gates. She is a native of Michigan. it yML^reeman A. Kyes, salesman for John Make- ' ytEjo ''™' ^' Valley Center, was born July 13, %hf^'-'^ 1862, in Leeds Co., Ont. His father and ^^ mother, Alplieus and Minerva (Shiproan) Kyes J)K^ are residents of this townshij). (See sketch of { John Makelim.) Mr. Kyes became his own master when he was 13 years of age and engaged as a general farm laborer until he was 17 years of age, when he set out for Michigan by himself and located n v§) 1 t mW'^ a tF^ SANILAC COUNTY 229 I :« ^) at Valley Center. He engaged in farming in this vicinity, afterwards going to Port Huron, Michigan, in 1883. He operated for a time as clerk in the Commercial House at that place, and af'.er the ex- piration of his engagement there, he came to this place and entered the employ of his brother-in-law. He has attended school winters until he has obtained a good education. In politics he is a Re|)ublican. In disposition Mr. Kyes is liberal and enthusiastic, and his natural traits of character and habits give promise of a successful and useful career in life. i.FpWB^ illiam Craig, proprietor of the woolen-mill mIiISL at Marlette, was born Oct. 16, 1837, in '^^jkC Scotland. His parents, John and Mary 5> (Stirret) Craig, were natives of .Scotland, and emigrated from their native land to Canada. The father died there, and the mother is now a resident of Sanilac County. Mr. Craig was ten years of age when he came to Canada, where he remained until the fall of 1872, when he came to Sanilac County. He bought 80 acres of land in Marlette Township, of which he took possession, and on which he resided until 1879, when he removed to the village of Marlette and built the woolen-mill which he has since operated. His working corps includes an average number of six men. In political faith and connection he is a Republican, and he also belongs to the Masonic fraternity. (^ «> eorge Etherington, blacksmith at Valley %. Center, Maple Valley Township, was born ^'S in Vaughan Township, York Co., Ont., May 10, 1856. His parents, William and Martha f (Keyworth) Etherington, were both natives of Lincolnshire, England. Their parents emigrated with their families to Canada, where their children grew to mature years, married, settled and died in the Dominion. The mother of Mr. Etherington was the widow of John Clayton at the time of her marriage to his father. The latter was a farmer all his life and died about 1858. The mother died Dec. 17, 1881. Five children survive her. Eliza, only child of her first marriage, resides in Ontario and is the wife of Patrick Duffey. William and Stephen are residents of Maple Valley Township. Elizabeth (Mrs. John Cann) lives in Ontario. Mr. Etherington passed the first 16 years of his life under the care of his parents. He attended the public schools of the Dominion and assisted in the labors of the farm until the age named, when he was apprenticed to learn the trade which he has since pursued. He served three years at Elora, Welling- ton Co., Ont., and came thence to Lynn Township, St. Chiir Co., Mich., where he followed the business for which he had fitted himself until the fall of 1883. At that date he established his shoj) and business at Valley Center. He is a thorough and efficient crafts- man and is doing a substantial and prosperous busi- ness. He is a Republican in political opinion and action, and is a reliable and respected citizen of his town- ship. He is a Methodist in religious conviction and connection. -ij. "ifjilfc illiam Thomas, farmer, section 25, Elk .1^ |l Township, was born Feb. 25, 1837, in the city of Toronto. Soon after his birth, he was sent to Northumberland Co., Ont., where he remained with his grandparents until he attained to man's estate. He spent a number of years as a common laborer and in 186 1 he came to Michigan. In 1869 be bought 160 acres of land, and in April, 1874, he settled on the place. It was in a wholly wild condition when he took possession, and he has now 100 acres in first-class farming con- dition. His supplies at the time he moved into the township were worth about $25. He has applied his time and efforts to the best possible advantage, and is justly considered one of the substantial citizens of this township. He has recently begun to deal in Durham stock, and has a fine herd of graded cattle, besides a valuable flock of blooded sheep. He is a decided Democrat in his political views. Mr. Thomas was married April 10, 1878, in Elk Township, to Cordelia, daughter of William and Esther (Stryker) Eastman. Her mother died in Ontario, in 1856, and her father resides in Port A ? (^ 5> Mh^^^^ -(^Mmh^r 230 ■^ i >^ V s ' ) SANILAC COUNTY. -«t?^ ^^ Huron. She was born Oct. 12, 1851, in Ontario. Mary E., born Feb. 25, 1879, and William A., born June 18, 1880, are the children now included in the family of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas. The parents are members of the Baptist Church. atthew Umphrey, farmer on section 15, Elk Township, was born in York (now ^ Toronto), Canada, Nov. i, 1822. His parents, Samuel and Lucinda Umphrey, f' " were natives of New York, of New England an- cestry, who were of Scotch and German descent. They died in Ontario County, in the Dominion, and were both about 73 years of age. Mr. Umphrey was bred a farmer and remained upon the home place until he was 23 years old. He then made a purchase of 100 acres of land on con- cession ninth, in Ontario County, and became actively interested in agriculture. He retained the ownership of this a few years, when he sold out and secured 200 acres on concession seventh, in the same county. He lived on the latter until he had re- claimed 90 acres from its natural condition. In 1855 he came to Michigan and purchased 320 acres of wild land in Delaware Township, Sanilac County, where he was one of the earliest settlers. The tract was situated in the vicinity of Forestville, in the township of Delaware, where he remained about r5 years. Meanwhile he was an actual resident of Lex- ington Township four years, where he improved nearly 80 acres of land, and then returned to his farm in Delaware Township. He established a savv- mill on his place and engaged extensively in the manufacture of lumber. In the fall of 187 i the fire which devastated the county of Sanilac destroyed a large amount of lumber which he had in stock, his horses, cattle, stock generally, farm buildings, includ- ing everything on the place in the shape of a struct ure, — fences, fixtures and every vestige of property of which he was the owner, save the ground it occu- pied, — the loss aggregating $12,000. One of his sons was burned nearly to death, and the lives of his family were saved only by seeking refuge on the lake, which was 80 rods distant. They were practically unclothed, and stood waist deep in the water eight hours, waiting for the heat to abate, before it was safe to venture to the shore. The loss was severe, but his determination to re-establish once more his fortunes was intact. He had a little property in Lexington Township, of which he took possession, and there remained until the fall of 1877, when he removed to Elk Township. He settled on section 15 and now owns 240 acres located on sections 14, 15 and 22. He has 150 acres cleared and otherwise improved, and is fast resuming his former position as a leading agriculturist of Sanilac County. He is a Democrat in political connections and action. Mr. Umphrey was first married in October, 1845, in Ontario Co., Can., to Mary Noble. She was born in the same county, of American parentage, in 1828, and became the mother of nine children, all of whom survive her save one. They are named Samuel, Catherine, Elizabeth, Mary, Ellen, Angeline, John and Lucinda. Martha is deceased. The mother died in 1867, in Lexington Township, universally lamented. The husband was a second time mar- ried in 1870, in Lexington, to Catherine Flynn, who was born in Ontario in 1853 and died in February, 1875, leaving two children, — Emma and Margaret Mr. Umphrey was a third time married Aug. 8, 1875, to Mrs. Mary Keefe, daughter of Fred and Elizabeth (Post) Keller. Mrs. U. is a native of Ontario, where she was born, in Colburn County, Nov. 5, 1840. By her first marriage she is the mother of eight chil- dren, two of whom are deceased. Their names are Fred, John, Mary, Jennie, Ellen and James. Richard and Catherine are deceased. Anna is the only cliild of her second marriage. -H=i rM=f— 7«^#^ -Awl. <^n "S^iiSenjamin Collins, farmer, resident on sec- tion 30, Buel Township, was born in 18 19, in Cattaraugus Co., N. Y. His parents, ^® Israel and Lavinia Collins, were of American ^ birth, and died in Durham, Oxford Co., Can. Mr. Collins is the fifth of ten children born to his parents. His brothers and sisters were Mar- garet, Richard, Betsey, Abel, Josiah, Jerome, Lavinia, Arminia and Russell. The latter is deceased. His parents removed to Canada when he was 12 years of age, and on reaching his majority he bought a farm in the Dominion, and entered vigorously upon the work of improving. The place included 100 acres, «5 c>: (^ '^ 7 A (' ?■ i 1 ^) '•■";» SANILAC COUNTY. -%gm i^^((®vii 23' 1^ — and was in a wholly wild condition. He made an exchange with a younger brother for a similar acre- age, on which he resided until 1857. During the latter part of September in that year, he came to San- ilac County and bought 200 acres of land in Buel Township. In the year following he removed his family hither. The entire tract of land was in an unimproved condition, and is now all under cultiva- tion. He has sold a part of it and the remainder is in the possession of different members of the family. Mr. Collins was married July 16, 1841, in Dun- ham, Can., to Asenath, daughter of Peter and Eliza- beth (Woodward) Walker. Her parents were natives of the State of New York, and died respectively in Clayton Co., Iowa, and Copetown, Can. Their fam- ily included two sons and six daughters. Mrs. Collins was born July 7, 1818, in Chatham, N. Y. She was three years old when her father removed to Canada. Of 12 children of whom she has become the mother, ten are living. They were born in the following order; Wesley, July 19, 1842; Alvaro (see sketch), Sept. 26, 1843 ; Betsey, Feb. i, 1845 ; Israel, May 2, 1846; Frank, Sept. 5, 1847; Zenas, March 25, 1849; Peter, Sept. 10, 1850; George, May 10, 1853; Sarah, Nov. i, 1855; Jerome, Nov. i, 1857; William Henry, Nov. i, 1859; Jane, Nov. i, 1861. Mr. Collins is a Republican in political sentiment. ^ Warner (see sketch of S. H. Warner), and was born Dec. 5, 1847, at Coldwater, Branch ^allas J. Warner, merchant at Marlette, is „,- the son of Zimri and Sarah A. (Walker) i" ^J- Co., Mich. He acquired his education chiefly in the common schools, and supplemented his ele mentary studies by a course at the Commercial Col- lege at Flint. In December, 1873, he came to Mar- lette. He entered the mercantile house of Robert Hoag as general manager, where he operated about one year. In 1874 he bought a village lot, on which he erected the building where he established his business. His transactions amount yearly to about $60,000. In political connections he affiliates with the Democrats. He held the position of President of Marlette Village the second year after its organi- zation. Mr. Warner was married Aug. 13, 1872, in Lapeer Co., Mich., to Susie P., daughter of Micliael Doyle. ^!j She was born in New Brunswick, and her parents yl were natives of that province. Dora. A., Ray D., *4'^ Lulu B. and Harry S. are the names of the surviv- I ing children. Mary died when she was two years V® old. TJjji obert Acheson, farmer, section 32, Le.xing- ^! ton Township, was born Sept. 11, 18 13, /JP^""" '^^^'^ Enniskillen, County Armagh, Ire- ■f VW land, and is the son of John and Sarah E. (.Adams) Acheson. His father was born in 1758, of English parentage, was a farmer in nortli of Ireland, and died in 183 1. Robert's mother is also deceased. Their family of children, includ- ing six sons and seven daughters, all reached matu- rity, but are all deceased except four. Mr. Acheson lias one brother and two sisters living. The family came to New Brunswick in August, 1825. The senior Acheson purchased a farm of 200 acres in the province, and at the time of liis death was the owner of 450 acres. Mr. Acheson was married Oct. 22, 1838, to Mary Rodgers. She died soon after her marriage, leaving a daughter, Mary R., who is now the wife of George Carson, of Humboldt Bay, Cal. The mother was born in i82i,in County Down, Ireland, and died Oct. 6, 1840. The daughter was born Sept. 18, 1840. The second marriage of Mr. Acheson, to Barbara A. McFarland, occurred Oct. 2, 1843. She was born Sept. i, 18 15, in New Brunswick. The children of this marriage were horn as follows: Wellesley, July 29, 1844 (died Feb. 22, 1873, of liver disease and dyspepsia) ; Lucy, Feb. 6, 1846; Eliza- beth, Nov. 24, 1847; Cephas, Oct. 27, 1850; John M., July 29, 1852. Lucy was married Sept. 25, 1874, to William Allington, and resides six miles west of St. Clair. Elizabeth was married June 17, 1874, to William E. Walker, and lives in Haldimand Co., Can. Cephas was married May i, 1883, to Helen Woodcock, in San Francisco, and lives at Humboldt Bay, Cal. John was married in 1867 to Eva Harman, and is a farmer in Buel Township. Mr. Acheson remained on his father's farm until 1857, when he removed his family to Haldimand Co., Can. He purchased 100 acres of land of which he was the proprietor and manager three (^ ^ (^ K % :,Oj y^ > 1 SANILAC COUNTY. -^smf^ years, when he sold out and came to Sanilac Co., Mich., reaching here in November. He Ijought 80 acres of land, from which the Uimber had been re- moved, and not long after bought 200 acres in its primitive state, with the exception of one acre, on which had been erected a small log house. The place has since been his homestead. He has cleared and brought into good farming condition 155 acres. In addition to his agricultural pursuits, he has engaged e.xtensively in lumbering, in his own interests and in behalf of others, among whom may be named Truman Moss. The memorable fire of 1871 brought a severe ex- perience to the family of Mr. Acheson. His build- ings were so located as to constitute the key to the village, whose destruction was inevitable if they burned. On the 9th of October he had been on tiie lookout all the early part of the day, and had exer- cised every possible precaution against disaster. All combustible matter had been carefully removed from the premises, and water had been drawn from the river, that in case of emergency a supply might be accessible, as everything was dry as tinder. The different members of the family were variously dis- posed, with pails and dippers, extinguishing stray sparks, and Mr. Acheson and his son were in the fields with spades burying the fire as it advanced. Finally the flames burst through the woods, which flanked three sides of the place, and Mr. Acheson, his wife and four children fought the fire until mid- night before it was sufficiently under control to leave unguarded. Mr. Acheson is a Republican, and has been Justice of the Peace 15 years, and Notary Public two years. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. •'WifiC^©^^— tip ^^^yzfaTra*- 1881, since m eorge G. Hudd, merchant at Marlette, was born March 24, 1854, in Hamilton, Ont., and is the son of Gordon A. and Mary A- (Jones) Rudd. The parents were natives re- spectively of Ireland and Canada, and in 1864 became residents of Sanilac County. In April, he established the business in which he has been engaged, with the exception of three months. He is a Republican in political connections, and is a member of the Knights of Maccabees. Mr. Rudd was married March 28, 1880, in Mar- lette Township, to Mary J. White, a native of Can- ada. One daughter, Myra E., is the sole issue of this marriage. !wS5'5>.;' delfts' t^s "^^kA Vj ^olomon M. Tice, farmer, section 27, Elk ^j^ Township, was born July 30, 1839, in f._^" ^ ("hemung Co., N. Y. When he was two years of age, his parents, Philip and Amanda (Joslin) Tice, removed with their family to Tioga Co., Penn., where his father died, in January, 187 I. His mother still resides there, and is 65 years of age. Both were of New England ori- gin and descended from Scotch and German ances- tors. Mr. Tice remained with his father and mother until he was 24 years of age, and received a fair common-school education. He was instructed in the labors of the farm and trained to manage all the branches of employment pertaining to a saw-mill. When about 20 years of age he went to Ontario, Can., where he remained four years, variously engaged. He passed the succeeding five years in the States of Pennsylvania and New York, employed in a tannery. At the expiration of that time he de- cided on casting his fortunes with the tide that was pouring westward, and came to Michigan, locating in Worth Tp., Sanilac County. He purchased 57 acres of partly improved land, but was its owner and occupant only a brief period. He left his family there and came to Elk Township, where he operated as a professional sawyer in the mills which were then the chief avenue of business. In July, 1877, he re- moved his family here and took possession of about So acres of land he had purchased shortly before, and which he has continued to manage. He has placed 70 acres under first-class improvements, and is considered in every respect a model farmer. His success is marked in all his undertakings. In polit- ical connection he is a Democrat. He was married Nov. 26, i86i,in Simcoe, Can., to Mary, daughter of James and Jean (Hood) Jack. She was born Jan. 9, 1838, in Ontario, Can., of Scotch T— I c |i^A^ (b V /v ^#- SAN/LAC COUNTY. ■^^V<- -^S^jig .iom l^t^c©^^i|l 233 descent, and remained with lier parents until lier marriage. She is the mother of seven children, one of whom is deceased. They are named Jane, Philip, John, Jessie, Elizabstli and Fanny. Thomas is de- ceased. Mr. and Mrs. Tice belong to the Methodist and Baptist Churches. fe.pencer H. Warner, druggist at Marlette, Ie^PI^ was born .\pril 12, 1831, in Canada. He 1^~^ is the son of Zimri and Sarah A. (Walker) Warner, who were born respectively in the States of New York and Vermont. They re- moved to the former with their family, and in the summer of 1842 made another transfer to Cold- water, Mich. Mr. Warner remained with his parents most of the time until he was 29 years old, when he rented a farm of 400 acres in Genesee County, wliich he operated five years. At the end of that time he re- moved to a farm of 160 acres he had previously .pur- chased in Tuscola County, where he resided 15 years. He cleared and improved 120 acres and erected necessary and suitable farm buildings. He found its profitable management involved more labor than his health would permit, and in March, 1880, he came to Marietta and established himself in the mill busi- ness as a half partner. This investment proved suc- cessful, and he continued milling operations about 18 months, when he sold out his interest. He pro- ceeded to Brown City in Sanilac County, where he built a grist-mill. He sold it soon after its comple- tion, and in February, 1881, bought out the drug stock of Dr. Weaver, at Marlette, and has since con- tinued in that branch of business. Mr. Warner is independent in political faith and action, but his opinions in some particulars accord with the principles of the Democratic party. He was married Nov. 10, 1859, at Lapeer, to Mary E. Ovoitt. She was born Nov. 10, 1842, in Niagara Co., N. Y. Eight children were born to them, named as follows: Alice C, Ada (deceased), Glenn (de- ceased), Edward L., Mead J., Clarence B., Jennie E. and Charles. Mr. Warner has officiated two years as a member of the Village Council. A pioneer experience of Mr. Warner we append here, as it could not without too great interruption be incorporated above. On the first of February, 1857, he left Lapeer with his trusty rifle and knapsack of provisions. Arriving at North Branch at noon, he found two shanties, owned by Banker & Beach, and was served with the best of elk steak. At sunset he arrived at Bostwick's in the north of Burlington. At the head of the family was a widow aged 50 years, who had a son aged 22, and a daughter of 18. It was an interesting pioneer family, — especially the daughter, and acquaintance with tiiem was readily formed. Finding Mr. Bostwick skilled in woodcraft, Mr. Warner engaged him as a guide to White Creek. Starting about 9 o'clock, they arrived at the creek at sunset, built a fire and camped for the night, but obtained very little rest on account of the barking wolves. At daylight the men ate their last morsel of food on hand. After looking about for two hours they started for home, arriving at Bost- wick's about 5 p. m., where the mother and daughter, expecting their arrival, had in readiness a good warm supper, of which good use was made by the hungry and e.xhausted men. Next day Mr. Warner "located" his land, including the well remembered camp-ground above referred to, which has since proved to be a good location. — ^^^^p-i^S-vx/^-j- i ^ ;f;l Hfljl athan Vliet, dentist at Marlette, was born ril&i?: Nov. 28, 1842. in Clarkston, Oakland Co., vjS^" '^ Mich. His parents, William V. and Martha (Axford) Vliet, were natives of New Jersey. Li 1832 they became residents of Michigan and settled in the county of Oakland, where they passed the remaining years of their lives. The death of the father took place in March, 1881. The mother died in January, 1882. They had seven sons and seven daughters. Mr. Vliet was the si.xth son. He attended the district schools of his native county and assisted on his father's farm until he was 14 years of age, when he was sent to school at the academy at Clarkston. After finishing his elementary education, he learned the carpenter's trade, at which he worked summers until he was 19 years old, and spent the winters in attendance at private or select schools. The first shot at Fort Sumter awakened anew the spirit in him, 9M^ m itf«^ -^^^^ — 6^T<^M 'M Hf >T -^ >5 ■') ? 234 SANILAC COUNTY. '-m which had been keenly alive to the momentous events of the decade previous to the Civil War. He enlisted in April, 1861, in Battery A, First Mich. Light Artillery, and was in the military service of the United States three years. He was in action during the course of 18 principal engagements. At the battle of Chickamauga he was taken prisoner and confined six months in the prisons at Richmond and Belle Isle. He was paroled and returned to his regiment three days before his term of service expired. On receiving his discharge, he returned to his home in Oakland County. He returned soon after to Nasliville, Tenn., where he operated eight months as an employe of the Government. He went thence to Pennsylvania, and after spending a year in the oil regions he came back to Oakland County. He en- tered a store as a salesman, where he remained three years. In t868 he began to fit himself for his pro- fession, and became a student in the office of P. R. Hovey. He was under his instructions three years, going thence to Midland City, where he established his business, which he continued there eight years. In 1879 lie came 10 Marlette, where he is the only representative of his branch of business. He is a member of Sedgwick Post, No. 16, G. A. R. In polit- ical views and action he is independent. He was married Dec. 3r, 1869, in Ortonville, Oak- land Co., Mich., to .'\delia M., daughter of F. P. and Maria Drummond. She was born in the township of Hartland, Livingston Co., Mich., March 23, 1852. ♦i^-€»<^ i;itephen H. West, deceased, was formerly a ^il farmer on section 34, Lexington Township. ' He was born in Canada, Nov. 13, 1834, and was the son of Benjamin and Mary H. West. He spent his youth and early man- hood in the Dominion, and owned a valuable farm of 150 acres in Simcoe County. He was first married there, to Rachel Spooner, by whom he had three children — Julian, a farmer in Potter Co., Dak.; Elma (deceased); Ida, the wife of Theodore Wixson, of Worth Township. The mother died in May, 1864, in Canada, and Mr. West was a second time mar- ried, in Simcoe Co., Ont., Feb. 18, 1865, to Jane, daughter of James and Rebecca McCoy. She was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, July 17, 1S47. Her family removed to America when she was a year old. Her father died soon after coming to this country. Seven children were born to Mr. and Mrs. West, as follows: Benjamin, March 15, 1866; Mary L., April 6, r868; Ella, Feb. 14, 1870; Elizabeth, March 17, 1872; Alfred A., June 12, 1874; Rachel, Aug. 21, 1876; Isadore, Feb. 13, 1878. The cliild last named was born after the removal of the family to Lexington. Mr. West died Jan. 11, 1882. His farm included 240 acres at the time of his death; 160 acres are siill in the possession of the family. -.<^^4>=^^>.-^ ■'l*ts dam English, farmer, section 22, Elk Town- il^^^W ship, was born Aug. 11, 181 9, in County 1 '•jilg' Armagh, Ireland. He was brought up in his iiX native country and reared to the pursuit of i farming. He remained in his native country until he was 25 years of age, when he accompanied his parents, Adam and Mary A. (Riggs) English, to America. They settled in York County, Ontario, four miles from the city of Toronto. He remained with his father until his death ten years later. His mother died two years previously. Two years after the demise of his father he removed to Michigan and rented a farm on section 27, Elk Township. He re- mained thereon three years, and in the spring of 1863 he purchased 80 acres on section 21 of this township. He took possession of his property and proceeded with agricultural operations for five years, when he purchased 160 acres additional, one-half of which was located respectively on sections 21 and 22, by which purchase his estate aggregated 240 acres He has since given 80 acres to his son. Of the re- mainder he has cleared and cultivated 70 acres, and placed it in first-class agricultural condition. He has a commodious and convenient residence, and his place is supplied withother creditable farm buildings. Mr. English was married in December, 1847, in Victoria Co., Ont., to Catherine, daughter of Alexan- der and Mary Riggs. The parents were of English and Irish birth. The father was a copijersmith by trade and died in England. The mother died in Ireland. Mrs. English was born in the city of Man- chester, England, and when she was 16 years old came to Ontario. Mr. and Mrs. English have been iy\* ^ < '^?ii!lgiiii;>4 )«^t#« ^^^^^ ^^r-T^'. U U ^. U U > -^T "^^■^^jS""^ SANILAC COUNTY. dlese.x Co., Ont. He is the son of lacob and R^ Mary (Motter) Shrier, natives of Germany. j-T Mr. Shrier remained at home until he was I- 26 years old, during the last six years of which he was engaged as a grist-mill assistant with his brother-in-law. He was married Feb. 11, 1875, to Sarah Foster, a native of Middlesex County, where she was born Dec. 28, 1856. After his marriage he was employed for five years in a grist-mill in his native county. In 1879 he came to Michigan and purchased 80 acres of land on section five, Flynn Township. The place was under partial improve- ment, and he has increased his estate by an addi- tional purchase of 120 acres. Of this he has placed 70 acres under cultivation. In. political faith and action he is a Republican. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Shrier are named Delman, Cephas and i\Iary O. •V Hd)*.- eoree Coe, farmer, section x\, Elk Town- ' ^"^ ship, was born in Suffolkshire, England, 01^ Feb. 25, 1823. His father was a gardener by vocation, and he was under his charge and instructions in that calling until he was 22 years old. In 1849 he came to America and made a location at Brantford, Brant Co., Ont., where he passed two years as a laborer on the railroad. '^ He went thence to Paris, Brant Co., Ont., where he I remained two years and operated as section foreman •';» on the railroad. Meanwhile he bought 30 acres of a), land, on which he afterwards settled and pursued farming and gardening. In 1873 he went to Well- ington County in the Dominion, where he was a farmer four years. In 1877 he sold out his Cana- dian property and came to Michigan. He purchased 125 acres of land on section 31, in Elk Township, which was partly improved. The place now includes 90 acres of cultivated land. He suffered the loss of $2,000 worth of property m the fires of 1881, but is again in a fair way to retrieve his losses, having re- built his barns and restored other facilities to his pursuit of farming. He is a Republican in political matters. Mr. Coe was married at Paris, Brant Co., Ont., Sept. 25, 1857, to Mrs. Elizabeth (Curson) Rum- sill. She was born in Norfolkshirc, England, Nov. 16, 1824, and when she was ir years old came to this country with her parents. She became the motherof 1 1 children, eight of whom are living. They are named Sarah, Maiy, Keturah, Rachel, John Susan, Hannah and Alice. Those deceased were Fred, Elizabeth and two infants. Bl|)*^^'ki/eni'y D. Franklin, proprietor and manager " -J:'>J of the Franklin House at Croswell, was %&^ born March 10, 1833, in Chenango Co., N. th Y., when his parents. Smith and Louisa (Gra- 1 ham) Franklin, are still living, aged respectively I 80 and 82 years. Their family included four children, — two sons and two daughters. The young- est sister is deceased. Mr. Franklin was reared to the calling which his father made the business of his life, that of farming. He commenced to learn his trade — that of carriage- making — when he was 15 years old, and continued to follow it in different portions of the States and in Canada, until he was 45 years old. During the early part of his pursuit of his trade, he operated as a journeyman, and after passing 10 years in that method, he went into business for himself, and spent 20 years in its successful prosecution. He came to Davisville, now ('roswell, in November, 1865, where he established his business and. continued its man- agement, at this point chiefly, for 14 years, with the exception of nine months, when he was in Lexing- ton, whither he went with the intention of establish- ing his business permanently. But he found the place distasteful and returned to Croswell. He re- linquished carriage- making in 1878, and went to Peck to manage tiie National Hotel, of which he had ^ t mm 236 -23^ KST SANILAC COUN7Y. -es^ Wa^.-v ^^ V i become the owner. He fitted up the house and conducted it successfully two years, also operating a livery. After renting it a year, he exchanged the property for a farm. Meanwhile he leased the An- derson House at Croswell, which he managed three years. While he was conducting the interests of the Anderson House, he purchased the establishment now known as the Franklin House, and which he has since conducted for the benefit of the public. He has a livery in connection with his hotel. Mr. Franklin was married Dec. 29, i86r, in Tioga Co., N. Y., to Emma D. Campbell, daughter of John and Maria Campbell. The father is living in Penn- sylvania; the mother died in Michigan when Mrs. Franklin was but ten years old. The latter was born April 29, 1844, in Bradford Co., Pa. The chil- dren of Mr. and Mrs. Franklin were born as follows: Charles L., April 29, 1863; May, May 26, 1865; Heniy D., Feb. 15, 1867 (who was drowned June 6, 1878, in the Black River); E. Pearl, March 14, 1869; George, Dec. 26, 1S72; Pidgie Irene, Feb. 27, 1874 (died Feb. 23, 188 1); Kittie E., March 23, 1877; Henry L., Jan. i, 1880. Mr. Franklin is a Democrat in political views, and has served one year as Deputy Sheriff. He helped to organize the village of Croswell, and was elected its first President. iM ®Mj^ illiam Rudd, farmer, section 29, Marlette kW.wiAw Township, was born Oct. 17, 1810, in Ire- land, and is the son of Gordon and Alice (Welhvood) Rudd, also natives of Ireland, where they spent their entire lives. Mr. t Rudd resided in his native country until the winter of 1850, when he emigrated to the United States. He took up his residence in the State of New York, where he remained until the September ensuing. At that date he went lo Canada, where he lived about four years. In the spring of 1S56 he came to this county and bought 320 acres of land in Marlette Township, on which he has been resident ever since. He is the proprietor of 280 acres of his original property, having sold 40 acres. The tillable land on the place now comprises 130 acres under a most creditable state of cultivation. Mr. Rudd is a Republican in political belief. He is active in the substantial interests of his township, and has held the office of Clerk nearly three years. He has served four years as Supervisor and two years as Justice of the Peace. Mr. Rudd was married in his native country March 2, 1829, to Ann McLean. Fiv.- of nine chil- dren born of this marriage survive, — Mary A., Robert Susan, Gordon W. and Eliza. Alice, Jane, William and Catherine are deceased. d^lB^fl!t ohn J. Binks, lumberman and real-estate broker at Croswell, was born April 21, 1830, in the town of Malton, Yorkshire, Eng. S His parents, William and Mary (Whitby) Binks, lu were of English origin. His father was steward i on the estates of a nobleman, and died when he was about 40 years old. His mother was born in May, 1805, and is now 79 years old. She lives in her native country. They have eight children, six of whom reached mature life, and of these, three are still living. Mr. Binks of this sketch was in early childhood when his father died. He became a cabin boy when he was about 14 years old, and was in the sailing service until he came to this country in 1852. The Baltic and Mediterranean Seas are familiar in his memory, and the various ports on the bordering countries, as well as those of North and South Amer- ica. On landing on this continent, he made his way to Toronto and resided some time in that city and at Branlford, Ont. When the Russian war broke out, he volunteered in the British navy and went to the Crimea. He was under fire through two engage- ments, — the last two bombardments of Sebastopol. Mr. Binks was in the naval service three years and two months. He was a volunteer, and on receiving his discharge he returned to Canada and settled near Brantford, where he became an assistant in a saw-mill, which occupation he followed until 1861. In the spring of that year he came to Croswell (Da- visville), and passed two years in the employment of Truman Moss, operating as a sawyer in a mill. In February, 1864, he enlisted in Co. G, 22d Mich. Vol. Inf, and remained in the military service of the Uni- ted States until the spring of 1865. He was mus- c^: (■ ft) i))^^?i- rC^IlH'^:nils> (h i A o k) (^ 'J T-rr SANILAC COUNTY. ^^^^^^s\^ 237 tered out of the volunteer service May 23, 1865, at Detroit, Mich., where he was mustered into the regular army and sewed one year, doing duty chietly in the quartermaster's office. He is at present acting as agent in the interests of the estate of Truman Moss and for Wildman Mills and J. M. Gage. He has been a resident of Cros- well since 1861 save one year. ames Hands, farmer and breeder of stock, resident on section 31, Elk Township, of fif='^ which he is the present Treasurer, was born May 18, 1837, in Euphemia Township, Lambton Co., Ont. His parents, James and Charlotte (Wel^ster) Hands), were natives of Ireland and Ontario, and were respectively of Irish and English descent. The father came to Ontario from his native isle when he was 20 years of age. He settled in the county where his son was born, ac- cumvdated a creditable property and resided there until his death, wliich occurred Dec. 26, 1875, when he was 66 years old. He led an active life and won for himself and family a leading position among his compeers. The mother died in Lambton County, in the spring of 1S58. Their family included six sons and four daughters, all of whom are living except one son. Mr. Hands is the oldest living child of his parents. The names of his brothers and sisters are as follows : John (deceased), Mary A., William, Emma, Joseph, Thomas, Richard, Catherine and Robert. Mr. Hands worked on his father's farm until he was 21 years old. The place was in its pioneer days and educa- tional facilities were poor, but he obtained a fair de- gree of schooling. On attaining his majority, he set- tled in Michigan. He made his way from Detroit to Brockway Center in St. Clair County, then a me- tropolis containing one shanty, wherein "Vince" Ferguson sold whisky. He proceeded thence, accom- panied by a man named John McLaren, to Peck, which comprised one building, utilized as a hotel and liquor saloon. He remained there but a brief period and proceeded to Cass River in the north of Sanilac County, tracing his route by the " blazes " on the trees. He made his way to the claim of Martin Moore, one of the first of the pioneer settlers of San- ^^^^rf^ ilac County, and went to work on the State Road, then in process of construction through the county. After working there a year he retraced his steps to Elk Creek, in this township, now bearing the same name. He engaged in the manufacture of staves a short time, when he went to Davisville (now Cros- well), where he spent a little more than a year as an assistant in a mill. He had been industrious and provident, and saved quite a sum, but while at Davisville was seized with typhoid fever, which en- tirely consumed his little fortune. After recovering, he went to Worth Township, where he interested jiimself for the term of one year in the manufacture of staves. He then returned to Croswell, where he engaged in clearing land for William T. Jennie. In 1861, he entered into a partnership with Patrick Fox, and prosecuted lumbering interests in his own behalf on Elk River. He was thus engaged four years. In 1867 he purchased 20 acres of land on section 30 in Elk Township. In 1868 he purchased another 30 acres on section 31. The year following he bought a tract of 50 acres adjoining his estate on section 31, which connected his acreage on the two sections. In 1879 he bought 20 acres on section 32, and in the same year be became the owner by purchase of 60 acres additional on the same section. In 1882 he bought 40 acres on section 28, when his possessions aggregated 220 acres. It ranks among the most valuable land in the township, and 160 acres have been improved and placed in a most creditable agricultural condition. Mr. Hands has accomplished all his improvements on his property through his own efforts. He makes a specialty of raising Durham cattle. At the date of his settlement, the entire section was in a wholly wild state, and with roads and trails in an impassable condition. In the fires of 1881 he incurred the loss of his fences, and on the 17th of March, 1882, his house and its contents were wholly destroyed by the same cause. The latter loss is es- timated at $1,000. Mr. Hands is a decided Republican. He has filled the position of Drain Commissioner and held all the offices of his district ; he has been Township Treasurer four years and is the present incumbent of the office. He was married Oct. 24, 1864, in Oxford Co., Can., to Frances J. Burgers. She was born in Ox- ford County, and is the daughter of Robert and Jane 9 i V) -r<^\imm>T ^t?@^® SANILAC COUNTY. ^ (Innis) Burgers, natives of New Brunswick. Her father died when Mrs. Hands was a child; the mother resides in Toronto, and is 54 years of age. The family of Mr. Hands includes four children — William P., James O., John H. and Leonard T. Two are deceased — Charlotte J. and an infant child. Mr. Hands was reared in the Episcopal belief. His wife belongs to the Baptist Church. ) °' ''O^^'javid French, l^^jl ington Township, has been a resident of uSV Sanilac County since 1853. June 30, 1845, in Canada. J ^. 5« farmer on section 26, Lex- a resident of He was born His parents, Matthew and Abigail (Patterson) French, re- \ moved to Lexington Township in 1853 and settled on what was known as the " Lapeer Road." The father bought 80 acres of land there, on which he still resides. The latter gave, the son 40 acres of hnd when he was 20 years old, and Jan. 5, 1866, he was married to Catherine Sprowl. She was born in Canada, and was the daughter of John Sprowl. She died in Lex- ington, leaving three children, who were born as fol- lows : Martha, June 5, 1867 ; Margaret R., Feb. 23, 187 I ; William J., Nov. 9, 1877. Mr. French took a second wife Nov. 5, 1883, when he married Amanda, daughter of Henry and Aurissa Stoner. She was born March 11, i860, in Lexington. Mr. French bought the farm were he now resides April I, 1870. It contained 80 acres, with 12 acres cultivated. He has improved and placed in first- class condition 60 acres, and the place is greatly in- creased in value by the character of its orchards and buildings. ^5 ^^ i^ -f\ I '.ohn Sullivan, farmer, section 26, Maple ; Valley Township, was born in June, 1829, '' *' in County Kerry, Ireland. He came to America when he was 20 years old, locating first in the city of New Orleans. Two years later he went to Indianapolis, returning to the Crescent City at the expiration of one year. Soon after he proceeded to Columbus, Ohio, where he remained 14 months. In 1857 he came to Sanilac County and purchased the property where he has since resided. He is now the proprietor of 280 acres of land, which includes 100 acres under good cultivation, with suitable and creditable farm fixtures Mr. Sullivan was one of the earliest settlers of the township and had the experiences and vicissitudes common to that class of people. He is a Democrat in political sentiment. He was married in March, 1853, in New Orleans to Hannah Foley, born in County Kerry, Ireland, about 1824. She was 25 years of age when she came to the United States, landing at New Orleans, where she was married. Timothy J., John M., Hannah and Mary B. are the names of the children now included in the household. The family are Roman Catholics. The results of the energetic efforts of Mr. Sullivan are plainly manifest in his surroundings and pros- perous circumstances, and he is a fine illustration of the possibilities open to the nationalities of the Old World under the ret;ulations of the New. ;^#(ijn, aitland D. Rass, farmer, section 6, Mar- ^L lette Township, was born in Bradford Co., u • n_ AT-. _- _o._ His father, Chas. D. v|) *^^?C"" Pa., May 20, 1849. v'-S' Rass, is still a farmer of that county and is 60 years old. The marriage of Mr. Rass, '•: ' on attaining his majority, was the first event of his life out of the ordinary course common to farmers' sons of his class and condition Mrs. Emma (Mc- Roy) Rass was born Oct. 31, 1848, in the State of Connecticut. Her parents removed, when she was three years old, to the Keystone State, where she was married. In 1873 she accompanied her hus- band to this county and township, where she died Feb. 15, 1883. Bessie, only child of this marriage, was born Jan. 23, 1883. The departed wife and mother is still remembered with loving warmth. Mr. Rass was again married June 19, 1883, at Imlay, Lapeer Co., Mich., to Mrs. Martha Hubbard, daughter of Spencer and Diantha (Kimliall) Smith. The mother died soon after the birth of her daughter; her father is still living, at Imlay. Mrs. Rass was born Sept. 20, 1853, in Imlay Township, and was married Sept. 20, 187 I, to Ebenezer Hubbard, who died May 29, 1879, leaving two children — Claud, born Feb. 18, 1876, and Cassius, born Aug. 4, 1879. Mr. Rass came to Marietta Township in the spring c J i r 1) m x^. ^^mM$^ 'M ^m^ -^^^mm^^r m ^ >^ V SAN/LAC COUNTY. 241 873 and became the porprietor of his farm of 80 by purchase. It was wholly in a state of nature, but by persevering energy and industry he has placed 70 acres under the best order of improve- ments, with a superior stock and grain barn, and a suitable residence. Mr. Rass is a Republican in political views and connections. •'yisisSM^r^'-^t^^ t^&mm^ jj'.iram Udell, farmer, section 15, Moore Tp., is the son of George and Catherine (Ken- nedy) Udell, natives of Canada and born respectively in 1826 and 1824. They are still residents of the Dominion. Mr. Udell was born ! May 24, 1847, in Canada. He has been an agriculturist all his life, and in the year 1S77 located in Worth Township, where he remained five years, removing thence to Moore Township. He located on a farm of 60 acres, of ^hich about 20 acres are under good improvements. He is a Republican and a member of the Masonic Order, No. 259, Springfield, Canada. The marriage of Mr. Udell to Sarah Colk occurred Jan. 23, 1866. She is the daughter of Thomas and Caroline (Blakeslee) Colk, who were born respective- ly in England and the United States. Mary A., born , April 28, 1868 ; Merton T., Jan. 28, 1873 ; Frank R., Dec. 9, 1880; Oral E., Jan. 10, 1884, are the children that have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Udell. e$«hJh*^ ^fe'^ bhristian Heberly, farmer, section 31, Elk gjl fej^ Township, was born Sept. 19, 1S36, in Wurtemberg, Germany. At the age of 14 he Ul^ became an apprentice to learn the business '1^ of harness-making. Two years later, in 1855, he enlisted in the Prussian War and served one year as a ])rivate, when he was discharged and came to the United States. He made his first stop in Buffalo, and later went to Ontario, where he set- tled in Port Harwell, on Lake Erie. Two years after. in 186 ;, he came to Michigan and entered a claim of 40 acres on section i of Speaker Township. A year later he exchanged the property for 80 acres on sec- tions 31 and 32 of Elk Township, where he has since made his home, and has improved 45 acres. The entire farm is in a very creditable condition, and is supplied with fine farm buildings. In jiolitical connection Mr. H. is a Republican. Mr. Heberiy was married Sept. 27, 1861, in Elk Township, to Fanny Webber, who was born in August, 1837, in Switzerland. She came to America when she was about 15 years old, and located in Ontario, and was 24 years of age when she came to Sanilac County. Four children have been born of this marriage — Louisa, Jacob, Samuel and Nettie. J. The eldest daughter is married. The family are members of the Lutheran Church. -•'&'— ^^J^-'-'-'-^y I 'fAS^^^ -^mmm' } obert W. Fiteh, a prominent farmer of Marlette Township, residing on section 36 was born Jan. 6, 1S51, in Canada. His ,.,^ parents, Thomas and Margaret (Beaconi) 'V Fitch, are natives of Ireland. They, however, settled in Sanilac County, when their son was five years of age (see sketch of Thomas Fitch). Here Robert grew up, helping his father on the farm and forming those habits of thrift and industry which has made him a well-to-do farmer when still a young man. Mr. Fitch received a good common-school education and thorough training in the calling to which he has devoted his life. In 1870 he bought his present estate, including at the date of purchase, 160 acres of wild land. He went willingly and energetically to work to subdue the forests and make in its stead fertile fields. He now owns 120 acres, 70 acres of which are under a creditable aud profit- able state of cultivation. In political connections and actions he is a Democrat. The marriage of Mr. Fitch to Mary Sullivan oc- curred at Almont, Lapeer Co., Mich., May 24, 1875. She was born March 28, 1855, in Canada, and is the daughter of Timothy and Catherine Sullivan. Of si.x children born of this marriage two are deceased — Maggie and John. Those surviving are Eva J., (o) -*^ SANILAC COUNTY. Mabel M., Thomas F. and Mary Charlolte. The mother is a member of the Roman Catholic Church. j^ As a prominent and representative citizen of Sanilac f County, and a gentleman fitly representing the large A^ class of young and prosperous families living here, we take pleasure in giving Mr. Fitch's portrait in connection with this sketch. > 1 (c\ Il^^kiamuel J. West, blacksmith, resident at Peck, was born June i8, 1855, in Middle- sex Co., Out. At the age of 16 he was apprenticed to William Shoff, of Ailsa Craig, in his native county, with whom he spent three years in the acquisition of his trade. On completuig his term of indenture he came to Port Huron, Mich., and worked in the shop of Charles Nelson, rS months. At the end of that time he be- came an employe in the carriage factory of A. H. Wright, of the same place, where he remained 14 months. In February, 1879, he came to Peck, and three months later established an independent busi- ness for himself. He continued its management three years, and at tlie expiration of that period he leased his shop. Three years later he resumed his business, in which he has since been actively engaged. He is a skillful and successful artisan, and has an extensive patronage. He passed the three years of his absence from Peck, in Northern Michigan, Color- ado and Utah. While in Utah he was in the Govern- ment employ as a blacksmith. In political connection he is a Republican. ^^^''ohn Tobin, farmer, section 26, Maple "Val- ley Township, was born Dec. 24, 1838, in Dundas Township, Halton Co., Ont. His parents, Michael and Lucy (Murphy) Tobin, were born in Ireland, and shortly after their marriage they emigrated to America and set- tled in Halton County, where the father followed his trade of stone mason. Later on they removed to Niagara Falls, where the father died of cholera in 1854. The mother died at the same place in 1858. They were both 39 years of age and were the parents of nine children, all of whom are deceased but three. Mr. Tobin was 16 years old at the time of his father's death, and has depended upon his own efforts for maintenance since that date. His first employ was as a brakeman on the New York Central Railroad, where he was employed until 1859. He was em- ployed the next two years as a sailor on the Lakes, succeeding which he became a minerat Youngstown, Ohio. In the autumn of 1861 he returned to his home and once more engaged in farming. In 1863, he transferred his residence to Michigan, and in the year following purchased 120 acres of unimproved land, which has been his homestead since 1867, when he took permanent possession of the property. The marriage of Mr. Tobin to Celia Larabah oc- curred at Buffalo, N. Y., in August, 1865. She is ot German extraction, and is the mother of ten children —Mary E., John B., Homer S., Richard P., Ellen, Celia, Ann, Jacob, Andrew and James. Mr. Tobin is a Democrat in political sentiment, and has offici- ated in several of the local positions in the township. He is now Drain Commissioner and has held the incumbency four years. He is a prosjserous and judicious agriculturist. '^^'^^MiiMaisS'^J^*''*^ I ji] . ohn N. Zavitz, farmer, resident on section 14, Speaker Township, was born Nov. 5, I 84 1, in Malahide, Canada. He is the son of Christian and Elizabeth (Bird) Zavitz, both of whom were natives of Germany. They left their native land to settle in the New World, and made their residence at Niagara, N. Y., where they lived nearly 20 years. They removed thence to Middlesex, Ontario, and after a short period pro- ceeded to Michigan. The father died April 24, 1881, the mother March 18, 1882, in Speaker Township. The former was, born in 1800, the latter in 1806. Mr. Zavitz obtained a fair degree of education in the public schools oV the Dominion, and remained under the care of his parents until he was 21 years old. The first important event of his life was his marriage to Lydia Bradley in 1843. Her parents, Levi and Sarah (House) Bradley, were natives of I ^ c ^ SANILAC COUNTY. 4^^((svS 243 I f New York and Canada. Her father died when she was a child. Her mother remarried and died in St. Clair Co., Mich., in 1866. In the latter year Mr. Zavitz located on 40 acres of land in Speaker Township. He now owns 52 acres, all of which is in a state of advanced cultivation. He is an able man, a judicious farmer, and a citizen of reliable integrity, respected and trusted by his fellow townsmen, and passing a life of merit and credit to the community to which he belongs. He is an earnest Republican, and is Justice of the Peace, — an incumbency he has held for the past nine years. He and his wife are members of the Protestant Method- ist Church. He belongs to the Masonic Lodge, No. 353, at Peck. Five children are now included in the family cir- cle, — Sarah, William W., Cora A , Colburn J. and Ethel V. B. Uren, real-estate broker at Croswell, was born March 23, 1832, in Middlesex ^ Co.. Can. He is of mixed national de- '^P^ scent, his mother having been of Scotch, and tfd his father of English, origin. His parents, Thomas and Laura (Brown) Uren, are both deceased. His father was born in July, iSii,in Penzance, Cornwall, Eng., and his mother was born in Vermont. At the age of 13 years Mr. Uren entered upon his single-handed struggle with the world, and from that time until he was 21 years of age he was em- ployed as a farm and saw-mill assistant. He then spent some years in renting and buying farms, in which he continued until 1867, when he engaged ex- clusively ill buying and selling real estate. He came to Sanilac County in 1866, and has prosecuted his business successfully. He was married in April, 1852, to Christina Pat- terson, of Oxford Co., Ont. She was born July 27, 1832, in Whitchurch, Can. Their children were born as follows: Richard W., Jan. 3, 1853, was married in i88o to Elizabeth Wiieeler; Clarissa was born July 3, 1854, and died in August, 1855, in Can- ada; John was born Feb. 21, 1856, and died in June, 1859, in the village of Croswell, Mich.; an in- fant, unnamed, was born April 3, 1858, and died in July, 1859; Mattie, born May i, i860, was married Nov. 27, 1883, to Walter L. Rogers; AlJie was born Feb. 9, 1862; John, June 25, 1865; Arthur C, Jan. 18,1873; and Mabel E., born Jan. 18, 1877, died May 9, 1881. -''95"- rv®))«^# ^aa- A<^DI1 |lohn Cameron, farmer, section 34, Buel ,," Township, was born Aug. ii, 1831, in the ^^ ■■ northwestern part of the Scottish High- lands. His parents, Donald and Anna (Mc- Donald) Cameron, were natives of Scotland, where they were born and married. Eight children were born in their family, all of whom reached mature years but one, who died in infancy. Their names are Christie, James, Catherine, Peggy, Angus (deceased), Mary, John and Marion. The parents died in their native land, aged respectively 73 and 80 years. When Mr. Cameron was 20 years of age lie went to Given on the Clyde, and entered the employ. nent of Smythe & Rodger, shipbuilders. He remained in their service two years, when he went to England and passed two years at Portsmouth and Plymouth. In 1854 he came to the United States and spent ten months as a laborer on the Erie Railroad near the Susquehanna River, in the southern part of the State of New York. At the expiration of that time he went to London, Can., where he worked on the gravel road. He went thence to Chatham and passed be- tween five and six months working on the railroad. He decided upon seeking his fortune in Michigan, and reached Sanilac County Jan. 22, 1856, He sought immediate employment in the lumber woods and engaged heartily in any occupation wliereby he could secure an honest livelihood. In October fol- lowing, he bought 40 acres of land at 50 cents an acre, under the regulations of the Graduation Act. Not long afterward he pre-enijited 80 acres of land additional and has increased his landed estate by later purchase, until he owns 320 acres. He was married Feb. 9, 1854, to Catherine McPherson. She was born in 1833, in the Highlands of Scotland, and came to this country with her father when she was ^5 ca: Wi^rm V ■ Q I 4^ > ¥ ^ I 244 SANILAC COUNTY. 18 years old. She is the daughter of Donald and Margaret (McDonald) McPherson. Her mother died in Scotland when she was a small child. The family comprised six sons and two daughters, as fol- lows: Neil, John, Daniel, Lauchlin, .\ngus (de- ceased). Flora, Catherine and a child who died in infancy. Mr. McPherson settled in Canada, where he re- sided four years, removing then to Sanilac County. Of nine children born to Mr. and Mrs. Cameron, two are deceased. They vvere born as follows : Margaret, Dec. 30, 1855; James, Sept. 14, 1858; Don, Sept. 9, i860; Anna, May 27, 1862 (died June 19, 1 881); Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (triplets) vvere born March 18, 1865. The last named died April 29, a month and 11 days after birth. John was born April 19, 1867; Sophronia, Sept. 3, 1869. Mr. Cameron is a zealous Republican, and has been active in the local interests of the township, where he has been a resident 30 years. He has served three years as Treasurer, three years as High- way Commissioner, seven years as Supervisor and was re-elected to the same position in the spring of the currenfyear, 1884. He has been School Direc- tor nine years. The family attend the Presbyterian Church. On leaving his native land for America Mr. Cam- eron engaged passage on a sailing vessel with about 900 passengers on board. Fourteen miles off the coast of Ireland, the ship struck a sand-bar, where she lay all night. The passengers were in the greatest consternation and danger, but were all removed in safety the next morning by a fishing vessel. They suffered heavy losses, and nine persons died from fright after reaching land. Mr. Cameron lost his provisions and money, except three pounds and nine- pence, English money, which he had in a pocket. -<-H^I%-^>- tames Nash, farmer, section 15, Marlette ^/■^ Township, was born April 19, 1831, in the ''^^ county of Leeds, Ont. His father, James Nash, was a native of England and was mar- ried after his removal to Canada, to Honora Greenough, a native of Nova Scotia, of Irish parentage. They removed to the State of New York in 1833 and resided nine years in the city of Oswego. In 1842 the son returned to Canada, where he remained until his permanent removal to Sanilac County, Mich , which took place in the spring of 1 85 6. In the fall of the same year he went to Le.x- ington, coming thence a year later to Marlette Town- ship. He became resident on 80 acres of land he had purchased two years before, and on this he lias labored to most effective purpose, having cleared and placed in creditable cultivation about 50 acres. He is a member of the Democratic party and has been Highway Commissioner six years and School Inspec- tor one year. Mr. Nash was married in Halton Co., Ont., Jan. 24, 1864, to Anna Knight, a native of that province. Three children have been born to them,— Jeannette R., Mary E. and James D. The mother is an earnest member of the Presbyterian Church. $ rl'pd'Venry Devlin, farmer, section 29, Elk Town- r^yJj^ ship, was born in County Fermanagh, Ire- ■^'1^ land, Aug. 15, 1827. His parents came to 4^ America when he was seven years old, and set- tled in Peterborough Co., Ont., where they passed the remainder of their lives. Mr. Devlin passed the first 23 years of his life un- der the care of his parents, and at that period of his life went to Ohio, where he settled in Stark County. After spending two years there in farming, he came to Michigan and located for a time in Port Huron. He came to Sanilac County in 1855, and purchased 80 acres in what is now Elk Township. Later he returned to Huron County and engaged in the manu- facture of grindstones, which business he followed until 1859. In that year he took possession of his estate and made a permanent settlement upon it. The entire county was in a wild and unbroken state, and Mr. Devlin was the first to enter upon the im- provement of the land in his possession. He has since increased his land to 120 acres, 70 acres of which are now improved and under creditable culti- vation. He was married July 10, 1864, in this township, to Wealthy Vannest, daughter of Nathaniel and Matilda I A c< 2^'f^ -S?.'®<^NJ^ ^:l)tl^llllf> -^^jg '::TV<^>UU;^»UU^i?V -^aii^^is;" SANILAC COUNTY. 245 (h •^ ^) % (Van Camp) Vannest. She is descended from Ger- man ancestors, and her parents were natives of Can- ada. Mrs. Devlin was born in Ontario, Marcli 12, 1846. The family came to Michigan in 1847. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Devlin, one of whom died in infancy. Those yet surviving are James, Thomas H., John and .Stephen. The family are Catholics, and Mr. Devlin is a member of tlie Democratic party. Cohn Dawson, liveryman at Marlette, was |i- born Dec. 26, 1850, in Durham, Kng. His i'/iv-*^ parents, Joseph and Ann (James) Dawson, were natives of the same country, and later in ^r life removed to Canada with their family, and are still residing in the Dominion. Mr. Dawson was about four years of age when iiis parents left England, and he remained in Canada until 1877, engaged in farming. In March of that year he came to Marlette, and during the first year of his stay there was variously occupied. In May, 1878, he began the business which he has since prosecuted and is now conducting. His first opera- tions were on a small scale, but perseverance and attention has increased his business to its present dimensions. In political connections, Mr. Dawson is a Republican, and in t88i he was appointed Deputy Sheriff of Sanilac County. Previous to this he officiated two years as Constable. He is a mem- ber of the Order of Odd Fellows. His marriage to Belle Craig occurred July 12, 1881, in Marlette. They have one child — Ralph — born Nov. 27, 1882. ^«-^« ^ "■FW^Ss A. McCree, station agent and telegraph i'lllii^\^^? operator at Croswell, was born July 14, (c> j^&i^' 1858. i» Durham, Province of Quebec, ''} where his parents, James and Jessie (Brown- lee) McCree, are still living, at Actinvale. His father was formerly a merchant, but is now living in retirement. Mr. McCree was reared at Windsor Mills in his native province, and remained at home until he be- came of age. He was carefully educated, and when he was 17 years old he was appointed Secretary and Treasurer of the village and township of Windsor, in which double position he operated six years. He also officiated as Clerk of the school municipality, and as Clerk of the Commissioners' Court. He came to Port Huron, where he was engaged a short time as baggageman at the Port Huron station, after which he acted as freight agent at the same point. In 1881 he came to Croswell, and he entered upon the duties of his present position, for which he was amply qualified, having learned telegraphy in the village of Windsor. He was married Jan. 10, 1880, in Windsor Mills, to Catherine E. Henderson. She was born Nov. 29, 1863, and is the daughter of John and Catherine (Manson) Henderson. Both the parents of Mrs. McCree are living at Windsor Mills. Two children have been born of this marriage: Edith Marion, Dec. 25, 1880, and Jessie Manson, May 7, 1884, at Croswell. Mr. McCree adopts the creed of the anti- monopoly element in politics. He and his wife be- long to the Methodist Episcopal Church. ^^'^'] eter McCarroIl, farmer, section rg, Elk Township, was born in Ireland, Sept. 8, 182 1. His father, Matthew McCarroll, was a sailor by profession and owned a small Ji\ sail vessel, on which he was reared to the age of 14 years. His father died, and Peter, in company with his mother, came to America. They settled in Penobscot Co., Me., where Mr. McCarroll was mar- ried, July 4, 1847, to Bridget Davis. She was born about r827, in Ireland, and came to America in early life. Her parents located in Maine, where she grew to maturity. Six children constitute the issue of her marriage. They are named John, Sarah, Mary, Elizabeth and Peter. Matthew is deceased. Subsequent to marriage, Mr. and Mrs. McCarroll went to Leavenworth, Kan., where he operated 18 months as an employe of the U. S. Government. At the expiration of that service, in March, 1852, he came to Michigan and located in Speaker Township, in Sanilac County. In company with John R. Davis, a brother-in-law, he was the first permanent settler in the township. Tliat portion of the county was in its primeval condition ; the nearest point ^s^^tJK^ ^:A<>D!l:gtlti;t>'^^ M ^#' :-^ 1=3 i ■*-TC;iiaT-T^ SANILAC COUNTY. a«s- s where supplies could be obtained was at Pori Huron, 30 miles distant. Indians were as common as forest trees, and wolves contested territory with the strug- gling settlers. The history of the family during the first few years of their residence in Sanilac County, was marked by all the incidents and events so fre- quently related of pioneers, and which have in so many instances formed the basis of the development of men and the county where they come face to face with toil and privation. Mr. McCarroll bought 160 acres of land on sec- tions 27 and 28. He disposed of 40 acres after- ward, and improved 100 acres of the remainder. In the spring of 1878 he sold the property and pur- chased 360 acres on sections 18 and 19. He selected a site on the latter for his home, on which he now resides. His farm now comprises 200 acres of land in first-class agricultural condition, the pro- prietor being ranked as one of the most skillful and progressive farmers in the township. Tlie family be- long to the Catholic Church. Mr. Mc^arroU is an independent in political views. "i obert Attridge, teacher and farmer, sec- tion 20, Flynn Township, was born Nov. 6, /IP '" Perth Co., Can., and is the son of ix^ Michael and Catherine (Dunklin) Attridge. His parents were natives of Ireland. In 1844 they emigrated to America and located in the Province of Ontario. They engaged in farming in Perth County, where the mother is still living. The father died there in October, 1876. Mr. Attridge obtained a good common-school edu- cation, and when he was 19 years of age he began to teach, and pursued that vocation most of the time until he reached the age of 21 years, when he set his face westward. He arrived in California in 1874, where he remained until 1877, chiefly engaged in mining. He returned to Ontario in the fall of the year named, and established himself in the business of hotel-keeper at Milford, Perth County, where he operated two years. He carae to Sanilac County in the spring of 1880, and located 80 acres of land "here he has since resided. He has placed 40 acres of the tract in good cultivation, and has the repute of being one of tlie most skillful and successful farmers of the township. He devotes the agricultural season to his farming interests and follows his profession of teaching, in which he ranks among tlie leaders, dur- ing the winters. He was married Dec. 11, 1878, in Clinton, Huron Co., Mich., to Anna Ramsey, a native of Perth Co., Can., and descended from Canadian parentage. Her mother, Elizabeth A. (Clendenning) Ramsey, died March 31, 1881, in Lapeer Co., Mich. Her father, James Ramsey, is living in Flynn Township, aged 54 years. Mr. Attridge is in sympathy with the Republican party in political sentiment. 'yxasu^M^r'—Wi S^?|^4— »-^5!/3ZW»v. lexander Clapsaddle, farmer, section 4, 'v^^ffjif Moore Township, is a son of George and "r.i^:;^ Elizabeth (Quaid) Clapsaddle. His parents ''jli( were natives of the State of New York, his j'' father having been born in 1804, in Herkimer County. They moved to Ontario, Can., in 1836 and now reside there. Mr. C. was born May 13, 1828, in Niagara Co., N. Y., and at 19 years of age he decided to learn the business of a tanner and currier, in which he was engaged three years. At the expiration of that time he became a farmer, and later on he became an assistant in a saw-mill, which pur- suit he followed some years. In 187 1 he came to Sanilac County and located on the farm on which he now resides. It comprised about 130 acres of land, with 60 acres under fine improvements. He passed through the scourge of flame that devastated the county in 1881, losing all his buildings and loose farm property, amounting in the aggregate to $3,300. He is an adherent to and supporter of the Republi- can party. His marriage to Celicia Snell occurred Dec. 12, 1859. She is a daughter of Jacob and Philonia (Wares) Snell, and was born March 5, 1832. Her parents were born in the State of New York. Seven children have been born of this marriage, as follows : Elizabeth P., June 5, 1861 (died in 1870 ); Francis A., Oct. 15, 1862; Ida M., Sept. 11, 1864; William, 9 f I ^ m-h- ^"^^ — eAc^n a >: i]iir> ■:^K — 6ve?llli:t:illl>>v^ SANILAC COUNTY. 247 V ■^ May 30, 1866; Harvey, July 7, 1868; Carrie B., April 14, 1870 (died in August following); Alexander B., May 10, 1 87 5 (died the same year). -.<^i4#.^,.- Is ndrew Jackson, farmer, resident on section Jl^^^ 22, Speaker Township, is the son of James W. and Martha (Jones) Jackson. The parents were natives of Canada, where they belonged to the agricultural community. In 1853 they removed to Michigan, and located in Sanilac County on the farm now owned by their son. The county was in its pioneer days, and they experienced the trials and privations common to the early settlers of this portion of Michigan. Mr. Jackson was born March 10, i860, in Speaker Township. His father became a soldier in the Un- ion army, and enlisted in Co. K, 22d Mich. Inf. The regiment was assigned to the Army of the Cumber- land, but Mr. Jackson, senior, was a participant in no battle. He fell ill from hardship and exposure, and died at Lexington, Ky., March 7, 1863. His widow afterwards became the wife of Neil Hays, and resides in Speaker Township. After his father's death Mr. Jackson was brouglit up by his mother, and is now tlie manager of the estate. He is a Republican in political principle, and cast his first Presidential vote for James G. Blaine, an act of whicli lie will be pioud to his dy- ing day. His father was a member of the Metliodist Episcopal Church. • — ^►J-^ »-«HiB>-^o S>— M-^- r , , . enry O. Babeoek, attorney and Notary Pub- f '^feil; ''"^ ^"^ P<^ck, was born in Richmond Town- ship, Macomb Co., Mich., Dec. 22, 1857. aV He is a son of Henry A. and Betsey (Stryker) T Babcock (see sketch), and came to the county I of Sanilac when lie was five years old, whither his parents removed. VVlien he was 13 years old he went to live with his brother in VVatertown Town- ship, and remained with him until lie attained his majority. In 1879 he came to Peck, where he en- tered upon the study of law. In January, 1882, he was admitted to practice in the State courts of Mich- igan, and since that date has devoted his whole time to the prosecution of his profession. Mr. Babcock is yet young, but he is active and influential in political circles. He is a republican and has recently been appointed Census Enumerator. He is industrious and reliable and is sure to rise in his profession. He was married Nov. 27, 1882, at Rockway Cen- ter, to Hannah English. She was born March 4, 1863, in Elk Township, and is the daughter of Adam and Catherine (Riggs) English (see sketch). She obtained a good education, and when she was 16 years old became a teacher, which profession she fol- lowed until her marriage. In September, 1883, she established a milliner's shop at Peck, and is manag- ing an increasing and prosperous business. ajfcsliufred StrafiFon, farmer, section 31, Lexing- "^^•A ton Township, was born April 28, 1829, ^ near London, Eng., and is the son of George '' and Fannie E. (Simms) Straffon. His father was an auctioneer by vocation and died in London. In 1839 his grandfather Simms came to Canada with the family of his daughter, and settled in Osborn Township, Huron District, Can., where his mother died. Mr. Straffon was ten years old when he came to the American continent, and he remained on his grandfather's farm until he was 16, aiding, in common with his brothers, in clearing and improving the place, wliich at the date of their settlement was in an entirely wild state. In 1845 he went to Ham- ilton and engaged to work in a saw-mill. He pur- sued that business 18 years, working six years in one calling. His employer failed in business and Mr. Straffon lost nearly the entire amount of his earnings. On the termination of his career as a saw-mill as- sistant, he came to Davisville (now Croswell) and commenced to drive a team for William Jenny. This engagement continued seven months, when he en- tered the employment of Mr. McCredy as agent in the purchase of hoops. He operated in that capacity four years, and removed to the farm on which he is ^ 9 ^ ^ ( > P #^^^^(<®>S IM 3 r 248 ir<^Iltl^Dll^>r \ >5 ^ SANILAC COUNTY. now located, of which he became the proprietor in 1 86 1, buying the property of J. L. Woods, of Lexing- ton. He settled in Lexington Township Jan. 24, 1866. Mr. Straffon is a Republicnn. He was married May 8, 1858, to Melissa Misiner. She was born March 21, 1832, in Wentworth, Ancas- ter Co., Can., and is the daughter of VVilHam and Catherine (Megelias) Misiner. Six children have been born of this marriage, as follows : William R., Feb. 4, 1859; George A., May 21, 1861: Fannie E., Sept. 7, 1863 ; John A., March 27, 1868 ; Ruth, March 5, 1870; Henry M., June 4, 1872. The three first named were born in Canada, the three last in Sani- lac County^ Mr. and Mrs. Straffon have been mem- bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church for 20 years. ^in^iR arren Winterstein, senior partner of the lllllaitl^ mercantile firm of W. Winterstein & Co., jfe^^ " ^' Marlette, was born April 22, 1853, in York Co., Ont. He is the son of Henry and Margaret (Johnson) Winterstein, both of whom were natives of Canada, where the mother died Dec. 19, 1880. The son obtained a good common-school educa- tion, and also attended the High School in his native place. Afterward he took a partial course of study in the Commercial College of Bryant & Stratton, in Detroit. At the age of 19 he came to Sanilac County, where he was engaged three years in teach- ing school in Croswell and vicinity, after which he entered into an engagement as salesman in the vil- lage of Peck, where he was employed five years. He came to Marlette in the fall of 1882, and spent a year as assistant in the store of J. McGill. In August, 1883, he embarked in the mercantile busi- ness in his own interest, and with his associate, Mr. A. A. Talmadge, he is engaged in a prosperous and satisfactory business. The aggregate sales represent annually about $35,000. Mr. Winterstein was married Dec. 29, 1873, in Sanilac County, to Annie, daughter of Robert and Laura Graham. She was born in Sanilac County, April 21, 1853. Her parents were natives respect- ively of England and Canada. They have had three children, only one of whom survives — Urban E. One child died in infancy. Rena L. died when she was seven months old. The parents are mem- C;!.- bers of the Baptist Church. f Mr. Winterstein is a Republican, and has been ^. four years Township Superintendent of Schools. He is at present one of the Councilmen of the village of Marlette. Mrs. W. was also a teacher in Sanilac County three years previous to her marriage. ^^^X^^iK, omer Hall, farmer, resident on section 15, ^i Buel Township, was born Jan. 3, 1843, in Gouverneur, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y. Hii father, George Clinton Hall, was born in Mas- sachusetts, brought up in Hartland, Niagara Co., N. Y., and married Jane E. Swan. He died in Gouverneur, Oct. 30, 1864, when he was 44 years old. The mother died April 20, 1883, in Buel Township, aged 64 years. When he attained his majority, Mr. Hall bought a farm of 75 acres in his native county, which he con- tinued to manage three years. At the end of that time he took possession of a rented farm, which he conducted two years and moved to his father's place, on which he resided two years, and ^t the end of that time, he came to Michigan. He bought a farm which comprised 40 acres, all in an unimproved con- dition; of this he took possession March 31, 1876. He has improved 25 acres, built a fine house, barn and other creditable farm buildings, and is in pros- perous circumstances. He has added 40 acres to his original acreage by a later purchase. Mr. Hall is a Republican in political sentiment, and has held several local official positions. He has served two terms as Supervisor and one year as Superintendent of Schools. He was married March 5, 1867,10 Asenath, daugh- ter of John and Desire (Cross) McCombs. Five chil- dren have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Hall, one of whom is deceased. Their births occurred in the fol- lowing order: Irving W., April 7, 1868; Ada J., Jan. 29, 1870 (died May 7, 1875); Willie E., June 23, ( n in mi (i^i^ '/^t^^^^^ ^m%m<^ (h ) ^ s •m* SANILAC COUNTY. -se^ « 249 1873; Hubert Eugene, March 4, 1875 ; Nellie Agnes, Jan. ., 1883. Mr. Hall came of a line of descent on the mater- nal side very remarkable for tenacity of life. His grandmother, Mrs. Betsey Bean, is still living, aged 9[ years. She was born March, 1793. in Heatli, Franklin Co., Mass. Her first husband, Abel Swan, died in 1841, and about five years afterward she married Dr. John Bean. Her married life with both included about ten years. She resides witli lier grand- sons in Buel Township, and is in good health, save that she is unable to walk from the results of a severe attack of rheumatism wiiich deprived her of the use of her limbs. w ^^jl4,dward W. Ellsworth, manufacturer, resi- gk dent at Marlette, was born May 17, 1837, ' ° in London, Out. His father, William ^fi. Ellswortli, was a native of Middlebury, Addi- !son Co , Vt., and married Lydia Bentley, wlio was a native of the State of New York, and by whom lie had eight children. The family came to Sanilac County in 1837, where the mother died, Jan. 15, 185 I. The father died June 15, 1865. Mr. Ellsworth was the fourth son and next to the youngest of the children born to his parents. He was an infant but three months old when his parents came to Sanilac County. Here he obtained his edu- cation and business habits and grew to maturity. He commenced life on his own account when he was 13 years old, and passed two years on a farm. He spent seven successive seasons as a sailor on the lakes, after which he learned the trade of carpenter. He had worked during the winters succeeding the seasons he had passed on the lakes, in cabinet-mak- ing. He pursued his trade until September, 1872, when he started his present business enterprise, the manufacture of sash, doors, etc., and also does all the kinds of work common to planing-mills. Mr. Ellsworth is a Republican in political princi- ples and connections. He owns considerable village property, besides some valuable property in the vicin- ity of Marlette. He wgis married Dec. 27, 1865, in Oakland Co., Mich., to Loretta Beardslee. She was born in the county where siie was married, April lo, 1838. Her parents, Lewis and Mary Beardslee, were natives of New Jersey. Frank H. and Hattie M. are the names of the two cliildren who have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Ellsworth. The parents belong to the Presbyterian Church. 1 Vb tmhearst Eastman, farmer, section 9, Elk ^ Township, was born in Tapeen, Ont., Oct. ^ M 2, 1827. He is the son of Nadab and Sarah (Gordon) Eastman. His father descended from New England ancestry and was a farmer. He died in the province of Ontario July 12, 1868, ^.^ aged about 60 years. His mother was born in Ire- ^ '.) land and came to Ontario when very young, where ^ she died, in 1867, aged 58 years. He was reared to manhood on his father's farm, ca where he passed the years of his minority in farm "?^, labor and in acquiring a fair common-school educa- ca tion. On reaching the period of his legal freedom, K^/ he became a fanner in the full sense of the term. ^ He purchased 100 acres of land in his native county, ( )^ in the township of Warwick. On this he resided four years and expended liis time and energies in its partial improvement. In 1852 he sold the place and came to Michigan, where he bought 50 acres of land, in Berlin Townsiiip, St. Clair County. It had been improved to some extent by its previous owner, and he remained in its possession one year, when he again sold out and bought 80 acres in the same county, in the township of Brockway. In the spring of 1876 he sold that property. He came to Sanilac County and purchased the estate of which he has since been the proprietor, and which includes 160 acres. He has improved 100 acres, and the place is ranked as among the most valuable in the township. Mr. Eastman was first married in Elgin Co., Ont., Nov. 21, 1848, to Mary Hagle. She was born May 19, 1829, in Ontario. She grew to womanhood in her native county. Three of the children born of her marriage are deceased. The births and deaths were as follows: John H., May 19, 185 i, died Oct. 23, 1856; Mary E., bom Feb. 2, 1862, died Jan. 22, i'V®))«^# ■^<^ll!l^(lli;i>-^ ^- •;^/^l))$^fi^ ■:2^€ ^ (D\ <^M :^: D W'i>T -^i^^^^^tsr 250 SANILAC COUNTY. -I^^f^-i^ 1882; John H., born April 9, 1864, died Oct. 23, 1856. The first and last named died on tiie same ^^ day. The mother died Oct. 9, 1869, in Brockway T Township. She was a member of the Methodist /§. Episcopal Church. Mr. Eastman was a second time married, Jan. g, 1870, in Brockway, to Mrs. Constance (Bond) Bennetts, daughter of John and Mary (Bray) Bond. The parents were natives of England, and came after their marriage to Ontario, where the father died, March 20, 1882, aged 79 years. The mother is still living, in Canada, and is in the 8ist year of her age. Mrs. Eastman was born Sept. 6, 1843, near Land's End, England. She was brought up by her parents and was first married Aug. 7, 1858, to Thomas Bennetts. He was born in England, Aug. 14, 1832. At the age of 18 years he came to Ontario. He was a blacksmitli and followed that trade as a vocation. After marriage he came to Brockway, where he died July 10, 1868. The children of this marriage were born as follows: Mary A., April 3, i860; Robert, Feb. 22, 1862; Thomas, Feb. i, 1864; James, Feb. 27, 1868. John was born July 27, 1866, and died =1 Feb. 3, 1867. Mr. and Mrs. Eastman have five *>■ children, born as follows: William A., Nov. 18, 1870; 1:3 Anna C, Dec. 18, 1873 ; Margaret J., Dec. 27, 1874; "O* Joseph P., Feb. 25, 1877 ; Katie M , March 22, 1879. ^ The parents attend the Baptist Church. Mr. East- v^ ) man is a decided Republican in political belief and action. He has held several minor offices in the township. > ) -I— w,^V^! eorge Boyne, farmer, section 28, Marlette ,fj Township, was born in Scotland, May 24, ^ 1839. His parents, Robert and Jeannette (Spencer) Boyne, were natives of the same country and emigrated to the New World in 1843. They settled in Canada. Mr. Boyne grew to manhood in the Dominion, and was there educated and reared to the calling which has been the pursuit of his life. In December, 1868, he came to Sanilac County and bought 160 acres of land. He afterwards sold one-half his original pur- chase, and of the 80 acres of which he still retains possession, 60 acres is in a fair state of cultivation. Mr. Boyne has been connected with the public affairs I are natives of England andcame to America- in 1847. of his township since his removal hither; he has been Higlnvay Commissioner eight years, School Inspector two years and School Treasurer three yeais. He was married Dec. 25, 187 i, in tlie township of Marlette, to Ida A. Jones, who was born in Michi- gan. The eldest-born child, Robert J., died when he was 14 months old. Four children born subse- quently still survive and are married, — John A., David N., George W. and Joseph F. Mr. and Mrs. Boyne are connected with the Presbyterian Church. -ir^^Ji^ |^?W^ rehibald. Noble, farmer, section 9, Elk 1^ Township, is a native of the north of Ire- land, having been born Feb. 15, 1845, in County Tyrone. His parents came to Amer- ica with their family and settled in Darlington, Durham Co , Ont. Mr. Noble remained under the guidance of his parents until he was 14 years old, when he began life on his own responsibility. His first independent action was as a farm assistant. He operated in the Dominion about one year, and came to Michigan in i86o. He settled on Sanilac County as a desirable location and was successful in obtain- ing employment in Elk and Buel Townships with the farmers. He was thus engaged until his mar- riage, and in the year succeeding that event he purchased 40 acres of land on section t,t, in Elk Township. He passed ten years in securing the im- provement of one-half his property, and at the end of that time he sold it and purchased the same acreage on section 2r, in Elk Township. He re- tained his ownership of the latter place two years, and improved ten acres. In the fall of 1876 he bought the farm where he is now located, comprising 80 acres of land in an entirely natural state, with no improvements and heavily timbered. He has placed 40 acres in creditable agricultural condition and erected good farm buildings. He is a Democrat in political principles and has officiated in the minor local offices of his township. He was married Oct. 28, 1867, to Sarah, daughter of Edwin and Hannah (Harris) Apsey. The par- ents were pioneer settlers of this township. They (v c % u:^ AC'f D 3 ^ DUf^A^ ^^^ m I t :-v i^V®))€^# @sa- .^^i-^ SANILAC COUNTY. ^I'^^^V^^' born Feb. 20, 1853 : Loella, born June 11, 1855, is a teacher in Sanilac County; Jefferson was born Aug. , ri, 1857, and is a farmer in Dakota; William, born Dec. 2.r, 1859, is a druggist in Altona, Dak.; Charles J A. is a farmerin Dakota, and was born April 6, 1862; Richard H. was born May 20, 1864; Minnie M ' June 28, ,868; May, July 12, 1872, Nine children are living and are in prosperous, promising circum- stances. -^^r^s^^^m^sr^ \ obert McClure, farmer, resident on section 29, Buel Township, was born March i, 181 6, in County Kerry, Ireland. He is the son of Robert and Deborah (Hickson) Mc- Clure, both of whom died in their native land. Mr. McClure landed at Quebec, Can., in 1846, ^ where he remained two years in the family of his' = sister. In 1848, he went to the State of New York, .^ where he was foreman of a corps of men engaged in = the construction of the New York & Erie Railroad. V^; A year later he came back to Canada and entered T the employment of the corporation engaged in build- [^ ing the Great Western Railroad. He worked three years on tiiat route, and two years on the Fort Stanley Railroad, when he went to Sarnia Branch and bought loo acres of wild land, on which he worked a year. At the expiration of that time he found he had an insecure title, and he was obliged to relinquish all he had invested in the place. He went to Sarnia and passed a winter with his son-in-law He had but little taste for a life of idleness or de- pendence, and availed himself of the first offer of work that presented, which was in a gravel pit He met Mr. Odell, the head engineer of the road, who recognized him and inijuired into the causes of his changed fortunes, and received the reply tliat " men are frequently overtaken by misfortune." On relating C?^ the incident to his wife, she urged him to show his I papers to Mr. Odell, which he did, and a few days '^'''f 'le received an appointment to a position by f which he was enabled to accumulate nearly $400 in about three months. With his small savings he came to Michigan in the fall of 1859, and bought 40 acres of land, for which he paid at the rate of 50 cents an acre. The land was in tlie roughest portion of the county, and the 30 acres he has cleared has been leveled and graded until It is as smooth as other land which was level in Its original state. He met Mr. Odell some years after he settled in Buel Townsliip, and thanked him as the author of his mended fortunes. Mr. McClure IS a Republican and held himself in readiness to re- spond to the draft during the late war. In the family of Mr. McClure s father there were 12 children, the issue of two marriages. He was the eldest child of the second wife and liad five brothers and sisters. He was married Jan. 26, 1837, in Ire- land, to Mary Ann, daughter of Edward and' Fannie (King) Archer. The parents are deceased. She was born in August, 1823, and died May 29, 1882. She was the mother of 1 1 children, five of whom are yet living. They were born in the order here named- Fannie, Robert, Edward, Deborah, Mary Ann, John, Theresa, Thomas (deceased), William and James.' Two children were born previous to the last named, who 'died in early infancy. Edward died in 1846^ during the passage to America, and was buried in the sea. Robert died on shipboard, just previous to ar- rival at quarantine below Quebec, where he was buried. Mr. McClure and his wife were botn mem- bers of the established Church of England. His grandfather was a Scotchman and was born on the Isleof Wiaht. :>v ■') ^ ^ I ^:^ry SANILAC COUNTY. "^id^^f^T -^4^^^ (§; to Allegan County, Mich., where he practiced his profession until i860, when he went to Shelby Co., Ohio. He operated there as a medical practitioner 21 years, pursuing his business with success and profit. In 1 88 1, he disposed of his property in the Buckeye State, and removed to Sanilac County, lo- cating where he now resides. Dr. Briggs is a Re- publican in political affiliation. He was married July 7, 1861, to Sarah E. Pelton, daughter of John and Susannah (Oilman) Pelton. The former was born in Connecticut and died in Allegan Co., Mich. He was a soldier in the second war with Great Britain. Her mother was born in 1800, in the State of New York, and resides at Ore- gon City. Three children have been born to Dr. and Mrs. Briggs, as follows : Ale.xis O., Nov. 3, 186- (died July 13, 1865); Ida M. (Mrs. William Ross, of Speaker Township), Aug. 30, 1863; Marion E., May 6, 1867. Mrs. Briggs is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Jl ugh McKenzie, Treasurer of Sanilac County, ?/|r was born in Scotland, in July, 1S39. His parents, Robert and Catherine (Munson) McKenzie, belonged to the class known as Highlanders, and were born in Scourie, Suther- landshire, where they were farmers until their emigration to the New World. In the year 1847 t^ey sailed from Loch Laxford, Sutherlandshire, en route for Quebec, whence they proceeded by water to Hamilton, Ont. The Dominion was then mostly in a primitive condition, untraversed by railroads, and the family made their way to Missouri, O.xford Co., Ont., by the aid of teams. They putchased a tract of land in the unbroken forest of Missouri, upon which they brought to bear the industrious energies and apply the persevering toil to which they had been bred in their native land, and where they founded a home. The father died there when he was 85 years old. The mother is now (1884) 90 years of age, and resides at Cass City, Mich. Mr. McKenzie assumed the responsibilities and burdens of his own maintenance and career when he was 16 years old, and as he possessed a desire to ex- plore and test for himself the mysterious West, he set forth on a prospecting tour, visiting 13 Western and Southern States, experiencing meanwhile the vicissitudes and trials of a rolling stone. He returned to his home in 1859, and in i860 came to Michigan. He at once located 160 acres of land in Austin Township, Sanilac County, and spent a year thereon engaged in improving the place ; but the inconvenience of a location 26 miles distant from civilization without other outlet than Indian trails and the blazed routes of pioneer settlers, grew so dis- tasteful that he abandoned his project and again started westward. After traveling to some extent in Illinois and Iowa, he returned in 1864 to Michigan, and engaged in rafting lumber on the Grand River, from Grand Rapids and vicinity to Grand Haven. In 1866 he returned to his former location in Austin Township, with a resolution to overcome all obstacles and content himself with the career of a pioneer settler. His first abode was built from logs hewn by his own hands, and finished with lumber prepared by himself and neighbors by the aid of the process known as "whip-sawing." The first wheat he raised was threshed by a flail, cleaned by the wind and milled at Wahjamega, Tuscola County, 35 miles distant. The grain was transported thither by ox teams, the trip requiring five days. The first eight miles of the route was constructed by Mr. McKenzie, with the aid of his neighbors and associates, Joseph Brown and William Jordan. Mr. McKenzie is a Republican, and his first official service was as Commissioner of Highways, in which he officiated three years. He was elected in 1870 to the position of Supervisor and discharged the duties of the office seven consecutive years. He was elected Sheriff in 1876, gaining a re-election in 1878. After serving in the office to the limit prescribed by law, he was, in the fall of 1880, nominated for Treas- urer and elected by a triumphant majority. He was re-elected in 1882, and is now serving his second term. The portrait of Mr. McKenzie appears on another page. It represents a man whose traits of character are such as to command the respect and confidence of his generation, and whose official career has been marked by a faithful and wise administration of its duties. Mr. McKenzie was married Oct. 5, 1S68, in Austin vS 1=1 0) i ^m<% :2s»- ■eA<>D a n M<>^ — ^m^ /^~ z<-:i]li:t:ililr^-r ■:^^^^ --^mm^\> f (h ) *^J V t t7 SANILAC COUNTY. -sSv;-«~ adding substantially to the material benefit and pros- perity of Sanilac County. He was married Njv. 2, 1849, in Canada, to Mar- garet Ramsey, who was born Aug. 12, 1826, in the city of Dublin, Ireland, and is the daughter of Wil- liam and Agnes (Wallace) Ramsey, natives of Scot- land. Of seven children born of their marriage five survive. They are Jessie, Maggie, William, Jennie and Gavin. Those deceased are Agnes and Maggie. Mr. HarRilton is a Republican in political faith. He and his wife were both brought up in the Presbyterian Church. 257 < @) ^^^^ ■n ■^jLohn S. Bagley, farmer, section 28, Buel '■'. 'jH^' L ' Township, was born Aug. 3, 1820, in %v^''' County Kildare, Ireland. His parents, ^■^ Isaac and Hannah (Sale) Bagley, were natives ]C of the " Emerald Isle," and had nine children, \ who were born in the following order: Sarah (deceased), Richard, John S., Maria, Hannah, Wil- liam and three others who died in infancy. Mr. Bagley passed his boyhood and youth in his native land, where he obtained such education as that country affords, though he had no advantages of free schools. At the age of i8 years he came to America, landing at Quebec, Can. He proceeded to a place 45 miles from that city, where an uncle re- sided, and passed the first winter there. He decided to become a landholder and became the proprietor of 200 acres of land, entering a claim under the regu- lations of the laws of the Dominion relating to early settlers. He built a log house, in which he lived alone one winter and devoted his attention to clear- ing away the heavy timber on the place. The sever- ity of the climate caused him to change his opinion of the feasibility of farming in that bleak section, and in the spring he abandoned his claim and went to Montreal, where he entered upon an apprenticeship to learn the trade of a bricklayer and plasterer. After serving the stipulated time of three years, he proceeded to East Minden, New York, where he re- mained one year working at his trade. He returned to Canada at the expiration of that time, where he remained two years, and about at the expiration of % K^ that time he changed his condition of single blessed- ness. He was married Oct. 19, 1849, to Emma Ann Humphries. She was born July 15, 1833, in Percy, Northumberland Co., Can., was the daughter of Israel and Amanda (Stone) Humphries, and died June 30, 1884, in Buel Township, aged 51 years. Both her parents died in Percy Township, Canada, the demise of the father occurring Dec. 19, 1855, that of the mother, March 2, 1844. The former was born in England, and the latter in Canada, of parents who were of New York State origin. Mr. and Mrs. ^ Bagley have had 13 children, 10 of whom survive. %■ Following is the record of their birth : John S., born ' May 10, 1854 ; William Henry, July 24, 1857 ; Israel, June 3, 1859; George W., Aug. 23, 1S62; Emma A., Oct. 8, 1867; Elena, Oct. 19, 1869; Isaac, Oct. 22, 1871; Richard, Dec. 16, 1874; Harvey, Aug. 18, 1876. Three children died in early infancy un- named. Mr. Bagley came to Sanilac County, April 15, 1879, and bought 80 acres of wild land. He has re- claimed 35 acres, and built a substantial and good x=i frame house and a barn. In political sentiment he 9^! is a Democrat, and holds the views of anti-monopoly. He has served his township as Supervisor three years, and at the spring election of the current year he was elected Justice of the Peace. He is a mem- ber of the Church of England, as was also his wife. ■•<-^-44l#'-^>- C C: ^ i^ ^ KSiaplexander Donaldson, druggist and dealer &3| m agricultural implements in the village of Melvin, was born July 7, 1836, in Lower Can- ada. His parents, William and Ellen (Premo) Donaldson, were of Scotch and French origin. When Mr. Donaldson reached the period of his majority, he engaged in the manufacture of brick, in which he operated to a considerable extent for a period of ten years, in his native province. In the autumn of 1869 he came to the township of Speaker and located on section 7, on 140 acres of land, on which he resided some years. He finally sold the :sijg^^ place and proceeded to Kansas with the intention of @^ settling there permanently, but he remained there •^ Mkr^^m^ ■m 258 f ■^^<^IIIl^tlIl^>T^ SANILAC COUNTY. only one year, when he returned to Speaker Town- ship. He became proprietor by purchase of 120 acres of land on sections 5 and 8. The place now includes 80 acres of improved and cultivated land. He is a progressive and prosperous farmer, and is considered able authority on agricultural matters. He has been President and is now Director of the Brockway District Agricultural Society, in which he has taken much interest and advanced its welfare. In the year 1856 he was married to Catherine, daughter of Henry and Margaret Cable, natives of England. Mrs. Donaldson was born in 1836, and is the mother of six promising sons, — Henry M., Wil- liam G., Charles A., James B., John and Fred- erick F. "tssuiJ^^r- K^^-^-SWrow* i=S!f'-f^f t'oseph Neumann, farmer, section 20, Mar- W^ V .■tte Township, was born April 17, 1837, in. Austria. His parents, Francis and Catherine (Huffnier) Neumann, were also na- ]C^ tives of Austria. He was about 17 years old when he emigrated to America. He came direct to Marlette Township, where he entered a claim of 320 acres of land. On this he has since expended his strength and energies, and now has 130 acres of his original tract, with 70 acres under cultivation. The first marriage of Mr. Neumann occurred in Detroit, in December, i860, to Augusta Shrine, a native of Germany. From this union the issue was eight children, named Adaline, Rosa, Caroline, Mary L., Frank J., Edmund, Frona and Anna J. The mother died May 16, 1875. Mr. Neumann was a second time married, April 25, 1883, in the township of Marlette, to Euphemia (McKenzie) Ronald, widow of William Ronald, who lost his life in the great fire which devastated Sanilac County on the 5th of September, i88r. His body was recovered four days after he met his death. His clothing was nearly all destroyed in the flames. Mrs. Neumann is a native of Canada, where she was born Dec. 7, 1844. She is the mother of ten children by her first marriage, whose names are Jane, Daniel (deceased), John J., Mary A. (deceased), Euphemia, William, Maggie, Elijah A., Etta E. (deceased), and Roland (deceased). By the last marriage she has one child — Wensel A., born March 22, 1884. Mr. Neumann is a Democrat in his political beliet and connections. He has officiated in the local and school offices. In addition to the farm he owns in Marlette, he owns 170 acres of land in Talbot Co., Md. ohn Ersk.ine,farmer, section 21, Buel Town- ship, was born in Bawny Parisli, Lancaster- shire, Scotland, June 7, 1806. His par- ^.Lg ents, John and Jeannette (Young) Erskine, ir were also natives of Scotland. They were married in their native land and came with their family to America in June, 1831. There were four persons, and their entire financial resources comprised three half-crowns, English money, and the father lent one of these to a man who was a neigh- bor in the "old country," who accompanied them to America. The elder^ Erskine and his son John ob- tained employment as farm laborers at $6 per month, board included. The son continued in that avenue of labor a twelvemonth, when he became a fireman on a St. Lawrence River steamer, plying between Montreal and Quebec. The next year his father rented a farm in the State of New York, where he worked through the season. The father and second son remained on the place a second year, and John again "fired" on a river steamer. They bought 100 acres of land 70 miles south of Montreal, where the father died. May 11, 1845. He was born in 1770. Tlie mother was born in the same year and died three months after her husband, her demise occur- ring Aug. 12, 1845. John and Alexander retained the farm while their parents lived, but sold out and severed their business connection soon after their decease. John bought a farm which comprised 50 acres, and his sister became his housekeeper. He lived on this place eight years, sold out, and in September, 1853, he again became a sailor. He operated from that time until December, 1855, in the lake service between Buffalo and Chi- cago. During this period he pre-empted 340 acres A mm^ ^ ^ o .) SAN/LAC COUNTY. 259 of land in tlie Dominion, and his sister resided on the property until he paid for it. He then sold out, and in October, 1S56, he removed to Sanilac County, where he has since resided He is a Democrat in political sentiment, and was Ijrought up under the regime of the Presbyterian Church. Two sisters of Mr. Erskine died in Scotland, one at the age of 11 years, the other in September, 1845. Alexander and Jeannette came with John and the parents to Amer- ica. The remaining sister died Dec. 9, 1857, in Buel Township. If|)'*^|,iram C. Wooley farmer, section i, Mar- T-M^^ lette Township, was born Feb. 28, 1845, in ;f^ * Elgin Co., Can., and is a son of Henry and A Eliza (Brooks) Wooley, both of whom were f born in the Dominion. He was educated and I grew to manhood in his native province, and on reaching the period of his independent life he engaged in farming. In February, 1882. he came to Sanilac County, where he identified himself with the agricultural community, settling on 200 acres of land which had been entered as a claim by his father in 1859. Of this he has already cleared 28 acres and placed it in creditable condition. In his political views he is independent. His marriage to iVIarilla Dean occurred in Canada, Nov. 25, 1869. She is a native of Elgin County, and has four children born of her union with Mr. Wooley. They are Lovilla E., William E., Ernest A. and Nina M. I illiam Murray, one of the leading agri- [ i^^i^ culturists of Sanilac County, resident on Jj^^O section 20, Speaker Township, was born K' in 1834, in Scotland, and is the son of Thomas and Margaret Murray. The par- \^ ents were natives of the " land of cakes," and came to America in 1849. They landed at the port of New Nork and made their way to the Grand River country of Canada, settling in Haldimand County, where they passed the remainder of their lives, engaged in farming. Mr. Murray engaged in active labor in his native country when he was 16 years old, and after coming to Canada he engaged in farming. He became a land-holder of Michigan in i86i, when he came to Sanilac County and purchased 160 acres of wild land. He returned to Canada and remained two years ; and in 1863 removed his family and interests to the township of Speaker and settled himself for life on the tract of land he had purchased, and which has since been his field of labor, and where he has made successful application of his abilities and efforts. His farm is one of the most valuable in the township, and includes 120 acres of land under first-class im- provement, with two excellent barns and an elegant farm residence. Mrs. Elizabeth (Clark) Murray, his wife, was born Aug. 8, 1838, in Paisley, Scotland. She is the daughter of William and Margaret (Easton) Clark, also of Scottish birth. They emigrated with their family to Canada, where the mother died in 1874. The father is 80 years of age. Thomas, Margaret, William, Agnes, Mary E. and Jennie are the chil- dren that have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Murray. In their family is an adopted son, Frederick. They are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Murray accepts the principles and issues of the Republican party. #^ -5— y^ C^ •; c^: (I' "^FplJt eorge H. Banks, farmer, section 21, Elmer Ji btMJii Township, was born Aug. 7, 1819, in York- jjli^r^ '^ shire, England. His parents, George and 'Vk"^ Ann (Henderson) Banks, were born, lived and ^^ died in England. They had eight children. 1 The father was a farmer and miller and died in 1829. Mr. Banks is the youngest child of his par- 1 ents, and before the death of his father, was appren- ^'f ticed to learn the trade of a tailor, which he followed (^ in his native country until he was 26 years of age. i^ In 1845 he left England and came to Ontario, Can., @\ where he engaged in agricultural pursuits until 1868, ^C^D 3 ^ IiniD-V^ ^^^^f^ -^^ 260 (b :^ V s SANILAC COUNTY. ^:sr when he came to Michigan, hoping to find better advantages in the calling to which he desired to de- vote the remaining years of his life. His was one of the earliest permanent settlers in the township of Elmer, where he entered a claim of 160 acres under the provisions of the Homestead Act. The country was in an almost unsettled condition; there were no general thoroughfares of travel and the point of sup- plies was 16 miles away, necessitating the carryingof of the necessities of life all that distance on men's backs. He has succeeded in his farm and business management, notwithstanding severe losses from the recent fires which have devastated Sanilac County. In thatof 1881 he lost heavily in fencing material and other property, and later his house and its con- tents were destroyed. He has improved and culti- vated 100 acres of his farm, and put it in the best possible agricultural condition. He belongs to the Democratic element in politics, and has held the local offices of Justice of the Peace, Highway Com- missioner and Township Clerk, and is now School Inspector. He was married Aug. 2, 185 2, in Victoria Co., Can., to Lordy Marks, who was born June 17, 1826, in Cornwall, Eng., and came with her parents to Canada when she was 20 years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Banks have had ten children, two of whom are deceased, — Henry and Betsey. Those who survive are Ann, Frederick, John, Caroline, William, Alice, George and Charles. The parents are members of the Free Methodist Chnrch. fSUvaro Collins, farmer, section 31, Buel 4 Township, was born Sept. 19, 184S, in Dur- ham, O.xford Co., Can., and is the son of Benjamin and Asenath (Walker) Collins. (See sketch of Benjamin Collins.) Mr. Collins was married Jan. 28, 1876, to MaTgaret Todd, who was born Jan. 7, 1849, near Bear Creek, Canada, and was one of ten children born to her parents, nine of whom were sons. (She is the fourth in order of birth.) They were named Samuel, James, John, WiUiam, Thomas, Reuben, Joseph, Alexander and Robert. The latter lost his life by an accident in the lumber woods. John Todd, the father, died in the United States Army in 1862. The mother died in Fremont about 15 years ago. The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Collins: Samuel, Oct. 6, 1878, died in August, 1879 ; Esther Maud, Sept. 7, 1881; John Wellington, October, 1883. Mr. Collins is an adherent of the Republican party, and has served his township six years as Justice of the Peace, and two years as Drain Com- missioner. -■"^^^^^■^^m-^ b- ^ Ssharles rietcher is one of the substantial ^^^ and enterprising farmers of Speaker Town- ship, and is operating in the business of pl(^ farming and stock-breeding. He is the son '1\ of Edward and Mary (Hurd) Fletcher, of English nativity, and was born June 12, 1826, in Langton, England. His mother died when he was three years old, and he was in the care of his father until he reached the age of 12 years. On the 15th of May, the customary day in England for the hiring of servants, he engaged to serve one year for the sum of 30 shillings, English money. For his second year of service he received double the wages, and in the year following he engaged with a brother of his first employer, for four and one-half pounds per year. He remained in this last employ two years, obtaining increased pay. In 185 i he came to the United States, landing at the port of New York. He proceeded to the city of Rochester, and obtained farm work in that vicinity. He spent two years there and went thence to Wisconsin, where he was en- gaged four years in farming. During three and a half years succeeding, he was engaged in the same vocation in Indiana, going thence to Canada. He was there engaged as a farm laborer between five and six years, when he removed to Iowa. Ten months later he made a permanent settlement on 80 acres of land in Speaker Township. He added 240 acres by later purchase, and is now in possession ot that amount of real estate, having deeded 80 acres to his son. In 1878 he erected one of the finest res- idences in Speaker Township, and his farm is also supplied witii large and convenient barns and other fixtures necessary to successful agriculture. Mr. c (. r? sM\^^^^ .^^^^ ^ SANILAC COUNTY. 261 ^ s (i) ^ V Fletcher is a Republican in political sentiment, and has served his township as Justice of the Peace six years. He was married in 1851 to Dinah P. Goy. She is the daughter of William and Margaret Goy, who were natives of England. Mrs. Fletcher was born Sept. 7, 1829. Her ten sons and daughters were born as follows : Margaret E., April 4, 1852; Wil- liam H., Oct. 23, 1854 (died Feb. 13, 1862); Ann E., July 10, r856; George E, Aug. 29, 1858; Fred- erick C, Jan. 13, i860; Fanny E., Dec. 6,1862; William H., June 6, 1865 ; Robert S., Nov. 24, 1867 ; Webster F., March 14, 1S70; Mary P., Feb. 24, 1874 (died Sept. i, 1876). Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher belong to the Baptist Church. I^Sl dward M. Denton, farmer, section 9, Moore ^i,'' Township, was born May 14, 1850, in SJtsti'' Memphis, Macomb Co., Mich., and is the ^^ son of Darius and Aletia (Lynch) Denton, both J , of whom were natives of the State of New York. ; The father was born in 1809, and died June 18, 18S2. The mother was born in 1815, and resides in Memphis. Mr. Denton obtained a substantial education in a graded school at Memphis, and afterwards skidied medicine two years in the Medical College at Detroit. In 1881 he came to Sanilac County and located 160 acres of land on sections 3, 4 and 9 of Moore Township. He was married Nov. 21, 1S83, to Ida Nunn. She was born Nov. 14, 1864, in Elmer, El- gin Co., Can., and is a daughter of Rev. Isaac B. and Mary A. (Hanstead) Nunn. Her father was born in Canada, in 1837; her mother in England, in 1840. They reside in Argyle Township, Sanilac County. Mr. Denton is a Republican, and in the spring of 1884 was elected Drain Commissioner. Mrs. Denton is a lady of exceptional intellectual attainments and has been a teacher since she was 15 years of age. She is now engaged in the same occupation, in the dis- trict where she resides. She is a Baptist in religious belief. Mr. and Mrs. Denton are regarded as leading members of their generation in the community to which they belong. They possess literary abilities beyond the common order and are both connected with the local press in the capacity of correspondents. i-^- ::'^''p^C ohn Nicolson, farmer, resident on section .'£i#J - 1 6, Marlette Township, was born Dec. 22, '^'' 18491 •'■' Scotland, of which country his parents, William and Catherine (Davison) Nicolson, were natives. He emigrated from the land of his birth to Canada when he was 15 years of age, and remained a resident of the Do- minion until 1879. In the spring of that year he came to Sanilac County, and bought 80 acres of land in the township of which he has since been a citi- zen. To his original acreage he has added 50 acres, and has placed 70 acres under cultivation. He is an adherent to the tenets of no political organization, being entirely independent in his views and connec- tions. He has held the offices of School Moderator and Drain Commissioner. He was married March 5, 1879, in Halton Co., Out., to Nancy Whitley. She is a native of the Do- minion, and a daughter of Thomas and Ellen (Mc- Millin) Whitley. Ellen J., Catherine H. and Thomas W. are the names of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Nicolson. \^ lexander Arnot, farmer, section 28, Lex- n ington Township, was born April 8, 1843, " in Darlington, Can. His father, John B. Arnot, removed with his family to Texas in 1852, where they remained one year. In 1S54 they located in the township of Lexing- ton, where the father bought 120 acres of land. On this he lived and labored, and at the date of his death had cleared more than 80 acres. He died June 16, 1865. The subject's mother, Janet McDougal Arnot, died in Canada, Nov. 1, 1847. Her parents were natives of the Highlands of Scot- 9 ci I 262 SANILAC COUNTY. -4?^C<® % jj t land, and had five children, two of whom died in in- fancy. James, the eldest, is a farmer of Croswell Townsh'.p. Mr. Arnot of this sketch is the second in order of birth. Mr. Arnot is the proprietor of the homestead of his parents, which he obtained by paying the claims of the other heirs. He owns 100 acres of land. Mr. Arnot was married in Bournanville, Can., March 26, 1868, to Agnes, daughter of James and Ellen (Montgomery) Heal. She was born in the same place, May 8, 1849. The children in Mr. A.'s family are: Ellen, who was born Aug. 19, 1869; John B., June ii, 1873; and Edgar J., April 4, 1880. /7S >^ > ) '/avid M. Langan. M. D., physician and sur- k^^il geon, resident at Peck, was born in I.ena- Ir^"^ wee Co., Mich., Jan. 5, 1847. His parents, ' Yjfx John and Catherine (Camburn) Langan, were ^ natives of New Jersey, and descended from i Scotch ancestors, who were Quakers. His father was a boot and shoe maker by trade, and after his marriage removed to Michigan. He settled in Ma- con, Lenawee County, in 1831, where he was one of the earliest of the permanent pioneer settlers. He there pursued his vocation until his death, which oc- curred March 4, 1874, when he was 74 years of age. The mother is 69 years old and resides on the old homestead. Their family comprised eight children, all of whom are living. Lavinia is a resident of Lenawee County; George is a citizen of Ludington; Sarah J. resides with the mother, as does William, the second son; Hebron lives in Allegan; Susan lives at home. Mr. Langan is the seventh child and fourth son. He remained at liome until he was 17 years old, and up to that time attended the common schools. In 1864 he went to Adrian, where he entered upon a course of preparatory study. He went thence to Milwaukee, Wis., where he studied practical dentistry under the supervision of Drs. D. W. Perkins and G. B. Cady. He remained there two years, and, owing to impaired health, spent the next two years in out- door vocations. At the expiration of that time he began the study of medicine in the oftice and under the direction of Dr. S. Catlin, of Tecumseh, Lenawee Co., Mich. He read diligently two years, and in 1873 entered the Medical Department of the Uni- versity of Michigan at Ann Arbor. He finished a complete course of study at that institution, and in June, 1875, ca.ne to Peck, where he entered at once upon the practice of his profession, which he has since prosecuted with satisfactory results. In the winter of 1883-4 he attended a course of lectnres at the Medical College of Detroit. The business of Dr. Langan has steadily increased in success and popu- larity until he has risen to competence. He has ac(]uired a well-deserved repute for skill and atten- tion to the duties of his practice, and is warmly esteemed for his genial nature and fine social qual- ities. He was married Dec. 19, 187S, in Shannonville, Hastings Co , Ont., to Myra Howell, who was born in Tyendinaga Township, Hastings County, May 6, 1852, and is the daughter of Richard and Janet (Bedford) Howell. They were of Welch descent, and their ancestors were of New England origin. In early youth they went to Prince Edward Co., Ont., when that county was new. There the father was a farmer by calling, and later in life removed his family to Hastings Co., Ont., where he resided until Iris death in 187 I, at the age of 60 years. The mother is 65 years old, and resides on the homestead in Ontario. Their family consisted of nine children, all of whom are living. Mrs. Langan is the seventh child and fourth daughter. She was carefully educated under the care of her parents in her native county. One child has been born to Dr. and Mrs. Langan, who died in early infancy. Dr. Langan is a Democrat in political views and actions. He and his wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. '^j'^#j '»^»V;oot"»? E^?%r&. ^'1 IHf ^^^ Sawtell, farmer, section 32, Lamotte 'I'kS^ Township, is the son of Gains and Phila 4^^T (Kellogg) Sawtell. His father was born in 6l(j 1794, in thti State of New York; his mother was a native of Pennsylvania. Both are de- ceased. Mr. Sawtell was born Aug. 10, 1828, in Erie Co., N. Y. He was but six years old when his \^ i c^: (V -*#ts^^ SANILAC COUNTY. fe'^&r— 263 (a> 'r ) "^ ^) f^ s^^ (l father died, and he remained with his mother but one year after that event. ^Vhen he was 27 years of age he came to Lapeer Co., Mich., where he became in- terested in the pursuit of agriculture, and continued to operate there until the spring of 1870, when he became a resident of Sanilac County. He located in Lamotte Township, where he bought 80 acres of land. The place is now in fine condition, with good farm buildings. Mr. Sawtell is an adherent of the Republican party, and has been identified with the local official interests of the township since be be- came a resident. He has held the oftice of Super- visor four terms, Justice of the Peace and Treasurer three terms and Highway Commissioner. He is present Postmaster, and has received two aijpoint- uients to the position, — in 187 i and 1881. He is a Baptist in religious belief He was married in 1848, to Mary UnderhiU, who was born in New York, and is the daughter of Fred- erick and Sarah UnderhiU, both of whom were na- tives of New York. The wife died in September of the same year of her marriage The second marriage of Mr. Sawtell was to Lydia A., daughter of David and Mary (Waterman) Fisher, natives of New York. Four children have been born of the second marriage, — David E., Nov. 14, 1S54; Mary E., Oct. i, 1856; Cassius L., Oct. 3, 1863; Nettie, May 4, 1868. illiam MeLeod, general niercliant at Mel- vin and Town Clerk of Speaker Township, . ^ was born April i, iS59,in Canada. He is ^^M^ the son of Kenneth and Isabella (McPhee) "'"' McLeod, who were also natives of Canada. In 1863, they became residents of Michigan and now live on 80 acres of land on section 20, Speaker Township. Mr. McLeod became a clerk in the employment of Charles Dewey, of Melvin, when he was but 14 years of age, and operated in that capacity eight years. He obtained a good practical education, and has taught three terms of school. He has no particular ]jolitical bias. His first election to the incumbency of Town- ship Clerk occurred in 18S1, and he has been sue- — ^tK^dh cessively re-elected since to the same position. He is a member of the Masonic Order. His marriage to Mary J. Goheen occurred in De- cember, 1878. She was born in 1859, in Canada, and is the daughter of Robert and Ann Goheen, who were born in Canada. Ella A., born June 13, 1880, and Hugh, born April 2, 1882, are the children of the household of Mr. and Mrs. McLeod. '\!iS£SiM^r W^-.-'^mmm'^ liver B. Jacobs, druggist at Peck, was born _,, Nov. 17, 1847, in Whitby, Ont. His father, .'^y Charles Jacobs, was born in the State of f Pennsylvania, of English parentage. He was a blacksmith by trade and married Elizabeth Warner, a native of Ontario and descended from American ancestors. 'I'he family came to Mich- igan in 1863, and the father resided in Sanilac County until his death, in November, 1881. The mother died in Ontario, when her son was 18 months old. He was placed in charge of his grandmother, Mrs. [ane Warner, who cared for him with all the kindness and interest of a mother. In July, 1866, he came to Michigan and located at Le.xington, where he engaged as a salesman in the mercantile estab- lishment of J. N. Clark. He began to teach when he was 2 1 years old in the district schools, which oc- cupation he followed for some time. He then entered a drug store in Lexington, where he was employed a short time, and later, in company with Charles Part- ridge, embarked in the stave business. The enter- prise continued two years, and on its termination he went to Brockway Center, where he became foreman in the saw-mill of John Stillson. He passed six years in that position. His ne,\t business was as agent for a nursery firm in New York, in which he re- mained one year. In December, 1881, he came to Peck and established himself in his present business, which he has since continued with prosperous results. He owns his stock, a desirable village lot and 40 acres of land on section 35, Elk Township, all of which is improved. Mr. Jacobs is a subscriber to the tenets of the Re- publican party. He has served two terms as Town- ship Clerk, and is now discharging the duties of his <^ ' — ' sy J (^ ^m^ gnD^> '^nr^ mmMy> T" SAN/LAC COUNTY. "Z^^s^^^T ^ third term in that incumbency. He has been for ^ four years the Under- Sheriff of Sanilac County. He .1^ was married May 5, 1874, at Lexington, to Mary T Ryan. She is of Irish descent, and her father is liv- /^. ing in Ontario. Her mother died in that jirovince. Mrs. Jacobs was born in the city of Buffalo. She was reared by her relatives and on reaching mature age came to Michigan. Mr. and Mrs. Jacobs have three children, namely, Charles W., Lillie O. and Elizabeth M. S % (^^ t l^amuel J. Welch, proprietor of the Elk Saw and Grist Mills, in Elk Township, was born Sept. 22, 1S43, '" Washington Co., N. Y. He is a son of S. O. and Betsey Ann (Barrett) Welch, both of whom were born in the State of New York, of New England line- age. His father is a farmer, miller and lumberman, and is now a resident of Brockway Center, where he is a prominent agriculturist and is 65 years of age. The mother of Samuel J. died at Brockway Center in 185 I. Their family included six children. When Mr. Welch was 12 years old, he came with his parents to Sanilac Co., Mich. Two years later they transferred their family and interests to Brock- way, St. Clair Co., Mich., where they engaged in farming. There the son remained until he was 19 years old, when he set out alone in his struggle with the world. He had no difficulty in obtaining em- ployment in the lumber woods and on the river, and in alternate seasons on farms. At the age of 24 he was married, at Brockway Center, to Rachel A. Wedge. She was born in Dereham, Ont., Nov. 9, 1847, and is the daughter of John and Mary (Moore) \Vedge, natives of Canada and born respectively of Irish-German and English parentage. Her father is a farmer by occupation and resides at Brockway Center, aged about 76 years, and her mother died there Sept. 10, 1882, aged 73 years. They came to St. Clair County in 1855, and the daughter was a resident with her parents until her marriage. The four children of Mr. and Mrs. Welch were born as follows: Betty A., Jan. 28, 1867; Mary L., Dec. 29, 1868; Jennie E., June 5, 1876; Lillian L., July 2, 1878. .After marriage .Mr. Welch settled in the townsliip where he was married. He followed farming and improved 80 acres of land on which he lived until April, 1S81. His father deeded him 40 acres, includ- ing 20 acres of improved land, which made him owner of a choice, well improved farm of 120 acres. In the month and year named he came to Elk' Cor- ners, where he established, in company with. S. C). Welch, the milling interests in which he has since been engaged. The products of his saw and grist mills are already extensive and increasing. His property includes a residence and lot in the village and a half interest in the old Ayers Mill. Mr. Welch is a Democrat of a radical kind. (3 (7. t ; obei't Boyne, farmer, section 20, Marlette Townsliip, is the son of Robert and Jean- i^; nette (Spencer) Boyne, and was born .'\[ivil 5, ^!p 1841, in Scotland, wiiich was also the native i country of his parents, who became residents of Canada before their son Robert was two years old. He was sent to the common schools of the Do- minion, where he obtained a fair education. He was reared to the calling of farmer, and in the fall of 1868 he came to Michigan, where he believed he should be able to find a wider scope for his energies and secure better advantages for his children. He bought 80 acres of land in Marlette Townshi|), on which he settled and devoted his time and strength to its improvement. Later, he exchanged the property for the farm, which now constitutes his homestead. It then included 80 acres. By subsequent purchase, he increased his estate to 120 acres, 70 of which is now under cultivation, and present a fine evidence of the quality of his agricultural skill and the wisdom of his management. In [wlitical faith he is a Repub- lican. He was united in wedlock to Frances E. While McLeod, in Canada, Ajiril 15, 1867, and the band of olive branches that now brighten and bless the household number seven, and are named as follows : c^: ®))^ r^t ^^^^ — ^^^iiii^iir>=- -*^ ^ S>^f -^&K 6V^Ili]^DIl^> "T-^^^r SANTLAC COUN7Y. C' ?■ ^ V 265 "S. George A., Robert J., Mary E., Francis J., William S., Nellie M. and Walter A. The family attend the Presbyterian Church, of which the parents are de- voted members. atthew French is a farmer of 30 years' standing in Lexington Township, located i i>sw— ''^ '^'^ section 28 ; was born Nov. 24, iSi2,in j/^'\\\ (^.j,.,_^(jjj j^g is t],e son of Charles and •j^'" Ja-ne French, and was reared to the vocation to which he has devoted his life in the Domin- ion. He came to Lexington Township in 1854, and bought 80 acres of land. The property comprised 70 acres of improved land, and is now all under cul- tivation except about 10 acres. The farm residence is a substantial brick building, and the orchards are valuable. Mrs. Abigail (Patterson) French, deceased, was a native of Canada, and was married to Matthew French in Whitchurch, Oct. ii, 1838. Six children were born of this union, — William, now a farmer of Lexington Township; Tliyrza J., David, Mahala, Mary A. and Margaret. The mother died in Lex- ington, Oct. 13, 1862. Mr. French was a second time married, June 13, 18C6, to Janet Arnot, a native of Scotland. 'I'he family attend the Christian Church. 4-Ht4^f#^v,.- '?enry Planz, one of the substantial farmers ^* of .Marlette Township, located on section '^ I [, is a native of Cermany, wliere he was born \ July 12, 1835. His entire ancestral lineage 1 was native to the " Faderland," including his I i)arents, Peter and Catherine Planz. The son received the solid education which is the legal heritage of the children of German parents, and at the age of 2 1 years he came to America. He was a resident of the Dominion of Canada until the spring of 1866, when he became interested in the glowing accounts of the Peninsular State and deter- mined to avail himself of its prospective agricultural advantages. He came to Sanilac County and ]nir- chased the farm which has since been his field of active operation. His original purchase included 80 acres of land in Marlette Township. To this he added 40 acres by later purciiase, and his tillable land now includes 60 acres, which he has jjlaced in credital.)le condition. In political faith he is a Re- publican, and has served his generation in various capacities, among whicli arc the offices of School Director and Highway Connnissioner. \n 1879 he was appointed Postmaster at Germania and held the position five years. His marriage to Barbara Schnell took place A[jril 5, 1864, in Canada. Of this marriage three children have been born — Henry J., Selinda S. and John W. Mrs. Planz is a native of Germany. She and her husband are members of the Reformed Lutheran Church. y^ ^^m O) Gardner, gram dealer at Croswell, was ^ lorn Feb. 17, 1847, in Westminster, Mid- (^ A ^ ;,p " dlesex Co., Can. A. K. and Hannah E. 1,^2, (Sloat) Gardner, his parents, removed from the Dominion to Sanilac County in 1851, and pur-, chased a farm in Worth Township, where they have since resided. The son was four years old at that time, and was reared to manhood on his father's farm, living at home two years after attaining his majority. He acquired a good common-school edu- cation, and afterward attended one term of school respectively at Vpsilanti and Ann Arbor. His pater- nal grandfather was a good mechanic, and of him he learned the trade of a carpenter. He worked at joiner work as a business until the stringencies of the times affected building so much that he decided to devote himself to some other employment. He entered upon that in which he is at present engaged in 1879, as an employe of P. B. Sanborn, of Port Huron. He assisted in the construction of the ele- vator at Croswell, and on its completion took entire charge of it. He was married Jan. 21, 1875, to Francis M r^^ ^^^ % t >^ Streeter. She was born Jan. 22, 185 i, in St. Law- rence Co., N. Y., and is the daughter of Alonzo and Maria (Johnson) Streeter. Her mother died when she was a child; lier father is a cheese manufacturer in Aultsville, Can. Three children are now included in the family of Mr. and Mr>. Gardner, born as fol- lows: Winthrop A., Jan. g, 1S76; Bruce B., Aug. 31, 1880, and Harold, Aug. 8, 1882. The parents are members of the Methodist Church. Mr. Gard- ner belongs to the National Greenback party. -^^^*HJH5lf^^^ I?; ansford Scholz, farmer, section 10, Marlette Township (Town 10), was born April 5, 1859, in Canada, and is the son of August and Christiana Scholz. The parents were natives of Germany, and emigrated thence to Canada. In 1861 they came to Sanilac County, where the father died, Dec. 25, 1880. Mr. Scholz was but two years of age when his parents became residents of Michigan. He received a common-school education and was reared to man- hood on the home farm, which was the property of his father, and to which he succeeded on the death of the latter. Nearly the entire acreage is under fine cultivation. Mr. Scholz is a Republican in political connection. He was married in the township of Marlette, May 22, 1882, to Ella Gifford, who was born July 9, t863, at Burnside, Lapeer Co., Mich. — 'VV^^f- ^-Wv^— ^ EJ^quire C. Taylor, merchant at Peck, was born April 25, 1832, in Franklin Co., Vt. [^^ Mr. Taylor was the second son and third child of 12 born to his parents. He was reared on the farm in his native county, and I when he was 20 years old he came to Michi- gan. He engaged in farming in Macomb County, where he remained eight years. In April, i860, he came to Elk Township and operated three years in traffic in staves. After that period he was occupied in teaming, in farming and as a carpenter and joiner, which trade he had learned at home in his youth. He was thus variously engaged until 1881, when he came to this place and embarked in the business which he has since prosecuted, with satisfactory re- sults. Mr. Taylor owns his place of business and his residence and 40 acres of well-improved land or. section 34, Elk Township. He was married Dec. 31, 1 86 1, to Jane Collier, a native of Ontario. She came to this county with her parents, who were among its earliest settlers, and who are both deceased. She died Jan. 13, 1866, in Elk Township, leaving one surviving child,— George M,— born May 2, 1863. Mary E. died in infancy. Mr. Taylor was married to Harriet C. Gould, in Elk Township, May 18, 1866. She was born March 12, 1847, in Wateriown, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y. She is the mother of nine children, four of whom are deceased. Those yet living are named Louisa, John. Minnie, Mary and Maud. The deceased are John C, William, Claude and William W. Mr. Taylor is a Republican in political principle, and has held the offices of Justice of the Peace and Highway Commissioner. ^ C5 A S S ^ (I If oseph Kerr, farmer, section 16, Speaker ''^^^- Township, was born in .A.pril, 1843, in Can- ■ 1^^^ ada, and is the son of Robert and Mary $^ Kerr, both of whom were natives of Ireland. Ilf Tliey died in 1847, when their son was but i four years of age, and he has lost all but the faintest remembrance of them. He was reared to the age of 14 years by an uncle, and since that time has relied on his own exertions for his maintenance. He left the Dominion in 187 i and came to St. Clair Co., Mich., where he was a farmer 12 years. In 1883 he sold his property prior to his removal to Sanilac County. On coming here he located on 160 acres of fine fanning land, which included no acres with good improvements and suitable farm fixtures. In political persuasion Mr. Keir is a Republican. He was married March 20, 1867. to ?*Iai-y J. Wool- ner. She was born in Canada in 1846, and is the daughter of Isaac and Ann Woolner, who were ^ ^ ^'^■'^>>g^ -L <^i!!l:^:t!i|i^-=^- -^#^^ / i /&^x^ ^^. ^^ -:2«€»k: r^V<4ll H^ I Ilf -^T SANILAC COUNTY. (b :^^ s respectively of English and Irish, descent. Follow- ing is the record of the children of Mr. and Mrs. Kerr: James, born Dec. 31, 1867; George, Oct. 26, 1869; Sarah A., Dec. 5, 1871; Melvin, March 25, 1874; Joseiih 1.., Nov. 12, 1S77. The parents are members of the Baptist Churcli. '■ ¥^i °'-*" ^' ^^^'^' ^ ^■' pliysician and surgeon, ■'' ufeJ }^ practicing at Sandusky, was born Oct. 20, ^A'iJ^S^ 1844, at KingsviUe, Ashtabula Co., Ohio. yjlj He is the eldest surviving'son of O. B. and Susan (Allen) Read. His father is the son of 'Lotan Read, and was born in Vermont. The family removed to Canada when O. B. Read was about four years of age, where his father became a land-holder and accumulated a fair estate. He was reijuired to take the oath of allegiance to the British government, which he refused to do, and he was de- prived of everything he possessed, the law providing in cases like his for the entire |confiscation of the property belonging to rebellious subjects. Lotan Read removed his family to Crawford Co., Pa., where he secured a claim of 160 acres of wild land and carved out another success under the protection of the Republic of the United States. His sons were made of similar material, and the father and Dr. Read engaged to cut 400 cords of cypress timber at 25 cents a cord. He next engaged in rafting cypress timber down the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, and afterwards " boated " wood on Lake Erie, in company with a man named John Allen. On one occasion they were wi-ecked in a gale in Conneaut Harbor. Read and Allen tied their clothes about their bodies and swam ashore. The father of Allen climbed to the mast-head and spent the night, whence he was re- moved by rescuers in the morning. O. B. Read next turned his attention to farming, which he pursued a short time in Ashtabula Co, Ohio, going thence to Crawford Co., Pa. In 1870 he became a resident of Benzie Co., Mich. Tiie mother of Dr. Read was born in the Province of Quebec, near Montreal. Her father, Elijah Allen, was a na- tive of Vermont and a great-nephew of Ethan .Allen, the hero of Ticonderoga. Her mother was blind for a long term of years before her death. Her parents removed to Canada, and thence to Crawford Co., Pa., where they passed the closing years of their lives. She is living in San Francisco, Cal. She became the mother of five sons and a daughter. Her oldest son, Winfield S. Read, was drowned in 1S73, while bath- ing ill San Francisco Bay. Eva, the daugliter, is the wife of Alfred Parsjiall, nnd resides in Texas. Clyde, youngest child, lives in Texas. Dr. Read was lirouglu up on a farm, obtaining a fair common-school education. • At the age of 16 lie determined upon the career of a physican and began liis reading, wliich he pursued as he could, reciting once a fortnight to Dr. Wilbuni Whitley, Examining Surgeon of tiie State of Pennsylvania, during the war. Dr. Read pursued his studies in this manner two years, when he entered the military service of the United States as a private soldier. He enlisted in Conneautsville, Crawford Co., Pa., March 23, 1S63, in the logth Pa. Vol. Inf, Co. C, Capt. Walter Dunn, senior Captain and in command of the regi- ment, wliich had suffered serious decimation in ac- tion, and was below the numerical standard for organization. It was attached to the Second Brig- ade, Second Division and 20th Army Cor[)s. Dr. Read was detailed immediately after his enrollment for field hospital service, in which he remained until his discharge, which oc^ ^ O ^ rQ^ 1884. Dr. Read's qualifications for his profession are of a superior order. His army practice gave him peculiar advantages, and his later courses of study have been of universally advantageous character. He received from John Bolander, A. M., IVI. D., Prof, of Chemistry in the College at Cincinnati, a diploma in Pharmacy and Chemistry, certifying to his i|ualifications as an expert in analysis of poisons, and in other avenues belonging to that branch of professional duty. He was married ' March 21, 1880, to Jennie Bradish, daughter of Richard P.radish, of Crawford Co., Pa. Lotan C, only child, was born Feb. 4, 1881, at Sandusky. 'i'lie portrait of Dr. Read is presented on a pre- ceding page. His qualifications for his profession are such as to give the value of the likeness a wider scope than usual, and it affords the publishers satis- faction 10 be the means of calling attention to the claims of Dr. Read as a medical practitioner of tested reliability and broad experience. -^tJiaz/S^-^— l§^ |?4— >./^~SWWinv. ohn Tenniswood, farmer, sections 8 and 17, Speaker Township, was born March i, 1835, in England. His parents emigrated to America in 1854, landing at the [lort of New iL York. They went thence to London, Out., where they remained but a short time, remov- ing to Middlesex County. In 1864 they located in Michigan, on 80 acres of land on section 15, of Speaker Township, where they have since resided. On coming to this township, Mr. T. purchased 40 acres of land, but in three years returned to Canada. In 1876 he took possession of 80 acres of land in said township, to which he had entered a claim previous to his return to the Dominion. He has jjushed his interests with energy and judgment, and is now the proprietor of 200 acres of land, with 150 acres under improvement. Politically, Mr. T. is a Republican. He was married in 1866 to Elizabeth, daughter of Charles and Mary Ann (Ransom) Weston. She was born June 10, 1849, in .Simcoe, Norfolk Co., Can. Mary A., born May 25, 1871, and Eleanor A., born Aug. 5, 1873, are the names of the children which constitute the issue of this marriage. Neil McKeith, adopted son, was born Feb. 26, 187 i. The family are attendants on the worship at the Baptist Church. section Mar- ^F^Slfli illiiini Walker, firmer, ijg^^Mj lette Township, was born July 19, 1842, J^^r) ' ''^ ''^^ Dominion of Canada. His parents, Y William and Ann (Keyes) Walker, were na- "'I1 n tives of Ireland, who came to the New World soon after their marriage. They removed to Sanilac County when William was 13 years of age, and settled in Marlette Township, where they reared their sons to manhood. Mr. Walker is now the owner of 1 10 acres of land. Of this he has placed 90 acres in improved and cul- tivated condition. He is a member of the Democratic party in political connection, and has served his town- ship three years in the capacity of Highway Over- seer. He was married June 17, 1877, in Marlette, to Maria, daughter of John and Margaret Armstrong. She was born in the State of New York. The family now includes two children, — Ceorge N. and Maggie K. 19 a) ^ '>^|S3? in the township of (iwillimburx', June 8, 1838. ll^r In 186 1 he began to read for his profession. Ijlfred A. West, M. D., physician and sur- Ijlg^^gi geon at Peck, was born in Simcoe Co., Ont., ■j\r-^ in the townshii; "fir In 186 1 he beg I with Dr. Schofield, of the village of Bond Head, in Simcoe County, remaining under his direc- tion until 1864, when he entered Victoria Medical College at Toronto. He completed the severe curric- ulum of the medical course prescribed by that in- stitution, where he was graduated in 1868. On receiving his degree, he began his practice at Bond Head, where he remained ten years. While residing there his first marriage took place. The event oc- \§^m^ -^m9Mi>^ — ^5^^ *■/>= K^ c (v ■:J& ^ (^^ M h>T^ ^^&s- S A. VI LAC COUNTY. 271 <^ curred in March, 1873, when Miss Elizabeth Fries! became his wife. She was born near Milwaukee, ^ Wis., in 1847, and died at Bond Head, .'\iiril 5, 1874, ^ of puerperal fever following the birth of her first ::hild. The infant was named Edna and survived its mother but six months. In 187S Dr. West came to Lexington, Sanilac County, where he entered upon the career of a med- ical practitioner. He was a sei;ond time married while here, to C'ynthia Farwell. The marriage took place Nov. 5, 18S3, near Ixxington. Mis. West was born in 1854, in Worth Township. Farwell A. is the only child of this marriage. Soon after that event they removed to this village, where Dr. West is engaged in a thriving and popular business. He is a Re|)ub- lican in political views and action. jl'ohn J. Wixson, a farmer on section 33, ^M: Lexington Township, was born Feb. 5 ^ip"^ 1846, in Schuyler Co., N. Y. His parents, Joseph and Cornelia (Salisbury) Wixson, re- moved to Sanilac County in 1850, and settled on the same section where the son now resides. His father bought 160 acres on the southeast quarter of the section, all in its original, natural condition. He lived to clear and otherwise improve about 80 acres, and at the time of his death, Aug. 8, 1857, the farm was in a very prosperous condition. Mr. Wixson was married when he was 26 years of age, previous to which time he was an inmate of the paternal home. Mrs. Lucy Wixson is the daughter of Kenyon and Jane (Reynolds) Stevens, anil was born Feb. 1 1, 1841, in the township of Worth, where she was married to L J. Wixson, Oct. 6, 1S61. Her parents were among the first permanent settlers of Worth Township, where they are still living. One son — Otis M. — was born Jan. 16, 1869. Mr. Wixson became the owner by purchase of the farm on which he has since o|)erated, in 1861, when he bought 80 acres of land. The clearing and im- proving are the work of his own hands, and he has placed 60 acies in a highly creditable condition, with biiildings of a satisfactory character, fine orchards and other farm belongings, calculated to increase th; value of the property. He is a prohibitionist in princip'e. ^(|t,, red E. Tallmadge, speculator, resident at iMarlctte, is the son of Jerome and Ellen I A (^ C. (Spencer) Tallmadge. They were na- il^ tives of New York, and after their marriage 'h\>-^ settled in Otsego County, where they have \ ])assed the successive years of their lives, save two, which they spent in WiUiamsport, Pa. They had three children besides Mr. Tallmadge of this sketch, named respectively Frank W., Charles H. and Minnie L. Mr. Tallmadge is the third child and youngest son. He was born Nov. 17, r857, in the city of ( >t- W'? sego. He was a pupil in the common school until r= he was 12 years of age, after which he attended tlie vV; High School of his native |)lace three years. He na then engaged about two years in the sale of milk in *^ the city of New York, associated with his oldest brother. Through ihe years 1876-7 he assumed management of the agricultural interests of his father, after which he spent a year at the academy at .\msterdam, N. Y. The _\ear following, he acted as his father's assistant in the dairy business at WiUiamsport, Pa. In January, i8Si, he came to Michigan, where his second brother is a minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and where he re- mained for a brief period. He came later to .St. Charles, Saginaw County, where he obtained a situa- tion as salesman in a store. .A.fter a service of eight months he returned to Amsterdam, where he was married, Nov. 10, 1881, to Alice A. Hutton. She was born at Carlisle, N. Y. J. Floyd is the only issue of this marrirge, who was born .\ug. ig, 1S82. After his marriage, Mr. 'i'allmadge returned to Michigan, and after spending some time in prospect- ing, in lanuary, 1882, he settled at Marlette. He established himself in the hardware business, and cor-.ducted his interests in that avenue until 1883, when he sold out and bought out a stock of dry I goods, in company with his eldest brother, under the I> X^ ^ 'Z^:^<'Qf^' T<>DD^DDr>T ■^ ^ SANILAC COUNTY. firm style of Tallmadge Bros. In September, 1883, he„ formed a partnership with Warren Winterstein, !^ establishing the firm of W. Winterstein & Co. They T are engaged in the prosecution of an e.xtensive and increasing business. Associated with A. E. Vail, Mr. Tallmadge is largely interested in blooded stock. Among their herds is one of the celebrated Holstein cattle, and he owns' some valuable horses, justly rated as among the finest in tlie county. Mr. Tall- madge is one of the most active business men in Marlelte, and besides the lines of traffic named he has extensive interests in other directions. He be- longs to the Masonic fraternity, and himself and wife, in religious belief, accept tlie tenets of the Methodist Episcoi)al Church. He is a Republican of decided type, and a staunch supporter of good morals and a high social standard. He has never tasted strong drink of any kind, and has never used yt^ tobacco in any of its forms. -.JY r i-p?]; ugh J. McPhec, farmer and dealer in grain, JN f^M^is operating on section 30, Speaker Townslii]!, ^ V^^*""* was born Nov. 25, 1844, in Canada, and he m is the son of Dugald and Margaret (McMullen) *? i\IcPhee. The parents were natives of Scotland I and emigrated to Canada, afterward removing to Sanilac County. 'I'hey located in Speaker Town- ship, where they passed the remainder of their lives. The father died March 7, 1865, the mother Feb. 14, 1868. Mr. McPhee commenced his contest wilii the wurld when he was only 14 years of age. He o|)erated as a laborer and farm assistant until 1863, when he came to Sanilac County with his parents. They settled on 80 acres in tlie midst of the dense woods, with no access to civilization save by Indian trails, and supplies 18 miles distant. The place is now all under improvement, and in the s[)ring of 1S84 he erected a fine dwelling-house at a cost of $2,000. He has been handling grain to a considera- ble extent since i88i,and is managing his operations in that avenue at Melvin village. He is a member of the Republican party and belongs to Lodge No. 316, F. & A. M., Brockway Center. — ^^^^ — ^^-Mm His marriage to Sarah A. Hall occurred May 10, 1837, in Canada. She is the daughter of Wil- liam and Elizabeth (Norton) Hall, natives of Eng- land. William J., only surviving child of Mr. and Mrs. McPhee, was born March 19, 1868. Duncan, born Dec. 25, 1878, died in 1881. The ]jarents are n)embers of the Methodist Episcopal Church. mif\®?^^k^ ^ra[|: uther D. Mills, Surveyor of Sanilac County, .&IE and farmer on section 34, Le.^dngton Town- ship, is tlie son of Clark and Lucy (Olds) 'S"^ Mills. He was born in Vermont, about 24 fk miles tVoni the city of Burlington. His parents \ removed, when he was six years old, to St. Lawrence Co., N. Y. He was 17 years of age when they made a second removal to Ohio. In tlie sum- mer of 1841 they came to Le.xington and settled on the present site of the Cadillac House. Mr. Mills was married Aug. 22, 1842, in Erie Co., O., to Emily, daugliter of Joseph and Philena Clark. She was born in Vermont, June 16, 1823. Follow- ing is the record of the children of Mr. and Mrs. Mills; Enimeline, born June ,24, 1843; Fernando, June 29, 1845; Delia, July 10, 1847; Laura, Oct. 15, 1849; Solon, Oct. 26, 1852; Clark, June 10, 1854 (died Oct. 6, 1856); Walter, June 12, 1855 (died Oct. 16, 1856, ten days later than his brother) ; Martin, Sept. 4, 1857 ; Daniel July 24, 't 860; Ida L., Dec. 19, 1863; Carrie M., March 4, 1865. Mr. Mills ac(iuired the details of the carpenters' and millwrights' trades, and also learned surveying, in Ohio. In 1847 '^'^ came to Lexington and settled on the farm on which he now resides. It comprises 36 acres, and at the date of purchase was coveted witli timber. It is all cleared and improved, and is sui)i)lied with line buildings and all the accessories of a judiciously managed place. Mr. Mills is one of the earliest permanent settlers in Lexington Town- ship, and has held the position to which he is justly entitled by his character and abilities. He cast the first Republican vote in the county for State officers in 1856; tlie second was deposited by his brother, William .Mills. He has been Deputy Sheriff of the county six years. In 1856 he was appointed County (S)^ I < ( A ^\ V ^^s ^^r^^m^ (h ') I '■^> SANILAC COUNTY. ',_^-^r Surveyor, and has discharged the duties of the posi- tion 14 years. The first wife died March 16, 1872, and Mr. Mills married Julia Clark, her sister, Feb. 14, 1877. She was born Sept. 10, r834, in Ohio. Edna, only issue of the second marriage, was born Nov. 28, 1877. ™^i illiam Duff, farmer, section 27, Marlette Township, was born April 20, 1826, in »■/_ Scotland. His parents, James and Chris- 3> tina Duff, were also born in Scotland, and emigrated late in life to Canada, where they passed their remaining years. Mr. Duff was in early youth when his parents em- igrated to the New World, and he resided in Canada until 1859. In the autumn of that year he bought the property he now owns, consisting of 160 acres of land in its primeval condition. He has a fine farm, with 130 acres under tillage. The political views and opinions of Mr. Duff coincide with those of the Republican party. He was married in Halton Co., Ont., April 14, 1854, to Jeannette Campbell, a na- tive of Canada and born of Scotch parents. Chris- tian, John, Jeannette and William ai'e the names of four children that have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Duff. The two latter are deceased. Mr. Duff and his wife are members of the Presbyterian Church. rifflfflj? illiam Smafleld, retired farmer, and Jus- !~S tice of the Peace at Peck, was born Nov. (P 23, 1820, at Sheffield, England. He was ed- ucated in the common schools and was in- structed in the details of the cooper's trade. When he was 20 years old he came to America and settled at first in Quebec. Later, he went to To- ronto, whence he proceeded to the city of Buffalo. At all these places he spent some time working at his trade, and in 1843 went from the last named ^^^^ ^tH^DB^ to St Catherine's, Ontario. He established a cooper shop seven miles from St. Catherine's, which he operated two years. Meanwhile he was married, June 23, 1845, in Niagara Co., N. Y., near the city of Lockport, to i\l arietta Kinney. She was born March 28, 1838, in Newstead Township in that county. The family of Mr. and Mrs. Smafield includes five children, all of whom are living. They were born as follows: Annie M., Oct. 16, 1847; Waller B., Nov. 2, 1849; John E., Feb. 3, 1851; Franklin, Feb. r4, 1853, and Alfred, Sept. 27, 1857. Two years after marriage they went to Elgin Co., Ont., where they resided until i86r, and were en- gaged in agriculture. In that year they came to Michigan. Mr. Smafield purchased 56 acres of land on section 31, of Elk Township. He now owns 210 acres, which includes 140 acres of improved land. He also owns four village lots, with residences. In 18S2 he rented his farm and took up his residence where he now lives. He is a Republican in political principle, and since 1870 has been Treasurer and Justice of the Peace. ^nvhia \^ 9 pharles H. Moore, farmer in Lexington village, has been a resident of Sanilac .1^ County since 1854. He was born Dec. 30, ■^ 1824, in Bath, N. H., and is the son of Isaac ' and Mary (Brown) Moore. His father was a native of the same place and was a cabinet-maker and millwright. In 1830 the family removed to Lancaster, N. H., where they resided four years. They spent about the same period in Barnet, Vi. In 1S38 Mr. Moore went to Richmond, Chittenden Co., Vt., to reside with an uncle. He was there en- gaged as a farm assistant and also worked as a car- penter. He was married March 2r, 1848, to Sojihia, daughter of George and Mary Hodges. She was born in Williston, Chittendon County, in 1824. Three children were born of this marriage: Ella E. is the wife of Denuison Hicks, of Lexington (and is © the mother of one child, — Lala M.); Emily W. is "^ mi>^ — ^m^ — "" I^^^K/^M (g))4^tf^ 6^r<:I]I]:^fl(l^>v ■^hW'^ ■•;s- 274 SANILAC COUNTY. > >v V P H .-^ I the wife of Henry Meyers, and Mary C. is living with her parents. In 1852 Mr. Moore came West and settled in Harrison Township, Licking Co., Ohio, where he continued two years, engaged in the management of an extensive dairy. At the end of that time he came to this township and engaged in farming. He found his ability as a carpenter in demand, and he aided in the construction of the first pier on the lake. He was in the employ of J. S. Woods for a long term of years, and has been engaged in his interests 30 years. In 1855 he bought lots 12 and 13, and has since sold them. Later, he pur- chased lots 9, 10 and 11, and has erected a hand- some residence. He also owns 26 acres of farming land in Le.xington village, and a lot in Sandusky. He is a member of the Royal Arcanum, and has served several years on the Town Board of Trustees. He has been a member of the Fire Department at Lexington since he became resident there, and has been Steward of the Company several years. He has been, and still is, deeply interested in this direction. acob Grimes, farmer, section 15, Speaker ^,, Townshiij, was born March iS, iS-jo, in 5" ' the county of Norfolk, Ei.g. His parents, _ . Thomas and .Ann (Sexton) Grimes, were also It natives of England, where they passed their entire lives. Mr. Grimes became a resident of America in 1852, in which year he landed at New York, proceeding thence to Canada. Eight years afterward he came to Sanilac County, and in i860 located on 40 acres, where he now lives and at present owns 120 acres. He has followed agricultural pursuits all his life; has been prosperous, and has placed his farm in fine condition, having recently erected thereon three fine barns, one of which is 50 by 36 feet, one 30 by 70 feet, and the third 52 by 48 feet. The place has also a fine house. Mr. Grimes is a Republican in political preference, and has held the office of School Director. .He was married in 1855, to Johanna Smith, the daughter of Alexander and Nancy Sheldon (Vincent) Smith. She died in October, 1S78, having become the mother of seven children. Mr. Grimes was mar- ried a second time Nov. 8, 1879, to Emily Cork daughter of Robert and Fannie Cork, all of whom are natives of England. Herbert, Arthur and Fannie are the names of the children born of the second marriage. Wf O ^1 '>-lj^4i4- . t evi B. Robinson, farmer, section 34, Fre- mont Township, has been a resident of Sanilac County since June, 1865, when he hP^ became connected with the agricultural ele- rp ment therein, by the purchase of 80 acres ■L of land, where he established his homestead. He has sold 40 acres of his original purchase. Mr. Robinson has been active and efficient in the local affairs of his township since he became a resident. He has served four years as Justice of the Peace, and has officiated during the last eight years as Notary Public. He has also dis- charged the duties of the several school offices. He was born April 19, 18 12, in Albany Co., N. Y., and is the son of James B. and Anna (James) Rob- inson. The father was a farmer and died at the home of his son in Fremont at the age of 95 years, three months and 24 days. The mother died in Livingston Co., Mich., aged 77 years. The first 18 years of Mr. Robinson's life were passed upon a farm, and at that age he began an apprenticeship for the tailor's trade, which was his business from 1835 to 1863, the year in which he entered the military service of the United States. He learned his trade at West Bloomfield, Ontario Co., N. Y., and worked as a journeyman in various places in the States of New York, Minnesota and Michigan. He enlisted in Macomb County, in the Eighth Mich. Cav., Co. G. His regiment was brigaded at Stanford, Ky., under General Burnside. He received an honorable discharge, and was mustered out May 23, 1865, at the United States Hospital at Camp Nelson, Ky., on account of disability con- sequent upon camp exposure, privation and hard- ship. On returning to Michigan he visited his (>i ^ c< 4? f o ^ /N *^^ V ;-:i a SANILAC COUNTY. Y^^ -^m^:-. ^4^@§^(^-f| 27s brother in Sanilac County, and, yielding to his solici- tation, he decided on making Fremont Township his home. He was married Jan. 12, 1S3S, to Catherine Hunt. Two children were born of this union — Mary J. and John G. — both of whom are married. The son resides in Westfield, Pa.; the daughter in Steuben Co., N. Y. Mrs. Robinson is the daugh- ter of Aaron J. and Lucy (Garfield) Hunt. They died in Livingston Co., N. Y. •^ilF^Sjlfhoiuas Norman, farmer, section 28, Lex- |_- Cames Ronald, farmer, section iS, Marlette Township, is the son of Hugh and Jane (McKie) Ronald, who were born in Scot- land, but who emigrated in early life to Can- ]r ada, where they married, settled and passed their remaining years. Their fanrily included five sons and four daughters. Mr. Ronald was born in Brant Co., Ont., Oct. 16, 1842. Until the age of 17 years he was engaged in the acquisition of a common-school education. On learning his studies he became a farmer under his father's guidance and remained an assistant on the ^^^1- ^^^ — ^T^^^^n a :^ homestead until he reached the age of 28 years. He then settled on a farm in the county where he was born, which had been bequeathed to him, where he remained until the spring of 1874, when he came to Sanilac County and bought the property of which he is present proprietor, comprising 160 acres of land. It was in its original state of wildness, and by the tlirift and industry of the owner go acres have been converted into a finely cultivated tract, constituting a valuable farm with fine buildings. Mr. Ronald is an adherent to the principles of the Republican party, and has held the local and school offices. He was married Dec. 3T, 1873, in Waterloo Co., Ont., to Margaret, daughter of John and Jane (Adams) Gillespie, natives of Scotland. She was born in the county where she was married, June 76, 1845, and has become the mother of two children — Hugh N. and James C. S. The parents are promi- nent members of the Presbyterian Church, and Mr. Ronald has officiated as Elder and Trustee of the local organization to which he belongs. »^ *^^gwra7ra»' farshal Woodard, resident on section 27, Elk Township, was born June 12, 1850, ( P''^ in the province of Ontario. He was reared in the village of Tilsonbury, and after reach- T" ing man's estated he engaged in farm labor. He located in Speaker Township, in 1876, where he married Zeruah Locke, a native of Worth Township. She died in this township in the sum- mer of 1880. One daughter, Julia, born of this mar- riage, died when she was a year old. Mr. Woodard was again married, in Speaker Township, Oct. 22, 1 88 1, to Mrs. Amanda (Simcho) Woodard. She was born in the township of Durham, Oxford Co., Ont., Jan. 9, 1840. Her fatlier died when she was eight years old and she was reared to womanhood by her mother and maternal relatives, among whom she re- sided until her first marriage. That event took place March ir, 1856, when she became the wife of Wil- liam Woodard, who was born Feb. 22, 1828, in the State of New York. He was brought up on a farm, and after reaching manhood became a carpenter. mmf^j^ S>/^®»^^ '276 SANILAC COUNTY. -HSS&' T He came to this township, where he became the proprietor of 160 acres of land near the village of Peck, on which he made extensive improvements and where he died, March 2, 1881. He left seven children. They were born as follows: Andy L., Oct. 19, 1S61; Myron T., Feb. 23, 1853; Florence A., Oct. 30, i866; William A., Oct. 6, 1870; Presi- dent G., Sept. 6, 1872; Daisy A., Oct. 25, 1874; Minnie T., June 27, 1877. One child, Warren, was born of a former marriage, Oct. 29, 1859. The last named child is cousin and step-brother to the six first named, his mother having been the sister of the second wife. She was married March 7, 1848, and died Dec. 31, 1854. Mr. Woodard was universally esteemed as a neigh- bor and citizen, and was pre-eminent in his domestic relations. He was a Republican in political connec- tion. Mrs. Woodard is a member of the religious body known as Second Adventists. <^. >$ -^^ T T =HH^ section 9, Mar- If fftxl ? illiam Camei'on, farmer, f(f\ c^^^ja lette (Town 10), was born March 7, 1844, Js^p in Scotland, of which country his parents, "4w^ John and Ellen (McDonald) Cameron, were tW also natives. They emigrated to Canada in 1853, and soon after, in 1859, removed to San- ilac Co., Mich., where they settled, in Marlette Town- ship. Mr. Cameron was but nine years of age when his feet last pressed the "bonnie heather bells" on his native soil, and he grew to man's estate in Michigan. The family were among the permanent pioneer set- tlers of the township, and the father and son were among the most active and prominent in the develop- ing interests of the new country. In addition to the farm labors, they were interested in lumbering for local necessities, and turned their abilities to use and profit for the benefit of themselves and neighbors. The son learned the trade of carpenter and joiner, and shingled the first house in the village of Marlette with shaved shingles, which were manufactured by his father and himself. He also aided in the finish- ing of the first saw-mill erected in the village of Marlette, by John McGill. Mr. Cameron is a Repub- lican in political principle, and has held the position of Highway Commissioner 11 years. He is a mem- ber of Marlette Lodge, No. 1,775, K.. of H., and has been Dictator three years. He was married March 26, 1864, in Marlette, to Alice Hagar, a native of Canada, where she was born June 17, 1844. William J., Anna E., Phebe and George are the names of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Cameron. They are members of the Protestant Methodist Church. VlW^ASsla !^r. Seth W. Bedford, physician and surgeon, !> druggist and dealer in sundries, resides at Peck, where he is Postmaster. He was born June 19, 1831, in Oxford Co.,Ont. He ^^ is a son of Captain David and Lydia (Weston) Bedford, who were natives of New England. His father was a man of radical views, and when the civil conflict of 1837 known to history as the "Patriot or McKenzie's War" broke out, he enlisted and be- came a leader in the rebellion against British rule. The fate of the insurgents is well-known, and its worst results overtook Captain Bedford, who was taken prisoner and executed at London, Ont., for the crime of taking up arms against the government. No ignominy is attached to his memory ; he died for freedom, as John Brown died. Had victory crowned the effort, his name would have ranked with that of Washington and Lincoln. In the place where he lived he is remembered as a martyr to liberty ; and the time is not far distant when the cause for which he died will again be tested, with a result that will reflect glory on the few names who strove so vainly to secure it for the period to which they belonged. The mother is still living and resides in Dakota Territory. At the date of her husband's death she had four young children. Dr. Bedford is the oldest of the four children — two sons and two daughters^born to his parents. He was seven years old when his father was executed, and he remained with his mother two years after that terrible event. He developed rapidly in understand- ing, through the circumstances that surrounded his 9 V) (7>. \j\®^^>^ -^m^a^ JL ^ ^^^ -^!^^^ — ev<:>ii n^ n ni>-7^^ ■^*^^^^ vm^ SANILAC COUNTY. 277 youth, and was early impressed with the necessity of self-maintenance. He was only nine years old when j^^ he went into the world to seek a liveliliood. He was T taken charge of by a neighboring farmer, and worked (^. three years for his clothes and board. After that, he spent the summers in farm labor and the winters in study until he was 20 years old. At that age he turned his attention to the acquisition of a substan- tial education, which he succeeded in securing. In 1853 he went to California. He passed 13 years in traversing the States and Territories of the Pacific slope, and extended his travels through British Co- lumbia and the peninsula of Alaska. Eight years of this period he devoted to mining. During the gold excitement of Frazer River in 1858-9, he was at Puget Sound and in Washington Territory, where he had many adventures incident to those remote regions, then inhabited by Indians and abounding j^ in game. \ In 1866 he returned to the Dominion of Canada, but the same blood flowed in his veins that impelled his father to struggle for manly independence, and he found it impossible to abide long under the British flag. Even in his boyhood, he had rebelled against the royal standard of England, and it was his custom on each succeeding Fourth of July to hoist the Stars and Stripes and hurrah for the banner of equal rights and human liberty. For this he was once arrested, but was soon released on account of his youth. But he ever afterwards per- sisted in observing the "day we celebrate." He was proprietor of a hotel at Otterville until 1870, and while there incurred a loss of about $2,000 by fire. On coming to Michigan in the year named, he located at Nortli Branch, Lapeer County, wliere he engaged in the study of medicine. He remained there three years and entered upon the practice of his profession. At the expiration of that period, lie removed to Marlette, where he passed a year in the same vocation. In the spring of 1874 he came to Peck and established himself in a substantial and prosperous practice. He is independent in political views and connections. In 1876 he received his appointment as Postmaster. He has also occupied the position of Township Clerk, and is a member of the Masonic Order, belonging to Elk Lodge, No. /\ o '^) 35- Dr. Bedford has been married tliree times. His ^■)f^#- present wife was Hannah Allen, a daughter of Chauncey and Lavinia (Fo.x) Allen. She was born and reared in Elk Township, wliere her parents were pioneer settlers. Her father died in 1881. Her mother is living in this township. James C, only child of Dr. and Mrs. Bedford, was born Dec. 15, 1877. The first wife of Dr. Bedford, who died in Ontario in 1869, became the mother of one child, Lydia E., born Aug. 14, 1868, and died in January, 1882. The second wife died at North Branch, Mich., in 187 1, leaving one child, John C, born Aug. 17, 1871. -J&t^- Carles E. Stevens, farmer, section 34, P3^ Fremont Township, was born in Con- £j«^ necticut, Feb. 2, 1842. He is the son of W Thomas A. and Maria L. (Crane) Stevens. { The former died in Port Huron, Mich., in 1857, when he was about 43 years of age. The mother is still living in Gratiot Township, St. Clair County. She was born about 1818. The father of Mr. Stevens was a wheelwright, and worked at that business a number of years, also operating to some extent as a farmer. The family lived in town until the son was 12 years of age, when they removed to a farm. He was 15 years old when his father died, and he and a brother supported the family by their labors as farmers, lumbermen and sportsmen, game and fish being plenty at that early date. This was the duty and occupation of his life until 1869, when he came to Sanilac County, reaching the place which was to be his future home April 5. He had purchased 80 acres the fall previous, and to this he added 80 acres later on. The place had a clearing of about eight acres and a small frame house. The farm of Mr. Stevens is in a condition that stamps him as a man of industry, thrift and good judgment, 100 acres being inii)roved and under excellent cultiva- tion. Mr. Stevens has discharged the duties of his citizenship in the offices of Township Clerk, two years. Justice of the Peace, four years, and as ^ |l|]f>A^ ^^^ -|»^ 1 Vto: ^ IP J^^ 2'ji 2 (Q^ v^%. SANILAC COUNTY. ia^ School Director, 12 years. He is a Democrat in political conviction. His marriage to Mary S. Swan occurred June 15, 1865. She was the widow of Horatio Swan, who died in the year 1863, leaving four children — Kirk H., John E., William S. and Josephine M. Of her second marriage five children have been born, as follows: Jennie M. was born May 5, 1866, in Oakland Co., Mich., and was married Aug. 10, 1884, to Sarah C. Scott. George E. was born in Port Huron, June 13, 1868; Charles F., Aug. 22, 1872; Annie. E., Feb. 21, 1874; Esther M., Jan. 29, 1877. Mrs. Stevens is the daughter of Harley and Diantha Olmsted. Her father was the first white settler in Oakland County, and her brother was the first white child born there. — 'vv^SP-i^S-w-— ^- J;i'fe=«Til!f'olin Fitzgerald, farmer, section 2, Speak- ';. ;'>^|, - er Township, is the son of John and Mary ■f^ (Berningham) Fitzgerald. The parents are natives of Ireland, and the father died in 1835, in the city of New York. The mother is a resi- dent of Canada. Mr. Fitzgerald was born May 7, 1830, in Limerick, Ireland. His parents came to America when he was in early youth; his father dying soon after, his mother returned to Ireland with her children to place them in the care of their grandparents, with whom they remained until the death of the grandfather. They then returned to America, and the son, who is the subject of this sketch, acquired the details of the painter's trade, which was his occupation until 1862. In that year he enlisted in Co. C, Sixth Mich. Cav., Capt. Wesley Armstrong, of Lapeer, Mich. The regiment joined the Army of the Potomac and was assigned to the command of Kilpatrick. It was in action at Gettysburg, Falling Water and througii the engagements of the Richmond raid. Mr. Fitzgerald was made prisoner of war June 11, 1864, at Trevilian's Station, Va., and confined at tiie notorious Libby prison at Richmond until his removal to that climax of horror — the stockade pen at Andersonville, Ga., where he arrived June 28, 1864. He was sent later to Camp Lawton, Ga., and a month after he went to Savannah. He was one of the hapless Unionists who were sent to Blackshire to secure them from relief from Sherman, then on his march to the sea, and traversing that portion of Georgia for the express purpose of relieving them. That period of suffering eclipsed all others they had passed. Henry M. Martin, of the 72d Ohio Volunteers, also a prisoner in the hands of the Confederates, relates of this period, that only those survived who had determined to outlast the whole Southern Confederacy, as the sufferings were so much increased by the exposure in addition to other privations. They were driven thence to Thomasville, and afterwards on foot to Albany, a distance of 66 miles, at the mercy of drivers who impelled them forward like a herd of animals. They were sent from the last named place back to Ander- sonville, where they arrived Dec. 24, 1864. Mr. Fitzgerald was paroled April 28 following, after a period of suffering protracted through 1 1 months. In June following he was discharged and returned to Lexington, where he remained until 187 r. In that year he removed to his present location. Mr. Fitz- gerald is a Democrat in political connection, and a member of Lodge No. 61, F. & A. M., at Lexington. He was married, in 1854, to Catherine Cornwell. She was born in 1832, and died in 1S61. In 1865 he was again married, to the widow of Alexander Stacy, n Union soldier who was killed in action July 20, 1864, at Peach-Tree Creek, Ga. Three children, Catherine A., John F. and Mary, were born of the the first marriage. Of the second, two have been born — Paul and James. -^' c^: (I J^ra Bullock, farmer, sec. 6, Marlette Town- [r ship, was born July 24, 1835, in Canada. He is a son of William and Nancy (Heaton) Bullock, who were born respectively in the States of New York and New Jersey. Mr. Bul- lock received his education and training in the Dominion, where he lived until November, 1861. At that date he came to St. Clair Co., Mich., where he purchased 40 acres of land, on which he resided ten years. At the end of that time he sold the place and removed to Almont. He was a resident there ^^^#- ^ n^<; --i^^^^£«^|:-^?^?5-. Ifonzo Gray, an early settler and prominent farmer of Sanilac County, resides on sec- tion 10, Speaker Township, and is the son of Nathan and Eunice Gray, natives of the State of New York. After marriage, they removed to Canada, where the mother died in 1S50, and the father in 1857. Mr. Gray was born .\pril 6, 1825, in the State of New York. On becoming his own master, he engaged as a farm laborer in Canada until 1859. In that year he removed to Speaker Township. The county was in its earliest pioneer days, roads being only Indian trails or otherwise of a poor order, and the place of supplies being 18 miles distant, at Lexington. They located on 40 acres of wild land, and the farm now includes an additional "40," with two comfortable dwellings. The marriage of Mr. Gray to Sarah L. Watson oc- curred in 1852. She was born Oct. 2, 1836, in Kingston, Can., and is the daughter of William \V. and Ruth Ellen Watson. Her father was born on the Mississippi River. Her mother was born in Canada in 1814, and died in 1S83. Of this marriage one child, Charles A., was born April 3, 1853, in the portion of Canada known as " Eden." Mr. Gray is a Republican in politics. He became a soldier for the Union during the course of the civil war, enlisting in Co. K, i6th Mich. Inf. The com- mand was assigned to the Army of the Potomac, in the corps of Gen. Meade. On receiving honorable discharge at Alexandria, Mr. Gray returned to his home in Speaker Township. He and his wife are members of the Protestant Methodist Church. K!£J Ibert E. Vail, merchant at Marlette, is the TT^^siii son of George W. and Hannah C. (Gunn) Vail. After their marriage, the parents set- '&. tied in Middlesex Co., Out., where they resided until their removal to Sanilac (bounty, which look place in 1877. Their family consisted of five sons and one daughter. Mr. Vail is the second son, and was born March 10, 1853, in Middlesex Co., Ont. He obtained a common-school education, and when he was 14 years of age he found himself his own master, with the world before him. He learned the trade of carpenter and builder in his native province, at which he worked chiefly until he was 22 years of age. He was for a short time engaged in clerking, and later accepted a position as foreman in a machine shop in Ontario, operating in that capacity between two and three years. The engagement terminated with the burn- ing of the shop. In the spring of 1877 he came to Marlette, and in company with two brothers bought out the grist-mill of R. Wilson & Son. After pros- ecuting the business about ten months, he sold his interest to his brothers and continued to manage the affairs of the mill as foreman, a relation which ex- isted three and a half years. In the fall of 1880 he went to Minnesota, where he remained six months and afterwards made an extended trip through the States of Kansas and Iowa. He returned to Mar- lette, where he established a drug trade, which he conducted until February, 1882, when he sold out and bought the hardware stock of F. E. Tallmadge. He has sines continued to transact a satisfactory and prosperous business in that line of traffic. Mr. Vail has no political bias, and is considered as neutral in his oi)inions. His marriage to Mary E. Donaldson occurred in 1 Marlette, April 14, 1880. She was born in Iowa, (^ ^ ^, ^ () ^' v<^.\imm>7 280 SANILAC COUNTY. (4 > (5^ Feb. 21, 1 86 1, and is the daughter of David and Anna Donaldson, the former a native of -Scothmd, and the latter of Michigan. George D., only child, was born March 11, 1882. ames Rutherford, farmer, section 7, Mar- lette Township, is the son of George and Agnes (Meichel) Rutherford, natives of Scotland, of which country he is also a native. He was born Oct. 6, 1820, and came to the New World in 1848. He located in Canada, where he lived until i85<5. In that year lie decided to test the promise and reputed resources of the Pe- ninsular State. He came to Sanilac County and be- came the proprietor, by purchase, of 160 acres of land in the township of Marlette. He took posses- sion of the place the )ear following and has contin- ued to reside there. He has pushed his agricultural interests until he owns 360 acres of land in Sanilac County, and has placed nearly one-half of his acre- age in tillable condition. He is a man of strong good sense and native ability; is a Republican in political connection, and has been Township Treas- urer four years. He was married before he left his native country, to x\nn Donald, who was also born in " Auld Scotia." They have had eight children, named as follows : Isabella, George, Margaret, James, John, Agnes, Anna, Robert. The parents are members of the Presbyterian Church. S^-i-D. ames Knight, farmer, section 22, Marlette Township, is a substantial member of the sJ^ ^ agricultural community to which he be- longs. He is the son of David and Catherine ^r (Moore) Knight. His father was a native of I Scotland and his mother was born in Barnard, Vermont. They emigrated to Canada, where their son was born Aug. 14, 1820, in the county of Halton. His education was necessarily meager, owing to the remoteness of his home from schools, as he passed the first 18 years of his life in assisting on his father's farm. In 1838 he went to the State of New York, returning thence 12 years later to Canada, where he remained three years. In the fall of 1S61 he came to Michigan. He was satisfied that the county of Sanilac presented facilities for the application of his efforts and was a fit field for his ambitious iilans- and he located on a tract of 220 acres of land in Marlette Township, which he had entered in the land office two years previous. He has retained 160 acres of his purchase, and has cleared, improved and cultivated 80 acres. He is a Republican in political sentiment and connection. He was married in Canada, Nov. 6, 1861, to Isa- bella Dougherty, who was born in Canada. Three of five children born of this union survive, — David, Catherine and Elizabeth A. The deceased children died in infancy. The parents belong to the United Presbyterian Church. ^*H^fe t('-y|; lamuel Van Camp, deceased, former pro- 1 prietor 01 the Globe Hotel at Peck, was - born in the Province of Ontario, in 1826. (V, His parents, Jacob and Mary (Buike) Van 1 l\®)>e^#^ u:^ Cam]), were both natives of Canada and be- longed to the agricultural class. The father died in Ontario, the mother in 1883, in Grand Trav- erse, Mich. Mr. Van Camp was brought up to the vocation of his father. He was married in Darlington, Durham Co., Ont. (where he was born and reared), Dec. 15, 185 1, to Jane, daughter of Charles and Mary (Miles) Nobles. She is a native of Ontario, of Irish descent. Her father was a farmer and resides with his son Andrew in Elk Township. Her mother died about 1864, in Canada, aged 43 years. He came to this township in 1880, and retains to a remarkable degree the activity of his prime. His family includes three sons and two daughters, all of whom are living and settled in life. John, Archibald and Mary are resi- dents of Canada. Mrs. Van Camp was born May I, 1843, in Darlington, Durham Co., Ont. She be c>4i / ^/ '^: I))^?#^ ^^nr^^lJU^UU^^ v ^ yy^- SANILAC COUNTY. 6) > ■■>. 1=1 b came the mother of ten children, seven of whom are deceased. Maggie, Sarah and Minnie reside with their mother and afford effective assistance in the labors and duties pertaining to the hotel, which Mrs. Van Camp is still managing. Samuel died at the age of 13 years; the others died in infancy. Two years after the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Van Camp, they were engaged in farming, in On- tario. In 1853 they came to this county and located at first in Lexington, then inhabited by a few pioneer settlers. Mr. Van Camp built a hotel, which he called the Franklin House. He conducted it as a house of public entertainment two years, when ne re- moved to Buel and there engaged in the same ca- pacity for some time. About 1864 he came to Peck and took possession of the Globe Hotel, whose man- agement he continued until his death, which occur- red Feb. 3, 1881. He owned the hotel and consid- erable real estate besides. He was a Democrat and held a prominent place in the j^arty he represented in the township. 6« •■ — ->-5-^i — o<®Mi))>-?s>o — ^>-5<- — • oseph Moss Gaige. banker and dealer in real estate, resident at Croswell, was born ■' June 13, 1848, at West Burlington, Otsego Co., N. Y. His father, Henry \V. Gaige, was Tc born Dec. 7, 1821, and is the son of Sherbiirn I and Christine Gaige. He was reared to man- hood in the Empire State, and married Harriet N. Cornell, daughter of Daniel and Martha (Russell) Cornell, at West Burlington. The mother of Mr. Gaige, of this sketch, was a member of the Cornell family of University fame, though belonging to a different branch from that of Ezra Cornell, whose interest in the cause of education in the Empire State has created permanent recognition of the name. She was born July 10, 1821, and died Nov. I, 1856, at the age of 34 years, leaving two children — Mary Christine, wife of J. H. Richardson, mer- chant at Croswell, and Mr. Gaige, of this sketch. The father contracted a second matrimonial alliance, with Mrs. Sarah (Davis) Waldo. The senior Gaige is still living, at West Burlington. Mr. Gaige obtained his elementary education at the common schools of his native county, and at the K2) age of 14 years became thsp-o^ege of Truman Moss, the founder of Croswell, to whom he was allied by birth. He had received the name of a deceased son of Mr. Moss, who hoped to realize in him so far as might be the hopes that had set in the grave of his son. Mr. Gaige as a boy possessed the active, restless temperament which has characterized his life. His predominating trait, even in childhood, was a persistent energy, which, being free from mischievous tendency, promised a manhood of use- fulness and achievement — outlining a future of far more value to the work of the world than the un- wholesome cravings of natures wholly surrendered to the ambitions which thwart the career of a large proportion of the rising young men of the period. In study, and as an assistant in the mercantile establishment of Mr. Moss, young Gaige passed the years of his life previous to the age of 15 years. In 1863 he was placed at the Oneida Conference Semi- nary at Cazenovia, where he entered upon a prepar- atory collegiate course of study, which he supple- mented by a year at Cooperstown Institute. He was a diligent, persistent student and accomplished a large amount of study to the close of his preparatory ^> course, but he chafed under the confinement and 1= application necessary to the accomplishment of the S> purpose of Mr. Moss, who had charge of his educa- tion and training, and it was decided to compromise the matter by giving the young gentleman a thorough education in law. He was accordingly placed under the instructions of Messrs. E. C. Walker&C. A. Kent, an eminent legal firm of Detroit, under whose guid- ance he prosecuted his legal studies one year (1866). E. C. Walker is still an attorney of prominence in the City of the Straits, and is a brother of Judge Walker. C. A. Kent is a member of the faculty of the Law Department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, where Mr. Gaige entered in 1867. He was graduated at the latter place in the spring of 1869 receiving the authority of the institution to practice in the State Courts of Michigan. He was admitted to the Bar in Detroit, and gave some attention to the details of professional life, but his natural predilection for an active business career came to the surface with such force of frequency thai; the scheme of a professional course was abandoned. He prepared to enter vigorously into the lake service, and on the opening of the business season of 1870 he was thor- oughly equipped to participate in its opportunities. S < t ^JIiaSDr^'^© a«8^ &)^v^^ t!7 V^:l]Il^liny>v ■^#^^ SANILAC COUNTY. ■:■/ He held the proprietary ownership of the " Truman Moss," and of the " J. O. Moss," two schooners which phed among the several lake ports, and he also estab- lished himself in a branch of business known to the craft as " ship brokerage." After the close of the navigation season on the lake he sold the two vessels and his entire interest as a ship broker in order to enter the business firm of Moss & Mills, merchants and lumbermen at Cros- well (then Davisville), becoming junior member with them in the spring of 187 1. The style became "Moss, Mills & Gaige," the firm having an invested capital of $165,000, and being heavily interested in the avenues of business named. They owned immense tracts of pine land in .Sanilac County, and their office for the transaction of local business was established in a building connected with the residence of Mr. Moss near the right bank of the Black River, which flows between the old and new portions of Croswell. The business relations of Messrs. Moss, Mills & Gaige ended with the termination, by natural limita- tion, of their lumbering interests. The next business enterprise of Mr. Gaige was the establishment of his private banking house known as the "Sanilac County Bank," in September, 1882, where he has since conducted a general banking business, embracing' all the operations common to such institutions. He owns a considerable acreage of land in Sanilac County, and is engaged in the sale of real estate to a considerable extent. Mr. Gaige has been a resident at Croswell since 1871, and has taken an unmistakable and disinterest- ed interest in all projects referring to the advance- ment and progress of the place and people. In all his movements he never fails to consider the welfare of Croswell, and he makes it a point to operate with direct advantage, not only to the location of his home but to the advantage of this portion of the Peninsular State. The act for the incorporation of Croswell was passed by the Legislature of 1882-3, and he was elected President of the village in the spring of 1883, to which position he was re-elected in the spring of 1S84 (current year). He identified himself with the Republican party on the attainment of his majority, and continued to act in accordance with its principles until the organiza- tion of the National Greenback element, when he became an adherent of its fundamental creed. He based his position on his unqualified trust in the United States as a nation, and that the Government possessed the power to create representative issue of its resources whenever the condition of the country demanded such action, as well as in case of emerg- ency, the relative force of each being inherently a matter of opinion. The issue being met by the Re- publicans, he resumed his former relation with that element, the action convincing him that a party which had accomplished so much held within itself the elements to achieve other needed reforms. In 1878 he was nominated for Representative to the Legislature of Michigan from the district which then included Sanilac, Huron and Tuscola Counties, his name being placed before the people by the local Fusionists of the district. His defeat was a virtual triumph, as the opposition candidate, who had car- ried a previous election by an overwhelming n.ajority of 1,500 votes, secured the position this time by a majority reduced to 58 votes. At the Republican Senatorial Convention held at Minden, Friday, Sept. 6, 1884, Mr. Gaige was nominated for the position of Senator. The honor came to him unsolicited during his temporary absence in the East. The result is tvell-nigh foregone, owing to the political status of the district and the general estimate of the character of the nominee, and his well-known devotion to local interests, as well as his widely understood and popu- lar traits, presenting a strong claim of fitness and e.xpediency. One of the most noted acts of Mr. Gaige was the naming, in 1S79, of the county seat of Sanilac Coun- ty, which he called Sandusky, with eminent good judgment, as it does not repeat the designation of any other place in Michigan; it serves as a reminder that the city of that name in Ohio was founded by the families to which he belongs by consanguinity. \Vitliin the first year of his residence at Croswell, came the first general ordeal of devastation and ruin in Sanilac County by the fire fiend. Messengers brought tidings of the havoc at different points during the closing days of September and the open- ing ones of October, 187 i ; and as tales of losses of life swelled the dread recitals of destruction of property, the people at Croswell, who were almost wholly without means of extricating themselves, be- came seasonably alarmcl ar.d organized to' arrange means of safety. Creeping tongues of flame ap- 9 »4> 4; m S^X -^^^K — 6v<>tiii^DH^>T^ SAN/LAC COUNTY. 287 ) •■>. >J V T I %. proached the lumber yards of Moss, Mills & Gaige, and on two occasions the fire department of Lexing- ton was summoned to subdue the fires. The losses of the firm in standing timber at points where it was impossible to check the course of the destroying ele- ment were already heavy, and the several members were of the opinion that prompt organized action could save (^roswell, as the event proved. Tiie people of the village made common cause of the work of averting the catastrophe which had been so terrible in other portions of the county. Men, women and children were stationed at various points, and a working force went to meet the ap- proaching monster whose lurid glare environed the town and whose smoke filled the atmosphere and pressed into the dwellings to an extent that made vision of little avail. Mr. Gaige was in the saddle five days, directing the operations of 60 men, who were fighting the progress of the fire in every con- ceivable manner, with plows, spades and other de- vices which could be of any possible use. Business was suspended, domestic routine was wholly aban- doned, and only the unremitting superhuman exer- tions of the people saved the place. The fires crawled close to tlie residences, and the wind hurled burning chunks and cinders upon the roofs of the buildings, necessitating constant watchfulness ; and a large proportion of the women stood on the roofs of their houses with water to extinguish the embers which fell in showers all around. Every household had its effects packed, and the horses were kept harnessed and the wagons in readiness for instant flight when effort to fight the fire should be no longer effective. But hope and labor prevailed and the end came. The sun set on the evening of Oct. 9, and when it rose the following day only the sullen gray of the smoke from smouldering fires in the surrounding district could be seen in the atmosphere, which gradually broke away, the people experiencing a sensation as if their aggregate possessions had been suddenly and mysteriously transplanted to a new realm, wholly strange and desolate with the marks of a mighty struggle. One feature of the fire was that numbers of bears and deer came from the woods into the streets of the village, so dazed by terror of fire that their shyness of human contact was entirely over- come, bears in several instances pressing in a coax- ing, cat-like manner against the persons of men, as if soliciting protection. The approach and progress of the second visitation of the scarlet demon in 1881 was an event of much less moment to Croswell. Improvements had made such strides that open fields protected the village, and although the fire came near enough to create some uneasiness and unusual effort, it was altogether shorn of its terrors in a comparative sense. Mr. Gaige is prominent in Masonic affairs, and has advanced in the order to the extreme limit afforded in America, having passed to the 33d degree. He made his first connection with Blue Lodge No. 61 , at Lexington, in 1871, and subsequently took the degreeof Damascus Chapter, No. 41, and of Lexing- ton Commandery, No. 27, of which body he holds the position of Past Eminent. Dec. 10, 1878, he became a member of Michigan Sovereign Consistory at De- troit. He and Mrs. Gaige are communicants in Christ's Church (Episcopal) at Croswell, in whose interests they are active and efficient. Mrs. Mary Ella (Jones) Gaige was born in Fish- kill, Dutchess Co., N. Y., Sept. 12, 18^3. She is the daughter of M. V. K. Jones, Postmaster at Croswell (see sketch). Her mother, Elizabeth A. (White) Jones, is the daughter of Nicholas White, who was for 30 years an itinerant minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church. He was Presiding Elder in Brooklyn and vicinity nine years. Mr. and Mrs. Gaige were married Sept. 20, 1869, at Ann Arbor. Mrs. Gaige occupies a social position, in which she does credit to her womanhood, and by her genial affability and unaffected manners throws a grace about her influence which renders her an acquisition to society of no ordinary stamp. The home and surroundings of the family are characterized by quiet elegance with no attempt at ostentation. Mr. Gaige is a representative of the men of this generation, upon whom rest the hopes of the Repub- lic. Reared in affluence, trained under social in- fluences of an elevated character, one of the heirs of his patron and relative, Truman Moss, he preserves his character of independent, spotless manhood, and holds the unwavering esteem of all who know him. The addition of the portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Gaige give an attraction to the Album of Sanilac County of no common type. They may be found on pages just preceding the beginning of this sketch. i ( w^ T^ 4>^5f^P 288 'T rs 2 ) I1 n ^> n I]s> V u SANILAC COUNTY. 289 j^,; ^ (b and was 57 years of age at the time of his decease. The mother is still living in the same place. Their children were born in the order named : Edward, John, Richard, William, Sarah, Mary, Margaret J., Elizabeth L., Susannah P. E. and James Wesley. Mr. and Mrs. Willard have had four children, the oldest of whom died at birth. Harold A. was born March 16, 1882; Ethel M. and Percy C. (twins) were born May 19, 1884. Politically, Mr. Willard affiliates with the Anti-Monopolist party, and was a delegate in 1884 to the Anti-Monopolist State Convention. X > •=^ ' ' I ' .'jan Barnes, farmer, section 25, Fremont , ri^i-'., Township, was born Jan. 29, 1S28, in .' 'V., • Theresa Township, Jefferson Co., N. Y. "rjfi. He is the son of Benjamin and Mary (Sheley) /R- Barnes, both of whom are deceased. His father ' was born in Vermont, was a mason by trade, and one of the most active and energetic men in Jeffer- son County, where he was a local Methodist preacher. He probably preached more funeral sermons than any other clergyinan in that county. He was also a practical farmer, and burned brick and lime. He also operated as a jobber and builder, and superin- tended the construction of numerous houses in his native township, supplying the material from his own products. He was a soldier in the war of 181 2, and fought m the action at Sackelt's Harbor. He died at the age of 72 years. The mother of the subject of this sketch was born at Danul)e, in the State of New York, and died when she was 70 years old. On the failure of his father's health, Mr. Barnes assumed the management of his business. He was only 16 years^ld, but he continued to conduct its various branches after the death of his father for a period of six years. He then sold out and removed to Port Huron, Mich., where he was interested in lumbering seven years, in company with Messrs. Skinner & Ames. He went thence to the township of Worth, where he managed a farm of 850 acres of land, in connection with the same gentlemen. It was under his personal superintendence about nine years. In 1880 he took possession of the place, where he has since pursued agriculture with rapidly increasing resources. It comprises 357 acres. At the date of his purchase the good lumber trees had been cut out and a small clearing made. The place now includes 160 acres of well improved and credit- ably cultivated land, and supplied with a good frame house and a barn second to none in the county. Mr. Barnes lias been twice married. His present wife, Mary H. (Gates) Barnes, is the daughter of Asia and Dolly (Kingsbury) Gates. Her father was born in Antwerp, Jefferson Co., N. Y., and died sud- denly of heart disease when he was 56 years old. Her mother was a native of New Hampshire and was 72 years old when she died. The marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Barnes occurred April 25, 1848, in Ant- werp, Jefferson Co., N. Y. Mr. Barnes has been the father of 13 children, nine of whom are living — -Mary A , Sarah A., Gates (deceased), Florence E., Ada A. (died when she was 1 1 years old), Benjamin (de- ceased), Charles A., Arthur, Lewis (died in infancy), Lewis F. and Jessie (twins; Jessie died when three months old), Perlie H., John K., Frank L. and Dolly A. O. Their father and mother are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. Barnes is a Re- publican in his political views. ^^«1!))>-^^ r;^d;^lmore Putney, one of the substantial and 'si.r',; influential farmers of Sanilac County, re- - T ^, - "' sides on section 10, Speaker Township. THe was born Jan. 12, 1839, in Lisbon, St. Law- rence Co., N. Y. His father, Obadiah Putney, was born June 11, 1804, in St. I^awrence Co., N. Y., and died Nov. 18, 1870, in Hillsborough, N. H. The mother was born in Johnson, Franklin Co., Vt., Aug. 22, 1798, and died April i, 1883, in Speaker Township. Mr. Putney left the parental roof when he was 15 years of age, and was engaged in farming and lum- bering until the civil war awakened him to the emer- gency of actual fighting. Accordingly he enlisted, in July, 1862, in Co. B, io6th N. Y. Vol. Inf The regiment was assigned to the Army of the Potomac, and Mr. Putney was a participant in 16 general engagements, among which were P'airmont, Va., the Wilderness, Gettysburg and others, until the collapse of the rebellion. He was wounded at Cold Harbor, % \P) C^ s ^ (> %\(i^m^ u^ii. -^<^o II ^ mi>^ — ^^^ |^^((®>! ttf^* SANILAC COUNTY. ^^' f ) >J f^ and at Winchester in 1864. The latter was a severe injury, the bullet passing between the trachea and jugular vein, quite through his throat. He receives a pension in consequence. He was honorably dis- charged June 22, 1865, at Washington, D. C, re- turning to the State of New York. Two years later, in 1867, he came tp Sanilac County, where he located a claim of 80 acres in Speaker Township. He now owns 120 acres of land, with 100 acres under first- class improvements, with immense barns, a large and excellent house, and all other farm appurte- nances of a fine type. Mr. Putney is a member of the Republican party in political preference, and be- longs to the Order of Masonry, Elk Lodge, No. 353. He was married in 1866 to Harriet D. Portus. She was born Jan. 2, 1846, in St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., and is the daughter of M. L. and Eliza (Davft) Portus. Her father was born in 1783, in Ireland, and resides in Waddington, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y. Her mother was born in 1805, in Pennsylvania, of German ancestors, and died April i, 1870. Charles G., Wallace L., Franklin O., RoUin E., Herbert S. and Mabel A. are the names of the six children of Mr. and Mrs. Putney. The latter are communicants in the Methodist Episcopal Church. .-: L ^ \ ^ '^°^ Babcoek, farmer, section 29, Elk Town- Iji^a ^^j sliip, was born July 4, 1818, in Monroe Co., SiSsM N. Y. His parents transferred their family "jff and interests to Ashtabula Co., Ohio, when IF he was eight years old. His father was a farmer and reared his sons to the same calling. Mr. Babcoek was 22 years of age when he left home. He became agent for a stave manufacturing company in Ohio, and some time later came to Mt. Clemens, Macomb Co., Mich., where he remained three years, going thence to Bay City. There he en- gaged in a mill, in which capacity he operated 18 months. His next remove was to Sanilac County, when he settled in this township and was one of its earliest pioneers. During the first year he engaged in lumbering for Myron Williams. In the fall of 1854 he purchased the farm on which he has since resided, and has placed 70 acres under cultivation. Mr. Babcoek was the first voter in the township, and the first man who took unto himself a wife within the town limits ; he acted as pilot for the first United States mail-carrier who ever crossed the county. He was married in Elk Township, in January, 1854, to Mrs. Margaret (Pomeroy) Dinion, a native of Can- ada, where she was born Feb. 26, 1828. She was the mother of two children by her first marriage, — George F. and Sarah J., — both of whom are married. Mr. Babcoek is a Democrat in political connection, and has held the office of Highway Commissioner. eorge Henry, proprietor of the Henry House, at Lexington, was born Aug. 19, 1842, near the village of Ancaster, Ont., and is the son of Joseph and Anna (Aikens) Henry. His father was a farmer, to which 1 vocation he was reared. In 1856 he came to Sanilac County, and became an inmate of the family of his uncle, who owned a farm in the northwestern part of Lexington township. He worked on the farm alternate summers and attended school winters for two years for his uncle, and passed three years suc- ceeding, with ^Villiam Lawrence. He was then ig years old, and became a soldier in the Union service. He enlisted Nov. 7, 1861, in Co. D, Tenth Mich. Vol. Inf , under Captain Huckins, of Lexington. The company was assigned to the Army of the West, under Gen, Sherman. It was one of the first com- panies filled under the call for three-years men. Mr. Henry was discharged from service at Roseville, Ga., April I, 1863, and veteranized, re-enlisting in the same company in which he served, until the close of the war. He was finally discharged at Jackson, Mich., Aug. 19, 1865. Following are the names of some of the battles in which he was a participant : Farmington, Corinth, Nashville, Stone River, Chatta- nooga, Ringgold, Buzzard's Roost, etc. His regiment was involved in all the heavy engagements through- out the campaign from Chattanooga to Atlanta. It was the first command detailed to special service at Jonesboro, and captured 500 prisoners, the regiment losing about 65 men. It was also in a part of the active campaign to Savannah, Black River and Ben- )^^tf- V^:I1H^I1I1>J>^ SANILAC COUNTY. 2gi ^ (b) 5. tonville, N. C, where its members were present at the surrender of the rebel general, Johnston. It was mustered out of the service of the United States July 19, 1865, at Louisville, Ky. "iMr. Henry returned to Lexington and was vari- ously employed until the fall of 1866, when he bought 80 acres of land situated about three miles west and four miles north of the village of Lexington. He placed 62 acres under cultivation, and the place be- came, under improvement, most valuable and desir- able. In December, 187 r, he e.xchanged the property for the hotel which he now owns, and which was built by E. B. Parsons. He has continued its man- agement since he became proprietor. The establish- ment has accommodations for 25 guests, and has a livery attached. Besides his business as landlord, Mr. Henry is dealing extensively in lath and shingles, operating from a yard on the beach of Lake Huron, near the pier. He owns two village lots attached to the hotel, and five acres on Main Street in the south part of the village of Lexington. He is also the pro- prietor of two farms of 200 acres each, situated re- spectively in Elk and Watertown Townships. Mr. Henry is a member of the Order of Masonry and belongs to Post H. H. Nims, No. 118, G. A. R., of Lexington. He is also a foreman of Fire Company, Huron No. i, and has served on the Board of Village Trustees. He was Township Treasurer in 1882-3. He was married in Lexington, May 5, 1867, to Martha, daughter of John and Eliza (Reynolds) Riley. She was born July 18, 1849, in Canada. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Henry were born as follows : Annie E., April 9, 1869; Rose E, May 21, 1871; Margarets., Dec. 7, 1872; George W,, July t3, t875; Martha C, June 22, 1880; John R , Au^. 6, 18S3, rames Walker, (n.iier, section 23, Marlttte |f Towns'iip, is the son of William and Ann (Keyes) Walker, who were natives of Ire- land. He was born in the Dominion of Can- ^y It ^^^^ whither his parents emigrated, Aug. lo, ^\ \ 1844. He passed the earlier years of his life ^^ in attending the common schools of his native county, ^ and when ten years of age (in Jantiary, 1855) came to Sanilac County, where he grew to man's estate. He has become the prosperous proprietor of a fine farm of 120 acres of land in the townshi)) of Mar- lette, and has placed the greater portion of his acre- age under cultivation. He is identified in political principle and action with the Democratic party. He was married Jan. 5, t867, at Marlette, to Mary A. Fitch. She was born in Canada, and is the daughter of Tliomas and Margaret (Beacom) Fitch. (See sketch). Margaret, Mary E., Emma J. and Ada M. are the names of the four children born of this marriacre. ; illiam P. Wallace, farmer, section 13 pliii^iailg Fremont Township, was born Aug. 11, %i^'i~^ 1846, in Racine Co., Wis. John Wallace, J,"^-^' his father, was a native of Amsterdam, New K^^ York, and was of Scotch descent. In early J ' life he was a farmer, and later became a hotel- keeper at Milton, Halton Co., Can., wjiere he died, March 27, 1882, aged 74 years. He married Susan Beckwith, who survives him and is still resident at Milton. Mr. Wallace is the oldest child of his parents and acco.npanied them from Wisconsin to Canada when he was but five years old. He passed the time until he was 22 years old in the Dominion, with tlie ex- ception of two years, during which he was employed in and about Elgin, 111. He re'.urned to Canada, and was there connected with a Government surveying party about six months. After passing about 18 months at home, he came to Sanilac County, and Nov. r2, 1867, he took possession of the farm on wliich he has since resided. It was conveyed to him by a deed of gift from Iris father, and comprised 160 acres of land, heavily timbered with maple, beech, oak, hemlock and basswood. He has reduced nearly the entire tract to cultivation, leaving only the portion he desires to reserve unimproved. He has erected good and comfortable farm buildings. Mr. Wallace is a Republican in political principles and connection. He is present Supervisor and has held the various school offices. He was married Sept. 13, 1871, to Maggie Ander- I i ^(^J^#^ ->l4^11!Sr SAN/LAC COUNTY. son. She was born Aug. 27, 1849, in Kalamazoo, Mich., and is the daughter of Hiram and Ann (Cum- I' mings) Anderson. The former was born in Canada, of Scotch parentage, and came thence to I,exington, >^ where he was a farmer for a number of years. He is now resident at Port Huron. The mother died at Lexington, in 1864, from the effects of an accident. Mrs. Wallace is one of six children, — four daughters and two sons. One of the latter is deceased. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Wallace, as follows: Edith M., Oct. 22, 1872; Maud A., Dec. 6, 1874; Elizabeth A., March 28, 1876. ■^— «"— ljl--^:~fS5'>- jarvin V. K. Jones, Postmaster at Cros- „^ well, and Justice of the Peace, was born f IS^"' ^°^' ''' '^^°' '" ^'^'^'^'"' Dutchess Co., jf)^'^\ N. Y., the son of Stephen and Mary (Weeks) ) Jones. His father was a carpenter by trade and ^ 'I died in Ulster Co., N. Y., in October, 1853, aged = about 83 years. His mother died Feb. 11, 1846, in [^ Dutchess County, and was about 66 years of age. Mr. Jones came to this State in 1835, and spent 14 months working at the cooper's trade in Ann Arbor, returning at the end of that time to Dutchess County. He at once gave his attention to acquiring a knowledge of the mason's trade, which he did in the most thorough manner, becoming fully proficient in tlie art of laying brick and stone. He passed five years in his apprenticeship, and a year later worked as a journeyman. He went then to Poughkeepsie, N. Y., and formed a brief partnership with John Longfield. On its termination he resumed journey work in that city and in New York. Two years later he returned to his instructors, with whom lie was en- gaged six years. He owned a residence and other property in that place (Fishkill), which he sold and went to Brooklyn. He operated in the " Ciiy of Churches " two years and returned to Fishkill, where he entered into partnership with one of his former masters, and followed his trade two summers. In October, 1854, he removed with his family to Ann Arbor, Mich., where he worked one year as a journey- man in the construction of the Union School build- ing. He then established hia business inde' endently (^ and erected some of the most prominent of the build- ings (at that time), comprising residences, stores and churches. In 1867 he managed the construction of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Jackson and in Parma in 1868. In 1869 he superintended the building of the dormitory and dining hall on the State Agricultural farm at Lansing. In the spring of 1870 he went to the city of Lawrence, Kan., where he passed four months working at his trade. He re- turned to Ann Arbor and again engaged as a journey- man, and afterwards operated as a builder. In 1872 he built the Methodist Episcopal Church at Water- loo, in Jackson County, and in 1873 aided in the construction of the shops of the Michigan Central Railroad Company at the "Junction," three miles from Detroit. He lived in Ann Arbor in 1S74 and 1875, engaged in journey work, and in the fall of the latter year he came to Sanilac County, where he was employed by Moss, Mills & Gaige in their dock and lumber yard at Lexington. In 1876 they sold out, and he agaiii returned to his trade. In the spring of 1877 he visited his birth-place. In 1881 he removed to Cros- well, where he has since resided. He received his appointment as Postmaster Sept. 8,. 1881, and took possession of his charge on the 20th of the same month. Mr. James was married Aug. 17, 1S42, to Eliza- beth A. White. She was born June 15, 1827, at the parsonage of the Duane Street Methodist Episcopal Church in the city of New York. She is the daugh- ter of Nicholas and Artemisia (Cooley) White. Her parents died in the city of Brooklyn, the demise of her mother occurring in April, 1853, when she was about 60 years of age. Following is the record of the children of whom Mr. and Mrs. Jones have become the parents : Mary Ella was born in Fishkill, Sept. 12, 1843, and was married in 1869, to J. M. Gaige. (See sketch.) Julia .'\iida was born in Brooklyn, Nov. I, 1845. She was married to Eben S. Saunders, of Ann Arbor, who died, and she was a second time married, to Henry Janes, a nephew of Bishop E. S. Janes of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Cora A. was born in Fishkill March 16, 1848, and was mar- ried in Kansas City in 1873, to Joseph A. Perkins. She is now a widow. Junius Lyndon was born March 4, 1850, at Fishkill, and died in Brooklyn, Nov. 10, 185 I. Viola R. was born April 3, 1853, in Fishkill, and is now the wife of W. B. Smithett, of I ^ <: V :^l K>^^ 5 ■. ^N^&^^^ -:^^^f K ' o ' / r-r5 > /s t .4. 1® SA.V7LAC COUNTY. 293 Ontario. Their marriage occurred in 1875, at Water- loo, Iowa. Jessie B., born Nov. 3, 1856, at Ann Arbor, was married in 1S74 to George H. Bascey. Marion C, born in Ann Arbor, Jan. 5, 1859, enlisted ill the regular service of the United States in 1878. His fate is unknown, as all trace of him has been lost since December, 1880. Le Jeune, born at Ann Arl;or, Jan. 21, 1 861, is an undergraduate at ihe University of Michigan in his native city. Winthrop Custer, born Jan. 23, 1863, in Ann Arbor, is a student at Goldsmith's Commercial College, Detroit. Julius Arnot, born Jan. 5, 1867, in Ann Arbor, is in the regular army. He enlisted in the loth United States Infantry, and his company is stationed at Fort Lyon. His parents procured his discharge on account of non-age. In 1868 Mr. Jones was elected Tax Collector for the Third Supervisor's District, comprising the fifth and sixth wards of Ann Arbor. He was elected Su- pervisor of the same district in the following year. His election to the position of Justice of the Peace occurred in the spring of 1884. He is a Republican and was a delegate to the first Representative Con- vention of Washtenaw Co., Mich.,.after the formation of the party to which he belongs. w- illiam Shier, farmer, section 5, Marlette 1^ Township, is the son of Philip and Mary ISi-'/i., " (Dawson) Shier, natives of Ireland. They f!^^' emigrated to Canada, where the father died 3/'' and the mother is still living. Mr. Shier was born April 8, 1840, in the Province of Onta- rio. He received a common-school education, and being the eldest of a family of 13 children, seven sons and six daughters, — all of whom are living but one, — his services were early in requisition for the support of the family, in which he assisted until he was 25 years of age. The deatli of his father left him in possession of a farm of 50 acres, on which he expended his efforts for about nine years. At the end of that time he removed to Huron Co., Out., where he was a resident six years. In the spring of 1880 he came to Sanilac County and bought 320 acres of land in Marlette Township. He still retains 240 acres of his original purchase, having disposed of 80 acres in 1882. He has cleared and creditably im- proved 60 acres. Mr. Shier is in affiliation with the Republican party. His marriage to Nancy Till occurred Dec. 29, 1864, in the county and Province of Ontario. She was born July 8, 1840, in Ireland, and is the daugh- ter of John and Jane (Ritchie) Till, also natives of the "Green Isle." Mary J., Margaret A. D., Carroll I. and Richard O. are the names of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Shier. Tiie parents belong to the Methodist Church. ''• ] -'jrTnrames T. Waterman, general merchant and >r^vy - farmer, resident at Peck, was born Dec. I C-f^ 7, 1840, at Port Sarnia, Ontario. His father, James D. Waterman, is a native of the State of New York, of Scotch extraction. His parents located in New England. He is a shoemaker by vocation and married Eliza Talbot, a native of Ontario, of Irish descent. She died in Worth Town- ship, Sanilac County, in 1881, aged 74 years. The father is a resident of Peck and is 79 years old. Four of their seven children are now living. Mr. Waterman is the eldest son and fourth in order of birth, of the children born to his parents. Soon after his birth they removed to Middlesex Co., Ont. In 1865, they removed their family toSanilac County, locating in Speaker Township. Two years later they settled in the Township of Worth, where he resided with them until of age. He had been employed during the years of his minority in farm labor and in the lumber woods. During the last three years of that time he was engaged in job lumbering, which method of business he pursued until he was 25 years old. In 1865, he established himself in the grocery business at a point then known as Switzer's Mill in Worth Township, and entered into a partnership with his brother-in-law. This enterprise continued ayear, when they removed their business to Speaker Town- ship, where they prosecuted their joint interests three years, when they dissolved their partnership. On that event transpiring, Mr. Waterman went into bus- iness singly in the township of Worth, where he 1=1 ? I ^^^^ y^m'MM<>^ — s€»^ u:^ ^-rmm^ T<^I1I1^I1I1^^V -^t7^^((^ 294 SAN/LAC COUNTY. ^ pursued his mercantile interests six years. In Ocfo- ^ "ber, 1874, he established himself where he has since '^ operated. His interests are extensive and prosper- T ous, and he carries a stock representing !j8,ooo and /*) transacts an annual business of $28,000. He is also the practical manager of a farm of 160 acres in the township of Elk, and 212 acres of land in Worth Township. He owns two lots, on which his store and residence are located. He is a Republican in polit- ical faith and action and has filled the positions of Clerk and Treasurer of his township. He was married Sept. 29, 1875, in Worth Town- ship, 10 Jeannette .Smith. Three children have been born of this marriage, — Helen E., Harry and Mabel. Mrs. Waterman is a lady of cultivation and intellect- ual acquirements. She began teaching when yourig and continued that vocation until her marriage. She is generally esteemed for her geniality and fine j^ social qualities. O V '^-■<-^^^c h.-,..^ i udolph Papst of the firm of Tewksbury, Papst & Co., one of the most prominent v[ ) \}\^ business houses of Sanilac County, has been « connected with the history of Le.\ington since 1858, when he came there, just previous to attaining his majority, and began his conflict with fortune. He first obtained employment as a team- ster and passed his fiist winter on the Huron peninsula, in the manufacture of shingles. In the s])ringof 1859 he entered upon the initiatory to his future business career by becommg a clerk in the mercantile establishment of Jolm L. Woods & Co. at Lexington, in which capacity he operated until the climax of Southern frenzy had involved the nation in civil conflict. He enlisted Oct. 25, 1861, from Sand Beach, Huron Co., Mich., in Co. D. loth Regt. Mich. Vol. Inf, Capt. Israel Huckins, and was mustered unto service as a private. In January, 1862, he was made Second Sergeant of his Company, yp and at a later date was promoted to the position of jj^ Sergeant Major. He was made Second Lieutenant /g) March 31, 1863, and Aug. 26, 1864, acceded to the >^ position of First Lieutenant; Feb. 24, 1865, he be- came Adjutant of the regiment. He received his commission as Captain May 8, 1865, and was dis- charged from the military service of the United States July 37, 1865. During the months of his military career he was in action in most of the im- Ijortant engagements in which his regiment partici- pated, among which were the siege of Corinth, Nashville, Stone River, Cliattanooga, Ringgold, Buz- zard's Roost, through the Atlanta campaign, at Savannah, and at the surrender of Gen. Johnston, when the loth Michigan was attached to Sherman's command. After Mr. Papst reiurned to Sanilac County he entered Coldsmith's Business College at Detroit, where he compleled a full course of commercial study and was graduated in December, 1865. Re- turning thence he again became a salesman in the same employment, and also officiated in the capacity of book-keeper, until April i, 1873. At that date he succeeded to the position of Reg- ister of Deeds and County Clerk, to which he had been elected in the fall previous, on the Republican ticket, defeating the nominee of the opposition ele- ment by a majority of 600 votes. He served four successive terms as Register of Deeds, and dis- charged the duties of County Clerk two terms. On the expiration of his last official term, March 31, 1880, he returned to the commercial house with which he had formeily been connected as assistant, and was made a partner in its business relations. In April, 1884, Mr. Woods withdrew, and the suc- ceeding firm of Tewksbury, Papst & Co. has since prosecuted its interests. Their connections are ex- tensive, and include three branches of mercantile transactions, in which they carry full lines of the various sorts of merchandise in which they deal, representing an annual aggregate of about $200,000. Their establishment is the leading one of its kind in Sanilac County. Their dock on the lake was built in 1866, by the former firm, and rebuilt in 1883, by the present association. The firm of Pajist & Wixson is engaged in real- estate brokerage and in the abstract business, having the only set of abstracts in the County. They buy and sell real estate, do a considerable business in lending money, and traffic to some extent in paper Mr. Papst owns 240 acres of land in Worth Town- ship, situated on sections 17 and 18, the tract em- bracing moie than 200 acres under cultivation. 'I'he ^niiv^' (>) (' t I ^j ^C^11I]^I1I1^> ¥mai, (h SAN/LAC COUNTY. 4^^^f^-S 295 farm is beautifully situated on the lake side and is proportionately valuable. Mr. Papst is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and belongs to the several bodies of that order at Lexington, — the Blue Lodge and Damascus Chapter, No. 41, and has officiated 18 years as Secretary of the last named. He also belongs to Lexington Com- mandery, No. 27. He is a member of Post No. 1 18, ■ G. A. R., at Lexington, and of Huron Fire Co., No. I, at that place. His marriage to Emily Banghart occurred April 3, 1864, at Berlin, St. Clair Co., Mich. Their two children were born as follows: Edwin Tecumseh, at Berlin, St. Clair Co., June 9, 1865, and Rudolph, April 17, 1878, at Lexington. Mrs. Papst was born April 17, 1842, at Lexington, and is the daughter of James and Lucy (Burch) Banghart. Her parents were among the early settlers of Sanilac County. #-# abilities, and ranks fairly among the agriculturists of Sanilac County. He is a Democrat in political views. He and his wife are members of the Disciples' Church. His parents were natives of Scotland. ~^^^^yyy\S I'Vv/v^ ^ y ( ohn McKellar, farmer, section 25, Flynn ^^| [- TownshiiJ, was born April 13, 1823, in 5Jv^ Elgin Co., Ont. When he was four years of age, his parents removed to Middlesex Co., in ■ji the Dominion, where he was reared to the pro- \ fession of farming. He remained with them until their deaths — that of the father occurring in July, 1854, when he was 77 years old. The mother died in May, 1854, aged 73 years. After they died the son became the owner of the homestead, and he continued its management until April, 1879, when he came to Michigan and purchased 280 acres of land on sections 24 and 25, which was under partial improvement. He has purchased 160 acres addi- tional since and has 60 acres improved. A consid- erable portion of his estate is divided among his sons. He has erected a good faim house and other farm buildings. He was married April 5, 1855, in Middlesex Co., Ont., to Catherine McNiel, who was born in 1833, in that county. The children of Mr. and Mrs. McKellar are named Dugald, Christie, Henrietta, Peter, Alex- ander, Anna, Kate, John, Maggie, Mary, Flora and Donald. Mr. Kellar is a farmer of more than ordinary illiam E. Scribner, resident at Elmer vil- |L lage, Moore Township, is the son of Sol- ]W^Y^ ' omon and Ursula (Tibbetts) Scribner. The ^j^' former was born June 12, 1822; the latter Dec. I, 1826, in Canada, and both are now , ' living in the village of Elmer. Mr. Scribner was bnrn Nov. 30, 1845, in Macomb Co., Mich. He obtained a common-school educa- tion, and when he was 15 years of age he went to learn the business of a carpenter, which pursuit he followed in Macomb and St. Clair Counties until 1880, when he came to Sanilac County and estab- lished himself as a wagon-maker at Elmer. He was married in 1881, to Mary Johnson. She was born July 17, 1864, in Elgin Co., Can., and is the eldest daughter of John and Elizabeth (Groh) Johnson, who are now residents of Sanilac County. One child, John W., was born to Mr. and Mrs. Scribner, May 19, 1882. The former is a Republican, and in the spring of 1 88 1 was elected Justice of the Peace and Town Clerk. He is now the incumbent of the latter posi- tion, and in 1884 was appointed Enumerator to take the cen-ius of 1884 in his township. -H-'^f-^-^- ji^avid Markham, jjrick manufacturer at j^yjl 'l, Croswell, has been engaged in that busi- ness here since 1872. He is the original founder of the enterprise, and his products \\ rank among the best, on account of the superior ' quality of the clay. This is substantiated by the fact of his securing the contract to manufacture 1,000,000 brick for the Upton Manufacturing Com- pany at Port Huron. He bid against 22 competitors and obtained the contract at an advance of 50 cents per thousand, on account of the quality of the mate- d) ^ f^t^C(®X^ -«s>?^* 'S^ .^ T<^IIIl^|]|]>i>-r fisr -^f^^(®V| SANILAC COUNTY. f rial. His clay bed is estimated as practically inex- haustible, and is 12 feet in depth. A force of about 20 men are employed at present, who turn out an average of 1,500 brick each daily. The capacity of the works is about double the present production. The mi.xiiig and pressing is accomplished by a 25-horse-power steam engine. Mr. Markham was born in Waterioo Township, Waterloo Co., Can., Nov. 22, 1846, and is the son of James and Sarah (Pipe) Markham. His mother died on the family homestead in Canada. His father is living in Traverse Co., Mich., where he is still engaged in fanning, the pursuit of his life. Mr. Markham came to Sanilac Co. in 1S70. His marriage to Jane Smurfit occurred Sept. 5, 1875. She is the daughter of Thomas and Lavinia (McClellan) Smurfit, and is a native of Canada. William Her- bert, only child of Mr. and Mrs. Markham, was born May 3, 1877. Mr. M. has been Clerk of Croswell one term. Abraham Markham, brother of Mr. M. of this sketch, resides with him. His wife's maiden name was Emma Davis. S'-js>< »^=^ -^ -o- harles P. Mavis, wagon-maker and foun- Pj^ dryman, was born May 29, 1846, in Ger- many, and is the son of Charles and Carlotta Jlj (Karvitz) Mavis. The parents were natives '^ of Germany, where the mother died Jan. 5, 1865. In 1869, the father came to the United States, and settled in Macomb Co., Mich. He afterwards went to Lapeer County, where he died Sept. 24. 1S73. Mr. Mavis is tlie fifth of si.\ children born to his parents. He received a good common school edu- cation, according to the custom of his native country, before he was 14 years of age, and in the year fol- lowing he was apprenticed to a blacksmith. He completed his term of service and acquired a thor- ough knowledge of the business, at which he worked until he was 22 years of age in the " Fatherland." He came to this country with his father in 1869. In September, 1876, he came to Sanilac County and formed a partnership with R. A. Kilgore, under tlie style of Kilgore & Mavis, for the purpose of man- ufacturing wagons. In June, 1879, they added the foundry business, and till 1884 have been engaged in the prosecution of their two-fold interest. June 15, 1S84, Mr. Mavis dissolved his connection with Mr. Kilgore and formed a new partnership with Ferdin- and Z. Luedke in the manufacture of wagons and sell- ing agricultural implements, under the firm name of Mavis & Luedke. Mr. Mavis was married Nov. 21, 1S69, to Minnie Ladebuhr, at Almont, Lapeer Co , Mich. She was born April 4, 1844, in Germany. Si.x children have been born of this marriage — August H., Frank C, Ida M., Martha, Charley L., and Lao C. The second child died at the age of 18 months. The father is a Republican of most decided type. Both parents are members of the religious organization known as the Evangelical Association. — ►^€- S-vMMs I ,||'-?'>"' lexander Mc Alpine, farmer, section 27, j^:^'tS Flynn 'I'owiiship, was born April 15, 1857, ^ in Ekford, Middlesex Co., Ont. His parents, >r Donald and Mary (McLoughlin) McAlpine, were natives of Scotland. The father sought a home in the New World about 1842. The parents of the mother came to Ontario in 1833. Mr. McAl- pine, senior, was a farmer by profession. He married in the Dominion and there resided until the spring of iSSo, when he disposed of his interests there and lo- cated on 300 acres of land on section 27 of this town- ship, a part of vvliich was iin|)roved. He died Dec. 2, 1880, when he was 65 years of age. The mother is a member of the Jiousehold of her son. The fam- ily included eight children, two of whom are deceased. Mr. Ml- Alpine is the oldest child of his parents. He was reared to manhood under his father's care and remained at home until the death of the latter. He owns 200 acres of land, with 60 acres improved. The place gives the best evidence of the character and quality of his skill and judgment in his agricul- tural management, being in first-class condition. Mr. McAlpine is a Democrat in political connection and views. In 1883 he was elected Treasurer of his V^ f ^>: T I <^D!l^lllli>V^ ^^^ SANILAC COUNTY. township. In 1884, he was re-elected. His mother is a member of the Presbyterian Church, to which his father also belonged. Following is the record of f the brothers and sisters of Mr. McAlpine : Eliza /§ was born Aug. 18, 1859, in Middlesex Co., Out. She is engaged in the business of dress-making in Detroit. Archibald was born Dec. 27, 1863, and is a farmer. Margaret was born Dec.17, 1865 ; Mary B., Jan. 4, 1867 ; Flora J., March 4, i86g; Catherine was born Aug. 7, 1855, and died Oct. 9, 1879 : Flora was born Dec. 21, T 866, and died Dec. 23, following. (i) ««^?>^(':^X>A m t ®>)^t#*- 300 ■^V<^I]ll^Illly>7^ SANILAC COUNTY. -#^C(®^« :^o V structed and extended by the admission of Joseph M. Gaige, the nephew of Mr. Moss, after which the transactions of the lirm were carried on under the name of Moss, Mills & Gaige. The latter relation continued until Jan. 16, 1882, wlien it was dissolved liy mutual consent. Mr. Moss died at Croswell, March 28, 18S3. He left an estate variously estimated at from one-half to two millions, and which includes a large amount of property of various kinds, among which are 30,000 acres of land in Michigan, 20,000 acres lying in San- ilac County. During 35 years of active business life, in which Mr. Moss was engaged previous to his coming to Croswell, his home was in West Burlington, Otsego Co., N. Y., where he established himself in business while yet a boy. He married Elizabeth Gaige, of West Burlington, who was born in 1802, and died in the same place, March 29, 1846. She was the mother of five chil- dren: Joseph, eldest child, died from accident when he was n years old. Ambler T., born Sept. 25, 1S29, died Dec. 11, r849, of typhoid fever, just at the threshold of a promising manhood. Truman died in early infancy. Mary Elizabeth died at the age of four years. Julia H. (Mrs. Wildman Mills), was born Oct. 2, 1836, at West Burlington. Mr. Moss was a man of marked traits of char- acter. His domestic tastes and home instincts ruled his life. He was a resident of West Bur- lington from 1816 to i860, and his loyalty to the place where the hopes of his life sprung unto being, and where they went out in the hopeless gloom of tlic grave, never wavered or knew shadow of turn- ing. In the l)usiness relations of Jiis later life, which almost seemed a second existence, so shorn was it of the associations of that earlier jieriod, he belonged essentially to Croswell. But to that first home and the graves of his wife and cliildren his heart clung with a tenacity that manifested the fine nature he possessed. Every year, until his life ended, his feet pressed the accustomed streets and ways, and he continually renewed and strengthened tlie vt-onted as- sociations. In the house his family occupied, the room of his deceased wife was preserved as slie left it as long as he lived, and he felt in recalling the memory of her gracious presence that was so precious to him, as a royal husband of France said of his dead con- sort, — "She never caused me a sorrow, but in dy- ing." Wiien the end came to him, he was borne back to the home he had cherished, and after a brief rest within its walls was laid beside his loved ones. He was buried at West Burlington, N. Y., April i, 1883. In his intercourse with the world at large the ruling trait of the character of Mr. Moss was sympa- thetic kindness. He turned with coldness or apa- thetic indifference from no case of need which came to his knowledge. He felt himself his " brother's keeper," and he res]»nded substantially to all ap- peals of the distressed without distinction, save that of merit. The bulk of his business transactions in Michigan were witii the laboring people, and they felt that in him they had a sympathetic, considerate friend, a reliable adviser, and a firm coadjutor in their business plans. On his death they mourned his loss as a personal affliction. In all his busy, hurried life, he had time and opportunity to con- sider the happiness and well-being of others, and his charity and hospitality were unlimited. He was a communicant in the Protestant Episco- pal Church from early life, and was Senior Warden of Christ Church at West Burlington, N. Y., more than 20 years. He held the same position in Christ Church at Croswell 12 years previous to his decease. The society reinains a monument to his religious character, its establishment and the church at Cros- well being largely the result of his efforts. In his early manhood he was deeply interested in the State miliiia, and was Major in the organization at West Burlington, a position which gave him a peculiar satisfaction in the fact that it afforded him another opportunity to serve his fellow men. While a constant resident of West Burlington he was also active in local affairs and gave his attention to whatever promised the advancement of the general interests. He was Supervisor of that township, holding the position about 1857. No reproduction of features in the Album of Sanilac Counj'v will be more heartily welcomed than that of Mr. Moss, which appears on another page. "The good he did lives after him." It is well that the lineaments of the well remembered face be made imperishable as his memory will be trans- mitted to the future generations of Sanilac County and vicinity. I ^ c ^ ca: (V ^^»- ■^C^D !1^DI1^>^;9 S5^3ri . >. I ^9. ■^^K — ^v^inn^nn^^'r rr- -»^C(sV|^ SANILAC COUNTY 301 OOP ^ b'oshua Bettis, a leading agricaltaiist of Sani- lac County, resident in Bridgehampton Township, has lived in this county since 1846. He was born April 12, US34, in Ontario Co., Can., and is the son of Moses and Rachel (Wixson) Bettis, who are now residents of Lex- ington Township. They are natives of Canada, where they were married and lived until 1846, when they removed their family and interests to Sanilac County. Their family included nine children. Mr. Bettis was 12 years old when he accompanied his parents to Sanilac County. He has led a life of activity and industry, and is now the owner of 200 acres of land, upwards of half of which is under cul- tivation. He is a member of the Republican party, and has been Clerk of his township one year and School Treasurer four years. He was married in Grant, St. Clair County, July 13, 1856, to Sarah, daughter of Joseph and Ann (Graves) Ellerthorpe. She was born May 21, 1836, in Ontario Co., Can. Her parents were natives of England, where they lived for 30 years, emigrating thence to Canada. In 1856 they settled in St. Clair County, where the mother died. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs Bettis, three of whom survive: Joiin, William E. and Levi M. Joseph and Cyrus C. are deceased.' The parents are members of the Baptist Church. ■.«=;- H»— ♦— vS!° — S Ki^il §1 illiam V. Mclntvre, farmer, section 28, iJlii&Ji^W Fremont Township, was born Nov. 14, ^'p, * 1816, in Lanark, Scotland, and is the son A of Hugh and Henrietta (Burns) McLityrc. His father was an educated man, and spent many years as a teacher. He was also a preacher of the denomination known as the Lide- pendent Methodists. He emigrated with his family to America in 1834, landing at Quebec, and buying a farm in the vicinity of that city. The parents died in Darling Township, near Prescott, Ont. Mr. Mclntyre resided with his parents until he was of age, and fitted himself for the business of a cooper ; but he became satisfied tliat he should win neither wealth nor glory in that pursuit, and bought a farm. This was his field of labor seven years, when he sold the place and removed to Worth Township, Sanilac County. He became the proprietor there of 80 acres of land, on which he labored 30 years. At the end of that time, he sold the place and bought the farm on which he has since resided, in the Townshiii of Fremont. His marriage lo Margaret Donahue occurred Dec. 24, 1841. She is the daughter of Patrick and Ann Donahue, both of whom are deceased. Her father was 30 years old at the time of his death, and she had been in America but six weeks when it occurred. Her mother died in Canada, aged 62 years. Mr. and Mrs. McLityre have been the parents of 1 1 children, six of them now living. Hugh was born Nov. 23, 1842; .\nn, born Dec. 15, 1844, died Sept. 13, 1849; George was born April 15, 1846, and died July 4, 1859; Patrick was born Sept. 8, 1847, and died in the service of the United States July 6,1864 • Henrietta was born Oct. 3, 1849; William, Oct. 13, 1851; Margaret, Aug. 7, 1853; Norman, April 20, 1856; David, born Oct. 16, 1859, died Jan. 27,1865; Mary J., NLarch 8, 1865. The family are Adventists in religious opinion. -.^.>>.-^:^- ; obert J. Arnot, farmer on section 32, ad- \ joining the village of Lexington, was born ^^ in Florida, N. Y., Feb. 14, 181 1, and is the son of James and Sarah (McMichael) .A.rnot. His father owned a farm near the city of Toronto, Can., of which the family took possession in 1825. When he was 23 years old his father gave him 50 acres of unimproved land. He cleared a small portion, built a house suited to his circum- stances, and, preparatory to settling in life, was mar- ried to Sarah Hall, the event occurring March 30, 1836. The fruits of this marriage were n children, born in the following order : James (deceased), Eliza (^ ^ ca: ci ■j^mnm m ^ 302 :t#^- .MHr^j'i^' 7>r >> ^ V ^ SANILAC COUNTY. beth (wife of Barney Vanest, a farmer of Lexington Township), Ira (a farmer in this township), WiUiam (deceased), Cephas (a farmer and merchant at Cros- well), Silas (a farmer in Grant Township, St. Clair Co.), George (living on the homstead), Phebe J. (wife of N. O. Randall, of Marysville, St. Chiir Co.), and three children who died in infancy. Mr. Arnot remained on his small farm in the Do- minion until 1851, when he came to tliis township and bought 80 acres where he now lives. He added to his real estate by subsequent purchase, until he owned 700 acres of land. He has distributed the bulk of his acreage among his children, and holds 120 acres as a homestead. His fine home was built in 1881. His first wife died March 15, 1862, and he was again married to Mrs. Elizabeth Livingston, widow of Andrew Livingston. She was born in Canada, Feb. 13, 1817. Arnot and his wife are Adventists in religious belief He has been Super- intendent of the Poor about 25 years, and still dis- charges the duties of the position. '^5'|iT.r ohn H. Fox, Treasurer of Moore Township, • — '' ■' ■ '' 'fyii' - resident at Elmer, was born Dec. 22, i8cq, 7^''' '" Brant Co., Burford Tp , Can., and is the ^g son of Peter and Jane Fox. The motiier was ^r born in England ; the father was born in Can- >" ada and died there in 1858. The mother died in Elmer in 1880. Mr. Fox was employed in a cheese-factory when he was 13 years old. He spent two seasons in that business, when he came to Sanilac County and set- tled in Lamotle Township. Three years later he came to the township of Moore, where he lived two years, coming thence to Elmer, where he spent three years operating as a general merchant. He then be- came interested in a saw-mill and also in selhng farming implements. He was married in 1879 to Carrie Banks, daughter of George H. and Looday Banks, both of whom are natives of England. Joseph H., only child of Mr. and Mrs. Fox, was born April 17, 1880. Mr. Fox acts with the Republican party in political matters. In 1879, he was elected Township Treasurer, and -I after serving one year vacated the office. He was re-elected to the next term and has held the position since. He has also served as Justice of the Peace, Constable and School Inspector, and is a member of of the Order of Maccabees, at Sandusky, Sanilac Countv. ^.*^X-^ I V^ » iJff oshua Wixson, a leading and influential '^ '5vj agriculturist of Sanilac County, located on section 10, Worth Township, was born Jan. 9, 1827, in York Co., Can. He is the third son of Amos and Elizabeth (Long) Wix- son. The former was a native of Steuben Co., , and was of mixed English and German de- scent. He settled in Canada after his marriage, and in 1841 transferred his interests to Sanilac County. He settled in what was then the township of Lexing- ton, which was afterwards divided and the township of Worth constructed. They afterwards removed to St. Clair County, where the wife and mother died about Aug. I, 1868. Two years afterward the father removed to Lexington Township and died there, in January, 1882. His family included six children. Mr. Wixpon obtained a fair education, considering the adverse circumstances which surrounded him. In 1841 he came to Sanilac County, since which time he has been continuously a resident of Michigan, having never been out of the State. When he reached his majority he became the owner of 160 acres of land, which has been his field of labor. To this he has added by purchase 40 acres additional, and has now a valuable farm of 200 acres, with 120 acres in highly creditable cultivation, supplied with fine farm buildings. He has been identified with the Republican party since its organization, has been prominent in local public affairs, and has held the various township offices, having served as Supervisor six years, Justice of the Peace 16 years. Clerk two years, and School Inspector t8 years. In the fall of 1882 he was elected to the Legislature of Michigan and discharged the duties of the position in a man- ner every way creditable and satisfactory. His marriage to Nancy Macklem occurred Nov. 16, 1853, in Worth Township. Her parents, James and f A ^^' >^-. Si/ ( _:r:>.-'B«Miz:. u:::. A^^tm^tin;^ r^ -#l m^i ^ #« "^^^/^ o v SANILAC COUNTY. 303- Ann (Lundy) Macklem, were natives respectively of Pennsylvania and ('anada. Her father was born of Irish parents. The name of her mother before mar- riage was the same as that of the celebrated battle of Lundy 's Lane, or Niagara, which was fought on her grandfather's farm. Three children of eight that have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Wixson died in in- fancy. Melissa J. was born Jnne 9, 1856, and died Oct. II, 1859; Mary M. was born April 27, 185S; Philip T., April 6, i860, and died July 2, 1884; Waldo E., Oct. 23, 1863, and Ada Z., Nov. 16, 1869. -^= '? T -iL_A_, ~r~T £^ ames Sharp, Sr., farmer, section 21, Fre- mont Township, was born in 18 19, in Perthshire, Scotland. His parents, James and Ann (Thompson) Sharp, were both na- tives of that country, where they married and passed the entire period of their lives. Their family included six children, — John, \Villiam, James Robert, Ann and Ellen. Mr. Sharp was married in the parish of Comroy, Scotland, in 1848, to Anna, daughter of Alexander and Anna (McEwen) Drummond. Both her parents are deceased. Her mother died in February, 1S55, and her father in 1868. Mrs. Sharp is the fifth of a family of nine children, born in the following order: Jeannette, Catherine, Peter (deceased), Elizabeth (deceased), Anna, Elizabeth (2d), Mary, Bell and .\lexander. Mr. Sharp came to America in 1854, witli his wife and three children. They reached Qtiebec, Canada, May 21, and the father obtained employment on the Grand Trunk Railroad and afterwards on the Coburg & Petersburg road, operating in that capacity two years. In May, 1856, he came to Sanilac County. He bought 120 acres of Government land under the regulations of the Graduation Act, paying 50 cents an acre threfor. He belonged to the pioneers of the county and experienced all the vicissitudes and novelty of the existence of the early settler. Bread- stuff was attainable only by going to Wortli Town- ship. On one occasion Mr. Sharp, in company with three neighbors, proceeded thither for flour and started on their return home, esch with .a sack of the necessaries of life on his back. They arrived at Black Creek at dark, the rain pouring down and the prospect of achieving a transit across the jam of logs, in the stream rather dismal. An uncertain step on an unsteady log sent Mr. Sharp into the water up to his neck. As he fell he adroitly deposited his sack of flour on a log and his companions assisted him in once more obtaining foothold. There were no roads in the township when Mr. Sharp became a resident, only a slight clearing of underbrush constituting any- thing like a thoroughfare. He brought with him a steer calf, for which he bought a mate in Worth Township. He and the calf made a (jrocession across Black Creek, which entirely outrivaled his former exploits with the flour sack. The calf refused to experiment in traveling across the revolving logs, and his owner shouldered the refractory beast and marched across the "jam," the four legs of the calf flying in the air at all points of the compass during the transit. The children of Mr. and Mr. Sharp were born as follows: James, July 11, 1849; Anna, Jan. 14, 1851; Elizabeth, Nov. 14, 1853; Mary E., April 12, 1858; Bell, Sept. 14, i860. The two last named were born in Fremont Township. Mr. Sharp is an adherent of the Republican party, and he and his wife are mem- liers of the Presbyterian Church. ndrew Macklem, farmer, section i6, Worth ^i^ Township, is the son of Thomas and Cath- w m¥- ^Jj|pP erine (Wideraan) Macklem. The parents "■|lai were born and reared in Pennsylvania, where they were married. They settled in the Do- minion of Canada and resided there until their deaths. Their family included five sons and six daughters. Mr. Macklem'is tlie second son of his parents, and was born Oct. 27, 1821. On attaining his majority, he spent a year in the capacity of farm laborer, and at the expiration of that time he took possession of a farm which was transferred to him by his father. In February, 1852, he came to Sanilac County and pur- chased 80 acres of land, in Worth Township, most of which was in an unimproved condition. His home- SI1D?.>'^— A C< < ^ m §m ^ ^^^' >i5%^'r 3°4 SANILAC COUNTY. f I f A- 1 stead now includes 220 acres of fine farming land, and nearly the entire acreage is in a finely cultivated condition. In political connection, Mr. Macklem is a Republican. He has been active and prominent in town matters since he became a citizen, and has been Supervisor one year. Treasurer ten years (seven successively). Clerk two years. Road Commissioner three years and has held the different school offices. He was married Nov. 10, 1846, in York Co., Can., to Jane, daughter of Dan P. and Elizabeth (Robin- son) Hunter. Her father was born in Ireland, her mother in Scotland. After their marriage they set- tled in Canada, where the former died, in April 1879. Mrs. Macklem was born Feb. 21, 1828, in Canada. Of ten children born of her marriage, eight survive, namely: Joseph H., Elizabeth A.. Margaret K., Wilfred J., Hamilton A., Cynthia E., Ida J. and Bertha M. Paden and Thomas A. are deceased. -i — '-^^^■ ^ndi-ew W. Mouro, grocer at Lexington, ^^ was born Aug. 1837, in Canada. His parents, S. W. and Nellie (Banghart) Monro, removed to Michigan in 1838. They settled in Lexington Township, and not long after the father bought 26 acres of land on the present site of the village, including a portion of the most important part of the same. He was a tanner and currier, and erected a building for the prosecution of his business, which he continued to manage up to the time of his death in 1881. The demise of the wife and mother occurred three days previous. On attaining a suitable age, Mr. Monro went to London, Can , to learn the tanner's trade. He re- turned to Lexington in 1859 and spent two years at his trade. He then opened a saloon, and at times managed a bakery and engaged in the sale of gro- ceries. He is still operating his saloon and grocery business. He is also extensively interested in fish- ing, which enterprise he instituted as a business in 1874. He owns a fine boat and 1 10 gill-nets. His fishing-ground is at Grindstone City, and he em- ploys three men. He finds market for the product of this industry chiefly at Port Huion. His heaviest catch was taken opposite Lexington, with one gang of 25 nets, and comprised 3,500 pounds of fish. Mr. Monro is a member of the Masonic Order, Lexing- ton Lodge, No 61. He was married at Lexington, in October, 1864, to Anna M., daughter of Benoni and Mary A. Hayes. She was born in Canada. Of this marriage two children have been born, — Nellie, wife of Albion Wixson, a salesman in a wholesale and retail hard- ware establishment in Detroit, and William, who is deceased. f... Iin ^9!i.T^ik^ nniel Lawson, farmer, resident on section J, Fremont Township, was born May 23, %^^^ 1821, in Perthshire, Scotland. His par- "rjft ents, Graham and Ann (Wright) Lawson, ■^ were of Scotch origin and were married in \ their native land. In 1831 they emigrated to America with their family of ten children, who were born in the order which they are here named : Margaret, William, .Ann, Amelia, Lilly, Mary, John, Daniel, Louisa and Ellen. They settled in Halton Co., Can., where the parents passed the remainder of their lives. Each was nearly four score years of age at the date of death. Mr. Lawson grew to man's estate under his father's supervision, and, after attaining his majority, remained at home until he was 35 years of age, working on the home place as he had previously done. In October, 1855, he came to Fremont, with Mark Gray (see sketch), and located 280 acres of Government land, for which he paid $1.25 per acre. To this he has added 160 acres by later purchase, and now owns the entire tract of 440 acres. It was all in a wild state, entirely without improvements. About one-fourth has been placed in first-class till- able condition. His family removed to the place which has since constituted their hoinestead, Sept. 's. 1857- He was married Jan. 12, 1846, to Janet, daughter of Andrew and Elizabeth (Douglass) Aiken. She was born in Selkirk, Scotland, and accompanied her parents to Halton Co., Can., about the year 1825. The family settled on a farm where the parents died. Andrew, Elizabeth, Matilda, William, Margaret, ^' 9 ^ c^: ( f S ^^ .isi t^'-T 4^lln^:DIl^> IP \^'^ M SANILAC COUNTY. 305 (h :^J O ^) Agnes, Jeamiette, Thomas and John are the names of their cliildren. The mother died in 1861, and was 85 years of age. The father was 84 years of age, and died in 1864. Mrs. Lawson was born April 15, 1819. The four children born to himself and her husband are all living. Following is their rec- ord: Daniel, born March 10, 1847; Elizabeth D., born Dec. 29, 1848, was married April 19, 1871,10 Thomas Aiken; Graham, born Feb. 26, 185 1, was married Dec. 11, 1877, to Fannie Teed; Ann W., born March 17, 1856, was married to Thomas Todd, of Fremont. Sanilac County was in its infancy when Mr. Law- son removed his family hither. He paid a man %\Z to bring his household effects from Croswell (then Davisville). They made but two small "jags," and accomplished their removal with the aid of a two- horse wagon, Mrs. Lawson walked all the distance from Croswell, carrying her youngest child in arms over a route which she selected for herself, making the way over logs and through brush, there being no regular road. Mr. Lawson is a Repulilican in political senti- ment. He has been active in local official positions, having served 16 years as Justice of the Peace, nine years as School Director, and six years as Supervisor. The family attend the Presbyterian Church. '^assiQfS^^ 1843, at Fort Huron, Mich., and is the son 1^' of Amos and Angeline (Spaulding) James. 5^ His father was an owner and captain of vessels on the lakes, and at the age of 15 years Mr. James , . became a "look-out" in his father's employment ] % He operated as a sailor until he was 22 years of age, and in 1865 he came to Lexington, where his father owned the Cadillac House. He became a clerk in the establishment, and has been in the hotel busi- ness ever since. In i868 he bought the livery stable of Peter Janette, which he still manages. He keeps six horses, and equipments suited to the demands of ^^^ ^'^^^ — ^r2 his business. He manages a sale, board and feed stable. The hotel is the largest at Lexington, and has accommodations for about 100 guests, with bill- iard and pool rooms, bar and fixtures. Mr. James is a member of the Order of Masonry and of the Royal Arcanum, in which fraternity he is Regent. He was married July 9, 1866, at Port Huron, to Emma H., daughter of David and Mary A. Bryce, a native of St. Clair County. Their eldest child died in infancy. Dollie B. was born June 14, 1868; Frank A., Sept. 30, 1870; Irene E., March 24, 1883. Mr. Bryce is a prominent business man of Port Huron, and has been an essential factor in the prog- ress and development of that city. He is the builder of the Bryce Block. ijit^ljjudrew Moore, merchant, Postmaster, No- liM^^ tary Public and Conveyancer, pioprietor of S|p? the Speaker Creamery, etc., located at the iJaT village of Speaker, Mich., was born Sept. 22, I 1843, '" Canada, and is the son of Martin and Mary A. (Fluellen) Moore. His father was born in Canada, his mother in the State of New York. They removed to Michigan and settled in St. Clair County, where they resided over three years ; returned to the old homestead in Canada, where his mother died, in 185 I. The father returned to Michigan and died in June, 1868. Mr. Moore was seven years old when his mother died. He remained under the management of his father until he was 21 years of age, when shortly he became a soldier in the services of the Union, en- listing in Co. F, 24th Mich. Inf Vols., under Capt. George A. Ross, of Detroit. The command was as- signed to the Army of the West, and was discharged July 8, 1865, at Detroit. He is now receiving $8 per month pension for disabilities contracted while in the service. He attended the Medical College at Ann Arbor during the winters of 1868-9 ^"d 1869- 70. In the fall of 1S71 he fixed his residence in Speaker village, where he has since resided, with the exception of five months at Port Sanilac. He has been a citizen of Sanilac County since %j ^ 9 ^ ^ z. -^^:§^ <^llll^nil^>r 306 SANILAC COUNTY. J ^ '(^ March, 1858, and is one of the oldest permanent settlers. He has been Drain Commissioner, Health Physician, School Inspector, etc. In the year 1883 he was elected Supervisor, and in 1884 was re-elected to the same position. His marriage to Augusta Hart occurred in 1872. She was born in 1847, in the State of New York, and is the daughter of John H. and Sarah (Hogg) Hart, both of whom were natives of England. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Moore, as follows : Darwin, March 14, r 87 3 (died Nov. 6, r877); Wilfred E., Nov. 27, 1874; Allan K., April 23, 1878; Martin A., Oct. 8, 1880, and John H., Sept. I, 1882. Mr. Moore is an earnest be- liever in the truths of modern spiritualism, as he believes they are taught by the "gentle Nazarene," and is a member of the order of Odd Fellows .ind of the Masonic fraternitv. >^S'c — - ^ i< » — • "ohn S. Bobb, farmer, section 30, Lexington Jl te^'l 'l"ownshi|), was born June 26, 1830, in vS'^'^ Lanarkshire, Scotland, and is the son of John and Marion (Stuart) Robb. John Robb was born Jan 9, 1804, at Stonebyers, in the parish of Leshmahagon, Lanarkshire, Scotland, and is the son of John Robb, who was born in the same place in 1761, and died in the parish of Car- luke, Lanarkshire. The father of the first John Robb was named Thomas, and died in 1810, aged 95 years. The grandmother of J. S. Robb, Mary (Thompson) Robb, was born at Killbank, Lanark- shire, in 1759, and died in 1846. (This account traces the lineage of J. S. Robb through three gener- ations to the records in Scotland.) Marion (Stuart) Robb was born at Borland, Lanarkshire, May 5, 1802, and died July 9, 1879, at Croswell, aged 77 years. She was the daughter of John Stuart, a na- tive of Lanarkshire. Her mother was born in the same place. The subject of this sketch was reared on a fami in his native land and learned the trade of a builder. In October, 1855, he came to America, landing at New York. The ocean passage was very stormy and lasted si.x weeks. He paid his passage in money before sailing, but the ship sprang a leak and he found it expedient to assist in bringing the vessel safely to ix)rt by working at the pumps. He came direct from New York to Hamilton, Can., where he worked six months as a farm assistant and in a saw- mill, spending some time also in freighting, hi the spring of 1856 he started for the copper mines of the Upper Peninsula, but stopped at Black River, where Croswell is now located, then comprising less than half a dozen houses. An ice-drive from the nortli detained the steamer, on which he expected to jour- ney to liis destination, and he went to work as a car- penter, engaging with Messrs. Davis & Stevenson to assist in the construction of a steam saw-mill. In November following he went to Potts, to engage in lumbering. He passed two winters in the woods. His parents came to America several years after he had found a home here. His mother died in Lex- ington, in 1878, aged 79 years; the father resides near his son and is 80 years old. Mr. Robb owns 120 acres located on the northeast quarter of the section above named. He was married June 13, 1857, to Mary Hart. daughter of John and Sarah (Hogg) Hart. Her father died m rS8i, aged 68 years. Her mother is living in Croswell, and is 78 years old. Mrs. Robb was born April 26, 1837, at Stratford-on-Avon, Eng- land, the birthplace of Sliakspeare. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Robl) were born as follows: Mari- on H., April 6, 1858; Genevieve, Jan. 26, i860, Martha, July 19, 1862; William J., March 27, 1865 ; Elizabeth, Jan. 29, 1868, died July 17, 1873; Nellie C, July 22, 1871; Jessie, A\n\] 14. 1873; Lena, Nov. 2, 1875; Mabel, -■Vpril 18, 1S77: Winnifred, Oct. 15, 1881. Mr. Robb is a Republican, has been Justice of the Peace, and served in the various school offices. -I— -wv^^S-^^-vw^- oses Foster, farmer, section 16, Flynn Townihip, was born Jan. 8, 1824, in ^ Tompkins Co., N. Y., and is the son of ^^^^ John and Lucinda (Treadwell) Foster. His parents removed, when he was nine years of age, to Ontario, Can., where they engaged in farming. The mother died there at the age of 64 ^^ [| I]; ^-i_^ :^M>'^i^ v^ 9 t^, $s^#^ T3^r^tlll^tllli1>^ -"\ t-^, >^ t SANILAC COUNTY. years, and the father removed later to Lapeer Co., Mich., wliere he died, in May, 1856. Mr. Foster remained in Elgin Co., Can., until he was 18 years old, when he went to his native State and engaged in farm labor. Four years later he re- turned to Canada, and jnirchased 125 acres of land in Elgin County, wliere he pursued agriculture for 27 years. At the ehd cTf that time he sold his prop- erty in the Dominion and came to Michigan. He purchased 80 acres of land in Attica Tp., Lapeer County. He afterwards sold this and removed to a farm in Burnsides Tp., Lapeer County, which he owned and managed three years, when he again sold out and bought 160 acres of unbroken land situated on sections 16 and 21 in Flynn Township. He has placed 40 acres under cultivation and is making rapid progress in the work of improving and placing the property in good arable condition. He was married Jan. i, 1845, in Tompkins Co., N. Y., to Susan Strong. She was born Nov. i, 1826, in that county, of parents who were natives of Pennsylvania, of German extraction. She died in Elgin C"o., Ont., May 4, 1875. Five of 12 children of whom she became the mother are deceased. They were named Lydia, Eunice A., Adaline, Anna, David, Lorinda, Mary E., Lovica, Benjamin F., James V., John S. and Moses E. Mr. Foster was a second time married, in Elgin Co., Ont., in September, 1876, to Alice Abel. She was born in St. Catherine's, Ont., and died in October, 1877. One child, of whom she was the mother, died at the same time. The third mar- riage of Mr. Foster occurred in Attica, Lapeer County, in February, 1878, to Marcia Dunham, a native of the Empire State. Mr. Foster is a Republican in political sentiment. reside there. Mr. Graham learned his trade in his native land, sj^ending five years in his apprentice- ship. In 1873, when he was 20 years of age, he came to the New Worid and settled at first in Can- ada. In the spring of 1876 he came to his present location. Mr. Graham belongs to the Order of Ma- sonry and the Knights of Maccabees. He was married May i, 1877, in Croswell, to Olivia Kimball, a native of the province of Quebec. They have three children, — Walter W., Roy and Myrtle. •-~s* ^*- "■fjndrew Graham, blacksmith at Carsonville, ^ established his business there in 1876. He ^ bought the shop and interest of James Ross, '•]ior and has since been engaged in a prosperous 1'' and increasing business. He was born in Scotland, Feb. g, 1853, and is the eldest son of his parents, William and Mary A. (Dalrymple) Graham. They were natives of Scotland, and still i: vS arcus Fields, farmer, section 25, Maple Valley Township, was born July 30, 1832, in Erie Co., N. Y. His parents, Paul and ^^^^\ Nancy (Price) Fields, were natives of Wind- sor, Vt., and descended from New England ancestors, wlio traced their origin to the earliest settlers of that section of the United States. Mr. Paul Fields was a farmer in the Empire State, where Mrs. F. died, in December, 1833, leaving three children. The former went, later in life, to Wis- consin, where he died a few years after. \X the death of the mother, the children — Hiram, Melinda and Marcus - were taken in charge by several kindly disposed families, who reared them as their own, Marcus being cared for in the family of a Quaker named Hosea Eddy. The separation of the chil- dren proved a lasting one. Tiiey were too young to know the necessity of perpetuating the clues 10 each other's whereabouts and circumstances, and 14 years elapsed before the brothers met. The sister was adopted by a family who removed to Ontario, where she grew to womanhood and married a man named Franklin Lacass, who in all probability was the first permanent settler in the township of Maple X'alley. Mr. Lacass became a soldier, enlisting in Co. K, Third Mich. Vol. Inf., and was killed near Atlanta, Ga., in 1864. His widow is an inmate of the home of her brother. On her removal to Canada, all traces of her were lost for 32 years, when through persistent advertising she was discovered and was reunited to her brothers. The death of Mr. Eddy, the protector of Marcus c^: •^\' 'T ^^ i^\m SANILAC COUNTY. t 1 {^ Fields, occurred when the latter was nine years old. He remained with the widow of his foster father, caring for her and supplying the place of a son, until the advent of civil war. He was among the first to enlist, and enrolled as a soldier, June 4, i86i,in Co. K, 2ist Reg. N. Y. Vol. Inf., under Capt. Layton. The regiment was assigned to the Army of the Potomac. Mr. Fields re-enlisted after the expiration of his first period of enrollment (which continued two years), in the i4Sth N. Y. Reg. Vol., Co. A. He was in the service a year longer, and during the entire period participated in 22 battles and skirmishes. He possessed singular caution and other qualities, which made him valuable as a scout, and he performed much effective service in that capacity, for which he was specially detailed many times. He was honor- ably discharged in the fall of 1864, and, on succeed- ing in obtaining knowledge of his sister, he made her interests and those of her four children his own, and has since devoted his time and energies to their well being. Mr. Field is a believer in the essential claims of Spiritualism and is independent in political views. i-rw^ mssaaaajsiii :'&£a£S£&£ gl^rt^ rthur Avery, farmer, located on section 29, «jTea «B!ai|j Fieniont Townsliip, is a pioneer settler in StOy the town where he lives and wliere he located in 1862. He arrived in April and bought his farm, and soon afterward sent for his family. The place had 50 acres cleared and a good log house. There were fevi' settlers, and at first it was difficult to obtain supplies, which involved hardship and priva- tion of no common character, and necessitated ardu- ous effort and the exercise of all the endurance of which mankind is capable. Mr. Avery was born Feb. 3, 18 ig, in Mere, Wilt- shire, Eng. His parents, John and Amelia (Mills) Avery, have been dead many years. The demise of the former occurred when he was 86 years old ; the mother died at the age of 65 years. His father was a stcuie-mason and brick-layer, and he instructed his son in the same business. The latter was under the guidance of his father until he was 25 years of age. He went then to Bristol, Eng., where he operated eight years. At the end of that time, in 1852, he emigrated to America, landing at the port of New York, where he found employment at once and worked at his trade several weeks. He went thence to Jo Daviess Co., 111., and erected the first stone building in that county. It was the residence of a man named Dimick, who had returned from Califor- nia. On completing the job, Mr. Avery proceeded to St. Louis, and, after a delay there of a few days, to New Orleans. This was in the fall of 1852, and he passed the winter months in the Crescent City, working as a mason. In the spring he returned to St. Louis, where he lingered two weeks, working at his trade. He then proceeded to La Salle Co., 111., where he aided in the construction of the railroad bridge that crosses the Illinois River at that place. He worked there three months, acting as foreman of the build- ing corps on one side of the bridge. He started for Niagara City, now Niagara Falls, going thence by the way of Chicago, stopping in the (then) embryo city but a few days. He worked at Niagara about a year, and obtained the job of putting up the first house at Elgin, now Clifton. The work of progress at the latter place made rapid strides, and in a few years the town was incorporated. A man named Samuel Zimmerman was the founder of the place, and pushed all projects for its advancement with energy. He obtained the charter of the Canada Southerji Railroad, and it was in his possession when he was suddenly snatched from life in the disaster on the Des Jardines Canal at Hamilton. Mr. Avery re- mained at Clifton eight years, coming from there to Fremont Township. The family made their way hither by Port Huron, which they reached by rail- road, and drove through from there with a horse team. Mr. Avery pushed his agricultural opera- tions as rapidly as possible, but in the third year of his residence provisions were scarce and want seemed close at hand. The husband and father resolved on greater effort, and he walked 25 miles to Port Huron, and from there to Fort Wayne, near Detroit, where he obtained work to provide for his family, .-^fter a few weeks he found that a strike among the employees was immi- nent, and by collusion with the foreman he obtained his pay. A strike would preclude the laborers from obtaining their wages, and the foreman de- y^' #; C o (V > (h (> ^ SANILAC COUNTY. ^^^^®\Wi 309 vised a pretext for discharging liim before the crisis came. The foreman, who was a former actiuaintance, told him to go to Detioit and apply for the building of a brick house that was projected there, whicli he did with success. He remained in the city about five weeks, and returned to his farm. Mr. Avery was married May 12, 1845, in St. Mi- chael's Church, in Bristol, Eng., to Jane Moger. Her parents, Thomas and Ann (Matthews) Moger, were both natives of England and both died tliere, aged about 65 years. Mr. Avery sailed for the United States in the spring of 1852 and in the fall of 1853 he sent for his wife and four children, whom he met in the city of New York. They first began domestic life at Niag- ara City. Of ten children born to Mr. and Mrs. Avery, eight are living: Arthur M. was born Feb. 3, 1846; Alfred, born Feb. 19, 1848, died Aug. 12, 1864; Agnes was born Nov. 12, 1850; James O. was born Aug. 19, 1852. These four were born in the city of Bristol. Charles R. was born June 10, 1854; Catherine, May 28, 1856; Jane, Feb. 27, 1858: William, Nov. 17, i860; John, Jan. 3, 1862, died Aug, 8, 1879; Emily, .'Vug. 23, 1864. The last named child was born in Fremont Township. Five children were born in Clifton, Ont. Mr. Avery is a Democrat in political connections, and has officiated two terms as Township Clerk at Fremont. ■^■isJiS2f®^r ^4— «-^.gl/ZIZRr»v. toseph W. French, farmer, Lexington Town- ship, located on section 28, was born near '^*''' Toronto, Can., April 16, 1829. His i3ar- ents, Charles and Jane (Macklem) French, be- ^r longed to the agricultural class in the Dominion, and the son was reared to that calling. In 185 i he came to Sanilac County, and not long afterward purchased 50 acres of land on section 9, Worth Town- ship, on which he resided ten years. He cleared 40 acres and put the farm in a very valuable condition. He sold it in 1869 and purchased his present home- stead property. He labored on this alone until he cleared 24 acres, and now has the entire tract of 80 acres in finely improved and cultivated condition, with orchards, fine buildings and valuable stock, in- cluding six cows. He was married the first time Feb. 28, 1852, in Lexington Township, to Emmeline, daughter of Mar- tin and .Sophia Law. She was a native of Canada and died Oct. 9, 1857, leaving one child, — (Miarles R., — now a farmer in Isabella Co., Mich. Mrs. Rachel J. French was born Nov. 22, 1827, in Lon- don, Can., and is the daughter of Levi and Anna Lewis. She was married March 28, 1S58, to Mr. French, and of this union five children have been born, as follows: Jennie, Emma, Katie, William J. and Sarah. The two oldest and the youngest daugh- ters are now popular teachers in Sanilac County. Ont. R®))^#- :^II!1 liver ]jane, farmer, section 17, Flynn Town- ship, was born May 6, 1834, in York Co. Ont., and is the son of Cyrus and Sarah (Todd) Lane. The father was born in New- bury, Vt., in the year 1796. He died June 20, 1876, and is buried in Tobo, Middlesex Co., The mother was born in County Tyrone, Ire- land, in 1 809, and died Dec. 20, 1853, and was buried on lot seven in the sixth concession in Markhani Township, York Co., Ont. The subject of this sketch attained his age under the supervision and instructions of his father and re- ceived a good education. When he arrived at man's estate, he became a teacher in the public schools of the section where he was reared, and passed three years in that employ. He then became interested in farming, to which he devoted two years previous to his marriage. That event occurred Jan. 3, i860, in Middlesex Co., Ont., where he was married to Amanda Brooks. She was born Dec. 23, 1846, in Elgin Co., Ont. Of eleven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Lane four are deceased — Mary E., Alonzo, Minnie and Polly M. Those who survive are named Alberta A., Eliza J., John M., Sarah E., Ernest C, Oliver A. and Levi. After the event of his marriage, Mr. Lane located on 100 acres of land in Oxford Co., Onr. In the spring of 1865 he started on a western trip for the benefit of his health and to ob- 9 ■■ — ' m I §-^ -:sj<^5p^«iis:' ^7 V -:24^^ -^^^Cd 310 SANILAC COUNTY. tain an idea of the West, then becoming famous for its resources of scenery and profit, and traveled through Michigan, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana and Ohio, returning to his farm in the fall of the same year. He thence removed to Kent Co., Ont , and purchased 280 acres of land, where he labored ten years. In 1876 he traveled in the East, visiting the Centen- nial Ex[)osition and the cities of Baltimore, Washing- ton and New York. In the spring of 1881, he came to Sanilac County and purchased 280 acres of land on sections 17 and 20 in Flynn Township. He has improved 70 acres, and has erected a comfortable house and good farm buildings. He is a Republican in political connection, and is now serving a term as Justice of the Peace. ^ bharles Scott, farmer, section 34, Fremont »i »^P a Townshii), was born Nov. 21, r8i8, in ^^y Niagara District, Canada. His father, Amos ^U Scott, was of English descent, and died in '^ Oxford Co., Can., in .Xpril, 1864, aged 84 years. His mother, Rachel (Ward) Scott, was a native of the State of New York, born of Holland Dutch parentage. She died March 14, 1854, in Norwich, Can., aged 64 years. Mr. Scott was reared a farmer, and when he was 20 years old he was married to Marion Smith. Their wedding took place Nov. 21, 1838. She was the daughter of Isaac and Mary (McCleisk) Smith, both of whom are deceased. She died March 14, r85o, and left six children living of seven of whom she became the mother. They were born as follows : Isaac A., Dec. 4, 1839; George W., Nov. 18, 1840 (died March i, 1884); Charles'!"., January, 1842; Mary J., March 20, T844 (died Oct. 24, 1882); Amos L., Sept. 15. 1846 (died in September, 1850); Min- erva A., Jan. 18, 1848; Marvin, March 14, 1850 (died March 14, 1854). Mr. Scott was again married March 29, 1855, to Amy Johnson, eldest daughter of Ezra and Rath Johnson. She was born of German parentage, in Can- ada, in 1802, and died in Norfolk, March 22, 185 i. Mrs. Scott has three sisters, — Mary J., Hannah and Maloya. She has been the mother of ten children, seven of whom are living. They were born as follows: Emma R., March 16, 1856 (died Dec. 3, 1856); .'\mos E.,Sept. 12, 1857; Edward ^'., Feb. 10, 1859; Francis C, March 26, 186 1; Joseph T., May 30, 1863; Agnes G., July 20, 1865; Charlie A., March 29, 1867 (died July 20, 1869); Amy R., July 30, 1870; Hannah M., Feb. 25, 1873. While a resident of Canada Mr. Scott was engaged in lumbering, and prosecuting all the business per- taining to his saw-mill there. He has pursued the same calling to a considerable extent since coming to Michigan. He took possession of his farm in Fre- mont Township Sept. 15, i860. It was in a primi- tive condition, with no improvements, and in a situation so entirely unknown to the presence of humanity that wild game was most abundant, especially deer, which could be seen in every direc- tion from the door of the house, and were so tame that they would remain wnere the cattle were herded. The subject of game was one of peculiar interest to Mr. Scott, his father and grandfather having been hunters of considerable celebrity in the Dominion of Canada. The house which he built for his family was the first frame house erected in the township, and was constructed in six days. It has served as a residence for his family ever since. Mr. Scott is a Republican in political principles, and has held several local official positions in the township. Mrs. Scott is a member of the Baptist Church. m^m^^^^-- (^S-in^Kf athan McClux'e, taruier, resident on section 16, Fremont Township, was born Sept. 8, ^ 1841, in Worth Township, Sanilac Co, Mich. He is the son of Robert and Margaret J'vi Ann (Taylor) McClure, and both his parents are deceased. His mother died when he was a babe; his father's death occurred when he was a lad of ten years. After the latter event, he lived with his brother John several years, after which he maintained himself He became a farm assistant and continued in that capacity until he was old enough to learn the trade of a carpenter, at which he worked until he yielded to the increasing influence of the war spirit (^ V^ 5, 5>: •f's l\§^^^- §89- A c>timtitin>A^ #^K< •m^ .^t*-' ^ lAj ^Z^-t^ ^^yiy ^ :#te: crTr^->UU^UU^^^ S-ltesr- -o-^ ^^( Dec. 21, 1845, in Markham Township, On- ~' tario. Thomas Dawson, his father, was a native of England and passed his life in the two-fold occupation of farmer and teacher. He came to Ontario when he was 2 1 years of age, and married Mary Brooks, a native of Canada, whose parents were born respectively in Pennsylvania and New York. Seven children were born to them. In 1857 the family removed to Michigan and settled in St. Clair County. Later they went to Memphis, Ma- comb County, where the father is yet living and oc- cupies a prominent position in social and political circles. The mother died in 1878, while on a visit to Ontario. Mr. Dawson is the oldest child of his parents. He was 1 2 years of age when they located in St. Clair County, 'and he spent the following seven years with them, obtaining his education under the supervision of his father. He came to Sanilac County in his 19th year, and found employment in the town of Elk, where he engaged as a salesman for Alexander Farwell, and continued to operate in that capacity two years. He '§^ was married meanwhile, in i866, to Lorania, daugh- i ter of Chauncey and Lavinia (Fox) Allen, pioneer ^l settlers of Sanilac County. Mrs. Dawson was born fe^ in Indiana, in 1847. Three of nine children born of ^^ hev marriage are deceased. They were named (4) Emma I., .\rthur F. and William H. Thomas E )«^^ ®59- ^^^ ^^^MM^^^y^ ^^ ^^rmm^^ :j^^ 314 SANILAC COUNTY. "^^Ti^^^^iST . >. 1=3 >^ 1=3: \ I MaryL., Delmer H., Eva M., Lela B. and Lilith are the children still living. Mr. Dawson passed the decade subsequent to his marriage in mercantile pursuits, agriculture and the manufacture of hoops. In addition to his business operations, he was prominent in public life, holding successively the local offices of his township. He was the Postmaster at Peck/rom 1865 to 187 i. In 1876 he was elected County Clerk, which position he filled two terms. He was next elected Register of Deeds, and was for a time acting Probate Judge. He has since held his present position continuously, and is now serving his second term. He is a Repub- lican of a decided stamp, and wields a strong influ- ence within his sphere, which he has won by the fearless mode of his political activity and holds by his consistent integrity. He owns 65 acres of land in the village and vicinity of Peck, and 1 15 acres of land adjacent to the village of Sandusky. In 1869 he drafted the first resolution to fi.\ the location of the county seat at Sandusky, which, though it was not the immediate cause of the ultimate action which se- cured that end, was one of the earliest preliminary movements to effect the final result. Mr. Dawson is prominent in his Masonic connections ; is a member of Elk (Blue) Lodge, No. 353, at Peck, of Damascus Royal Arch Chapter, No. 41, and of the Lexington Commandery, No. 27. -»^' I illiam J. Crorey, proprietor of the Ex- change Hotel at Carsonville, Washington ^^1) Township, has been a resident of Sanilac County from infancy. He was boru June i, 1854, in Ohio, and soon after that event his parents, John and Mary (Stewart) Crorey, settled in Sanilac County. They were natives of Ireland, whence they emigrated to the Buckeye State. On removal to this county they settled in Washington Township, where the father died, in 1880. Their family included three children. Mr. Crorey is the oldest of the children born to his parents, and received a common-school educa- tion. In 1S76 he bought So acres of land in its nat- i^i m\^^m^ £xA^>;r ural state, on which he lived and labored until 1884, when he exchanged the farm for the hotel property, which he still owns at Carsonville. His establish- ment is the leading hotel in town, and he is engaged in a good business. Mr. Crorey is a Democrat in political faith and belongs to the Order of Mac- cabees. He was married June 8, 1875, in Bridgehanipton, to Huldah, daughter of James and Harriet (Bennett) Lee. Her parents were natives of Canada. Henry, William J., Matilda A. and May M. are the children of Mr. and Mrs. Crorey. .sG'- amuel Tuschingham, farmer, located on section 14, Fremont Township, was born March 17, 1826, in Lancashire, England. His parents, Samuel and Lucy (Woods) Tusching- ham, were both natives of the same country, where they died, at nearly 70 years of age. In his later youtli and early manhood Mr. T. was employed in a foundry in his native country. In 1862 he came to America, landing at New York. He did not remain in the States, but went to Halton Co., Can., where he worked a short period as a quarryman. Sept. i, 1865, he landed at Lexington, in this county. He proceeded to Fremont Township and bought 160 acres of land, to which he has added 80 acres more by later purchase of John Lawson. This entire acreage was in its original condition. He has about 150 acres improved, and it ranks as one of the finest farms in the township, with excellent brick house and other good farm buildings. The place is well stocked with cattle, sheep and horses, and the proprietor is justly considered one of the leading agriculturists in the county of Sanilac. He is a de- cided Republican in his political views. Mr. T. was married June 20, 1S50, in Lancaster- shire, Eng., to Elizabeth, daughter of Peter and Sybil (Daniels) Dutton. Her parents died in Eng- land, her father being about 70 years old at date of death, and her mother was about 85 years of age at the time of her demise. Their family included ten children, — five sons and five daughters. Mrs. T. is the i y^ W^P )^€ is^ (^ V (•J i SANILAC COUNTY. 4)t§^f@A^ii 31s third in order of birth. She was born Dec. 8, 1817, in the same phice where she lived until her mar- riage. Following is the record of the children bovn to Mr. and Mrs. T.: Mary Ann, Aug. 29, 185 1; Wil- liam H., April 7, 1853; Samuel, Aug. 6, 1857 ; Peter, April 9, 1855, died of scarlet fever in March, 1863, in Canada. The children were all born in Lanca- shire, Eng. ■• g=$ >-Ni)'^^ ^Ij^jtoratio J. Emery, physician and surgeon at ^.j^^^l C'roswell, was born Dec. 27, 1857, in the ^h^ tnwn-iclili-i nf PnrtlnnH T.plinOX Co., Ont. He is '>C^ township of Portland, Leni 'N the son of James and M Mary (Empey) Emery, I both of whom are Canadians by birth. His father is of Irish descent, was born March 18, 1827, in Lennox Co., Ont., and is the son of Andrew Em- ery, who was a Captain in the British service in the second struggle of Great Britain with the American colonies. He was married in September, 1858, in Nappanee, to Mary Empey, and they are the parents of five sons, — Frank, Horatio, John, Fred and Rufus. Their mother was born Sejjt. 15, 1837, in Addington Co., Ont., of New England parentage. The family resided in Nappanee until 1868, when they removed to Decorah, Winneshiek Co., Iowa, where they re- mained 18 months, returning to Kent Co., Ont., the climate of the Hawkeye State proving too severe for the health of the mother. They located at Dresden, where the father is engaged in traffic in stock, his sons managing the farm. Dr. Emer)' obtained a fair elementary education at the public schools of Kent County, studying there until he was 15 years of age, when he went to To- ronto, where he entered the Normal School and took the prescribed course of study. After six months he went to Sydenham, Frontenac Co., Ont., and spent 18 months in the grammar school, receiving a certif- icate in the second grade A, authorizing him to teach in the public schools of the Dominion, an oc- cupation he pursued two years, with growing dis- taste. In 1879 he went to the Collegiate Institute at Kingston, to prepare for college, and in the fall of 1880 he matriculated at Queen's University, in the Art Department, entering the Royal College of Physi- cians and Surgeons, where he fulfilled the prescribed curriculum, covering a period of four sessions of six months each. April 27, [884, he took the degrees of M. I), and C. M., and in the first week of May fol- lowing he passed successfully the Medical Council of Ontario. In the intervals of the college terms of 1882-3, he walked the Kingston iiospitals and read one summer with a preceptor, C. B. Lake, M. D., at Ridgetown. He came to Croswell May 14, 1884, where he at once established his office and began ;i permanent career as a medical practitioner. His thorough qualification for his professional du- ties, his earnest, conscientious character, and his de- votion to his business, have given him a substantial position as a physician, and won for him the respect- ful consideration of the community where he has entered upon his chosen occupation. rederiek L. Walther, of Lexington, was born Jan. 5, 1836, in the Province of Sax- ony, Prussia. His parents, Conrad and Elizabeth (Wise) Walther, came to America / 9 ^: with their family in 1852. The remained for a short time in the city of Detroit and proceeded thence to Sandusky, Ohio. They returned to Detroit, and a year later made their way to Lexington Town- ship, where the father became the owner of 40 acres of land situated one and a half miles northwest of the village. He died in 1868, and his wife May 6, 1870. Mr. Walther accompanied his parents in their various removals, and in i860 he built a brewery at Lexington, in company with John L. Feed. In 1865 he purchased the interest of his partner and con- tinued the successful prosecution of the enterprise alone until the spring of 1884. At that date he sold the business to Purkiss Brothers. Mr. Walther owns a fine residence on Boynton Street, which is occupied by his family. He also owns five lots with houses, -,- all of which he built but one. He has served several ®j terms as Village Trustee and Assessor of real estate. ^ ■316 i^S^" ^rmmm^^r ^(svife SANILAC COUNTY. He was married in the city of Detroit, July 2, 1863, to Mary Faltz, a native of Mecklenburg, Germany. 1 She died in Lexington, Sept. 2, 1868, and left three young children, who were born as follows: Minnie, I June 22, 1864; Emma L., March 28, 1866; Francis W., Oct. 28, 1867. Mr. Walther was a second time married, Nov. 13, 1869, to Louisa Grounstedt. She was born Sept. 12, 1850, in Hungary. Of this union six children have been born, in tlie following order: Frederick, Herbert, Augusta, William, Florence and Henry. William is deceased. ) I ohn Griee, farmer, section 24, Fremont Township, was born June 6, 1823, in the village of Carlby, Lincolnshire, Eng., and is the son of James and Charlotte (Sesson) Grice. His father was born Nov. 5, 1787, in Suffolkshire, Eng., and died in Rutlandshire. ^^ He was buried in the celebrated Ryhall church- = yard. The mother was born in April, 1796, and ;^ died July 3, 1884, in Cowthorpe, Lincolnshire, and S was buried in Rutland beside her husband. The father of Mr. Grice was a man of honorable and dig- nified character, and was much respected in his gen- eration. Mr. John Grice was in the service of a farmer until he was 17 years old. He became incapacitated for active manual labor by the kick of a horse, sus- ^ taining a serious injury to his left leg, and in conse- quence he was apprenticed to learn the trade of a miller. As he received no money while serving the term of his indenture, he went into debt for clothes, and in order to pay it he went to work for a mason, with whom he remained three years, thoroughly learning the business. He spent the next three years on a farm, in the employment of a man named Clement Bland, who abandoned agriculture to be- come a miller, Mr. Grice continued in his service subsequent to the transfer about a year, when he engaged as a farm laborer for Thomas Finder, with Ji whom he continued ten years. He left his employ- ment to come to the United States, and landed at the port of New York in 1856, accompanied by a brother. He proceeded to Hamilton, Can., where he worked for a man named Dodd, running an en- gine in a saw-mill. His employer failed and he lost $too. His next enterprise was the purchase of a piece of land in company with his brother, whicli they were obliged to surrender on account of a defective title. He then engaged in the management of a farm, owned by John Morden, and he operated in this capacity four years. While in this employaient his abilities as a mechanic were in requisition, as he was able to perform the duties of a first-class mason. The year after leaving Mr. Morden he worked for William Campbell as a farm laborer. He then en- gaged as a miller and continued in that pursuit seven years. In 1873 he came to Michigan and bought the farm on which he has since lived and labored. It com- prised 80 acres, with but slight improvement. Mr. Grice has now 45 acres in fair tillable condition. Mr. Grice was married the first time May 13, 1846, to Mary .A.nn Shortliff. She was born in Rut- landshire, Eng., in 1828, and died May 5, 1853. She is buried in Ryhall churchyard. She became the mother of four children, three sons and a daugh- ter, — James, John T. (deceased), Elizabeth Ann nnd John. The present wife of Mr. Grice, Elizabeth (Monney) Grice, was born April 12, 1822, in Bar- rovvby, Lincolnshire, Eng. The record of the children of Mr. Grice is as fol- lows: James, born Feb. 23, 1847; Elizabeth Ann, March 23, 1849; John Thomas, born Sept. 17, 1851, died when six months old. John was born Sept. 16, 1852. William G. Monney, adopted son, was born March 26, 1870. In his political creed, Mr. G. is independent. He and his wife are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church, -o- — ^=$ • mw SANILAC COUNTY. j^ Mr Cline was born .April 30, 1817, in Canada. He fi,i) was there engaged in farming, and in 1861 accom- ^ panied his parents to Sanilac County. He bought Clarkes, !|!^ where he was born June 16, 1841. He is the son of Dr. Ira M. Clarke (see sketch), and was reared to manhood in the old Granite State, of which his more immediate progenitors were natives. He received a goad common-school education, and on reaching his majority he became a salesman in the mercantile establishment of Tillotson cS; Castle- man, of Orford, N. H., where he operated two years before embarking in business in his own behalf at Orforville, N. H., establishing commercial relations under the style of E. B. Clarke & Co., which existed two years. In 1869, Mr. Clarke came to Lexington, and in October of that year he formed an association with his uncle, A. M. Clarke (see sketch) for the prosecu- tion of mercantile affairs. This relation continued until purchase of the interest of the latter by the senior Clarke in 187 1. The commercial house of "Clarkes " has been in continuous operation since its establishment at Lexington. A. W. Merrill was an associate partner nearly four years, when the busi- ness was conducted under the firm name of Clarkes & Merrill. On the death of I. M. Clarke, his younger yp) 1 (§^ ^))^r^- z^-'iis^-^sr ^^^T<^]\mMi>^ :25€^ '^-^ -*^t? 318 SANILAC COUNTY. ^ (h e ^ ^ £=3: '.'^ son succeeded to his fatlier's interest. Their stock represents about $7,000, and comprises all lines of goods common to general merchandise, including dry goods, groceries, crockery, glassware, hardware, hoots, shoes, hats, caps, flower, feed and all other articles suited to the local demand. Mr. Clarke is the proprietor of consideral)le property at Lexington, and farms 40 acres of land located one and a half miles south of the village, where he makes a specialty of breeding fine grades of poultn,', and is somewhat interested in raising fine horses. Mr. Clarke was married, Jan. 2, 1865, at. Bath, N. H., to Mary E. Johnson. She was born in White- field, N. H., where her parents, Samuel R. and Eliza A. Johnson, resided for many years. Her father was a prominent farmer and lumberman, being engaged in the latter business 40 winters in succession. Mrs. Clarke was born Nov. 12, 1S43. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Clarke, as follows: Ira M., Jr., Nov. 12, 1865; George Driggs, Aug. 5, 1867; Helen M., Oct. 26, 1877. The two eldest were born in Orford, N. H., the last in Lexington. ..*^.4<4^^>.. ohn Galbraith, farmer, dealer in grain, and ^ one of the leading business men in Sanilac County, residing on section 21, Worth Township, is the son of John and Nancy ]L (Humphrey) Galbraith, natives respectively of the State of New York and Canada. They set- tled in the Dominion and resided there until 1838. In that year they came to Sanilac Co., Mich. Mrs. G. died Ai)ril 17, 1878; the demise of Mr. G. took place Feb. 6, 1883. Mr. Galbraith is the eldest of eight children, and was born Jan. 4, 1826. When he was 12 years old he came to Sanilac County, where he has grown to manhood. He is the owner of 320 acres of land in the townships of Worth and Fremont, and has 300 acres under good cultivation. In addition to his ex- tensive agricultural interests, Mr. Galbraith is in charge of the depot at Amadore, to which position he was ap{X)inted Dec. 25, 1883. He is one of the oldest settlers in the county. In political connection he is a Republican, and he has held the offices of Treasurer, Clerk, Road Commissioner, and for many years was County Surveyor. He was married Aug. 17, 1855, in \\'orth Town- ship, to Amanda Willets, daughter of Abraham W. and Samantha Willets. Her parents were early set- tlers in Sanilac County, and her father is deceased. Three children survive, of four that have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Galbraith. William is deceased. Those yet living are Ulysses S.,Angeline and Emma. The mother died in May, 1865. Mr. Galbraith was again married Aug. 28, 1865, to Margaret ^'ondry, a a native of the Isle of Man. Two children born of this marriage died in infancy. Olive and Alexander .still s\irvive. T ^^^p-^^S-w^-^- ?^^ Imond Hyde, dealer in agricultural imple- jii^^^ ments, machinery, wagons and carriages, S^ portable saw-mills, etc., located at Lexington, liaT was born in this township, March 5, 1843, on

^ c. -^^(@>l 320 SANILAC COUNTY. JJ ^ chiefly with his rifle. Deer were plentiful and mar- ketable, and his expertness proved an available accessory. In the fall of 187 i fires and rumors of fires dis- quieted the people of Sanilac County. Reports of serious disaster to property and even human life flew with the velocity of the wind current, that followed the sweep of the flames which made tiiat year his- toric in the annals of the world. In the deliberate and successful preparation of Mr. Babcock to with- stand the encroachments of the fiend which he felt to be approaching, stands prominent one of his lead- ing characteristics. He built what he called a "cave," for want of a better name, the structure consisting of timbers inclined in a V-shape, closing at tlie top, and banked with earth to a depth which perfectly pro- tected the " tumule " and its contents from tlie fire and smoke, and to it Mr. Babcock attributes the preservation of his children's lives. The space in- cluded was 8 by 24 feet. Into this he moved his family and all his household effects, and lived therein during the terrible 14th, 15th and i6th of October, 1871. The fire raged on every side, but the little household passed intact through its terrors. Words fail to convey any adequate idea of the horrors of the night which followed the last day of conflagration. A wind of incalculable velocity and power raged throughout the entire night, hurling to the ground the blackened, smoking trees whose roots had been loosened by the burning of the turf and dried matter in which they were buried. The swift suc- cession of crashes from the falling timber caused an uproar which, to the tense and overstrained senses of the inhabitants, was indiscribably horrible. The revelations of day-dawn defied comprehension. Every landmark was destroyed where the fire had been ; the ground was covered witji a net-work of fallen timbers, and the people experienced a sensation as of homesickness, akin to that of having been sud- denly transported to new and strange lands. Mr. Babcock relates that it was unsafe for a man to leave his locality. He made the experiment himself, with the result of losing his way within 40 rods of his own house. But sad and heavy as was the loss of life and |3roi)erty in Sanilac County, tire fire was of ines- limalile value to tlie general territory, and advanced its improvement as years of toil could not have done. Mr. Babcock remained upon his farni until 1879. He had cleared about 30 acres, and was fitted to enter his profession as he had designed. He sold his estate, and having been admitted to practice in the State Courts of Michigan he removed to San- dusky, the geographical center of Sanilac County and whither the county seat had been in the same year removed from Lexington. He entered at once upon the practice of his profession, which he has pursued with satisfactory results. He is a Democrat in polit- ical connections and sentiment, and while a resident of Watertown Township served seven consecutive years as Supervisor. He is interested to some extent in local insurance. Mr. Babcock was married Oct. 26, 1867, to Cyn- thia A. Woodward, in Elk Township. She was born Dec. 29, 1852, in Dereham, Oxford Co., Ont., and is the daughter of Emory and Charlotte (Foote) Wood- ward. Mr. and Mrs. Babcock have had six children, born as follows: Henry A., May 2, 1869, in Burnside, Lapeer County ; William D., June i, 1871 ; Noel A., April 13, 1873; Amy E., Aug. 15, 1878; Nettie B., Nov. 15, r88i ; Cecile A., March 26, 1884. The five last named were born in Sanilac County. :?:«hJh5S^ "^ came to Worth Township, Sanilac County^ and purchased 80 acres of land, which he cleared and otherwise improved until the entire tract was in a valuable agricultural condition. On this he resided for 26 years, when he sold it and came to Speaker Township. He bought a farm con- taining 120 acres, which he occupied three years, at the end of that lime again selling, after which he bought 120 acres in Fremont Township. The place comprised 115 acres of improved land, and he has continued its occupancy since he first bought it. Mr. Bradley is a native of the Newcastle District, Province of Quebec, where he was born Jan. 28, 1 819. His parents, Oliver and Dorcas (Abbey) Bradley, were natives of Connecticut and are both deceased. His mother died in Hope Township, Province of Quebec. His father died in Canada, where the family settled, his demise occurring when V^ V (' O $>: ;v|:, athan N. Bradley has resided in Michigan l^iif since 1850. In January of that year, he ^\m^^ ■>%^^ Q^^ C>I1 D'^l tlf!>A;9 ^^^ -#^^ » tf5 ,'^ His father, John McCrea, was of Scotch par- entage and married Eliza Acton, who was of English descent. After their marriage they settled in Leeds County, on the banks of the river St. Lawrence, locating opposite that part of the stream now made famous by tourists in search of summer recreation among the "Thousand Isles." The father died in Lansdowne, June 20, 1846. The demise of the mother occurred Sept. 19, 1880. Dr. McCrea is the youngest of eight children born to his parents, and he remained under their care until lie was about 20 years of age. He obtained a substantial elementary education in the district schools of his native town, and later attended a few terms at the High School in the village of Gana- nogue. On completing his studies there he returned home and passed several years as an assistant on his father's farm, after which he taught school two years in liis native county. In 1870 he went to Middlesex, Ontario, where he entered the seminary and was graduated in the English and mathematical depart- ment. He was advanced in his course of study at the time he began it in the seminary at Middlesex, and alternated his attendance there by teaching several terms in the village school. Besides dis- charging his duties in these he prepared the matric- ulation work preliminary to entering the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario. He succeeded in passing the severe examination required by the authorities of that institution, and in the fall of 1872 he began the study of medicine in the office of A. \,, McLaren, of Komoka, Ont., where he continued to read at intervals for the period of one year, during which he taught the village school. The average number of pupils under his instructions was 80, and he had no assistants. Oct. r, 1873, he entered the Medical Department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, where he was graduated June 30, 1S75. He passed the ensuing vacation in the office of his former preceptor, and in the fall went to New York and entered Bellevue Medical College, where he completed a full course and received his cre- dentials as a graduate at that institution, March i, 1876. He spent a short time in prospecting for a satisfac- tory location, and in July following settled at Mar- lette. He at once entered upon the career of a medical practitioner, in which he has attained success beyond his expectations. He is a leading member of his profession and has a wide and enviable repute as an able, skillful and reliable physician and surgeon. Dr. McCrea is a Republican in political views, but pursues an independent course in his actions. Dur- ing the years 1878-9 he acted as Coroner of Sanilac County, and he has been Health Officer of Marlette for several years. He has also officiated as School Superintendent one year. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity, and belongs to the Presbyterian Church. At the meeting of the Presbytery in 1884, in Flint, he was elected to represent that body at the meeting of the General Assembly at Saratoga. The marriage of Dr. McCrea to Eudora McLean occurred May 16, 1877, in the village of Mount Bridges, Ont. She was born Nov. 25, 1853, in Can- ada, and was the daughter of the Rev. John and Evalina (Mitchell) McLean. Her father was form- erly Presiding Elder of St. Clair District, Ontario. Mr. McCrea died Dec. 10, 1879, leaviiig one child, Edna L., born Dec. 5, 1879, five days preceding the death of the mother. ryant Stewart, farmer, section 5, Wash- ington Township, has resided in Sanilac "^ County since the spring of 1872. He is a prosperous agriculturist and owns a fine farm of 115 acres, all of which is in first-class cul- tivation except 15 acres, which is still in tim- He belongs to the Democratic element in I 9 ^ c-^: ( (^ ber Sanilac county. >^ V (5) -s ii m. Pi politics, and is one of the Justices of his township, in which position he has served six years. In July, 1883, he was appointed Supervisor to fill the vacancy, and in the spring of 1884 he was elected to the same office. He has also been active in school affairs. He is a member of the Order of Maccabees, and, with his wife, belongs to Charity Grange, No. 417, P. of H- Mr. Stewart's parents, Spencer and Elizabeth (Hur- ley) Stewart, were natives of North Carolina, where they married and settled. They removed to Hardin Co., Pa., where they passed the last ten years of their lives. Mr. Stewart is the oldest of their five children, and was born Dec. 30, 1828, in Montgomery Co., North Carolina. He was ten years old when his parents removed to Pennsylvania, whither he also went and passed the remainder of his minority. On attaining to manhood's estate, he went to Arkansas, where he remained until the close of the Civil War. He went thence to the State of Mississippi and re- sided there until his removal to Sanilac County. His chief employment in the South was in the wood busi- ness. The farm he purchased in Washington Town- ship was partly improved, and he has expended upon it the best energies and efforts of which he is capable, and has a homestead which is an honor to iiis effi- ciency and judgment, and will be a comfort all his life. He vvas married April 4, 1861, in Arkansas, to Harriet, daughter of Elias and Phebe Ceas, and widow of James H. Vaughn. Her first husband died in Illinois, Oct. 9, 1859. Two children, Benjamin F. and Theresa M., were born to them. The first died when he was five months old. Mrs. Stewart was born June 2, 1838, in Venango Co., Pa. By her sec- ond marriage, she is the mother of seven children, — Ellen, Emily E., Susan A., Mary A., Harriet I., Clarence S. and Clement B. She is a member of the Methodist Church. ames Dorward, farmer, section 22, Worth Township, is the son of James and Mar- ■ garet (Livingston) Dorward. They were born in Scotland, and in 1849 emigrated to Canada. The father died in 1873, in the Do- minion. Mr. Dorward was born in Scotland, Aug. 17, 1844, and was five years old when he accompanied his parents to Canada. He spent his youthful years in study, and afterwards assisted his father, who was a brick-layer and stone mason by vocation, until he was 20 years old. He then engaged in the buying and selling of real estate and was successively the owner of many tracts of land. In January, 1S76, he came to Sanilac County and bought 280 acres of land in Worth Township. Of this he now owns 120 acres, having sold the remainder. His farm is all improved and cultivated. Mr. Dorward is a Republican in political affiliation, and has been active in official life both in Canada and Michigan. He was married Nov. 27, 1878, in Worth Town- ship, to Alice M., daughter of Gordon A. Rudd. She was born March 3, 1859, in Canada. Margaret A., Lydia and Mabel are the children of Mr. and Mrs. Dorward. •>*-^»^ ^m^. T/fS i^ akefield West, proprietor of the Anderson iVfAlllJ House at Croswell, was born Oct. 21, ■^^^ <^i]tignii^>^ /^^ 324 SANILAC COUNTY. r(®Vffll (now Simcoe) County, and is the daughter of William and Mary (Coburn) Vance. Her mother died Jan. 10, 1884, in Canada, at about the age of 63 years. Her father was born in Ireland, and is also deceased The children of Mr. and Mrs. West, four in number^ were born in Simcoe Co., Can., in ihe following order: William, Aug. 28, 1872; Benjamin F.. Jan. 11 1S75; Alfred Edgar, Oct. 29, 1876; Mary Ada, Sept. 13, 1878. Mr. West is a Republican in his views of national policy. -^%^k w- ichard Olmstead, farmer, section 22, Fre- mont Township, has been a resident in this part of Sanilac County since i860, when he purchased his farm of a man named Schell, in Canada, and came from the Do- minion to test the possibilities of the Penin- sular state. The country was still new and settlers were few. The civil war broke out soon after Mr. Olmstead fi.xed his residence in Fremont, and he partook of the general interest in the progress of the struggle. He finally determined on enlistment, and enrolled Feb. 22, 1864, in Co. K, 22d Mich. Vol. Inf. His regiment was assigned to the 15th Army Corps, under Gens. Sherman and Thomas. He was in 1:0 regular battles, but participated in several minor engagements. He became disabled from illness and went to Hospital No. i, at Chattanooga. He was afterwards transferred from his regiment to the 29th Michigan, and was soon afterward detailed for duty at the headquarters of General Thomas, where he was occupied until he was mustered out in August, 1865, at Murfreesboro, Tenn. His health was hope- lessly impaired, and five years of the time since his return to his home he has been unable to labor. Mr. Olmstead was born March 2,0, i83i,in Oxford Township, Ont., and is the son of Hiram and Orilla (Olmstead) Olmstead. The former died in Fullon, N. v.; the latter in Oxford, Ont. Their family included 13 children, ten of whom are now living. Mr. Olmstead is the fourth in order of birth. At the age of 16 years he found himself at liberty to make his own way in the world, and he has since been independent of assistance. He was married June 13, 1854, in Canada, to Elizabeth Wilson. She was born June 23, 1S38, and died Sept. 5, 1874, having become the mother of ten children, five of whom were deceased at the time of her death. Hiram was born Sept. 18, 1857; Mary J., July 28, 1862; Richard, Oct. 27, 1S64; George, May 16, 1867; Almira, April 13, 1873. These are still living. The two eldest born died in infancy. Tiiose deceased were named Abraham, John and Horace. Mr. Olmstead was married the second time June 4, 1S75, to Mrs. Sarah (Merrick) Fifer. She was born May 5, 1845, and is the daughter of Robert and Esther (Crawford) Merrick. Her parents are living in Dakota, whither they removed in Septem- ber, 1883. Their family comprised 12 children, of whom Mrs. Olmstead is the eldest. She was born near Londonderry, Ireland, and was brought by her parents to the United States when she was 15 months old. They settled in Kingston, Ont., removing thence to Oxford, in the Dominion. Her father removed his family to Sanilac County in 1855. She married John Fifer, and by this marriage had three children, na.nely: Robert, born Feb. 23, 1862; Anna J. .April 21, 1864, and George H., Aug. 30, 1866. She is a member of the Advent Church. Mr. Olmstead is a Republican, and has been an official in the various school offices of his township. ^rTj^l '% C. L. Sly, furniture dealer and manufac- ^j.^Hl' turer at Lexington, was born Nov. 6, 1841, C'JlJn?^ in Livingston Co., Mich. He is the son ^\ ^\ §«#S3>— ■ p of Solomon C. and Huldah (Wilson) Sly. His father was a farmer by proxy, as he owned a farm, and hired laborers to do the necessary work thereon, while he applied himself to his trade of carpenter and joiner, and also to some extent to the busines of cabinet-making, in which he instructed his son. In 1857 his father removed to Worth Town- ship, Sanilac County, where the subject of this sketch attended school for a time. He returned to Living- ston County, where he was attacked by a disease of ^^^ r SANILAC COUNTY. 4)^ (h >^ V ^ ^ the eyes. He spent a few months at Fowlerville in the same county, undergoing treatment, but, as it did not prove effective, he went to Detroit and spent 15 months in the care of Dr. J. C. Gorton. He re- turned to Worth Township, where he engaged for a time in weaving. Since that time he has followed his trade. He came to Lexington in 1864, and entered upon the same business. He opened his present establishment in 1878, and, with the assist- ance of his sons, is managing a prosperous business. He carries a stock suited to the local demand, manufactures all varieties of furniture and combines therewith repairing and upholstering. He also has considerable patronage in undertaking. Mr. Sly was married March 16, 1S65, in Lexing- ton, to Clara M., daughter of Jerauld and Ruth Miller. Five children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Sly, two of whom are deceased. The record is : Jerauld M. was born Oct. 13, 1866; Carlton L., Feb. 24, 1868; Florence L. was born Dec. 22, 1869, and died March 16, 1872; Walter T. was born May 9, 1874, and died May 30, 1874; Edward S. was born Jan. 25, 1876. The parents are communicants in the Episcopal Church. 4- ||homas Elliott, Jr., farmer, section 24, Washington Township, was born April 4, 1857, in England. His parents, Thomas and Margaret (Mooney) Elliott, were also born !> in that country, where they were married and settled. They emigrated to Canada in 1864, where they were residents until 1867, in which year they came to this county, and located in Sanilac Township. Later, they removed to a farm in Wash- ington Township. Their children were four in number. Mr. Elliott is the youngest child of his parents, and was but seven years old when they came to the New World. He has lived in Sanilac County since he was a lad of 10 years. He is now the proprietor of 80 acres of land, 55 acres of which are under cul- tivation. Li political views he holds to the princi- ples of the Anti-Monopolist party. He has held the office of Justice of the Peace three years and School Moderater three years. Mrs. Jane (Robinson) Elliott was born in Canada, July 4, 1857, and was married in the Dominion to Thomas Elliott, May 4, 1881. Jessie and Maud are the names of the children born of this union. ->-5-4^ — o^af^aUHe^o 1»-5<-^ • S^^fi^yc ^ ||Lrank T. Smith, merchant at Forester, ^ _|!| P senior member of the mercantile Hrm of ^W^-'^ F. T. Smith & Co., has been connected i^ with the business history of Sanilac County Jyis^ since 1867, when he came to Forester and be- { came a salesman in the mercantile establish- ment of Smith, Kelly & Co. He has made steady and sure strides of progress until he is now at the head of one of the oldest and most influential busi- ness houses of the Huron peninsula, and is one of most prominent leaders in the later development of the resources of Sanilac County. The original senior member of the firm was his uncle. He remained in liis capacity of salesman until 1S72, the firm having become Geo. H. Tanner & Co. At the date named he became a member of the firm which, in addition to its mercantile relations, owned a grist-mill and saw-mill, and trafficked largely in mill and lumber products. In 1876 he succeeded to his present position ; and the house is managing a trade of $50,000 annually, with an invested capital of $10,000. Their annual transactions when their lum- ber traffic was at its height amounted to $150,000. Mr. Smith is the owner of the extensive business block where he operates, besides other property at this point. He is an active and zealous supporter of the current issues and tenets of the Republican party, and has served his township six years as Treasurer. He was born in New London Co., Conn., March 21, 1850, and is the son of Nathan G. and Lucy A. (Pendleton) Smith. The father was a native of Connecticut, and passed the greater portion of his active life in speculating. His wife is a native of New Jersey, and they are living in retirement at Slonington, Conn., in ease and comfort. Mr. Smith received a good business education and entered upon his career of activity in Sanilac County, as has l)een stated. 0) (q) ^m %m<>^- -CS!!^^ 6v^nii^nnf>^ ry- -^^^^\4^ saat/zac countv. ) /5s V He was married Oct. 17, 1882, at Detroit, to Mary Dement. They liave one child, Edward T., born March 29, 1884. Mrs. Smith was born Nov. 26, i860, in the city of Detroit. Her father, Capt. Gilbert Demont, was an experienced and practical navigator, having passed a series of years successively in the lake service. In 1872 he assumed command of the propeller, R. G. Coburn, a large and comparatively new steamer. In the fall of the same year, while en route from DuUith, the vessel, with all on board, was lost in .Saginaw Bay. A heavy sea was running, and the wind was blowing with great velocity, when the propeller was discovered by other lake craft in the bay, and was evidently in distress, as she was flying a red flag. While the observers were endeavoring to determine her identity and condition, with the pur- pose of rendering aid, she suddenly went down. Two of her boats were picked up, with several persons, but Captain Demont and his eldest son Charles were lost. The mother of Mrs. Smith died in Detroit, in the spring of 1872. The daughter was educated in her native city, and at the age of 16 years became a teacher. She followed teaching as a vocation until her marriage. She is a communicant of the Episco- pal Church. The portrait of Mr. Smith accompanies this sketch, and may be found on a preceding page. (c\ s^-Ka enjamin E. Bond, foundry man and ma- ^iRM^Ii- chinist, at Anderson, Washington Town ^ ship, was born Nov. 28, 1853, in Canada. ■ ® His parents, Benjamin and Eliza (Eden) ^^ Bond, were natives of England, where they were married. They emigrated to Canada, where they died. Mr. Bond passed his early years in farm duties and in obtaining a fair degree of education, and at the age of 19 years he entered into an apprenticeship to learn the business wliich he has since pursued. He served three years. In February, 1878, he came to Macomb Co., Mich., and after remaining there more than three years, he came to his present locatiom, in the spring of 1881. He put up a building suitable for the prosecution of his business, which was destroyed by fire in the autumn following. He rebuilt the structure in the summer of the following year, since which time he has operated continuously and with satisfactory results. He was married in Richmond, Macomb County, Jan. I, 1879, to Jane Dennison, who was born in Canada. Lillian M., first-born child, died at the age of nine months. Benjamin H. is still living. The parents are members of the Methodist Episco- pal Church. «Wi2j2fi'!s-fiS^— ►/! •^^fmss" ames McClure, farmer and stockman, re- ^Ifc' siding on section 29, Watertown Township, was born in July, 1832, in Oxford Co., Ont. His parents, Samuel and Nancy (Hunter) Mc- jt Clure, were natives of Ireland and of Scotch- Irish lineage. He was a mechanic by occupa- tion, and after marriage came to Canada, where he died, in 1835. James' mother is still living, in O.y- ford County, aged 75 years. The loss of his father in early life necessitated an early struggle with the world, and when but a boy Mr. McClure came to Michigan, first obtaining em- ployment in the city of Port Huron, and subse- quently in the woods as a lumberman in the county of St. Clair. He went thence to Huron County and spent some time in lumbering on the rivers there. In 1849 he came to Sanilac County, making his way into the township in which he has since resided, by the way of Elk River, then the only means of ingress into the unbroken forest and the most direct route from Lexington. The entire township lay in its primitive condition, its forests intact, and trav- ersed by the wild animals common to this section. In December, 1851, he entered a homestead claim of :6o acres, one of the earliest in the township. He was the first permanent settler in that part and probably the third in the township. He was instru- mental in the organization and naming of Watertown Township, •and obtained its separation from Wash- ington. k.\. its first election he became Supervisor, a position he held three years. He is a Democrat in political connection, and has been one of the most imixirtant actors in the progress of Sanilac V^ •< — ' «fe ^^^ rTrCrDH^nil^>7 ^ i 1 (<) V SANILAC COUNTY. 329 County. He is suffering from a pulmonary disease, the result of hard labor and exposure. The marriage of Mr. McClure to Elizabeth Collins occurred May 24, 1862, at Lexington. She was born Feb. 16, 1844, in Dereham, Oxford Co., Out., and is the daughter of Benjamin and Celia (Weaver) Collins, natives of Ontario, and now resi- dents of Buel Township, whither they removed in 1S54. James W., Susan, Melinda and Benjamin are the names of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. McClure. The original acreage of the farm has been decreased by the sale of 40 acres, and of the remainder there are 75 acres in first-class farming condition, with commodious barns and a comfortable, convenient residence. — vv^ei"€^s-^'^ — ^ 'Vf?: oter H. Benedict, farmer, section 21, Worth Township, is the son of Michael and Clar- ',' ii;:*.- become the mother of six children, — William. H., 1 George F., Nina, John A., Frederick J. and James \fc) L. Nina died when she was about 30 years of age. »^''R r/-;-'i'"- George Wever, formerly of Marlette, i T^jii^ was born Oct. 3, 1838, in Elgin County, -' >ir Ont. His father, Daniel Wever, went to "^j^) SUtlr^-^- ^^m^^m '^DD^(iD^^v -zn^&sr -#^(<®vii 33° SANILAC COUNTY. fair success aad a general popularity. In the winter of 1877-8 he altendcd lectures at the Medical Col- lege of Detroit, where he was graduated and received the credentials of tliat insiiluiion. He resumed his practice at Marlette, which he continued until his removal to Olivet, Eaton Co., Mich., whither he went to secure educational advantages for his children. Dr. Wever married Cynthia Dewolfe, of Dryden, Mich. They are the parents of six cliildren. Dr. Wever united with the Methodist Church when he was 19 years old; Mrs. Wever joined the same con- nection when she was 14 years of age, and they con- tinued that relation until their removal to Olivet, and are now identified with the Congregational body of that place. In political connection Dr. \Vever is an inflexible Republican, and is also tolerant of those who enter- tain diverse opinions. At the date of this writing (iSS4),he is still largely interested in Marlette, where he owns his former home and where his worldly accumulations still remain. atson Beach, editor and proprietor of the Sanilac Jcffcrsonian, and member of the li^^^"'^ legal firm of Beach & Macklem, has been -/|BD n ^:n Df^A-^ — ^^^^ -^^f ) I i! I SANILAC COUNTY. -^^' ooo - qCx> oel Hurley, of VVasliington Township, one ^1^- of the prominent agriculturists of Sanilac ''^^ County, has been a resident therein nearly 30 years, the beginning of liis life within its limits dating from the winter of 1856. He was then 23 years of age, and on coming hither he bought 160 acres of land in Marion Township, of which he was the owner and manager eight years. At the end of that period he removed to Washington Township, where he is now the owner of 240 acres of land, on section 24. Nearly the entire acreage is under cultivation, and the property is considered to be among the best farms in Sanilac County. Mr. Hurley is a Democrat in political sentiment, but takes no aggressive part in public affairs. He refuses office with persistency, preferring the i[uiet and freedom from turmoil of the life of a private citizen. He was born March 17, 1833, in Steuben Co., N. Y., and is the son of John and Dorcas (Wixson) Hurley. The former was born in the State of New York, the latter in Canada. After their marriage they settled in the Empire State, afterwards removing to Sanilac County. They settled in the township of Worth, which is still their home. Mrs. Sarah (Avery) Hurley was born Nov. 18, 1836, in Canada. She married Joel Hurley July 11, 1857, in Lexington Township. Jennie and Dorcas A. are the names of her two children. ^^ ahlon Bigger, farmer, section 12, Fre- mont Townsliip, was born July 2, 1856, ■?; ; in Elgin Co., Can., and is the son of John jW-''''^ and Alice (Hall) Bigger. Her father was ■■(J born in Canada and died Feb. 17, 1879, in Sanilac County. He was 64 years old. The mother was a native of Ireland, and was about 46 years old at the time of her death, which occurred Sept. 13, 1874. Their family included seven chil- dren. ■ Mr. Bigger was reared to the calling of a farmer and remained at home until he was of age. In the spring of 1876 he came to Sanilac County in com- 15any with his father. He bought the farm of r6o acres on which he has since resided, and of which he took possession May 20th of the same year. He has improved about 50 acres. Mr. Bigger is inde- pendent in political views. He was married Oct. 10, 1883, to Esther, daughter of William and Matilda (Plunket) Willis. Her parents are natives of Ireland and are on a farm in Marion Township, Sanilac County. Their family comprises ten children, and Mrs. Bigger is the youngest child. She was born May 2, 1862, in Sani- lac County. C -^% V j[ndrew J. McCardle, farmer, section 20, f^T iC Worth Township, is the son of John and L-- Catherine (Luckey) McCardle. Parents ^. are natives of Ireland, and came to .America y' and resided nearly two years in the State of ) New York, removing thence to Canada. In the spring of 1854 they came to Sanilac County and located in Worth Township. The mother died Feb. 28, 1871; the death of the father occurred June 21, 1880. Their family included 10 children. Mr. McCardle was born Oct. 13, 1840, in Ontario Co.,_Can. He was 13 years old when he came with his parents to Sanilac County, and he lias since re- sided in Worth Township. In 1870 he succeeded to the ownership of the homestead, consisting of 210 acres of land, to which he has added 40 acres by later purchase. About 140 acres are now under good cul- tivation, and the remainder is still in heavy timber as it was when in its original condition. Mr. McCardle is a Republican of decided views, and has held the 1 office of Township Treasurer five years. Highway Commissioner one year and School Director two years. He was married Jan. 22, 1870, in Worth Town- ship, to Mary J., daughter of Ira and Elizabeth (Mathews) Lount. Her parents were natives of Can- ^ ^m^^^ <>D!l^llti;i> »/®))^^ <^>lir^:llllr>r \!5 t >: V :) ,.--5 1 332 T SANILAC COUNTY. •Z^W^ ada, and in the fall of 1850 settled in Worth Town- ship, where they have since resided. Mrs. McCardle was born Jan. 29, 1850, in the county of Ontario, Can. Five children have lieen born in this family, two of whom are deceased. The names of the living are: Lottie C, John O. D. and Olive E. Those de- ceased are Jennie L. and Edith M. Mr. McCardle is a member of the Presbyterian Church, and his wife belongs to the Methodist Church. 'a^ ev. Christian Denissen, Pastor of St. Denis' Church, Lexington, was born April 24, 1847, in Rozendaal, Holland. His f \^ parents, Cornelius Denissen and Mary Cor- nelia (Konings) Denissen, sent young Chris- tian to school at the age of six years. The boy went through his different lessons and readers with the usual ups and downs of school-boys, having his mind on play and mischief as much as on the austere discipline of the old-fashioned school-master. At the age of 12 his parents sent him to college in the city of Oudenbosch. He studied in the prepara- tory classes of languages for two years, passing satis- factory examinations, then began his classical course, which at that college is a six-years course, it includ- ing poetry and rhetoric. In October, 1867, he com- menced his philosophical studies at the Seminary in Hoeven, Holland, and afterwards the theological course, under Profs. Gabriels and Loos. On June 10, 1870, he was ordained to the four minor orders, and on the following day to Sub-dea- conship. He received his ordination as Deacon June 3, 1871, and May 25, 1872, was ordained Priest, by Rt. Rev. John Van Genk, Bishop of Breda. Father Denissen, with that heroic courage so typi- cal of his character, decided to spend the remainder of his life in America. The Diocese of Detroit was his choice. He received his dimissorial letters from his bishop, and, sacrificing home, friends and all that were near and dear to him, left his native land June I, 1872. He presented himself to the authorities of his adopted diocese on June 17. On the 2gth of that month he was sent to Anchorville, St. Clair County, as assistant to Rev. Jolin Elsen. On July 12 he was recalled to Detroit to do service in Trinity Church as assistant. His further career has been as Pastor of the Catholic Church of Lexington, Sanilac County, where he arrived Dec. 19, 1872. He entered with intrepid zeal upon the work assigned him. Of all the struggles whicli he was called upon to under- go, little is known, save what is self-evident, owing to his uncomplaining endurance and perseverance. In the performance of his ministerial duties, he proved himself a true priest of his Church. Exact and punctual for himself, he makes great allowances for the shortcomings of others; not interfering with the religious views of his fellow-citizens, he is un- compromising in his own belief and in the doctrine of his Church. That he has worked with indefatig- able patience for the welfare of his congregation, can readily be seen by comparing the condition of his parish r i years ago with its present flourishing state. As a citizen he has a reputation of high standing in this vicinity, by his cautious enterprise having contributed in no small degree to the develoiiment of this village. In his business transactions, he is known for his clear judgment and his unswerving integrity. Father Denissen is possessed of the attri- butes tending to make the character of a gentleman. Combining with charity a kind and unostentatious manner, he has won in a marked degree llie affec- tion and esteem of his own flock, as well as of all with whom he has come in contact. His peculiar traits of character are national to the Dutch! Free- dom and independence they have maintained against all odds. Their industry and econouiy are pro- verbial. We might add, that the true Dutchman is self-possessed and liberal. During the best part of his public career, it is evident that lie is shaped truthfully after the pattern of his gallant forefathers. () ') •< ^, •rv *>_ ( |lc eorge E. McNinch, merchant at Ander- |L son, Washington Township, was born Aug. ^2, 1848, in Livingston Co., N. Y. The '/f^ Empire State was also the birth-place of his parents, Samuel and Harriet (Taylor) McNinch. He received a common-school education in his native State, and in 1865 he became a resident of Jv, <^in!i:^:iii]>> )^#^« SANILAC COUNTY. ^m^\m^ 333 t V ^ Michigan, settling in Tuscola County, where he re- mained until the spring of 1882, when he removed to Sanilac County. He bought 80 acres of land in the township of Sanilac, and has now a fine farm, with about 72 acres in tillage. In the winter of 1882 he rented his farm and came to Anderson, where he erected a building for the purpose of establishing the business in which he is now engaged and to which he has since given his entire attention. Mr. McNinch is a Republican in political connection, and belongs to the ISIasonic Order. He was married the first time in Tuscola County, to Victoria Young, a native of Canada, who is deceased. Three children were born of this union, — Asa, Jennie and Joseph. Mr. McNinch was a second time mar- ried June 5, 1S79, to Annie Eyoy, who was born in Canada, Nov. 6, 1849. Two children, born of this second marriage, died in infancy. •"vtujefi/®-^^- -^^J^iaznfv f §^harles Corbishley, merchant at Sandusky, was born Aug. i, 1848, in London, Ont_ He was a resident of St. Clair, Mich., from the age of six months to 16 years, and there re- ceived a common-school education. He fol- lowed the lakes as a sailor from the age mentioned until the fall of 187 1, when he relin- quished sailing and went to Smithville, St. Clair County, where he embarked in a general mercantile enterprise as a clerk, remaining in the position about five years. In 1S76, he opened the same line of business in his own behalf. He continued its man- agement until the spring of 1879, when he transfer- red his interests to Sandusky, Sanilac County. He met with a satisfactory degree of success, and in the spring of 1882 erected and took possession of the building where he has since prosecuted his business. His location, opposite the recently constructed court- house, is regarded as one of the most desirable, from a business point of view, in the village. His stock is estimated at $4,000, and his annual transactions average $17,000. His possessions include three im- proved village lots and 120 acres of choice land, finely located on the north side of Sandusky village. Mr. C. is a Republican in political faith and con- nection, is a member of the Order of Masonry, be- longing to Blue Lodge, No. 142, and to St. Clair Commandery, No. 12. He was married July 2, 1876, to Mary E. Vin- cent, who was born at Burchville, St. Clair Co., Mich., in January, 1859, and is the daughter of John and Catherine Vincent. Of this union three children have been born, as follows: Fred A., Nov. 9, 1878; Lee J,. Nov. 15, 1880; and May, Dec. 15, 1883. ^=H=#>=H=E^ ■rF® iniliam Grant, farmer, section -lo, Fremont pi^^&sl,. Township, was born July 8, 1835, m Aber- j|^*i ' * deen, Scotland. He is the son of Alex- ia ander and Isabella Grant. The former died in Granton, Can. The mother is living with one of her sons at Point Edward. The family emigrated to the American continent in 1843, landing at Quebec. The father bought a farm in the town- ship of Riddulph, where he passed the remainder of his life. Mr. Grant was reared to the age of 18 years on his father's farm, coming in 1853 to Michigan, where he was engaged during the winter season in the lumber woods, and returned for the labors of the summers to Canada until the fall of 1856, when he bought 1 60 acres of land. The entire tract was in a wholly wild state, it having probably never been crossed by a white man previous to his ownership, and not a stick of timber had been removed from it. He spent two years on the place in solitude and isolation, lumbering winters and chopping and clear- ing summers. His marriage to Miranda Beal occurred March i 7 , 1 86 1. She was the daughter of Ezekiel and Tabitha (Fitzgerald) Beal. Her father died when he was about 53 years old, in Speaker Township. Her mother is living. The wife was born Nov. 22, 1840, near York, Maine, and died July 4, 1873, leaving five children. They were born as follows : Leslie C, Dec. 8, 1861; William A., Nov. 5, 1863; Lowell E., April 7, 1866; Mary J., May 23, 1868; and Clara A., Sept. 30, 1870. Mr. Grant was a second time mar- ried April 19, 1875, to Margaret A. Schram. She ^ ( i f&) ^? ? ^ •^m>^ 4^^^^(^m "z^^^sir r- SANILAC COUNTY. Jm ^ was born and bred a farmer's daughter, and her par- ents, Peter G. and Catherine Ann (Flake) Schram, are living on a farm in Greenwood Township, St. Clair Co., Mich. Mrs. Grant was born Feb. 7, 1852, in Nisouri, Canada. Of four children l)orn of the second marriage three are living. Alice was born April 5, 1876; John H. was born Aug. 8, 1878, and died Jan. 24, 1882; Catherine was born June 20, 1880; Isabella, March 16, 1884. Mr. Grant has served several terms as Township Clerk, and has officiated as School Inspector since the organization of the township. 'S^'^^^l ^?wr- ) ) . ohn Ireland, proprietor of the Everett House at Marlette, was born July 5, 1848' and is the son of John and Mary (Craig) "flS Ireland. His father was born in the capital ^ It city of the "Green Isle," and was educated there ; ■'^ \ he was the eldest of four sons and two daughters -^ born to his parents — John and Esther ( Hawthorn ) ,^ Ireland. He began his career as a teacher in Dublin, \, and in 1844 emigrated to Canada and engaged in his chosen vocation in the Niagara District, going thence to Bertie, where he met and married Mary Craig, an estimable young lady, and daughter of David and Ann Craig. The marriage occurred Sept. r2, T846. Of their union three children were born, in the fol- lowing order : John, as stated ; Lavinia, March 10, 1850, who married David Adair and resides at Ade- laide, Ont. ; Newton, Aug. 2, 1851, since deceased; and Hugh, March 29, 1854, who married Elizabeth Adair and resides at Marlette. Their mother died June 13, 1855. Mr. Ireland, senior, pursued his pro- fession 30 years and won a wide reputation as a mathematician. He is now retired on a pension. The first recorded ancestors of the Ireland family emigrated from Scotland to Ireland in the reign of James II. Some of them were farmers and others ' engaged in the white-lime trade. There was a tra- ^ dition current that the Hawthorns and Aikens ^ owned and controlled the town of Cluntaug, parish of ^ Killileagh, County Down, Ireland. The ancestors \® in the maternal line (Hawthorn) .were very wealthy, ^ possessing estates yielding an income so large that v> the loss of 30,000 pounds sterling, by the collapse of a bank in which tttat amount was dsposited, made no perceptible difference in their affairs. Mr. Ireland of this sketch was born in Bertie, VVelland Co., Ont. He passed some years as a farmer, and was also a hotel proprietor at Strathroy three years. He obtained a fair education in the common schools in his youth. In the spring of 1878, became to Sanilac County and bought 160 acres of land in Marlette Township. Of this he took possession and remained upon it four months, when he rented the place and removed to Attica, Lapeer County. He rented the Williams House there, which he managed about two years, returning at the end of that time to his farm. After a few months he went to North Branch, Lapeer County, and rented the Exchange Hotel for two years. In September, 1883, he came to Marlette and bought the hotel which he now owns and manages. It is the leading place of public entertainment in Marlette, and is known as the Everett House. Mr. Ireland is a Republican in po- litical principles and views. He was married in 1874, in Strathroy, Ont., to Hannah, daughter of Paul and Elizabeth (Graham) Kingston, and the following children have been born to them : Isaac Newton, June ro, 1875, at Strathroy ; John Walter, June 27, 1878, at Attica, Lapeer Co., Mich.; Edith May, May 7, 1881. Mrs. Ireland was born Oct. 14, 185 1, at Enniskillen, Kent Co., Ont. Her parents removed when she was an infant to Adelaide, Middlesex Co., Ont., where her father died, Feb. 14, 1864. Her mother still lives in Adelaide. The family are communicants in the English Church. Mr. Ireland's father was baptized into that communion in Ontario, by the Rev. Edward Hinks, brother of Sir Francis Hinks, the celebrated financier of the Dominion. -^-^'vT.^^i- -yi '^f\ acob Gumming, merchant at Carsonville, JilSMlii Washington Township, came to Sanilac ffi m^ym^ ^, <^M County in 1882. He is one of the sub- VllT stantial citizens of the county and is the pro- T prietor of a fine farm ol 268 acres in Washing- I ton Township, which he bought soon after he became a resident here. He also bought real estate :^:tjtj;?>.:^, f v^ ^5 ^ 0) fc". 1 -^^^ ^^V<-ill USD Df^^r^e^ :^&^ (b 1 I ? SANILAC COUNTY. in Carsonville, where he built his home. In May, 1883, in company with Thomas \V. Preston, he en- gaged in lumbering and mercantile business, which they have since prosecuted with success. Mr. Gum- ming is a Republican in political connection, and a member of Charity Grange, No. 417, P. of H. He also belongs to the I. O. of G. T. Mr. Gumming was born May 9, 1837, in Ganada, and is the third son of his parents, William and Mar- garet (Bell) Gumming. The former was born in Scotland, the latter in Ireland. Both came to the Dominion in early life, where they m.irried, settled and spent the remainder of their lives. Their family included 11 children. Mr. Gumming received a common-school education and remained at home until he was 24 years of age, when he became posses- sor of a farm and pursued agriculture in the Domin- ion until 1880, when he went to Pennsylvania. In the fall of 1880 he came to Michigan and resided at various points until he settled at Carsonville. He was married in Ganada, June 25, 1869, to Eleanor M. Jarvis, who was born in Halton Co., Ont., Aug. 17, 1847. William T- is their only child. Mr. and Mrs. Camming are members of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs. Gumming is a niece of John White, ex-member of the Canadian Parliament. .^wmTi^ '• ')'p^^ orton HoUister, farmer, section 31 (frac- \'!Mm^ tional), Worth Township, is the son of 5/ k Samuel L. and Sybil (Norton) HoUister. . They were natives respectively of the State of New York and Canada, and after marriage set- tled in Cattaraugus Co., N. Y. The father died there, in the summer of 1849. Their family included nine sons and a daughter. Mr. HoUister was born July 8, 1S15, in Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., and is the second in order of birth of his parents' childien. In the fall of 1837 became to St. Clair County, and until 1841 was engaged in lumber- ing. In the winter of that year he came to Sanilac County and settled on 120 acres of land in the town- ship of Worth, which he purchased from the Govern- ment. The entire county was then in a state of wildness and the first house built in the county was erected by him on his farm. He now owns no acres, and has 60 acres under good cultivation. In the summer of 1874, the jirimiiive log house gave place to a fine frame dwelling of modern style. In political connection, Mr. HoUister is a Democrat, and has officiated in several local official positions, among them Supervisor and Justice of the Peace. He was married July 8, 1841, in St. Clair Co., Mich., to Matilda, daughter of Jonathan and Maria (Gale) Burtch. She was born in Guilford, Chenango Co., N. Y., March i, 1823. Mr. and Mrs. HoUister have two surviving children, namely . Ella M., now Mrs. William Dunning, and Arthur W. Chaancey A. and Allison E. are deceased. The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. ^€^««^ ^^Dgr^niif^ -| 7^1 lexander Weston, farmer, section 35, Fre- ij||; mont Township, has been a resident of rrll'Sf:^! Sanilac County since 1855, and of Mich- !?|!}^ igan since 1840, in which year he came to Port \d^ Huron. In the year named he located on his j farm containing 80 acres, which was then in a perfectly wild and unimproved condition, and the home of deer, bears and wolves, the animals abund- ant in the woods. The township was unorganized, and Mr. Watson has been a participant in all its prog- ress and advancement. At its first election there were 12 voters. Mr. Weston has officiated one term as Justice of the Peace, and has served four years as Constable. He was born in the town of Barrack on the river Tweed, England, April 24, 1806, and is the son of William and Jane (Badgeley) Weston. Both parents died in England. His father was a brick and tile maker, and reared his son lo the same calling, ac- cording to the English custom. He left his native land in 1832, and on reaching the United States he went to Mooretown, Clinton Co., N. Y., where he passed eight years engaged chiefly in brick-making. He has made very little tile since coming to this country. He came to Port Huron in 1840 and worked at his trade there about four years, making the brick for the court-house and jaU in that city. He then ^ Cil 9MN"mm^^ ^^K — ^v^^^n n ^iDf-^-r^ SAN-JLAC COUNTY. engaged in lumbering in St. Clair County, getting out staves and round and square timber. He lived some sliyears at Gray's Corners, St. Clair County, and Rose- 1 burg, Sanilac County. (§; Mr. Weston was first married in 1825 in England, to Ruth Newton. She died of cholera, in Sarnia, Ont., in 1835, leaving six children, all of whom but one still survive her. Eliza is the wife of Edward Morris, of Lexington ; Mary is Mrs. Conrad Gordon ; Alex- ander died in the spring of 1884, in Ohio, leaving a widow, //^-c Margaret Baker; Alice married Edward Jones, of Port Huron, and removed to Minnesota, where her husband died ; Thomas and George are residents of Fremont Township. Mr. Weston was a second time married in i860, to Eliza Huntley, and by this union there have been five children, viz.: William W. ; Ida May, who married Allen Stevens; Effie Jane, the wife of Joseph Duffy, and living with her parents; Caphtoly and Ira Ambrose. The last two mentioned are aged respectively 15 and 12 ^rv years. ) :-^ C=lXS3 ^oses Burns, farmer, resident on section 1 1, Fremont Township, was born in Septem- ber, 1834, in Chapel, County Wexford, Ireland. He emigrated to America when he was 18 years of age, landing at Quebec. He made his way to Toronto, where he obtained employment on a farm. He labored on a farm six months, after whicli he was occupied as a teamster. He remained about three years in the Dominion. At the end of that time he came to Detroit and went to the land office in that city, where he effected a pur- chase of 160 acres of land, at 50 cents per acre, under the Graduation Act. He made another purchase, which increased his claim to 240 acres. He and a brother took possession of the tract, built a shanty and chopped a small " slashing." He has engaged in lumbering, and has lived on his farm since he first commenced the work of clearing and improving. Mr. Burns was married in St. Clair, in 1856, to Bridget O'Conner. She was born about 1839, in the ^ city of Tamond, County Wexford, Ireland. Her father ^ died in Canada when she was young; her mother n> died in Worth Township. Seven children have been l)orn to Mr. and Mrs. Burns, six sons and a daugh- ter, viz.: William E., born Nov. 3, 1857; John B., April I, i860; Anna S., Aug. 25, 1862 ; Moses, April 6, 1864; Thomas, July 21, 1868; Lawrence, Jan. 15, 1872; James, May 16, 1874. All were born in Fre- mont Township but the eldest. Mr. Burns is a Republican in his principles of national Government. ^«H^» eorge Ervin, blacksmith, resident at Mar- lette, is tlve son of James and Rebecca ""^ (Walker) Ervin. The parents were born respectively in Canada and New York. After their marriage they settled in the Dominion, where they resided until June, 1881, when they came to Marlette to enjoy the care and com- panionship of their son. The father died in Mar- lette Oct. 15, 1881. Three sons and tliree daughters constitiited their family. Mr. Ervin is the eldest son and second in order of birth. He was born March 31, 1836, in Canada West, and was a member of his father's household until he was 19 years of age, when he entered upon his struggle in the world. In 1855, he came to Michigan and entered a claim of 160 acres in Lapeer County. He held his proprietary right therein 14 years, but occupied the property but a short time. He had learned the business of a blacksmith in Can- ada of his father, and on coming to Marlette he opened a shop in the village, which was the third building erected on its present site, the other two be- ing dwellings. He operated as a blacksmith there four years, when he bought 80 acres of land in Mar- lette Township, on which he resided about seven years. At the end of that period he sold out and embarked in a mercantile enterprise in Marlette, in company with Warren Manning, the firm style be- coming Manning & Co. Two years later he sold, out his interest and bought in the same township an- other tract of 80 acres, of which he is still the owner, but has continued a resident of the village of Mar- lette. He has 50 acres of his farm in a finely culti- vated condition. He is also the owner of considerable I <^ll!IKDD-->Ag- m f »)f^t|^ ^> 2 1 ^> 'J) J ^i\ SANILAC COUNTY. ■^V — s«>* ^^^((^Vlg village property, and is altogether in circumstances which reflect credit on his management and mode of life. Mr. Ervin was married in Feburary, 1861, in Ox- ford Co., Canada, to Amanda Vosburg, a native of the State of New York. The family circle now in- cludes si.x children, — Emma R., Rebecca, Libby, Ida and Lilly (twins), and George W. Mr. Ervin is a Republican of no uncertain type. He has made the interests of his township and vil- lage his own, and he has aided in the furtherance of every enterprise that has promised aught of substan- tial benefit or advantage to the generation to which he belongs. He has served Sanilac County four years as Deputy Sheriff; has been constable si.x years, and Highway C'onimissioner four years. He has acted m the capacity of Township Treasurer one year, and three years as Village Marshal. He is a mem- ber of the Order of Masonry. Mr. Ervin has been a personal witness of the growth and prosperity of Mar- lette from its infancy. In addition to his discharge of his duties as a citi- zen of his town and county, he responded affirma- tively to the call of the United States Government in its hour of peril at the hands of the misguided and rebellious South. He enlisted in February, 1863, in Battery A, First Mich. Light Artillery, and served until the close of the war. (This battery was that known as the famous Loomis Battery, and was equipped by the late H. C. Lewis, of Coldwater, Mich:) Among the engagements in which Mr. Ervin took part were the battles of Chickamauga, Missionary Ridge and Lookout Mountain, besides having been a participant in numerous skirmishes. He received an honorable discharge, at Jackson, Mich., and re- turned to his home in Sanilac County. ^^Sf" ^-w^^-f- fe'efferson W. Galbraith, merchant and MM& Postmaster at Amadore, Worth Township, ^''' ^ is the son of John and Nancy Galbraith. (See sketch of John Galbraith.) He was born 'y^ April 25, 1843, in Worth Township, obtained a \ fair education in common schools and attended the High School at Port Huron one summer. At the mm age of 21 years, he went to Lexington and there established himself in the mercantile business, re- maining five years. His business was destroyed by the burning of his building in 1869, and he returned to Worth Township, where he disposed of the residue of his stock. He bought 50 acres of land on Black River, spent two years in clearing it, after which he began the study of surveying, and in 1876 he was elected County Surveyor. He held the position six years. In the spring of i88i he exchanged his land on Black River for property at Amadore, and once more embarked in mercantile pursuits, in which he is successfully engaged. In the spring of 1880 he took charge of the postoffice at Amadore. He is a Re- publican in political matters. •"^p-«¥ f ohn J. Thornton, farmer, section 14, Wash- ington Township, was born June 17, 1820, in Yorkshire, England. His parents, John and Frances (Bowler) Thornton, were also natives of Yorkshire, and in 1829 emigrated thence to Canada, where they passed the re- maining years of their lives. They had 13 children, eight sons and five daughters. Mr. Thornton of this sketch is the third son. He was a lad of nine years when he came with the fam- ily to Canada, and there received such education as the facilities of the place afforded. In i860 he left the Dominion to come to Sanilac County. He set- tled in the township of the same name, removing thence four years later to Washington Township, where he has since resided. The first marriage of Mr. Thornton took place in Canada, Feb. 22, 1843, to Eliza Powers, who was a native of the Dominion. She died Dec. 27, 1843, after the birth of a son, — Richard B., — who still sur- vives. Mr. Thornton was a second time married, in Can^-r SANILAC COUNTY. XOJ /7S > V') widow of Frederick Carter. Her death occurred in the year 1872, and Mr. Thornton married his pres- ent wife, Louisa M. Pack, May 7, 1874. She was born in Madison Co., N. Y., April 18, 1830. Mr. Thornton is a Repubhcan in political views. He has held the office of Township Treasurer two years and Clerk several years; also has officiated four years as Justice of the Peace. The family at- tend the Methodist Episcopal ("hurch. -«aec/©^-"— ^^^ -^^^!' IfF]^,!' illi^ni ^- Nims, retired farmer and mer- ""■^JAg chant, resident at Lexington, was born JK>i^ " June 7, 1829, at Richmond, Vt. His K^' father, Reuben Nims, M. D., was born Nov. '"* 10, 1794. in the State of Massachusetts. He came in 1854 to Lexington, Sanilac County and remained a year. In 1855 he went to Romeo, Ma- comb Co., Mich., where he retired upon a farm of 120 acres, which he purchased in the vicinity of that village. He died there in February, 1869. The mother, Sophia (Whiten) Nims, was born in Lee, Mass., March 15, 1799, and is yet living, at Romeo, in comparative health and vigor. Mr. Nims received a good education in the Green Mountain State, and after leaving school he entered a store, where he operated some time as a salesman. He was acquainted with John Wood, a merchant and lumberman of Lexington, and he came hither in 1853 and entered his employment as a clerk in his store. After a service of three years he was admitted as a partner in the business, under the firm style of J. L. Wood & Co., which afterward became Wood, Nims & Co. He withdrew from the connection in 1S80, after a business career of 24 years. He owns a very fine farm of 170 acres, situated north of Lex- ington, and since his withdrawal from commercial transactions he has been engaged in the manage- ment of his agricultural interests. He is making a specialty of thoroughbred Guernsey cattle, and pur- chased two head of a Massachusetts importer. His herd at present includes a dozen fine samples of stock. His residence in the village was built in 1874 of brick, and has six acres of land attached, besides some vacant lots. Mr. Nims has discharged a citizen's obligations several times in the offices of .\lderman and President of the Board of Trustees of Lexington. In the fall of 1864 he was elected to represent his district in the Senate of Michigan on the Republican ticket, securing a victory over the opposition candidate by a large majority. He served on Committees of Finance and other subjects, with fidelity. He was first married June 10, 1S56, in Richmond, Vt., to Miss S. B. Greene. She was the -daughter of Ezra B. and Jane P. (Bucklin) Greene, and was born May 8, 1833, in Richmond, Vt. -She died in Detroit June 10, 1862. Mr. Nims was again married in Lex- ington, Jan. 15, 1872, to Catherine H., daughter of Robert A. and Catherine (Fitzgerald) Schell. She was born Sept. 8, 1848, in Canada. The children who constitute the issue of this marriage were born as follows : William R., Dec. 15, 1874; Mary A., May 24, 1880; Robert J., Sept. 23, 1883. vi: Z< "Sf^^r raham J. Lawson, farmer, section 13, Fre- ii^Ssi'L mont Township, was born Nov. 26, 1847, '&&' *" '" Esquessing, Halton Co., Can. His r*J^ father, John Lawson, was born Sept. 29, 1818, { in Perthshire, Scotland, and married Mary A. 1 Clark, who was born May 12, 182 1, in the county of Inverness, Scotland. They emigrated to America previous to their marriage -and settled in Canada, where they reared their family. Mr. Lawson remained at home until he was 29 years old, working for his father as he had done during his minority. In the spring of 1876 he came to Sanilac County and bought 40 acres, in the vicinity of a tract of 160 acres purchased by his father in 1855, and which the son now owns by deed of gift. About 40 acres are now under improve- ments. Mr. L. is an adherent of the Republican party. He was married Oct. 17, 1880, to' iMargaret Ken- nedy, who is the daughter of John and Isabella (Mc- Donald) Kennedy. Her father is now living in Esquessing, Can. Her mother died there July 29, V -^^€^r^ — ^-K-^nD:-^t1Ilr>^ f/yT- (g))^t#^ ■ry ■7um]i^^ ■^^iisaf^" SANILAC COUNTY. ¥ c^ « and Timothy.) Arthur N., born May 28, 1858, died Oct. 26, following. Charles S. was born June 29, i860, and is managing a stock ranch in Wyoming Territory, in the interests of Mr. Patrick, of Omaha. Howard R., born May t6, 1862, died Aug. 8 of the same year. The mother died July 27, 1862. Mr. Clark was a second time married in Littleton, N. H., Sept. 8, 1863, to Martha H. Hale. .She is the daugh- ter of Joseph W. and Isabella M. Hale, and was born in Haverhill, Mass., Sept. 27, 1833. Of this marriage two children have been born, — Winthrop W., Jan. 28, 1865, and Arthur H., April 26, 1873. The latter died Nov. 29 following his birth. The subjoined extract is taken from the report of the transactions of the Grand Lodge, F. & A. M., of the State of Michigan for 1S82. It is reproduced as being the best possible manifest of the private char- acter of Mr. Clark, and also as a memorial to the citizens of Sanilac County of the work he accom- plished in the capacity of representative of his order for the relief of the fire sufferers belonging to the fra- ternity. It is also a defined statement of the loss and sufferings of the members of the order, and is a fitting supplement to the biographical sketch of Mr. Clark, and a valuable historical addition to the annals of the Huron peninsula. The "Communi- cation " states that the report of Mr. Clark was ac- cepted and adopted amidst the cheers of the brethren. To the Most Worshipful Grand Lodge Free and Accepted Masons of the State of Michigan: Having been directed by our Most Worshipful Grand Master to distribute the Masonic relief to our distressed brethren of the burnt district, I submit the following report: On the 5th day of September, 1881, a terrible fire swept over that portion of our State embracing the counties of Sanilac, Huron and Tuscola, and in a few short hours at least 15,000 people were left without a home or a shelter, and some 300 human beings perished by the all-devour- ing element. By order of the Most Worthy Grand Master, I visited the "Burnt District," in order to learn to what extent the fraternity had suffered, and I there found distress and suffering among our brethren that I hope and pray I may never witness again. I found more than one hundred of our brethren and their families homeless and houseless, and all their work'ly goods consumed, and where, but a few hours previously they were opulent and in comfortable circumstances, ar.d were now reduced to beggary and want. Two Lodges, viz.: Cato No. 219, and Verona, U. D., with all their furniture, jewels, charter, etc., were swept out of existence. I have obtained, mostly by sworn statements, the losses of the several Lodges in the "Burnt District," and they are as follows: Lexington No. 6, 15 members and $27,600; Port Hope No. 138, 27 members and $61,000; Cato No. 215, 28 members and $54,000; Cass No. 219, five members and $9,000; Sanilac No. 237, six members and $11,170; Tyler No. 315, nine members and $11,500; Marlette No. 343, four members and $3,000; Elk No. 351, three members and $6,000; Verona U. D., 16 members and $86,500. In addi- tion to the above are 15 members and $28,100, be- longing to various Lodges throughout the State and in the Province of Ontario, making a total of 128 Masons in the " Burnt District " who lost nearly $300,000, and on whom relief has been bestowed. As soon as this terrible calamity became known, relief began to be sent, and before any appeal was made in their behalf. I want to mention two in- stances of charity to those sufferers that will never be forgotten. The Masons of Detroit sent more than $400 worth of provision and supplies to Cato Lodge at once on hearing of their calamity, and the other is that of Washington Lodge No. 7, of Tekonsha, who forwarded to me for distribution among the suf- ferers 39 bags of wheat, two bags of corn, one bag of flour and nine boxes of merchandise, containing clothing, bedding, etc. I have received from Most Worthy Brother O. L. Spaulding, Grand Master, for dislriDution, the following cash contributions gener- ously donated . Michigan $4,919.77, Maine $804.5 i , Connecticut $1,229,16, Delaware $55, Illinois $1,180, California $i,io8.5g, W. Virginia $100, Mississippi $840.65, Iowa $500, Indiana $137, Pennsylvania $4,086.47, Wisconsin $500, Louisiana $1,860. Ten- nessee $1,090.06, South Carolina $349-15. Texas $1,356.56, Kansas $300, Kentucky $100, .■\rkansas ' $869.50, Ohio $65, New Jersey $50, New York $125, Missouri $250, Maryland $636, Georgia $295.50. I have distributed this relief among the distressed brethren as follows: Lexington No. 61, 19 members, $2,639.42; Port Hope No. 138, 31 members, $3,- 267.50; Cato No. 215, 34 members, $4,785.86 ; Cass No. 219, seven members, $925; Tylei No. 317, 10 members, $2,300: Sanilac No. 237, nine members, $1,144.04; Marlette No. 343, four members, $225 ; Elk No. 353, four members, $545 ; Memphis No. 142, two members, $125 ; Flint No. 21, one member, $25 ; Lapeer No. 54, one member, $300; Morenci No. 95, one member, $200; Ortonville, No. 339, one member, $25: Ely No. 424 (Ohio), one member, $150; vari- ous Lodges, Ontario, nine members, $1,320 ; Brethren dimitted. seven, $800; Verona L^. D., 15 members, $4,161 ; Davage Lodge No. 374 (Penn.),one member, $50; sundries, $651. Union Lodge, No. 3, Ashlar No. 91, and Oriental No. 240, all of Detroit, have donated and sent to the two Lodges burned out the following goods : Nine V^ (, ®^m^^ A <^D!l^ Wl soon saved sufficient to establish himself again in his favorite calling. He bought a half interest in the schooner "Traveller," but retained his proprietorship only a short time. After making a profitable sale of that interest, he became half owner of the schooner "Sacramento," selling again soon after and buying the propeller " Mohawk Chief," in v/hich he continued his ownevshii) two years, and bought the propeller "Stockman." He again sold out and bought the schooner "L. D. Cornan." The boat was wrecked on Lake Huron, and Mr. James was once more stranded in a business sense, and returned to a career on tlie land in order to re-establish himself He was aj)- pointed Deputy Sheriff of St. Clair County, and dis- charged the duties of the position four years, after which he was appointed Deputy United States Mar- shal and also City Marshal. He was elected .Sheriff of St. Clair County in 1857 and served in that capacity from 1858 to i860. In 1864 became to Lexington and rented the hotel where he is now operating, and continued its man- agement two years, when he disposed of his interest and returned to Port Huron. A few montlis later he returned to Lexington and became proprietor of the Cadillac House, and has since continued its management. The hotel is admirably constructed and fitted for its purpose, and is faithfully and cred- itably conducted. The accommodations are ample for the comfort of 95 guests, and it is the largest hotel in Lexington. A good livery is attached. Since establishing himself permanently at Lexing- ton, Mr. James has lost five barns with their contents by incendiary fire. On one of these occasions he lost five horses, one of them a stallion worth $2,000. The loss also included carriages, harnesses, cutters, and other valuable livery property, and Mr. James nearly perished while striving to save his stock. He was married Dec. 31, 1841, to Angeline Spaulding, and two children were born of their union — William D. (see sketch) and Irene E. (See also sketch of Henry Adams.) Mrs. James is the daughter of Jedediah and Sallie (Tolman) Spaulding, and was born in \\'illiamstown, N. Y., on an island in the St. Lawrence River, June 29, 1824. Her father died June 18, 1865 ; her mother died in August, 1 831;, at Tonawanda, N. Y. While Mr. James was a resident at Port Huron, he conducted the Albion House one year, and also the ^Si22^-^ J^^^ ^^^^^-^ll Huron House of that city, winch he managed two years. He is a member of the Masonic Order, and be- longs to the Lexington Coniniandery, No. 21, and Damascus Chapter, No. 41. «v«acfl;®|@^-H§^ i^^wraaav \^s^ii| athan Shell, farmer, sec. 22, Worth Tp., is a V son of Geo. A. and Jane (Cox) Shell. (See -*3^ •'Y'T' I h IT ^SS- r 1 sketch of G. A. Shell.) He is the second son, and was born March 20, 1856, in Worth Township. He is well educated and a compe- tent, practical agriculturist. He has taught nine terms of district school. In 1880 he bought the farm of which he is now the proprietor, and which consists of 80 acres of land, placed in a highly creditable condition entirely by his-own efforts. He belongs to the Republican party. He was married Aug. 3, 188 1, in Canada, to Jessie Mitchell, who was born March 10, 1862, in the Do- minion. She is a member of the Congregational Churcli. " '"^''^"'^amuel Umphrey, tarnier, section 23, Fre- mont Township, was born Dec. 14, 1822, in the township of Brock, Ontario. His par- ents, Samuel and Lucinda (Woolery) Umphrey, both died in that township. His father was born Jan. 31, 1788, at Prescott, of Scotch-Irish parentage, and died at the age of 75 years. His mother descended from Dutch ancestors, and was born March 16, 17 88, in Canada. Mr. Umphrey was reared on a farm in the Domin- ion and obtained his education in a select school, there being no public schools at that period where he lived. On setting out to become responsible for his own fortunes, he bought a small farm, on which he lived alone one summer, and in the ensuing fall determined on securing companionship. He was A c^: (o^- ^^r^ r^s^^K ©V<^ll n § (1 Ilfthr rr SANILAC COUNTY. married Nov. 5, 1844, to Rachel Kester. She was Dec. 24, 1824, in the township of Markham, Can. ^iJ» Her father, Philip Kester, died in that township June 22, 1 88 1, aged about 90 years. Her mother, Mary (hi (Brown) Kester, died about .1867. They belonged to the agricultural class. Mr. Uniphrey lived two years on the farm referred to, when he sold it and purchased another, which comprised 170 acres. A year later he again sold out and embarked in a commercial enterprise, in the township of Reach. Soon afterward he transferred his stock of goods to a small village named Bprilla, where he operated one year. He exchanged his mercantile interests and possessions for a farm soon afterward, of which he retained the ownership but a short time. On selling the place, he built a saw-mill, which he managed three years, and exchanged for a hotel situated 16 miles northeast of Toronto, at a /( ) point called Milliken's Corners. He ran the hotel three years, and made another f\ exchange for a farm, which he operated three years, ^ and then he made anotlier trade for a farm in Worth I I ■^jy* Township, in Sanilac County. It contained 80 acres, "= and the next year he cleared 46 acres, which he thinks the heaviest clearing up to that date ever done in one year in Sanilac County. After a residence on /^ N it of two years he made an exchange for a farm of 160 acres in another part of the same township, lying on the Wild-Cat Road. He lived and labored thereon three years, when he rented it for a year and went to Iowa with his family, $1,800 in cash, two span of horses and a wagon. Mrs. Umphrey carried 35 pounds of feathers. One year later they retraced their steps to Sanilac County, bringing back $600 in money, but minus horses, harness, wagon and feathers. This loss was all entailed by the financial panic which caused the low price of all farm produce. They returned in the fall and rented a hotel at Amadore, where they remained until spring, when they once more re-possessed their farm. Three years later the place was sold, and the family removed to Chillicothe, Mo., and bought a liotel, paying therefor $8,000. Si.\ months afterward, Mr. Umphrey ex- changed the house for 476 acres of land in Carroll Co., Mo., which was the home of the family for two years. At the end of that time, the proprietor ex- changed the property for another hotel at Chillicothe, V valued at $13,000, which included livery with stables — e^e^D !1 gDDf^-^ ^^'^^ and all other fixtures. Six months later, Mr. Umph- rey exchanged the hotel for a farm, and not long afterward the former was burned, entailing upon him a loss of $5,000. He collected his remaining means and went to Jackson Co., Minn., where he pre-empted 1 60 acres of land, on which he remained until the grasshoppers "jumped his claim " and destroyed his crops. This occurred the second year after his arrival. They placed a family in charge of the house on the place, and returned to Worth Township, to care for a sick daughter. Mr. Umi>hrey went to work as a carpenter. He bought 40 acres of State lands in the township of Fremont near Roseburg, and began improvements, erecting needed farm buildings, etc. After a stay thereon of three years, he sold out and bought a store. He continued his mercantile enterprise one year, meanwhile exchanging his farm in Minnesota for the one he now owns and occupies in Fremont. He soon exchanged his store and trade for another farm, and moved where he now resides. The title to the place he had traded for proving defective, he was obliged to take the store back into his possession, which he did, leaving one of his sons to manage his agricultural interests. In six months he sold the building and removed his stock of goods to Port Huron, where he transacted commercial business about ten months. He sold his stock, and, being in poor health, he suffered serious financial loss from being unable to give proper attention to his accounts. He theu settled on the farm where he has since re- sided. It comprises 80 acres, and he has improved 50 acres and built a good house and barn. Mr. Umphrey has had a life full of eventful change. In addition to his hand-to-hand struggle with the chances of fortune, he has discharged the duties of his citizenship and borne the vicissitudes of his changeful career with equanimity. He has been Justice of the Peace, Overseei of the Poor and while in Minnesota was Postmaster of Hersey, a position he also filled at Roseburg. This county was in its pioneer days when he first made it his home, and he has a fair record as a sportsman in the days when civilization was far enough in the rear to admit of the delights of the hunter's life. He has killed deer and bear within three miles of Lexington village, and also along the Wild-Cat road. He is a Republican in political connection and views; both he and his I V^" ft ^ ( -s«#7a ^^#- ■r:r V^^I1I1^I1I]^> V -:2ij%^^ SANILAC COUNTY. 4^^5C@V^ 347 (^ wife are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Nine children have been born to them, whose records are given as follows : Adam was born Aug. 27, 1845, and was married Sept. 23, 1870, to Vina Wixson ; Henry was born Sept. 3, 1847; George was born Sept. 4, 1849, and was married Dec. 10, 1870, to Elizabeth Scott; Amarillis was born Aug. 11, 1851, and died June 11, 1879. Nelson was born Sept. 28, 1855, and was married in May, 1880, to Anna Cook; Wellington, born Nov. 6, 1857, was married June 30, 1878, to Elinor Soule; Sarah Alice was born Sept. 8, i860, and died April 22, 1869. John Franklin was born Nov. 15, 1861, and James Wesley, Nov. 8, 1863. Sa/vn^-^ 2 Pwlervin B. C iltM' ident on Cody, farmer and stockman, res- section 6, Marlette Township, is the son of Charles G. and Abigail E. ^^\V\^ (Bodvvell) Cody. The former was born Feb. 14, 181 1, in the State of New York. The mother was born in i8i5,in Canada, where the family resided until her deatii in 1879. The father still lives in the Dominion, and is engaged in the employment of the well-known Mutual Fire Insur- ance Company of Canada. Mr. Cody was born June 9, 1843, in Oxford Co., Can., and remained on the family homestead until he was 38 years of age. He was married meanwhile, to Mary F., daughter of Gilbert and Eliza (Burnett) Harris. She was born April 13, 1842, in Oxford Co., Can., and died Oct. 29, 1879, leaving two children, — Annette C, born July 29, 1866, and Arthur B., born Jan. 30, 1869. Two years after the death of his first wife, Mr. Cody was married to Helen B. Smart. She was born April i, 1852, in Dover, Kent Co., England, and is the daughter of James B. and Sarah E. (Chatte) Smart. The latter was a native of the same shire, and the father was born in the ca|)ital city of Scotland, Edinburgh, Feb. 6, 1S04. They came to Canada in 1858 or 1589, and the mother died in Whitley Township, Can., in 1865. The father resides in Dixon Co., Kan. Following is the record of four children born of the second marriage of Mr. Cjdy: Roy, born Nov. 12, 1873; Jennie L., April 16, 1877; Mabel E., Jan. 6, 1880; Abbie W., July 19, i88i. Mr. Cody removed to Michigan in 1881, and located on 120 acres of land in Marlette Town- ship. It comprises 40 acres of cleared and improved land with good farm buildings. He is a Republican in political views, and he and his wife are members of the Baptist Church. icholas E. Rector, farmer, section 31, Fre- mont Township, claims priority of settle- ^ ment in the part of Sanilac County of which he became a resident in 1852. He (G settled in Fremont Township, wiiich he readied Dec. 3, and was the first permanent settler within what is now the limits of the township. It was then a part of Worth Township, to which it was attached for municipal purposes. The settlers of the east half of Woith Township became dissatisfied with the apportionment of funds, and although they were few in number they petitioned for, and were successful in obtaining, their ciiarter. Mr. Rector aided in the organization of Fremont, and every citizen was made an office-holder at its first town meeting. The first residents who settled after he located were Abraham Spring, Silas Harris and John Spring, who secured the farms on which they lived and died, in the spring of 1883. The first visit of Mr. Rector to Sanilac County was made in the spring of 1838. He was in the lake service and came to Birchville, St. Clair County, where he procured a loid of tan-bark for Kirby's tannery at Detroit. He continued to operate along the Michigan shore five years, bringing provisions and other supplies to the lumbermen and carrying away shingles, lumber, tan-bark and cordwood, which he delivered in Detroit. He was in Lexington for the first time in the fall of 1839, and that metropolis then consisted of one log shanty, inhabited by a man named Simons. He shipped shingles throughout the summer of 1840 from that point to Detroit in his father's vessel. Iir the fall of the same year he ^: l\®^^^-- ■^MnB^>^. i^^IlI]^IiD^•>-^ ,d, > ■<^• V > .0 ^ SAN/LAC COUNTY. -4^€^((^vii brought to Lexington the first frame house erected there. It was framed at Port Huron. On taking possession of his farm, he erected a log house, the first built in Fremont Township, and the frame house he built was the second of the kind in the county of Sanilac. He has been active in the local affairs of the township, and has officiated 21 years as Justice of the Peace. He has been School Director 13 years, and in the spring of 1862 was the only legal official in the township, the several individuals who held the position at various other points being aliens. Mr. Rector is a Democrat. He was born July 17, 1824, in Onondaga Co., N. Y. His parents, John and Sally (Howard) Rector, were natives of the Empire State, his father being born in Albany, Jan. i, 1800. His mother was born Jan. 27, 1800, and died at Red Run Corners, Ma- comb Co., Mich., in 1872. The father died in 1879. Five of their children grew to maturity. Mr. Rector is the eldest of the children born to his parents, and when he was 15 years old he left home to connect himself with the canal service in his native State, his parents receiving his pay until he was 22 years of age. He sailed on the lakes for some years after quitting the canal. During that time he had a fall, from the top-gallant yard of a vessel, a distance of 76 feet, striking on his back on a plank in a yawl-boat lying alongside. He was dis- abled a year, and for months his recovery was thought impossible. His marriage to Mary A. Thompson occurred Dec. 6, 1844. Their children have been born as follows: Lorenzo M., Nov. 3, 1848, in Algonac, St. Clair County; Nicholas A., born Feb. 16, 1851, at Clyde Mills, St. Clair County, died .-Xug. 13, 1874; Homer A., March 31, 1853, at Port Huron; Sally S., Aug. 13, 1855; Eliza J., Jan. 23, 1857; Louisa C, July 23, 1859; Henry, Oct. 23, 1861; Nathaniel H., Sept. 15, 1864 (died Aug. 10, 1865); Marion J., Sept. 5, 1866; an unnamed infant died when three days old; Willis Eli, June 3, 1874. All but the three first named was born in Fremont Townsliiji. Mrs. Rector was born Dec. 22, 1829, in London, Eng. Her father, James S. Thompson, a Scotch- man, died in May, 1845, aged about 40 years. Her mother, Mary (Stanton) Thompson, a native of Eng- land, died in Detroit Jan. 17, 1843, at the age of 35 years. Mrs. Rector was the eldest of the children of her father's family, of whom five grew to maturity. She was a child when they came to Canada, and re- mained there until she was 13 years old, when she came to Detroit, Mich. 'f%WA\\ia,ra C. Sherman, editor of the "Mar- it Ifi) m'^ ll^^i, lette Litti/t'r," was born May 22, 1862, in '%^p. ' Caro, Tuscola Co., Mich. His parents, i|i!^'' William E. and Sarah E. (McGlone) Sher- man, were born respectively in New York and Ohio. .\fter their marriage they settled in Tuscola County, where Mr. Sherman, senior, enga"ed in lumbering, in which pursuit he secured a compe- tency. Later,heengagedin mercantile business, which he pursued with moderate success, and, after some years, retired from active life. Orra F., William C. and Maud M. are the names of the three children belonging to the family. Mr. Sherman is the second son. He was educated in the common schools of his native place, which he attended up to the age of 15 years. On arriving at that period he found himself the custodian of his own fortunes. He was variously engaged for three years, and when 18 years old he apprenticed himself to acquire the details of the " Black Art." He found it congenial and made such rapid progress in the craft that at the end of three years he was foreman of the establishment where he served his term of in- denture, with a corps of six men under his supervi- sion. On quitting that position, he was for a time inclined to embark in mercantile interests, but by some chance failed to pursue that business. He was employed about a year in a printing house at Cass City, Mich., and in October, 1883, he came to Mar- lette, where, a few months later, he assumed his present position as editor of the Leader. The paper is Republican in its purposes and is a popular and well-sustained journal under the present manage- ment. Mr. Sherman is a member of Marlette Lodge No. 1775, K. of H. His marriage to Mattie E. Scott occurred at East Saginaw, July 6, 1883. She was born Oct. 6, 1862, in Washington Co., N. Y., and is the daughter of Darius O. and Mary A. (Ward) Scott. f^/x^ V&) V T — r V I^V®))«^#- -^^ -^^iiti^finf>^ JSi^^^ -^4©v^f?) "^^^if^ cr-7^>D p :^ u Us>r ^ai'^ii^^" SANILAC COUNTY. OOP - ) ooo illiam H. Ennest, teacher and farmer resident on section 36, Washington Tovvn- l^Z"' ship, was born Jan. 28, 185 1, in Oxford !' Co., Ont. He is the eldest child in his , father's family, and has been a resident of !__ Sanilac County since he was 15 years of age. He attended the common schools until the age of 13 years, when he was sent to the academy at Wood- stock, Can., and was a student there two years. He adoi)ted the profession of teaching, which he has fol- lowed since iS6g. He is the proijrietor of 44 acres of cleared and cultivated land, which is his home- stead. His parents, George and Amanda (Mitchelson) Knnesl, were natives of the State of New York. After their marriage they settled in Canada, where the wife and mother died, .\fter that loss, the father removed 10 Sanilac County (in 1866), and settled where he still resides, in \Vashington Township. He married again, and the issue of his second union included live children. William H. and Minnie J. are the children of his first wife. Mr. Ennest of this sketch was married in Sarnia, Out., March 17, 1874, to Laura C. Potts. She was born in Lexington Township, Dec. 19, 1851. Their children were born as follows: Ralph H., July 7, 1876; Carrie, Oct. 30, 1S78; Mary, Sept. 8, 1883. Mr. Ennest's political opinions are in accord with tiiose of the Republican party. He has been active in official school positions. His wife belongs to the Methodist Episcopal Church. M^ '' ranklin P. Philo, farmer and meclianic, ;lC ' resident on section 20, Watertown Town- 1. ship, was born in Lapeer Township, in the ^^[j^ county of the same name, Sept. 18, 1854, and ^fe^ is the son of Jared L. and Catherine R. {(iraves) i Philo. They were natives of the State of New York, and the father is yet living, in Lapeer County. The mother died about 1875. 349" Mr. Philo was reared on his father's farm, and ob- tained his education in the common schools. At the age of 20, he abandoned the farm and devoted his attention to the acquisition of the details of the trade of carpenter and joiner. He completed his knowl- edge of the business and spent some years in its prosecution at various points in Michigan. Li 1S78, he came to Sanilac County, and purchased the farm which is now his homestead. It comprised 40 acres, and at the date of purchase was wholly wild and un- improved. Ai present nearly the entire tract is under cultivation, and in addition to his labors as an agri- cultural pioneer, he has devoted much time to his trade. He is a Democrat in political faith and action, and has held the positions of Highway Com- missioner and the various school oflices. He belongs to the K. O. T. M. O. T. VV., Lodge No. 272, located at Sandusky, and holds its official trusts. In 1883 he was delegate to the annual meeting of the Mac- cabees at Detroit; was Census Enumerator of his township for 1S84. His marriage occurred Oct. 9, 1876, in Elba, La- peer County, to Alice Brookins, who wa% born in that township Feb. 21, 1857. Two children have been born of this union, as follows: Herbert, Aug. 12, 1879, and Archie, July 7, i88r. y^ s ( eorge Hinkson, Jr., farmer, section 28, ,, Worth Township, is the son of George and ^jKS=^ Margaret (McGill) Hinkson. His father % was born in Vermont, the mother in Scotland, t After their marriage they settled in Canada, I where they engaged in farming, and there re- mained until December, 1845. At that date they came to Sanilac County, and purchased 1 60 acres of land in Worth Township. In the spring of 1867 they sold the property and removed to Oakland Co., Mich. After a residence there of 1 1 years they went to Detroit, removing two years later to Le.xington, their present residence. Their family included four , sons and two daughters. Two of the former survive. %-' Mr. Hinkson was born July 22, 1830, in Canada. ^^ He obtained a fair common-school education, and ^ attained his majority in Sanilac County, whither he v£ accompanied his parents when he was 15 years of /^ t ) /7S SANILAC COUNTY. ■"Sas^^^ST age. He was bred to the vocation of farmer, and in 1866 bought the farm on which his father located on coming to Sanilac County. It comprised 160 acres, and he has since added 80 acres. He retains the entire tract except two acres, which he sold to the railroad company. The remainder is all under culti- vation except 38 acres. The proprietor is one of the pioneer settlers of Worth Townsliip, and has been identified with its best interests since he has lived here. He has been Supervisor five years, .School Inspector a long period, and Townsliip Clerk a num- ber of years. He is a Republican in politics. His first marriage occurred in May, 1852, when Phebe Strevel became his wife. She died in March, 1853, leaving one child, George H. Mr. Hinkson was again married in Worth Township, May 8, 1856, to Jane McCardle. Six children have been born of this union, namely : Maria L., Maggie, William, John, Bertha and Irving C. The last named child died when he was three years old. Mr. Hinkson has been a teacher for 1 2 years, three of which were passed in that occupation in his own district. 2 -4 ^^^^-i^-W^~- = ' l"f (I't osiah Reynolds, merchant at Amadore *'^MLj find fanner on section 27, Worth Town- £?->"^*^ ship, is the son of .Arnold and Mary (Thomas) Reynolds. The parents were natives of the State of New York, where they married and passed a number of years of their lives after that event. They removed to Canada, and in' 1848 came to Sanilac County, where they terminated their earthly career. Their family comprised eight children. Mr. Reynolds is the youngest child of his |)arents, and was born Dec. 15, 1833, in Canada. He was 14 years of age when he came to Michigan, and attained to man's estate in the Peninsular State. He enlisted Sept. 9, 1862, in the Sixth Michigan Cavalry, and served as a soldier a little more than a year. In the engagement at Falling Waters, Md., July 14, 1863, his right leg was shot off below the knee, and consequently received his discharge from the service of the United States, and returned to his home in Sanilac County. In 1866 he came to Amadore and established " Reynolds' Hotel," which he continued to conduct seven years. In 1874 he embarked in trade, and has since been engaged in successful business in that line. He is also exten- sively interested in agriculture, owning 427 acres of . land situated in the townships of Worth and Fre- mont, and of this 300 acres are under cultivation. He is a Democrat in political connection, and has held the office of School Director. He belongs to Post H. H. Nims, No. 118, G. A. R., Dept. of Mich. He was married April i, 1858, in St. Clair Co., Mich., to Eliza Foe. She was oorn Aug. 28, 1839, in Canada. Mr. and Mrs. Reynolds have had nine children, five of whom yet survive. They are named Caroline, Charles J., Nellie, Wallace and Clifford. Mary and Wallace are deceased; also two unnamed infants. -It?!" ^(iiji illiam Thompson, retired merchant, and I^A^ farmer on section 35, Bridgehampton 'it;^!^, Township, has been a citizen of Sanilac • i's^ County since 1865, and has been closely .fsT^ connected with the business interests and I, prosperity of this part of the county for nearly 20 years. On removal to Michigan, he was variously occupied for a short time. His first business venture of much importance was his embarkation in trade with W. Raymond & Co., iii 1870, at "Farmer's." The relation existed about six years, when Mr. Thompson became owner of the entire commercial interests of the firm. He continued its management until September, 1882, when he sold out and took possession of his fine and valuable farm, which con- tains 370 acres, with 150 acres in a state of good cultivation. Mr. Thompson was Postmaster at ■'Farmer's" about 12 years, receiving his appoint- ment to the position in 1870. In 1880 he built an elavator at the depot, which has a capacity of 24 car- loads of grain. In political connection he is a Re- publican, and is a member of the Masonic Order. He was born Jan. 10, 1827, in Manchester, Eng- land, and IS the eldest son of Archibald and Jane (Collins) Thompson. The former was a native of Scotland, the latter of England. They married and y^ () J- ^ e^: I I I |i)A,®))^^#^ ^'^^^f^ — ^M^um)^^ <> ^) ^ ■■'■-J SAN/LAC COUNTY. ^^^m\A 35' settled in the city of Manchester, removing subse- quently to Scotland, whence they again transferred their residence to the Isle of Man. Mrs. T. died in England, and Mr. T. came to tlie United States and settled in Te.xas. He died in Indianapolis, Ind., aliout the year 1854. Mr. Thompson is the eldest of five sons born to his parents. At ten years of age be became an assistant in a diy-goods store, where he remained five years. He came to the United States when he was 16 years old, and went to Cincinnati, Ohio, where he served an apprenticeship of eight years, learning the business of a ship carpenter. He passed 21 years in Cincinnati and Madison, Ind., pursuing his trade of ship-builder and engaged in steam-boating. During the war, he was foreman of the Dry Dock Company at Madison. His marriage to Elizabeth, daughter of Anthony and Ellen Oldfield, took place Sept. 15, I ^rS ^^^^ 4^^5(P= i ■■^r^tlii^>v SANILAC COUNTY. him liable, and afterwards went to Canada, where he ,. I cleared a farm and became wealthy, when he paid t?:^ the balance, principal and interest. The maternal I grandmother of Mr. Wi.xson, Rachel Eggleston, was ^ born July 4, 1776, on the identical day the American colonies declared their " Independence." \%Xi 'ette Township, is the son of William and — S>5- -o<^--SS>o— #^-J<«- :^'(|Killiam T. Wilson, farmer, section 8, Mar- m •'•>. 2 J 'j/~ Mary (Thistleton) Wilson. The parents i> were born in Lincolnshire, England, where they passed their entire lives. Tiieir eldest child, Mary, died in infancy. Mr. Wilson was born in the same shire as his par- ents, Dec. I, 1828. He was reared to mature years in his native country, and was brought up a farmer. When he was 23 years of age he came to America and settled in Canada, where he lived between five and six years, working as a farm assistant. In the fall of 1856, he came to Michigan, where he bought 160 acres of land belonging to the Government, on which he settled the following year and commenced his active life as an independent land-holder. His real estate now includes 240 acres and 150 of this are in finely cultivated condition. In political senti- ment, Mr. Wilson adopts the principles of the Repub- lican party, and has officiated as Highway Commis- sioner. His marriage to Mary E. Burnett took place at Alton, Canada, Nov. 23, 1857. .She is a native of Scotland and has become the mother of two children — William and Mary. ^•®fK«W®>^ i^iaptain William H. Beal, farmer, section 1 ^^^ 28, Watertown Township, was born Sept. 1;^ 18, 1836, in Canandaigua, Seneca Co., N. Y. '3^ He is a son of Israel and Temperance '^ (Howell) Beal, natives of Connecticut and descendants of English parentage. His grandfather was a General of the War of the Revo- lution. Israel Beal was a soldier in the Mexican War, and in 1S42 came to Medina Co., Ohio, where he died, at the age of 47 years. The mother died in July, 1876, in Sandusky, Ohio, aged 67 years. Their family included seven children, as follows; Christopher, William H., Israel A., Elizabeth, Zelmer (deceased), Constantine (deceased), and Edla. All the sons were soldiers in the War of the Rebellion. The youngest reached the rank of First Lieutenant, and died after he returned home, from tlie effects of a wound received while in action. Mr. Beal was six years old when his parents came to Medina Co., Ohio. His father died when he was 13 years old, since which date he has been engaged in his single-handed contest with the world. He began earning his livelihood as a farm laijorer and was thus occupied in Medina County until he was 19 years old. He went then to White House ni Lucas County, where he engaged as a salesman in the general store of Alexander Walt, and remained in that employment until he was 21 years old. He was married in December, 1857, at Hull Prai- rie, in Wood Co., Ohio, to Maria E., daughter of Abraham and Maria E. (Rennard) Yount. Her parents were natives of Pennsylvania, of German descent, who removed from the Keystone State to Wood County, where they passed the remaining years of their lives. The father died May 14, 1857 ; the demise of the mother occurred April 11, 1S82. Mr. Beal is the eighth of nine children born to her parents^ She was born Oct. 30, 1839, in Wood Co., Ohio. She is the mother of seven children, born as follows: Inez, Aug. 26, 1858; Zelma, Dec. 20, i860; George, Sept. 23, 1862; Maria G., July 1, 1866: Amber J., Oct. 20, 1869; Sophronia, Feb. 3, 1872; Constantine, Feb. 23, 1876. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Beal located on a farm in Wood County, where he operated until he felt it his duty to respond to the call of liis imperiled country, as, witliin the first days after the rebel guns fired on Fort Sumter and awoke the latent patriotism in the breast of every loyal son of the United States, he enlisted April 22, 1861, as a private in the 14th Ohio Militia, Co. I. He enrolled as a three-months man and received an honorable discharge July 25, following. On his return home he aided in tiie organization of Co. B, iiith Ohio Vol. Inf, and secured the enlistment of 56 men. He was com- missioned First Lieutenant of the company. The n <^ ^5 A ^. i mr\mm% ^m-^m^y^ f't^>nD>^niif^T- SANILAC COUNTY. (h, ¥ :aj V f regiment was assigned to the Western Division of the Army, and its first encounter with the enemy took place at Perryville, Ky., where the rebels were under the command of Gen. Bragg. They pi'o- ceeded to Bowling Green in Kentucky, where Mr. Beal was commissioned Captain for bravery at Gal- latin, Ky., ill conflict with the guerrilla hordes of Morgan. He was placed at the head of Co. A, of the same regiment, and continued its chief officer until the close of the war. He received an honor- able discharge at Salisbury, N. C, July 23, 1S65. He was in action during 23 prominent engagements and nmnerous skirmishes. Save tlie wear and tear of active military service and consequent hardships, he escaped uninjured. On his return to Ohio, he resumed his business as a carpenter, at whicli he worked until Septemlier, 1875, when he came to Michigan. He purchased 80 acres of land on which his family have since resided. At the date of their settlement, the whole section was in its primitive stale, its forests unbroken and practically no thoroughfares of travel. The woods have given way before the hand of improvement, and the farm now includes 40 acres of land in cred- itable agricultural condition, with fine farm buildings. In [lolitical views and connections he is an adherent of the National Greenback party, and has held the office of Township Clerk. He is now Justice of the Peace. Mrs. Beal is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. illiam M. Griee, machinist, dealer in saw- mill supplies, steam and gas fittings, guns SN^vr '^' and revolvers, cartridges, pocket cutlery sewing-machines, needles, oils and attach- ments, at Lexington, was born Dec. 11, 1840, in Lancashire, England. He is the son of James and Jane (Mason) (irice. His father was a machinist and blacksmith, and in 185 r came to this country with his family, settling in Windsor, Conn., where they resided until 1854, the date of their re- A< moval to Forester, Sanilac County, where the father ._:) was an engineer in the mill of Smith, Kelley & Co. ^ (He is now proprietor of the Verona Mills in Huron 1'*) County.) ^ Mr. Grice was employed by the same company in Forester, and was engaged in operating a small engine for grinding feed. He was occupied summers in filing saws, and alternated these two occupations until he was 20 years of age, when he returned to Windsor, Conn., where he learned the trade of a machinist, in which he has since been occupied. He remained in Connecticut nearly three years and re- turned to Lexington. Soon afterward he was em- ployed a short time in a jeweler's store at Port Huron. He next yielded to an inclination to investigate the West, and traveled until his money was spent, when he again returned to Lexington. He has since been engaged in his trade, and in selling and repairing sewing-machines. He handles tlie Domestic and Davis machines, and also deals in fire-arms, ammu- nition, steam fitting, etc. In 1877 he bouglit tlie property known as tlie Jason Wilde's place, and re- constructed the barn to serve as a planing mill. He is a member of the Order of Masonry. The marriage of Mr. Grice to Jane Stevens occurred in Worth Township. She was born in Canada, and is the daughter of Webster and Sarah Stevens. Three children are now included in the household of Mr. and Mrs. Grice, who were born as follows: Flora, Clara and Mary. ♦ :a - c=» - ^^ ■Salvin Fenton, farmer, section 33, Lexing- i "^^^ toi' Township, was born Nov. 14, 1829. •jip His father, Lukins Fenton, was a blacksmith \ by vocation and married Margaret Hender- 1^ son. The son learned the trade of his father, and in early manhood determined on seeking a broader field of labor, and one which piomised more satisfactory results. In accordance with his resolution he came to Sanilac Co., Mich., in con.pany with Joseph French, who is yet a resident of Lexing- ton Township. Mr. Fenton began his labors in the Peninsular State by working a short time at his trade in Lexington. He removed thence to Amadore, in Worth Township, and followed the same pursuit there for a lime, when he opened a blacksmith shop at a point on the " Wildcat " road, three miies west of Lexington and known as Huckins' Corners. He bought an acre of ground and built a sliop, where he operated several years. In 1862 he went back to * V^' sv ^ 0) ^ ^^^^ -^Sijg^^ ^ v <^!ia^Illlr>-^ -i^'f^Kd tf^ SANILAC COUNTY. -^^ -I^^C(s>^ Ci® Araadore, where he bought a hotel. Three years later he sold out and went to Pennsylvania, where he spent a year in the oil regions. He returned at the expiration of that time to the township of Lexington, and bought So acres of land one mile east of Amadore. He continued its management but a short time, when he returned to the village of Lexington and bought a house of public entertainment opposite the Henry House. He conducted its affairs about two years, when he sold out and embarked in the livery busi- ness at Lexington. Three years later he again as sunied proprietorship of the hotel, selling out once more at the end of a year. He bought a- residence and was variously engaged until tlie spring of 1882, when he purchased the farm on which he has estab- lished his homestead, including 90 acres of valuable land. Mrs. Mary A. Fenton is the daughter of Joseph and Cornelia (Salsbury) Wixson, and is a native of the State of New York. She was married to Calvin Fenton in Lexington Township, March 13, 1853. Of this marriage six children have been born, as fol- lows : Almeda, Effie, Ella, Minnie and Emma. Eveline is deceased. •■':'-» 'I V eorge A. Shell, a prominent agriculturist ., and citizen of Worth Township, resides on "ci!©^ section 23. His parents, Peter and Mary (Heebner) Sliell, were natives of Canada and remained residents of the Dominion until 1842. In that year they removed with their family to St. Clair Co, Mich., settling in the northern part, which five years afterward was detached from Sanilac County. After ten years' residence here tliey moved to Grant Townsliip, St. Clair County, where they re- sided another ten years, nnd llicn removed to Lai:)eer County, where the father now lives, eng ;ged in farm- ing. The mother died tliere in August, 1S74. Their family included 11 cliildren, eight of whom grew to mature age. Mr. Shell of this sketch is the eldest of the children of his father's family and was born Jan. 31, 1827, about 24 miles from the city of Toronto, Can. His education was acquired in the common schools, and, on reaching the peiiod of his legal freedom, he en- tered courageously upon the prosecution of his own interests. In 1842 he came to that portion of Mich- igan which is now Sanilac County, and was then attached to the county of St. Clair. In 184S he bought 80 acres of land on what is now section 1 6, Worth Township, and entered at once upon its im- provement and built a barn. He sold the place in 1851 and invested his means in a farm on section 22, which was his field of operation until the fall of 1870, at which date he became proprietor, by purchase, of the property which he now owns and holds as a homestead. It comprises 70 acres of improved land, and 10 acres which are yet in their primitive state, for manifest reasons. Mr. Shell is a Republican in political views and action. He has served as Constable two years. Justice of the Peace eight years. Commissioner of Highways eight years and he has also officiated as School Assessor. His marriage to Jane Cox occurred Dec. 30, 1850, at Port Huron, Mich. She is the daughter of Fhomas and Elizabeth Cox, natives of Ireland, where she was also born, Jan. 15, 1S33. Of nine children born to Mr. and Mrs. Shell, five are now living. Caroline and Anabel are deceased, and two unnamed infants. Lafayette, Nathan, John R., Elizabeth A. and Mary H. are the names of the survivors. Biographical sketches of Lafayette and Nathan are given. The parents are members of the Christian Church. ^*J *^l®3'' ichard D. Sherriok, manufacturer, has i)i^£M■^ been a resident of Lexineton since 18^8. t i^(5\ " He left home at the age of 12 years and y\V^ came to tiie village of Lexington, whicli tiien included but three buildings. One was owned by John Smith, a second by .Samuel Munroe, and one by a trader on the lake shore named Z. Wriglit. (The latter was known as " Big Z," and owned a large vessel which was named after him- self.) Another Iniilding was in process of erection by C. M. Mills. At the time of his arrival Mr. Sher- (J ca: ( V i^^^tf^ ^s^^ ^^-^DO^ jua. ®^(^^ i^ •ry v^DIl^IlP^^ -#^^{®^4^ J ,-5 2 f «ffi(i V SANILAC COUNTY. 355 (^ rick had a capital of six cents ! He was chiefly in need of employ, which he obtained with little delay, and he was varioasly occupied until he was 20 years old, in the avenues open to laborers in this section in its early days. In 1S46 lie established the foun- dation of his present business, beginning to manu- facture wooden articles by the aid of a foot lathe, which he built himself. He had been a practical carpenter from necessity, and he gradually extended his operations until he was largely engaged in the manufacture of furniture, sash, doors, blinds, and many other articles in wood. He is also a contractor and builder, and commonly employs a working force of tvom 5 to 20 men. His establishment was de- stroyed by file in 1879, involving a loss of between ten and fifteen thousand dollars. He immediately rebuilt on Washington Street, on the site of tlie former building and where he originally commenced operations. He has a fine brick residence on the corner of Washington and Simons Streets, and a furniture store on Main Street. He also owns !he village properly located both sides of and adjoining that where he resides, and 80 acres of land in the township of Worth, 40 acres of which is under culture. Mr. Shetrick has served in the official positions of the village, and discharged the duties pertaining to the school offices. He is a prominent member of the Order of Masonry, and belongs to Lexington Commandery and Chapter. He is a charter member of the former body. Mr. Sherrick was born July 16, 1S26, in London, Can., and is the son of Solomon and Phebe (Sails) Sherrick. He was married in the township of Lex- ington, in 1846, to Harriet Ellsworth. She was born in Canada, and is a daughter of William and Lydia Ellsworth. Adaline, wife of George Mason, a mer- chant at Lexington, is the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Sherrick. gljI^S: afayette Shell, son of George A. and J;>"e A L^kM - (Cox) Shell, is a farmer on section 14, Worth wW^ Township. (See sketch of George A. Shell.) '6(y He was born July 28, 1854, in the township of /tj which he has been all his life a resident. He received the advantages of education and train- ing common to the sons of farmers, and became a teacher in addition to rendering assistance on the home farm. He was married Dec. 24, 1883, in Fremont, Sanilac County, to Fanny A Fletcher. She was born in Wisconsin, and belongs to the Baptist Church. Mr. Shell is a Republican in political faith. -vtecfi'®^^— ^>^ .^^^ifUimiy y >:. -4^ , y^f|)ark Gray, deceased, formerly a farmer on 1^, aiSMt,'. section 2, Fremont Township, was born n ,^fc- * Nov. 5, r8o8, in Northumberlandshire, , "X -X England. He was there married to Mar- • A- 'V garet Davidson, a native of the same county, and came to Canada within the same year and bought 100 acres of land in Halton County. A few years later he sold the place and rented a farm near a school, in order to secure as good educational ad- vantages as possible for his growing sons and daugii- ters. He resided there between five and six years, and in 186 1 he removed to Fremont Township, with six children, four sons and two daughters. They re- moved from Canada in the year 1861, making their way to Lexington by boat from Port Huron. They brought with them an ox team, which the father drove to Croswell (then Davisville) and transported their household goods on a "jumper." ^L•. Gray had owned his farm several years previous to his re- moval with his family, and they took possession of place on the 21st of November. The tract of land comprised 240 acres, which he bought for $1.25 per acre. On this he lived and labored until about 70 acres were reduced to a state of creditable cultiva- tion. His death from paralysis occurred Jan. 2, 1875. His sons have continued the work of reclam- ation on the place and have improved 20 acres ad- ditional. Mr. Gray lived an honorable and useful life. He brought to the New World the habits of industry and thrift which characterize the class to which he be- longed in England, which was coupled with his ambi- tion to secure comfort for his family and the inde- pendence to which he had all the right conferred Ijy nature on any man, and which could never be his or his children's in his native country. He lived to accomplish all he desired and left to his family a ^5 $^: © () ^ '^My>^ -SSS: ^^i^tsaf^" -rC^DO^Iillf^ T X, ) ^ o) <^ SANILAC COUNTY. large estate and an honored name. He is held in loving remembrance by his children and a large cir- cle of friends. He was a Republican in political connection. The surviving wife was born Aug. 6, 1812. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Gray were born as fol- lows : Andrew, Oct. 25, 1840; George, Feb. 7, 1843, died April 21, 1873; Robert, March 6, 1845 ; Mark, May 23, 1847 ; an infant, who died at seven months old; Mary, Jan. 27, 1852; Margaret, Jan. 28, 1856. The parents were both members of the Presbyterian. Church. ^^, ^i$;i "ohn M. Mason, dealer in stock and farmer, I?" resident at Le.\ington, was born Jan. 26, 1834, in the immediate vicinity of the vil- lage of Castleton, Rutland Co., Vt. He is the ^r son of Geo. W. and Adaline (Eaton) Mason. \ His father was born in the same place and his mother in the vicinity. Both are deceased. Mr. Mason accompanied his uncle, Lorenzo M. Mason, to Port Huron when he was ten years old. He re- mained there three years attending school, after which he returned to his home in Vermont. When he was 20 years old, he went to Troy, N. Y., and served two years in acquiring a knowledge of the silver-finishing trade, and after that proceeded to Hartford, Conn., to perfect his understanding of the business in the establishment of the celebrated Rogers Bros, of that city. His health failed while there and he abandoned his purix)se. He came to New River, Huron Co., Mich., and engaged as fore- man in the store of Thomas S. Donahue. He then engaged, in company with William Moore and others, as a scaler on Black River. In the spring of 1864, he came to Lexington and rented 120 acres of land, belonging to the uncle above mentioned, and man- aged the property four years. In 1868, he bought 40 acres in Sanilac Township, chiefly covered with heavy tinilier, and took possession. It is located on section 33, and the farm now includes 160 acres with 140 acres improved, constituting one of the most valuable places in the county, with excellent build- ings and three good orchards. He found himself un- equal to the demands of active agricultural life, and, in 1882, removed to Lexington, where lie has since given his personal attention exclusively to his buy- ing and shipping interests, which he had formerly combined with his farming operations. He occupies the residence owned by J. L. Wood, and owns a fine house with one-fourth of an acre attached in another part of the village. Mr. Mason was married Feb. 24, 1S62, in Avon, Rochester Tp., Oakland Co., Mich., to Albina E. Parker. She was born March 29, 1844, in Pontiac Tp., Oakland Co., Mich. Her father, Abner C. Parker, was born in the State of New York, Jan. 29, 1814. He married Elinor C. Paine, of Palmyra, N. Y., Aug. 29, 1836. She was born in the Emiiire State Dec. 21, 18 18, and died in Avon Sept. 19, 1864. The father resides in Avon. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Mason, five in number, were born as follows; Frederick L., Feb. 4, i863(; Julia F., Dec. 27, 1864; Lucy A., March 4, 1865 ; Mary D., Aug. 6, 1868; Georgie, Feb. 15, 1872. Miss Julia, eldest daugiiter, is a graduate from the celebrated Ft. Ed- ward Institute, on the Hudson River, in Washington Co., N. Y., under the management of Rev. J. E. King. Mr. Mason is a member of the Order of Masonry, Blue Lodge, Chapter and Commandery. He has been Treasurer of Sanilac County three years, and held the minor local offices. vt f c^: C -^-<-t<5 >»—>- eorge Smith, farmer, section 22, Worth Township, is the son of William and Jean- ■ nette (Luke) Smith. The parents were natives of Scotland, where the mother died, in October, 1828. The father came to America in 1832, settling in Canada, where he resided seven years. In 1S39 he came to Sanilac County, then connected with St. Clair County for municipal purposes. He located in a section now included in the township of Worth, where he died .^pril 4, 1861. His family included four daughters and four sons. George, the third son, was born Sept. 7, 1814, in Scotland. In 1829 he went to London, where he remained two years In 1831 he became a sailor' H^ -#t^ ''^^' /\/KA^^^ JP^^tJUa^A SANILAC COUNTY. (h 1 f I " before the mast," and operated in that capacity three years. In 1834 he came to Canada and con. tinned his life as a sailor in the lake service, devot- ing two seasons to that occupation. He passed the next year on his father's farm in Canada. In Octo- ber, 1838, he came to Michigan and bought 80 acres of land, located in what is now Worth Township, where he has since resided. His real-estate property now comprises 240 acres, all of which is improved and under first class cultivation. His farm buildings are a credit to his taste and judgment, and orna- mental to the township. He is now the oldest living settler in Sanilac County. Mr. Smith was married in Canada, May 16, 1842, to Isabella Peat. She was born Oct. 18, 1818, in Scotland, and emigrated from her native country to Canada with her parents, Thomas and Helen (Mitchell) Peat, when she was 16 years of age. The former died May 31, 1858; the latter's demise oc- curred in March, 1866. Helen, Jeannette, William, Mary and Maggie are the names of the children of Mr. and Mrs. Smith. Mr. Smith is connected with the Democratic party in political views. He has been Supervisor, Clerk, Highway-Commissioner and Overseer, and has held the position of School Director many years, besides discharging the obligations of the minor school and local offices. He is a member of the Masonic fra- ternity. -5-- ^^v^^^-^^B'W^^-?- ^^^9 iram Hayward, practicing physician, resi- dent on section 14, Worth Township, is the >£ ) SANILAC COUNTY. in 1878, at the age of 37 years. Eliza J. and Hiram S. are the names of two children, also born of this marriage. Their mother died Oct. 20, i860. Dr. Hayward was again married in 1861, to Frances Vernon. She was born in Canada, and has been the mother of two children — Lillia and Lettie. The latter died Oct. 5, 1879. Dr. Hayward's portrait appears on a preceding page, and is es))ecially valuable to this work from the relations he has long sustained to the people of the southern part of Sanilac County, in the capacities of physician and Pastor. ^..,^.^^^^.. 5^J9 mont Township, was born March 15, illiam F. Green, farmer, section 19, Fre- *0 1833, in County Cork, Ireland. His par- ents, John and Eliza (Barron) Green, were natives of Ireland, and emigrated to the New World in 1841. They landed at Quebec, and proceeded successively to the cities of Montreal, Kingston and Toronto, stopping two weeks at each to perfect and thoroughly test their inclinations for life in America. The meeting with a brother Mason in Hamilton gave them a feeling as of home, and there they pitched their tent. The father became a hardware merchant and dealt in the merchandise common to that business, including cutlery and fish- ing tackle. They remained in Hamilton si.x years, when the senior Green secured a position under the Government in the custom-house at Toronto. Both his parents died there and are buried in that city. Mr. Green learned the business of gunsmith and also of machinist, working at each several years. He came to Detroit in 1859, where he remained twenty months, and at the end of that time came to Port Huron and spent five years there employed as a gun- smith. In 1866 he bought his farm of Fish & Co., who had removed the lumber from the place. Since becoming interested in agriculture Mr. Green has abandoned his trades. He was married Jan. 4, 1854, to Nanno Falvey. She is the daughter of Dennis and Mary Falvey, both of whom died in Ireland. Mrs. Green was born May 20, 1831, in Bandon, County Cork, Ireland. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Green, as follows : Lizzie A., in Brunswick, N. J., Oct. 26, 1854, and married June 9, 1880, William McNeill; John F., at Hamilton, Ont., July 13, 1856, and died March 27, 1874; Mary L., born in Hamil- ton, Aug. 6, 1858, died Jan. 5, 1880; Harriet S.,born at Detroit, Feb. 3, 1861, has been engaged in teach- ing several years. -H=l^^ i4— t|3[^ ewis W. Brown, farmer, section 34, Worth sj^ EH t Township, is the son of Clark M. and ^i^r Catherine (White) Brown. The parents fiW' were natives and life-long residents of the State A of New York. The former died Sept. 5, 1839, \ the latter Oct. 17, 188 r. Mr. Brown is the third in order of birth of five children of his father's family, and is the eldest son. He was born July 23, 1833, in Jefferson Co., N. Y. He obtained a fair common-school education, and at the age of 16 years was apprenticed to acquire the art of carriage-making. He served three years, and has since combined that business with his agricul- tural pursuits. The progress and issues of the Civil War awakened his sense of duty as a citizen of the Republic, and he became a soldier. He enlisted Aug. 7, 1862, in the i42d N. Y. Vol. Inf., and continued in the service until the close of the conflict, receiving his discharge June 17, 1865. He sustained a severe gunshot wound in the siege of Petersburg, which resulted in a serious injury to his right arm, in consequence of which he receives a pension. He enlisted as a pri- vate, and passed through several grades of promo- tion to that of Second Lieutenant, in which capacity he was serving at the time he received his wound. He came to Sanilac County in the fall of 1865, and bought 40 acres of land in Worth Township, where he has since resided. He is now owner of 160 acres, and has 90 acres cleared, improved and culti- vated in accordance with the best principles of farm- ing. He is a Democrat in political views. He was married Oct. 24, 1855, in Jefferson Co., N. Y., to Candace, daughter of Amos and Anna (Foster) ^ (?1 c^: t =illllr>r^ ^ (h /Sf A :-« V SANILAC COUNTY. 361 Streeter. The former was born in Vermont, the lat- ter in New Hampshire. Mrs. Brown was born April 12, 1836, in Jefferson Co., N. Y. Arthur C. and Wood A. are the names of the two children that have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Brown. f litlJl' ichard Maher, farmer, section 7, Sanilac Township, was born June i, 1853, in On- ■^' tario, Can. He is one of the few who have l\A grown from earliest youth to manhood in San- ' ilac Township, whither his parents, Michael and Margaret (Keith) Maher, removed in 1854, about the time the son had attained to the age of one year. They were among the first permanent pioneer settlers and located on section 6, where they now reside. Mr. Maher was married June 23, 1879, in .Sanilac Township, to Catherine O'Meara, by whom he has three children — Maggie, Martin and Mary. Mrs. M. was born in Ireland and emigrated to America when she was 16 years of age. After marriage Mr. Maher located on 80 acres, which is his homestead property, and which his father procured for him several years previous. He has improved 50 acres and erected excellent and suitable farm buildings. Mr. Maher is a Democrat in political connection. The family are Roman Catholics. ^f ^i.^-jlark M. Mills, deceased, a pioneer of San- ejl p^^ i^ ilac County, was a native of Vermont. rfl^ He married Lucy Olds, and later in life pjp removed to Erie Co., Ohio, whence, in 1840, m he came to what is now Lexington Township, ' and bought a tract of land, a part of which is now included in the site of Lexington. His resi- dence was located where the Cadillac House stands. His family joined him in 1841. Three years later lie exchanged his property for 40 acres two miles west of Lexington. It was covered with heavy timber, and he reclaimed the entire tract and increased his estate by the purchase of 40 acres additional. The place was in creditable condition, and remained the homestead until the death of Mrs. Mills July 10, 1872. Mr. Mills died June 6, 1864. Of seven children born to them five survive, — Luther D. (see sketch); William, resident in Nevada; Mrs. Nancy (Mills) Buel; Mary (Mrs. Henry Hopkins, of Caro, Tuscola County) ; Almeda, wife of Stiles Nettleton, an editor at Northfield, Minn.; Solon and Orromel, second and fifth respectively in order of birth, are deceased. Jacob Buel, resident in the village of Lexington, was born April 21, 182 1, in the State of New York. He was married May 22, 1842, to Nancy Mills. Seven children have been born of this union, as fol- lows : Caroline, Aug. i, 1845; Francis, March 17, 1847; Leonora, Feb. 3, 1849; Ruth, June 12, 1851 (died July 2, i88i); Mary, Sept. 9, 1853 (died Aug. 13- 1854); Clark, Jan. 21, 1856; Lucy, May 3, 1859; Minnie, Jan. 25, 1862, and David, March 15, 1865, and died July 22, 18S4. The site of the residence of the Buel family at Lexington came into their possession in 1847. The house which was then erected has been removed and the present abode constructed. It is a fine type of country residence, and the grounds accessory in- clude two acres. Mr. Buel also owns three acres in the northwest part of the village. ^•s§-^ ^:., ohn Utley, farmer, section 10, Worth Town- _ ;hip, is the son of Samuel and Betsey '"'^ (Finch) Utley. They were born respect- ively in Connecticut and Vermont, and after their marriage they settled in Canada, where r they passed the remainder of their lives. Mr. Utley of this sketch is the youngest of eight children born to his parents. His birth occurred Aug. 19, 1822, in Canada, where he remained until i860. In that year he came to Sanilac County and bought 160 acres of land in Worth Township, where he settled and at once entered upon the work of improvement. He has since sold 80 acres of his original purchase and has 70 acres of the remainder cleared and im- proved. In political persuasion he is a Republican, I K:^ V t- ■ c 1 ^ntif> ^ ~ ■^^^k^%% 362 v<^Dt|}^llIl^> "iSr -§^^^C^4 SANILAC COUNTY. f and he has discharged the duties of the various school offices. His first marriage occurred in Canada, in March, 1843, to Saniantha Bray. She was born in Canada and died four years after her marriage. Two chil- dren, of which she was the mother, have since died. Mr. Utley was a second time married March 10, 1847, to Hannah Reese. She was born in Canada, July 26, 1827. A fine family of 13 children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Utley, named Hiram, Eliza A., Henry, Hamilton, Saniantha, Annis, Mary, Elizabeth, Emily, Miranda, James and John. One child died in infancy. The parents are members of the Christian Church. (^ ; liver Yates, farmer, section i. Worth Town- ship, is the son of Daniel and Eleanor C. (Hall) Yates. The parents are natives of Canada and New York, and when they were married they became residents of Canada. In 1854 they transferred their interests to Sanilac County and located in Worth Township. The mother died Nov. 7, 1878. Mr. Yates is the eldest son of nine children in- cluded in the family of his parents, and was born Nov. 17, 1843. He was 11 years old when he came to Michigan, and has since been a citizen of Worth Township. He enlisted Aug. g, 1862, in the 22d Mich. Vol. Inf. The regiment was assigned to the Army of the West, and was discharged July 13, 1865, at Detroit. During his period of military service he lost his left eye, and the sense of vision of the remain- ing organ is seriously impaired. On his return to Worth Township, Mr. Yates engaged in farming, and in the fall of 1866 he bought 40 acres of partly im- proved land on section 12, which he afterwards sold and bought 80 acres of wholly unimproved land on section 14. This he exchanged for 43 acres, which is now his home and of which he has improved 34 acres, and has them under culture. He is a Demo- crat in political connection, and has been Township Clerk two years. Highway Commissioner the same length of time and School Assessor many years. In May, 1884, he was appointed Census Enumerator of Worth Township. He was married in Lexington, Mich., Aug. 6, 1865, to Mary M. Mathews. She was born May 3r, 1845, in Canada. Albee W. is the only surviving child of three that have been born of this union. Herbert M. and Albert L. are deceased. ..<^-t4#=^-^>.. homas T, Purkis, of the firm of Purkis Brothers, proprietors of the Lexington "■ Brewery, was born Oct. i, 1846, in Eng- land. He is the son of James and Harriet (Bloumfield) Purkis; the mother died in Eng- land, and father and sons removed from their native country to the United States in 1854. They came to Lexington, where the father established himself in the brewing business. A short time afterward the family went to Worth Township, where, in company with his sons, Thomas, Samuel, Alfred and Arthur, he bought 720 acres of land. The association established a trade in merchandise and managed a wood-yard and dock on the lake shore. The senior Purkis died in December, 1870, about eight years after the establishment of their business. Two years after his death the partner- ship was dissolved. In 1876 Mr. Purkis came to the village of Lexington, and, associated with his brother Samuel, opened a meat market. They con- tinued its management seven years. In March, 1884, Mr. Purkis and his brother Alfred became proprietors of the Lexington Brewery, by purchase. The property includes five and one-half village lots. Since their purchase the Messrs. Purkis have been engaged in a good business, manufacturing about 12 barrels of beer daily. They have a saloon for their retail trade in the village of Lexington. Mr. Purkis belongs to the Masonic fraternity. He was married Sept. 16, 1867, in Worth Town- ship, to Sarah Sheldon. She was born in the same township, and is the daughter of Ebenezer and Almira Sheldon. Carrie, Arthur, Thomas Frederick and Walter are the names of the children of Mr. and Mrs. Purkis. Mr. Purkis became a soldier in the service of the v|) SL/ (^ 'Si 4? nii>^tinii>^ rrr --|^^5C(®VS SANILAC COUNTY. United States when he was but 15 years old. He enlisted Oct. 25, 1861, in Co. D, loth Mich. Vol. Inf., under Capt. I. Iluckins, and was in active participation in most of the engagements in which his regiment was involved. He received an honor- able discharge at the end of three years and three months. -i v^^^P-i^S'vt'^ — 5- illiam T. Chipman, farmer, section 2, ^I j- Washington Township, has been a resi- "l^J:/ dent of Sanilac County since the fall of J)||oJ'' 1867, when he bought a large tract of land, *^d/' containing 1,520 acres, in Custer Township. 2 In 1879 he purchased 20 acres of land in Wash- ington Township, for a homestead, which is now the site of a considerable portion of the village of Carson- ville. He has disposed of most of his land in Sanilac County, and now owns but 215 acres, of which 175 acres are cleared and cultivated. Since his first settlement in Sanilac County, Mr. Chipman has been prominent and active in general affairs. While a resident of Marine City, St. Clair County, he officiated as Deputy United States Col- lector four years ; he was also Supervisor several terms and served as Township Treasurer. The quota of men to be secured by draft, or otherwise, from his tovifuship was 47, and he aided materially in accomplishing the work. He has acted in the capacity of Supervisor of Washington Township four years. Justice of the Peace three terms, and has been a member of the Board of Trustees most of the time since the organization of Carsonville. He is a Re- publican in political views. Mr. Chipman is the son of Lemuel and Laura (Mead) Chipman, who were natives of New York. After their marriage they settled in the State of New York, where the father died April 28, 1844. The mother came to Michigan in 1851, and died at the home of her son, Feb. 11, 1864. Mr. Chipman was born in what is now Wyoming Co., N. Y., and is the oldest son of his parents. He is the third in order of birth in a family of ten chil- dren. His birth occurred Dec. 27, 1816, and he re- mained an inmate of his parents' home until a year R^v^)«^# after he reached his majority. In 1851 he went to Iowa, where he continued six months. He became a land-holder there, but becoming restless he sold out and within the same year came to St. Clair Co., Mich , where he bought a farm on which he resided until the autumn of 1867, when he established his interests permanently in Sanilac County, as stated. He was first married in Wyoming Co., N. Y., Jan. I, 1 84 1, to Mary Tripp, a native of Rhode Island. Two only of nine children born to them survive, — Alice and Lucius. William F., Julius C, Lina F., Lemuel, Ada M., William H., and William S. are deceased. The mother joined her children in the land of the hereafter Sept. 24, 1862. Mr. Chipman was a second time married May 14, 1863, at Marine City, St. Clair County, to Martha M. Hatch. She was born Nov. 16, 1834, in Veimont. Mattie J., Frank L. and Marshall N. are the names of the three chil- dren who have been born to them. '^: ftn'/s?s!^ , p. Bridgehampton Township, has been a resi- "^ dent of Sanilac County since the fall of 1855. His first employ in the county was at fx his trade of carpenter, at which he worked about seven years. In 1862 he bought 80 acres of land in the township where he now resides, to which he added 120 acres by later purchase. He still holds the latter amount of real estate, having sold 80 acres of land. About 60 acres of his farm is under ad- vanced cultivation. In 1882 he built the store he now occupies at Carsonville, and where he has since managed his commercial interests. He is doing a successful business, and has an e.xcellent stock of goods, adapted to the demands of the local trade. Mr. Crorey is a believer in the principles of the Na- tional Greenback party. He has been prominent and active in local affairs, having served seven years as Supervisor, two years as County Treasurer, to which office he was elected in 1875, and has filled the offices of School 'Inspector and Superintendent, Justice of the Peace and Notary Public, which position he has held many years. He belongs to the Order of Knights of Maccabees. , ^^ ^ ^avid Crorey, merchant at Carsonville, \y i) *i^ "^P^ §^N^^^^m^ ^^T^ -4^^$(®Vg 364 SAJSIILAC COUNTY. ^ i'\ Mr. Crorey was born Feb. 7, 1834, in Ireland. His :i; parents, John and Jane (Harrison) Crorey, were also '^ natives of the Green Isle, where they married and T where their 1 2 children were born. The mother died (2^ in 1847. The father married again and emigrated to Ohio, where he died in 1850. Mr. Crorey is the third son of his parents; he was about 16 years of age when he came with his father to Ohio, and he re- mained in the Buckeye State until the end of his minority. He was married at Sand Beach, Huron Co., Mich., Oct. 8, 1865, to Jane Israel, a native of Pennsylvania. Eight children have been born to them, as follows: David, July 15, 1865 ; Ellen, March 18, 1868; Martha, Jan. 18, 187 1; Mary, April 18, 1873; Rosalie, Oct. 20, 1875; John, Dec. 20, 1877; Jane, June 18, 1880; and Frank C, March 10, 1884. ) ^ I 4-.<-5-!4#=^-^>-^ foseph M. Loop, born at Elmira, N. Y., in 1^?- 1814; remained in the State, following the occupation of store clerk (after arriving at suitable age) until 1833; went to New Orleans, La., in 1834, to Wisconsin; in 1836, to Illinois; in 1843, to Oakland Co., Mich.; in 1846, mar- ried Miss Jane M. Gardner, of Hancock, Berkshire, Mass., daughter of James and Laura (Hazard) Gard- ner; in 1854, removed to Port Sanilac, Mich.; in 1855, gaaduated at the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor. He has one daughter, Ada Estella Loop, now married to J. H. Harrison, of Tuscola, Tuscola Co., Mich. Dr. Loop has followed the prac- tice of medicine since coming to Michigan. ^«H^-5if^ ohn Massman, farmer, section 27, Sanilac Township, was born March 5, 1831, in Mecklenburg, Germany. He grew to man- hood in the land of his nativity, and accompa- nied his parents to the New World in 1855. They settled in Sanilac County, purchasing 40 .acres of land on section 27. The father died July 25, 1882, and bequeathed his home and the care of the wife and mother to the son, who is discharging his filial duty in a creditable manner. Mr. Massman was married Sept. 18, 1862, in Sanilac Township, to Hannah Schliting, and they are the parents of seven children— Charles, Archie, Louisa, Henry, Augustus, Sophia and Anna. Mrs. Massman was born in Germany, and emigrated to Michigan v/ith her parents when she was 13 years of age. After their marriage Mr. and Mrs. Massman took up their residence on 40 acres of land on section 27, of which he had become the possessor a few years previous. He has added by later purchase to his estate, and is now the owner of 160 acres of land on sections 34 and 27, all of which is under tillage ex- cept 10 acres. The place is in excellent condition, and is very materially increased in value by the ad- dition of a residence, recently erected, and three capacious barns. Mr. Massman is an adherent of the Republican party and a sustainer of its issues. n||3illiam L. Benedict, farmer, section 28, ,; l l li s jgiti i i lc, Washington Township, has been a citizen ■ p of Sanilac County since 1862. He came hither from Canada in December of that year, and in September, 1863, he gave sub- stantial evidence of the spirit in which he adopted the interests of his new home, by becoming a soldier for the Union. He enlisted in the nth Mich. Cav., and was in active service until the ter- mination of the war. He received an honorable dis- charge, July 17, 1865, at Pulaski, Tenn. On being mustered out he returned to Sanilac County and bought 40 acres of land in the township of the same name, where he pursued and developed his agricul- tural purposes about ten years. In February, 1875, he sold the place and removed his interests to Wash- ington Township, where he bought 160 acres of land. He is now the owner of 80 acres, about half of which is improved and cultivated. Mr. Benedict has officiated two yeais as Justice of the Peace, and the ^ <^Il!l."^:ilt]r> *^ ® <:DI1^I1I1^> SANILAC COUNTY. 365 ^ s (3> i same length of time as Township Treasurer. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity and is a Republi- can in political faith and action. His first marriage took place Sept. 3, 1868, at Port Sanilac, when Maria A. Maskell became his wife. She was born in Sanilac County and died April 27, 1875. Of two children of which she became the mother, one is living, Samuel H. William H., the younger, died in infancy. Mr. Benedict was a sec- ond time married March ig, 1877, to Mary A. Whit- aker, who was born in St. Clair County, Jan. 5, 1859, and is the daughter of Charles and Emmeline Whit- aker, who are now residents of this county. (See sketch of Charles Whitaker.) Grace G., Jennie B. and Garfield are the names of the three children born of the second union. Mr. Benedict was born Oct. 19, 1837, in Canada. His parents. Smith and Dorcas Benedict, were na- tives of the State of New York. They became resi- dents of Canada after their marriage, where they continued to live until their removal to Sanilac County in 1882. They are yet living. Byeneea Baker, farmer, section 13, Worth jj^gf;^^. Township, is the son of Aaron and Can- dace (Church) Baker. His parents were natives respectively of the United States and Canada. They were married in Vermont, and in 1840 came to Sanilac County, where they remained until death. Mr. Baker is the third son, and was born June 30, 1816, in Vermont. His father removed in 1826 to the Dominion of Canada, and in 1842 made another removal, this time to Sani'ac County, whither the subject of this sketch had come three years previously. In the fall of 1856 he bought his present estate of 80 acres of unimproved land in Worth Township, on which he has since lived and established himself in fine con- dition. Nearly all his land is under the plow, and the farm is supplied with good buildings and other fixtures accessory to successful agriculture. He is an adherent of the Republican party, and has held the local positions of Commissioner, Director and Assessor. He was married in Worth Township, in March, 1843, to Mary Avery, a native of the Dominion, and of this union three children have been born, — Louis, Candace and William. Only the eldest survives. (See sketch of Lewis Baker.) Mrs. Baker is a mem- ber of the Baptise Church. ^^SH^«^ ^amuel CoppernoU, Postmaster and drug- s^l gist at Port Sanilac, was born Sept. 5, 1822, ^Ivp* in Herkimer Co., N. Y. His parents, George A. and Mary (Lancing) CoppernoU, both descended from families who were among the original settlers of the Mohawk valley, — families who were prominent in county, town and Church, and in the agricultural community. Both father and mother died in Herkimer, each aged about 70 years. The senior CoppernoU was a Deacon in the Presbyterian Church. At the age of 14 years Samuel CoppernoU engaged on one of the dairy farms of his native county as a laborer, continuing two years with his first employer. The year following lie labored for his brother-in-law, also a dairyman of Herkimer County. He was 17 years old when he commenced working for a man named Latham Gray, to learn the trade of carpenter and joiner, receiving for the labors of the first year, $100 in money. After completing his apprenticeship he went to work for his brother, also a mechanic, with whom he operated two years. He remained in the State of New York, working as a journeyman until 1847, in which year he located in St. Clair Co., Mich., where a brother-in-law resided, remaining one winter. In the spring following he went to Macomb Co., Mich., where he worked at his tn^de until the spring of 1852. He came thence to Lexington, in Sanilac County, where another brother-in-law resided, remaining there until the fall, when he established himself in the mercantile business at Port Sanilac, then containing two stores and a saw-mill, and flanked on all sides by a dense forest. Primitive nature still reigned, and the chief feature of the section was the abundance of wild game — elk and deer predominating. He con- tinued his commercial pursuits until 1S67, when his health failed and he withdrew from active business ^5 *•: (^ (h) (i- •^m^>^ j-^. SANILAC COUNTY. 'Z^^^^'^T ^^t^^ ^ % :^ > life, his malady causing an almost total loss of voice. After a rest of two years he regained his health to some extent, and resumed business. He secured a stock of drugs and established himself once more in the trade, in which he has since operated continu- ously. He received his appointment as Postmaster during the administration of President Pierce, and has discharged the duties of the office without inter- mission since his first appointment to the position. He is also local agent in the interests of the Detroit Fire and Marine Insurance Company. Mr. CoppernoU has been a decided Republican since the organization of the party. He has offici- ated as Township Clerk. His marriage to Susan Waterbury occurred Nov. 26, 1847, at Watervliet, Albany Co., N. Y. The father of Mrs. CoppernoU, Rev. Talmadge Water- bury, was a native of New Hampshire. He was of mixed Welsh and English ancestry, who were among the earliest settlers of New England. His progeni- tors, like those of his wife, Rachel (Earl) Waterbury, also a native of the " Granite State," were soldiers of the Revolution. All their children, ten in number, lived to adult age and became heads of families. Mrs. CoppernoU was born Aug. 13, 1822, in Dela- ware Co., N. Y. Her mother fell a victim to the cholera when she was ten years old, and she resided with a sister some years. Seven children have been born of her marriage, three of whom are deceased. They died in infancy. George T., May I., Eva H. and Emma T., are the names of those who survive. The parents reside at Port Sanilac and are prom- inent and active members of the Congregational Church, in which society their father has been a Deacon for 25 years. They have been members since 1843. aniel Clark, of the mercantile firm at II Lexington known as " Clarks," was born "'^"'"^ May 31, 1853, in Bradford, Orange Co., f^ Vt. He is the son of Ira M. and Susan A. (Bliss) Clark. (See sketch of E. B. and Ira M. Clark). His parents removed, in 1857, to Newport, N. H., and two years later to Claremont, in the Granite State. They went thence to Olean, N. Y., and in 1862 to Orford, Grafton Co., N. H. While they resided there Mr. Clark was a student at the academy eight years. In 1870 he came to Le.x- ington, where he became a salesman in the mercan- tile establishment of which he is now a proprietor, then under the management of his father and uncle. He came into possession of his interest therein in 1875- He was married in Lexington, Aug. 28, 1876, to Mary Niggeman. She was born June 3, 1854, in Port Huron, and is the daughter of John P. and Elizabeth (Lueker) Niggeman. eorge C. Fraser is one of the leading and prominent agriculturists of Sanilac County and has been a resident of the township of that name (No. 12) since March, 1868, wlien he became the owner of 320 acres of land on section 32. The township was in an unsettled condition, particularly in the location where Mr. Fraser secured his claim, and the method of his operations, coupled with Iiis energetic and persever- ing character, have added materially to the develop- ment of the county. He retains the ownership of 190 acres, 160 acres of which are in an admirable state of improvement and cultivation, and the re- mainder will be in an equally advanced state within a few months. His farm is stocked with Durham cattle, Cotswold sheep and Berkshire hogs, and he is reaping the satisfaction of intelligent and skillful management of his agricultural affairs. Politically, Mr. Fraser is still a supporter of the original principles upon which the National Green- back party was founded in Michigan. He was the first and only representative of that element in San- ilac Township in 1876. In 1882 he was the Green- back candidate for Register of Deeds. Mr. Fraser was born Jan. i, 1832, in Northumber- land Co., Ont., and is the son of Joseph and Jane (Fletcher) Fraser. His father was a farmer and possessed extensive agricultural interests, and the son was carefully educated and trained in the know edge of practical farming. Vl£ i' O e< V ■^ A^tiii^iinf> .a-ci. k0%/^^))^r^» S AN I LAC COUNTY. 367 .<) He was married Jan. 10, 1858, in Ontario Co., Ont., to Mary Ann Hodgson. Four children born to them are Hving, viz.: Norman P., Anna L., Byron J. and Sarah J. Edwin and Pearson are deceased. I Mrs. Fraser is the eldest daughter of Thomas P. and Sarali (Drumniond) Hodgson, and was born Dec. 28, 1838. I Her parents were of Dutch Hneage, and were born in the Dominion of Canada. The father died in the winter of 1882, the mother yet resides in On- tario. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Fraser lived upon a rented farm in Canada two years. In i860 he abandoned agriculture and traveled in Michigan a year as an agent. He went next to the oil regions of Pennsylvania, where he remained 26 months, and at the end of that time settled in Michigan, as stated. Mis. Fraser is a member of the Cliurch of Seventh- Day Adventists. ^ —5- #^ -> ■i'^'^ Sept. ^ " " "^^ ohn H. Murdaugh, cheese manufacturer at Croswell, was born in Dorchester, Ont., 5, 1852, and is the son of John and Elizabeth (Walker) Murdaugh. The father was born of French parentage Feb. 6, 1818, in Ontario. He owned a farm in the township of Dorchester, bat owing to a cancer on his thigh was unable to work his place, and he established a gen- eral store on the farm which was conducted as long as he lived. His death occurred in 1859. Mrs. M. was of Canadian lineage, and was born Aug. 18, 1829. She joined the Free-Will Baptist Church in her early years and remained a member while she lived. She became the mother of three children by her first husband, — Eliza C, John H. and Lillie. The elder daughter, born June 20, 1849, is the wife of Simon Spears, a brick-mason at Grand Ledge, Mich., and they have two cliildren: Lizzie May, born Nov. 16, 1872, and Gertrude Stella, Jan. i, 1876. Lillie was born June 12, 1857, and is a member of fher brother's family. The widow of John Murdaugh married Miles Van ^\ Wicklin, a carriage-maker at Lansing, where he pur- (^ sued his business during the last ten years of his life. After his death Mr. Murdaugh of this sketch bought "^ a home for his mother in Springfield, Ont., where they lived until her death April 18, 1879. Mr. Murdaugh had the sole responsibility of his own education after his father's death, when he was seven years of age. He went to work for his board while he went to school, laboring at night and morn- ing. When he grew older he saved his earnings in the summer seasons and paid for his board and schooling until he obtained a good business educa- tion. When he was 12 years old he was employed in a mercantile establishment at Ligersoll, and passed 18 months in that avenue of business, after which he spent five years in a woollen factory at Aylmer, Ont. He was about 20 years of age when he began the work of fitting himself for the business in which he has since been engaged at Harrietsville, Ont., and which he followed in Ontario until his removal to Croswell, in February, 1884. He purchased the lease of the cheese factory at Croswell, owned by the estate of Moss, Mills &Gaige, together with the fixtures, and has since been en- gaged in the transaction of a prosperous business. The daily product averages 600 pounds, and Mr. Murdaugh conducts his operations as a cheese-maker after the method common to such establishments, where the producers of milk constitute one factor in the business. He was married July 16, 1879, to Sarah Eliza Olds, at Simcoe. She was born Jan. 29, 1861, at Simcoe, and is the daughter of Walter and Frances (Purcell) Olds. Her father has been dead some years: her mother is still living. While in Canada, Mr. Murdaugh belonged to the " Reform " party, and he held an appointment there as County Constable, in the district including Lamb- ton, Elgin and Middlesex Counties. ustin Wright, farmer, section 23, Worth Township, is the son of George and Electa (Scott) Wright. The parents were both born in the State of New York, and, after their mar- riage, they located in Canada. In 1843 they became residents of Worth Township, where they passed the remainder of their lives. The death of y& 't % ^m (h =1 1 :^ I 368 SANILAC COUNTY. I^^f the father occurred Dec. 8, 1872, that of the mother Aug. 12, 18S2. Mr. Wright is the oldest of 14 children, and was born in the Dominion of Canada, Oct. 29, 1830. He was 13 years of age when he came with his parents to Michigan, where they settled in the month of July, and he has been a resident of Sanilac County since that date, with the exception of four years, during which he was a soldier in the service of the United States. In 1850, he purchased 80 acres of unim- proved land on section 23, on which he erected good buildings and proceeded to make the necessary im- provements to put the place in first-class agricultural condition. He became interested in the issues of the Civil War early in its course, and enlisted Nov. 5, 1861, in the loth Mich. Vol. Inf He received an honorable discharge July 19, 1865, at Louisville, Ky. He was in action at Stone River, Mission Ridge, Roseview (Ga.), Marietta (Ga.), and numerous others of varying importance. He was present at the fight and capture of Atlanta, and at Jonesboro, where his father was killed. He was married Aug. 18, 1850, to Elizabeth, daughter of Joseph and Lydia Van Camp. They were born in Canada, which was also the native place of Mrs. Wright. She was born Dec. 8, 1830. No children being born to them, Mr. and Mrs. Wright have been the foster-parents of six belonging to more fortunate wedlock. Of these, three survive. John Sly is a resident of Muskegon; Margaret is the wife of Henry Lewis; and Lillie E. Sly resides at the home in which she has been adopted. Mr. Wright is a Republican. He and his wife are members of the Christian Church. -nnasisiM^^ K4 — »®§ 1 SANILAC COUNTY. of Richard and Sophia (Davis) Clifford, natives respectively of England and France. The mother of Mrs. Cash was born on board the British man-of- war " Victory," during the progress of the battle of Trafalgar. Her father was purser of Lord Nelson's flag-ship. The daughter was born in County AVex- ford, Ireland, Dec. 30, 1834. When she was three months old, her parents went to England and a year later came to Ontario, where they passed the remainder of their lives. When Mrs. Cash was xi years old, she came to Port Huron, where she remained until her marriage. The record of 1 1 children born to Mr. and Mrs. Cash is as follows: Edward, born Oct. 10, 1851, died Jan. 24, 1852; Fred was born May 4, 1853; Martha, March g, 1855; Sarah, March 6, 1857; Thomas, Feb. 25, 1859; Edward, Jan. 28, 1861 ; George, Dec. 3, 1862; Gustavus, April 8, 1865; Eleanor, Feb. 10, 1867; Arthur, Jan. 2, 1869; Abby, Aug. 2, 1871. Mrs. Cash is a member of the Methodist Episco- pal Church. Mr. Cash is a Democrat and has been active in the local management of the township since its organization. •vtece/©^* |?^>./^^!/3OT?v. Imasa Derby, farmer, section 32, Sanilac Township, was born July 27, 1845, in s-Jl^S^ Jefferson Co., N. Y. His parents, Lewis R. '■lia and Alzina (Farr) Derby, were born respect- '1' ively in Franklin and Jefferson Counties. They were both of New England parentage and English descent. The father was a farmer and removed to Michigan in October, 1866, and purchased 80 acres of land on section 32. He is still living on the homestead, which is managed by his son. The mother died Dec. 12, 1883, aged 74 years. Mr. Derby was 21 years of age when he came to Michigan, where he has since resided continuously. He succeeded to the control of his father's farm in 1869, and since that time has pushed his interests with vigorous energy and success, and has a well improved farm. He was first married in Jefferson Co., N^ Y., to Jane McDonald. The event transpired July 3, 1866. A son was born of this union, Ulysses R., March 15, 1869, and died Oct. 3, same year. Mrs. Derby was a native of Ontario, born April 27, 1838, of Scotch parentage, and died Sept. 25, 1869. Mr. Derby was a second time married Dec. 21, 1872, to Matilda Ennest. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Derby, as follows: Lewis M., Oct. 24, 1876; Frank E., March 12, 1878; John A., Dec. 27, 1882. Mrs. Derby was born Dec. 27, 1850, in Oxford Co., Ont., and is the daughter of Hiram and Mary (McNames) Ennest. Both parents were of New England origin, and settled in the Dominion, where they remained until their removal with their family in 1865 to Michigan. Mr. Derby is a Republican in political connection. His parents have long been zealous adherents of the Methodist Episcopal Church. 'ohn Blower, merchant and furniture dealer, '^ Deckerville, was born July 13, 1838, in the town of Nuneaton, Warwickshire, Eng. He emigrated from his native country to Can- 11 ada, in 1862, and came a year later to the United States, locating at Port Huron, where he established himself in the same business in which he is at present engaged, and conducted his affairs in that line as a traveling salesman. His first beginning was on the smallest possible scale, and he sold a stove for eight dollars, half of which he invested in goods as a starter. After he ceased to sell goods on the road, he took his stock and came to Deckerville. He rented an old log building in the best location in the village, and entered vigorous- ly into the work of establishing his business as a mer- chant. After six years of effort he purchased three corners of the main thoroughfares of Deckerville and on one he caused the erection of the Commercial Hotel. On another corner he erected a building which is utilized as a drug store, his own business establishment occupying the third corner. His store building is 38 X50 feet, and that where he conducts his furniture business is 40x42 feet in dimensions, costing $Sj09S-,_^The combined K-, (m $^: si/ ( 37° x'-^ f 1 vV> 7<^III1^I1I1>V>T SANILAC COUNTY. -«4^^^® valued at $g,ooo and his annual transactions are estimated at $30,000. He was the first to establish a grain market in this section, and he built an elevator near the railroad station having a capacity of 25,000 bushels. He is the owner of a house and two lots at Port Huron. Politically, Mr. Blower is a Democrat. He was married in his native county in England, in June, i860, to Charlotte Armson, who was born in the same shire, May 29, 1842. Her parents came to the United States with her, and settled at Port Huron, where her father died, in May, 1872. Of eight children born of her marriage, two — Bisby and David R. Brown — are deceased. Priscilla, Isa- bella, Anna, Jessie, Rosa and Sarah are the names of those who are living. Mr. and Mrs. Blower are communicants in the Church of England. ^jenry A. Babcock, Supervisor of Elk Town- ^ ship, resident on section 23, was born April 12, 1822, in Rome Township, Oneida Co.i N. Y. He is the son of Job and Sarah (Wil- liams) Babcock, who were natives of Vermont, and were respectively descended from English and Irish parentage. In the paternal line, Mr. Bab- cock's ancestors belonged to the Puritans, and were among the earliest settlers in America. His grand- sires were both soldiers of the Revolution and served through the entire course of the Colonial War. The father, Job Babcock, was a farmer by occupation, and died, of quick consumption, in October, 1834, at the age of 49 years. The mother died July 4, 185 1, aged 69 years. Mr. Babcock is the ninth child of 15 born to his parents, and the fifth son. They removed to Lewis Co., N. Y., when he was two years old. Nine years later, they made another removal, to the St. Law- rence River, where the father died the year following. That event threw upon the son the burden and re- sponsibility of his own support, and he became a farm laborer, in which capacity he was employed until he was 18 years old. He went then to Ontario. Two years afterward he was married, in Lambton County, to Betsey Stryker, a native of New York, of German ancestors. She was born March 17, 1824. The record of Mr. Babcock's family is unique in number, and in the fact that no death has reduced the number. Fifteen children born to him and his wife are all living, and all married but three. The descendants now number 60, there being 45 grand- children. Following are the names and dates of birth of the children: Sarah M., Jan. 22, 1844; Edward C, Feb. 17, 1845 ; Thirza J., Aug. 13, 1846; Joseph J., in 1847; Jonathan VV., April 19, 1849; Rosetta S., Oct. 14, 1850; Rufus S., Feb. 9, 1852; Harriet A., Dec. 14, 185- ; Emma J., March 29, 1856; Henry O., Dec. 22, 1857 ; Orland H., June 11, 1859; Betsey J., Dec. 2, i860; Julia G., May 31, 1862; Charles E., Sept. 13, 1863; Alvin W., Dec. 20, 1864. Ten years after his marriage, Mr. Babcock removed his family to Macomb Co., Mich., where he engaged in farming until 1863. In that year he came to San- ilac County and purchased the farm on which he has since resided. He embarked in the manufacture of hoops, in which business he was for some time inter- ested, in connection with his agricultural pursuits. His farm is in prosperous condition, and comprises 10 acres of small fruits. He is a Democrat in politi- cal views, and has been Supervisor of the township five years. He has held various minor offices, and is one of the building committee of the county jail now in process of election. ^farrison Cooper, farmer, section 5, Forester ~,ii Township, was born Dec. 17, 1847, in the ^)^ city of London, Ont. He is the son of George yj? and Phebe Cooper, and his father died in On- S tario when about 40 years of age. The mother is still living. Their family included five chil- dren. Mr. Cooper entered upon an unaided struggle for existence when he was 12 years of age, and worked for 16 months in one engagement as a farm laborer. He went thence to Strathroy, Ont., where he entered the service of a liveryman and continued to operate A Si/ <^. $€^#- <^llll>:^nilri>-: ^ >^ s 6 SANILAC COUNTY. -4^^^ in that avenue of business three years. In 1864 he came to Michigan and engaged in himbering in this township near the lake shore, where he operated some time. He returned again to Ontario in 1865 and engaged in the pursuit of agriculture, in Middle- sex County. He went later to Strathroy, Ont., where he engaged in a hotel enterprise and also conducted a saw-mill. In 1876 he returned to Michigan and bought 56 acres of land, which is his present homestead. It is all cleared and under a good state of cultivation. His first marriage to Mrs. Elizabeth Jane (Philo) Buck, occurred April 5, 1876; and they had two children, — Emma J. and Harry R. The latter died in infancy. The decease of their mother took place at her home in Forester Township, Sept. 12, 1881, when she was 26 years of age. She was the widow of E. Buck, and was the mother of three children by her first marriage, — Charles J., William F. and Lillie. Mr. Cooper was again married, in Port Hope, to Mrs. Mary A. (Philo) Taylor, widow of John L. Taylor, who was killed by a falling tree Dec. 17, 1879. Mrs. Cooper was born in Washington Co., N. Y., March 20, 1847. She is the daughter of Charles and Sophronia (Smith) Philo, who were natives of New England and removed in 1855 to Ontario. She was married at St. Thomas, and removed with her hus- band to Ionia Co., Mich., and went thence to Lapeer County, where her husband met his death by accident. Mr. Coojier is a Democrat in political faith, and has discharged the duties of several local official positions. marriage to Elizabeth A., daughter of Andrew Mack- lem, occurred Nov. 27, of that year. She is a native of Sanilac County, and is the mother of three chil- dren, one of whom died when an infant. Nina and Candace are the names of the survivors. Mr. Baker is identified with the Republican party and its interests. He has been School Superintend- ent a number of years. i-VVN/v-^ c< ewis Baker, farmer, section 14, Worth Township, is the son of Seneca and Mary i' Baker. (See sketch of S. Baker.) He was born May 18, 1846, in the Township of Lexing- ton, Sanilac County, obtained a fair degree of education at the common schools and finished his studies at the Agricultural College at Lansing, where he pursued them one year. At the age of 17 years he became a teacher. In 1S73 he came into possession of 80 acres of land, which he has since conducted, and has 70 acres under culture. He was an inmate of his paternal home until 1878, and his fW. ames L. Shults, publisher of the Sanilac County Reporter, was born Jan. 25, 1822, '' in Geneseo, New York. His father, a hatter by trade, removed his family from Gen- esee County to Chautauqua County, in the Empire State. In 1833 another removal was effected, to Toledo, Ohio. One year later they set- tled on a farm in Lenawee Co., Mich., where they resided until 1837, the date of his father's purchase of a farm in Washtenaw Co., Mich. Mr. Shults was under the care of his parents dur- ing his minority. When he reached independent manhood he became a traveling agent and operated in Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and Iowa. He passed ( a period of six years in that occupation, when he engaged in farming in Livingston Co., Mich. Six years later he bought 160 acres of land in Seville Township, Gratiot County. He was one of the earliest of the permanent settlers there, and remained a resident of the farm until December, 1883. He then removed to Port Sanilac, to secure the benefit of i the location for his wife, who was in failing health. In January, 1884, associated with his son, he en- gaged in the journalistic enterprise, in which he is still interested. The paper is growing in popularity and influence, and is conducted on independent principles. The first marriage of Mr. Shults took place in Jackson Co., Mich, May 6, 1846, when he became the husband of Minerva J. Pierce. She was born in 1828, in Jackson County, and died July 25, 1848, in .s^ at^ Denver, Col. Mr. Shults was a second time married March 2, 1849, near Howell, Livingston County, to ' «^ Livingston County. Antoinette, only child of this ej union, is the wife of John Korting, and resides S^/^l^^^#- SANILAC COUNTY. #^(®Vi (^ Betsey E. Rounds. They have been the parents of W nine children, namely : Mary, James, Flora, Minnie, *'^* Chester and Edith, who are living, and Lillian, Eva and Rosa, who are deceased. Mrs. Shults was born May 3, 1831, in .\llegany Co., N. Y., and descended from New England ancestors. She lived in Livings- ton County from the age of five years until her mar- riage. illiam Kelly, deceased, formerly a farmer on section 9, Mailette Township, was born Aug. 29, 1817, in Ireland. His •parents, William and Margaret (Fallas) Kelly, were also natives of that county, emigrated to America and settled in Can- ada, where they spent their last years. Mr. Kelly was about 23 years of age when he became a resident of the Dominion. He remained there until 1861, when he came to Sanilac County and bought a claim of 80 acres of Government land, on which he settled and resided until his death, in the fall of 1884, of that lingering and painful disease, cancer. He was a Republican in his politi- cal faith and practice. He was married Jan. i, 1854, to Jeannette Sproul, in Canada, where she was born. Twelve children were born of this marriage, nine of whom survive. Their names are David, John, Archibald, Maggie, William, Hiram, George, Mary and Catherine. Those deceased are William, Susanna, and a child who ) >^ V died in infancy. 'v. *alvin H. Bleake, farmer, section 31, Sani- S lac Township, was born April 5, 1828, in Darlington Township, Ont. His parents. fltj John and Sarah (Connor) Bleake, removed !>• to Michigan when he was 12 years of age, locating in the township of Lexington, Sanilac County. His father died two years later, when he jjwas left, not only with tiie burden of his own main- ' \®^/^^^ ^^^^ — ^-^^H!] tenance, but also of the care of his widowed mother and four younger children, a duty which he fully discharged for seven years. He was married when he came to the age of man- hood, to Rachel Wixson, of Lexington. She was born in 1828, in the State of New York. They have' been the parents of eight childrien, three of whom are deceased — Daniel, John and Elmer. Alice, Velma, Octavia, Lavinia and Sarah have attained adult age and settled in life. At the date of Mr. Bleake 's removal to Sanilac County there were but three houses at Lexington, and he belongs to the earliest pioneer element of the Huron peninsula. After his marriage he located on a farm in Lexington Township, where he operated until his removal to the farm of which he is the pro- prietor, and which he bought several years previous to his removal here. It contains 120 acres, and is wholly improved, including excellent and valuable farm buildings. At the time he took possession it was in primitive wildness. In the fire of 18S1, Mr. Bleake was a heavy loser, fences and timber, and all personal property, save a small amount, being burned. Mr. Bleake is independent in politics, and in reli- gious opinion adopts the tenets of the Latter-Day Saints. I'rCJlCohn S. Thomson is one of the substantial " and prominent business men of Port Sani- lac. His business includes merchandise, real estate, money-lending and salt manufac- ]u ture. He has been a resident of Sanilac since 1850, and is one of the earliest of the perma- nent pioneer settlers of Huron County. His father's family was the second to fix their location in Sanilac Township. Mr. Thomson was 16 years of age when he first came to the Huron peninsula. He had served an apprenticeship in engineering previous to removal hither, and he operated in that position in a mill erected by his father and Anthony Oldfield. After following that occupation two years he abandoned it and resolved on turning the evident resources of the country to his own advantage. I T < A r^ tf^'.i I ti^^/^®^«^€ #JSK- SANILAC COUNTY. %^ 373 He arose one morning at four o'clock to make his way to Detroit, the nearest point where he could ob- tain a supply of fishing tackle. He walked all the way to the City of the Straits to procure the neces- sary articles to establish his contemjjlated business of fishing. He continued the prosecution of that enterprise eight years, its labors demanding at fre- quent periods his attention nights as well as days. He succeeded in saving sufficient funds to establish himself in trade, and he started the sale of mer- chandise in a log house of ancient date on the lake side at " Bark Shanty," then the significant cognomen of Port Sanilac. He invested $500 in merchandise at the outset, and he continued his operations in that line singly for six years, when he extended his con- nections and began lumbering in company with his brother. He purchased 2,000 acres of timbered land in Huron County and pushed his business in that line with vigorous energy. His relations continued to extend, and he erected a large salt-block with barns, tenements, etc., and his prospects were in the most promising condition when the disastrous fires of September, 1871, swept away everything. The scene of Mr. Thomson's operations were in a location now included in the township of White Rock, and of all that his enterprise and energy had built up but one structure remained standing. The aggregate loss was $110,000, partially covered by $4,500 insurance. Mr. Thomson settled his affairs on the basis of the strictest integrity, paying all claims against him in full, without asking compromise. This straightforward method secured a wide-spread confidence, which soon enabled him to place his affairs once more in a profitable and promising condition. A prominent business firm of Detroit proffered unlimited credit, and their relations were soon re-established and moved on prosperously until they decided on a change of location. In 1883 the brothers Thomson sold their interests at White Rock, and John S. re- moved to Port Sanilac, where he established a mer- cantile enterprise with $10,000 worth of goods. The salt interests of Mr. Thomson are located at St. Clair, where his brother is superintending the erec- tion of an extensive salt-block. He is the owner of 1,500 acres of land in the Huron peninsula, and deals largely in real estate, in which he is operating in the interests of the general public, selling to actual settlers on terms that conduce to the development of Huron and Sanilac Counties. He owns nine im- proved lots at Port Sanilac, and a residence that ranks with the best in Northern Michigan. It is built of brick, at an expense of $10,000, with inside archi- tecture and ornamentation of the finest type, the finishing being done in valuable varieties of hard wood, the expense of the interior amounting to $4,000. Mr. Thomson is a Republican of decided princi- ples, and he has served his generation in the political arena with the same energy and integrity with which he has built up and sustained his business standino- He was elected to represent his district in the Legis- lature of Michigan in 1876, and re-elected in 1878. He discharged his duty to his constituency in secur- ing legislative action in directions where they were immediately interested, and procured the passage of bills calculated to restrict the nefarious operations of the land-grabbers and other vampires with selfish designs. He was prominent in the movement to obtain a reduction in the State oil test, having for a formidable antagonist the State chemist. Dr. R. C. Kedzie. After the fire of 187 1 he was appointed distributing agent in a district including 16 town- ships, and performed the same duty subsequent to the fire of 18S1. The marriage of Mr. Thomson to Mary W. Joiner occurred Dec. 25, 1865. Of four children born to them, Herbert aTid an infant unnamed are deceased, and Harriet and Charles are living. Mrs. Thomson is the daughter of Charles W. and Harriet (Water- bury) Joiner, who were natives of Polo, Ogle Co., Illinois, and of New England ancestry. Her father was heavily engaged in lumbering in Michigan for a period of 16 years. He suffered immense losses in the fire of 1871, seven large saw-mills and an ines- timable quantity of lumber being consumed in Sep- tember of that year. But he retrieved his fortunes and retired with a competency. Mrs. Thomson was born June 23, 1842. She was educated at Rensse- laerville, N. Y. Mr. Thomson is a native of Manchester, Eng., where he was born Aug. 28, 1833. His father, Wil- liam Thomson, was born in 1802, in the city of Gir- van, Scotland, of unmixed Scottish parentage. At the age of 14 years he bscame a member of the Presby- terian Church, accepting the tenets of that denomi- nation with all the strength and fervor that charac- terize his race. He served seven years in acquiring a knowledge of the blacksmith's trade, and when he iv> (^ c^: ■^ 0) ^ ^«t#* j^ -^^ '^^^ -T<^\iUm>r^ '374 SANILAC COUNTY. -is* (Oj V <^ •r^• > was 23 years of age went to Manchester, Eng., where he operated two years as an engineer for the firm of Sharp & Roberts. He sailed thence for the port of New York, where he remained but six weeks, and returned to Man- chester, Eng., where he obtained a position in the machine shop of WilHam & J. Crighton. He was married in the old cathedral of that city, in 1830, to Ann Stelfax, He remained in England thencefor- ward until 1850, when he set sail with his family from Liverpool in the ship '" Blake " for New Orleans. The passage consumed nine weeks, and after land- ing at the destined port the family proceeded to Cin- cinnati, Ohio, where Mr. T. resumed his business in the machine shop of Lyons & Co. In 185 i he came to tlie present site of Port Sanilac, to engage in the lumber business with Anthony Oldfield and others, the firm style being, Thomson, Oldfield & Co. He expended years of effort with small reward, and eventually resumed his trade of blacksmith in the employment of J. L. Woods & Co., and other mill firms along the side of Lake Huron. He conducted his business until his death in 1872. His widow lives at Port Sanilac, and is 74 years of age. They became the parents of eight children. Mr. Thomson of this sketch is the second in order of birth and the oldest now living. He was well educated in his native city, and served an appren- ticeship of four years as engineer. He comes of stock, on both sides of his descent, distinguished for tenacity of life, the generations preceding his parents having attained to remarkable ages. ?(Eill eorge McDonald, merchant and Post- I master, farmer, dealer in grain and real estate at Minden City, was born April 22, 1844, in Hastings Co., Ont. In 1850 his par- ents, James and Agnes E. (Ferguson) Mc- Donald, removed with their family to Michigan, and located in St. Clair County. They are still living, in the vicinity of Jeddo in that county, and are aged respectively 86 and 83 years. They are natives of Scotland, and belonged to well-to do and respectable families of the yeomanry. Mr. James McDonald was a builder by vocation, and emigrated to the Do- minion of Canada in 1846, whence he came to Michi- gan, being among the earliest settlers of St. Clair County. The vicinity where the family located was in an entirely unimproved state. Mr. McDonald purchased 80 acres at first, and later, four tracts of a a similar acreage, and has distributed the five " 8o's" among four sons — every acre of the original several purchases still remaining within the family. The parents were married in 1831, and in December, 1881, celebrated their golden wedding. At that date there were six children and nine grandchildren, and there had been no death in the family since the com- mencement of its existence as such. Jeannelte, Alexander, Anna and George are residents of Michi- gan; James resides in Tacoma, Washington Terri- tory, and Duncan is in San Francisco, Cal. All are married except one daughter, Anna. Mr. McDonald was reared in a careful manner, as is the custom with people of the class to which his parents belong. He was under his father's guidance and instruction until he attained his majority, and was taught farming and sent to the district schools during the winter seasons. When he was 19 years of age he went to Albion, Calhoun Co., Mich., to at- tend the Mayhew Business College then located there, where he completed a course of commercial study. After he was graduated at that institution, he went into business at Lakeport, St. Clair County, where he established a mercantile interest under the style of " McDonald, Cadwell & Co." This relation was in successful operation eight years. In 1870 he went to California and attended the State University at " Frisco," returning to Lakeport, Michigan, after completing his course of study. He was married there Oct. 20, 1875, to Martha A. Wade. She was born Nov. 26, 1854, at Lakeport, St. Clair County, and is the daughter of George and Theresa (Giles) Wade. Her parents were born respectively in Onta- rio and England, and are of English descent. They are aged 54 and 52 years respectively, and her father is engaged in business with Mr. McDonald. The latter removed to Grass Lake, Jackson Co., Mich., after his marriage, where he was a merchant, miller and dealer in stock. He came to Minden City, where he arrived Aug. 9, 1880, on the first pas- senger train that made a regular trip to Minden City, and at once established the busmess which he has since pursued. He was the first shipper of grain by v&' ^\m^^ -^4?^3^f® SANILAC COUNTY. r^^ ":2i^iii?«^ ^0^m\^m 375 (h ^ ^ t ^.;» rail from this place, and his traffic in that branch of business is very large. His annual transactions in the other avenues in which he is interested aggregate $50,000. He o\vi-,s 120 acres of land in Minden Township, and considerable improved village prop- erty. He is a zealous and earnest Republican, and is present Postmaster at Minden City. He is President of the village (1884). While a resident of Lakeport he officiated several years as Postmaster, and also as Treasurer of the Township.' -vtazfi;©^^ K4— w^^J'OTJ'X" %M^ ■^' -!'' , vfi ;. ohn Collins, merchant at Peck, was born ^; '2>lj Jii'y 28, 1836, in Esquessing, Halton Co., i . -' Ont. His parents, James and Isabella ' (Smith) Collins, were born in Scotland, of nii.\ed Scotch and Irish parentage. Both came to this country before marriage. They settled in Ontario, where they belonged to the agricultural community. They passed the remainder of their lives in the Dominion, and there reared their family of 1 1 children, six of whom are still living. Mr. Collins was the seventh child of his parents, who removed when he was eight years old to Strath- roy, Middlesex Co., Ont., where he spent the time until he was 20 years of age as a farm laborer, and in attendance at the common schools. He then be- gan business for himself and spent some months in various occupations, after which he engaged in the manufacture of hoops and staves. On reaching the period of his legal freedom he set out for the "West," and passed two years in prospecting. He returned to the land of his nativity, and in 1861 decided to settle in Michigan. He located in St. Clair County, and began to make hoops and staves at Memphis, where he operated one year, returning at the end of that time to Ontario, where he was similarly em- ployed until January, 1866. He came to Peck and established himself in the same branch of manufac- turing. In 1868 he embarked in general trade, in which he has since been occupied and pursued with increasing prosperity. Mr. Collins is a staunch advocate of and adherent to the principles of the National Greenback party. He has served his township four terms as Treasurer, and has discharged the duties of the minor official positions. Mr. Collins has been three times married. His first wife, Lida A. JeiTrey, was a native of Canada. She died at Strathroy, Middlesex Co., Ont. He was married a second time, at Port Huron, to Minnie Leonhard. She was born at Amadore, Sanilac County. Of three children born of this union one, John S., survives. Augusta B. is deceased, and an infant died soon after birth. The mother died in Elk Township. Mr. Collins was again married at Lakeport, to Vera M. Leonhard, a sister of the second wife and daughter of Ferdinand and Augusta Leonhard. The parents were Germans, and were pioneer settlers of Sanilac County, where the father died in the fall of 1883, aged 83 years. The mother is still living at Amadore, and is 67 years of age. Mrs. Collins was born in the vownship of Worth. One child, Jennie M., was born to Mr. and Mrs. Collins, May 8, 1883. Mr. Collins is the owner of a fine farm in Elk Township, whose management he superintends per- sonally. "^I^4i Jlebastian Erbe, farmer, section 22, Sanilac %^ Township, was born Sept. 21, 1822, in Prussia. At the age of 15 years he began \v\, to learn the trade of a needle-maker — that work then being accomplished by hand manufacture — and pursued that branch of industry until he was 19, when he learned the brewer's business, which he followed chiefly for a period of 10 years. In 1851 became to the United States, locating at Detroit, where he readily obtained employment as a brewer. He remained in the "City of the Straits " 18 months, coming thence in 1864 to the county and township of Sanilac. The section where he made the purchase of 40 acres of land was in nature's wildness. He afterward made purchases of land until he had increased his real estate to 120 acres, The location of the place and its quality are among the best in the township, and the owner has placed too acres in fine agricultural condition, with ^^^^^ — ^^>^r9 — ^'^^ -4^^^ ■-<> ( ' f C 1 Wlf^rm^^-- ^ 376 1 f > .'■>• 1=3 >) E=X 1=3 > T SAJSIILAC COUNTY. excellent buildings and creditable herds of cattle and sheep. Mr. Erbe endorses the principles and sustains the issues of the Democratic party. His first marriage took place June 16, 1852, when he became the husband of Elizabeth Hollenbeck. She was born Sept. 9, 1829, in Prussia, and came to America with her parents when she was 23 years of age. She died in Sanilac Township, Dec. 23, 1868. Si.x of eight children of whom she was the mother still survive — Chades, Minnie, Bertha, Bernhard, August and Henry. Christina and Emma are de- ceased. Mr. Erbe was a second time married, in September, 1869, to Caroline Cain, a native of Prus- sia and a resident of Ann Arljor, Mich., for some years previous to her marriage. She died at her home, July 29, 1879, leaving five children — Herman, John, Odes, Fred and Ida. The father was a third time married, Sept. 21, 1878, at Detroit, to Mrs Lucy A. (Kinder) Hahn. She was born Dec. 4, 1827, in Wurtemburg, Germany. She was first married in her native land and came to Detroit in 1864. The family are Lutherans. andall E. Davis, deceased, formerly a resi- dent of Croswell, which was named Davis- ville in 1856, in his honor, and retained the ^)^ cognomen until 1879, was born Aug. 28, 1816, in Venango Co., N. Y. His parents, Solomon and Nancy (Randall) Davis, were born re- spectively in Connecticut and Vermont, and died at the residence of their son at Davisville. They were each 75 years of age at the time of their decease. Mr. Davis left home at 18 years of age to acquire a knowledge of the ship carpenter's business, and spent four years in his preparation. He soon after began to work as a millwright, and after pursuing that business a short time in the State of New York, he went to Canada, where he remained four years, en- gaged in the same occupation. He came thence to Belle River, St. Chiir Co., Mich., and was occupied there four years in ship-building. In November, 1846, he first came to Sanilac County and assisted Ephraim Pierce to build a saw- C^ ^ :^ «|«9 M^\im mill on Black Creek, where now is the site of Cros- well. In 1847 he bought a half interest in the mill and the two owners operated conjointly three years, **^" meanwhile building a grist-mill. Both mills were T operated by water power. After managing the grist- yGj mill a year, Mr. Pierce sold his interest in it to Matthew W. Stevenson, and a year later the latter became proprietor of his claim in the saw-mill, Messrs. Davis & Stevenson continuing to operate the mills several years. In the spring of 1857 the dam of the saw-mill was forced away, and as the water lowered every year, it was determined to re- construct the mills to run by steam, which was done in 1858, and the two estabhshments were operated by one engine. Three years later they were set on fire by a stroke of lightning and burned to the ground. They had previously built a steam saw-mill on a small creek in Marion Township, which they man- aged together until Mr. Davis sold his claim to his partner. Then he and his brother-in-law, O. W. King, built a saw and grist mill at White Rock, which they continued to operate nearly ihree years. After this Mr. Davis returned to his farm, now owned by E. R. McCredy. His return was made memorable by being the day of President Lincoln's assassination, — April 14, 1865. Mr. Davis continued ^ to reside upon the place from that time to tlie date of his death, — Sept. 30, 1878. He owned a half interest in the first store building erected on the west side of the river, the other half being the property of William Jenny. Tliis was also destroyed by fire. Davisville was named in his honor, and the first postoffice was established there in 1857, of which he was appointed Postmaster. Mr. Davis was a Dem- ocrat in his political preferences. He was married Nov. 17, 1846, to Melvina King, and they had five children, all of whom are now living: Orson C, born Sept. 5, 1849, is engaged in mining in Colorado. George .\.,born March 7, 185 1, resides in California. Florence E., born Oct. 11, 1856, is the wife of C. W. Arnott, and resides at "Q) Lexington. Jennie, born Sept. 7, 1859, married 1 George Arnott, and resides at Lexington village. ^>- Newton E. was born Oct. 17, 1861, and resides in California. The children were all born in Lexington Township. Mr. Davis was born in Jefferson Co., N. Y., Dec ( ^V^llll^|]ll^i>-r- ry SANILAC COUNTY. ill ^ V s 26, 1821, and is the daughter of John and Polly (Wright) King. Her mother was born in Vermont and her father in Massachuset'.s. Their parents removed with their families to New York, where they were married; and in July, 1845, they came to Michigan, landing at Port Huron, whence they came to Lexington and bought a farm of 160 acres, which afterwards became the property of their son, with whom they lived some years. Tliey died at the home of Mr. Davis. I ff-'"-'"""? feazleton Graves, farmer, section 13, Bridge- tjia^JMB. hampton Township, is the son of Daniel and Mary (Ferguson) Graves. His father was born in New Hampshire, his mother in Ver- i mont. After their marriage they settled in Can- I ada, where they resided during the remainder of their lives. Mr. Graves was born in Ontario, April 17, 1830, and resided in his native country until the fall of 186 r, the date of his removal to Sanilac County. He is a prominent farmer of his township, where he owns 120 acres of land, most of which is under culture. He was married Dec. 23, 1854, in London, Ont., to Lavilla Green, a native of the Dominion. They have had six children, only two of whom survive. John, Mary, Ella and Ida are deceased. Percy and Emma are living. Mr. Graves is a Democrat in political connection, and has held several of the minor local offices. Mrs. Graves is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. ndrew B. Benedict, farmer and blacksmith, _ ^ resident on section 28, Sanilac Township, gil^ was born Jan. 21, 1832, in Prince Edward Co., Out. His mother died when he was 15 months old, and he lived with his father until he was 21 years of age, meanwhile acquiring the trade of blacksmith, which he learned of his uncle. On becoming his "own man" he came to Michigan and located in Tecumseh, Lenawee County, where he worked four years at his trade. At the expiration of that time he returned to Ontario, coming back to Michigan within the year, and to Sanilac County, where he purchased 80 acres of land in Sanilac Township. He has brought the entire tract from nature's wildness to the best condition for the prosecution of his agricultural purposes; and he has also worked to some extent as a blacksmith. Mr. Benedict is a Republican of a radical type, and has held the different local offices of his town- ship from first to last. He was married in Sanilac Township, Sept. 25, 1858, to Phebe J. Blakely, and their household has included the following children : Smith, George, Edgar, John H., Frances O., Emma M., Luella, Or- illa and Melissa J. (deceased). Mrs. Benedict was born in Kent Co., Ont., Nov. 6, 1839. She came, when she was 19 years of age, to this township on a visit, and soon afterward was married. Her parents were Scotch and Irish by descent — all Canadians by birth. The father is still living, in Ontario. The family belong to the Methodist Episcopal Church. i^>— ^ -•fPlrl^ir - ^ S?]'" eorge L. Hurley, farmer, section 20, Mar- ■/ilili^t ^on Township, was born May 31, 1841, in '&V'5~ "^ Schuyler Co., N. Y., and is the son of i^'F^ John and Dorcas (Wixson) Hurley. (See Y sketch of Joel Hurley.) He acquired a fair f common-school education in his native State, and became a resident of Michigan when he was 19 years of age, his parents removing to this State in i860. He commenced in life by assuming the manage- ment of his father's farm when he was 22 years of age. In 1864 he came from Lexington to Marion Township, where during the next year he purchased 80 acres of land, now his homestead. He purchased later 80 acres on section 21, lying adjoining, of which he sold 20 acres. The remaining 140 acres are chiefly improved and supplied with good and suitable farm fixtures of all varieties. He is an agriculturist of ^^sr^m^^ ■^'fe^^^r -7'C>II(i^ill]^> V 's:- I f 37 J SANILAC COUNTY. J '-5^ acknowledged skill, and ranks among the leading farmers of this section of Sanilac County. In political faith Mr. Hurley is a Democrat. He has officiated two years as Township Treasurer, also as School Inspector and in the minor township offices. He was married Feb. 8, 1863, in Worth Township, to Delia Welch. They are the parents of several children,— Emma A., Levi L., Walter Z., Velma A., Charles H., William J. and Clara M. Laura A. is deceased. Mrs. Hurley was born in Ontario, Can., and came in early life witli her parents to Michigan. With her husband, she is a member of the United Brethren Church. ^^^^-^^^^-^ i~ ^ fr||.'ohn C. Benaway,' dealer in dry goods, ^t groceries and boots and shoes, at Dovvning- ^*^ ton, was born July 10, 1854, at Grand Rapids, Mich. His father, Peter Benaway, was born in the State of New York and mar- ried Catherine Stockel, a native of Ohio, of German and Irish descent. Their marriage took place in Grand Rapids, where they lived, the father pursuing his business as a carpenter until 1 86 1, when he removed his family and interests to Sanilac County, settling in May of that year in Worth Township. In 1862 he enlisted in Co. K, 22d Mich. Vol. Inf., and was in the military service of the United States until his death in February, 1864, at Chattanooga, Tenn., of camp diarrhea. The mother is again married and resides in Worth Township. Mr. Benaway is the second of seven children born to his parents, and he was six years of age when they became residents of Sanilac County. He re- mained under the guardianship of his mother until he was 1 7 years old, when he was apprenticed to learn the business of a shoemaker, at Jeddo, St. Clair County. He went thence a year later to Lex- ington, to complete his knowledge of his trade, and returned to Jeddo, where he established himself in business. After making several changes in his loca- tion he came in March, 1878, to Downington. In 1880 he went to Minden and pursued the same business there four years. In December, 1883, he erected a building for his business at Downington and established himself permanently. Politically, Mr. Benaway is a Republican. He was married Dec. 8, 1874, at Jeddo, St. Clair County, to Phebe Strovel, and they have two chil- dren — Lillie and Ethel. Mrs. Benaway was born Jan. 19, 1855, at Jeddo. Her parents are farmers of St. Clair County. W& ', ;.|fnSl amuel B. Dickinson, farmer, section 29, lJ'-_^ Sanilac Township, was born July i, 1832, 'i'illV'S^ ' '" Sophiasburg, Ont. In 1849 his parents, / \Vj Hiram and Abigail Dickinson, settled in Sani- jK lac County, locating 160 acres of land on I section 27, in Sanilac Township. They were among the earliest permanent pioneer settlers, and nearly the entire township was in its original condi- tion. Where Port Sanilac is now situated there stood one shanty, and the senior Dickinson found it necessary to cut a road two miles from the main thoroughfare to his land. Wild game was abundant, and was utilized to supply need, as all provisions must be procured from a distance. Mr. Dickinson engaged in lumbering soon after the removal of his father's family here, and operated for several years in various parts of the Huron pen- insula. In 1853 he bought 80 acres on sections 20 and 29, and subsequently purchased an additional 80 acres. This was his residence for some years afterward, and he continued his lumbering mean- while for other parties. In 1869 he began to operate as an agriculturist, and proceeded to improve his farm. He has placed 1 00 acres in creditable cultivation, with suitable and valuable farm accessories. Mr. Dickinson is a Republican of decided type, and has held several local offices of his township. His marriage to Amy Smith occurred Jan. ir, 1857, in Sanilac Township, and they are the parents of eight children, namely: Amy, Samuel B., Eugene, Edmond, Franklin, Herbert, Amos and Melissa. Mrs. Dickinson was born Aug. 15, 183 1, near Ham- ilton, Ont. Her parents, Amos and Christianna €' 0^\ rF>, Ss/^t^^fe^-^' ■..r^>llD^nP^' ^*^ T 'is; y J 0% ; ) V > :) (^ SANILAC COUNTY. 379 Smith, settled in Sanilac County when she was 17 years of age. She is of the type of women who seem constructed for the wives of pioneers, possess- ing traits of character to contend successfully with constantly arising and repeated obstacles. The family are members of tlie Methodist Episco- cal Church, in which Mr. Dickinson is Steward and Trustee. -?3= =£*- Coseph Diem, farmer, section 11, Custer ^i" Township, was born May 19, 1848, in St. vj.x)'''" ^ Clair Co., Mich. His parents, Godfried "mf and Magdalen Diem, were natives of Ger- ]L many, and came to America in 1839, settling \ in St. Clair County. Mr. Diem was married in Macomb County, April 9, 1878, to Victoria M. Harvey, who was born in Michigan. Lillie and Carrie are the names of their children. In January, 1883, they removed to Sanilac County and bought 80 acres of tvild land in Custer Township. Politically, Mr. D. is a Republican. jl^li'^hubal D. Runnels, manufacturer of and dealer in the Patent Rubber Backet Chain iv.fl Pump, has been a resident of Sanilac County since 1855, his family having removed to Worth Township when he was but^ five years old. He was born April 20, 1850, in Somerset Co., Maine, and is the son of Isaac and Elizabeth (Dickson) Runnels. His father had a farm in Worth Township, and also carried on a small trade in merchandise, being thus occupied four years. He lost his life by drowning while trying to save a boy from tlie same fate. The family remained in the Township of Worth, but Mr. Runnels returned to Maine, where he resided with his uncle, Adoniram Milett, three years. He returned to Worth Township and entered the employ of his uncles, William Sweetser and T. L. Runnels. He was variously employed in their saw and grist mills until he learned the business of each in all details. In 1868 his mother removed to the village of Lexington, and he went there to attend school winters. He was engaged at Port Huron during the remainder of the year, rafting and in other employ- ment. Soon afterward he began the manufacture of pumps and fanning-mills, in which he has been successful, and has gradually confined his labors to the first named enterprise. He is present Treasurer of the township of Lexinoton; is a member of the Order of Masonry, and belongs to the Blue Lodge, Damascus Chapter, No. 41, and Lexington Comman- dery. No. 27. He is Past Master of the Blue Lodge, and has held various offices in the several bodies to which he belongs. He owns his house (which was built in 1881) and grounds, including three acres. Mr. Runnels was married June 26, 1878, at Lex- ington, to Libbie Brown. She was born in November, 185s, in London, Can., and is the daughter of Ery and Mary A. Brown. Mamie, only child of Mr. and Mrs. Runnels, was born May 21, 1879. The parents are members of the Congregational Church. #^-€»<^# ^@r^ •^-ggi^iitif^ ^.'^ ■ v^ illiam Murray, farmer, section 31, Sanilac Township, was born in Sutherlandshire, Scotland, in 1810. He belongs to the Highlanders, and in 1831 came from his na- tive land with his parents to the Dominion of Canada, locating in Oxford Co., Ont. A year later Mr. Murray engaged as a laborer and farm hand, and when he was 24 years of age he became the proprietor of 100 acres of land in Oxford County, contracting to pay for it in labor at $16 per month, providing meanwhile for his own maintenance, and he fullfilled the terms of the agreement to the letter. He resided on the place ten years, and went thence to Nashville, Tenn., in i860, where he was occupied as a laborer in a grist-mill two years. On leaving there he came to Michigan and purchased 80 acres of land in Sanilac Township, afterwards increasing his estate by the purchase of more land. Later he deeded a homestead of 48 acres to his father and mother, and also gave 80 acres to his oldest son. He ( (o) A^- -2s€^^s: 6V<^^IlIl^llllr>r^ area ■380 SANILAC COUNTY. has improved 120 acres of the remainder. The prem- ises are in fine agricultural condition, with capacious ' barns and two dwellings. Mr. Murray is a staunch Republican. I His marriage to Catherine Murray took place in October, 1855, in Oxford Co., Ont., and they have been the parents of 11 children, all living but three. Those deceased are Catherine, James and Maggie. The others are Jeannette, Robert, Ellen, David, Elspie, William, Donald and Neal. Their mother was born of Scotch parentage, in Ontario, and was married when she was 26 years of age. She and her husband are members of the Presbyterian Church. ^■^^^^B-^ ^ fhomas Read, retired farmer, resident at Dcwnington, was born May 3, 1828, in Ti'? xyiP^^ Yorkshire, Eng. His parents, James and =3 '^4K^ Nancy (Harland) Read, were natives of the ■^ '^ same shire and came to St. Mary's, Ont., in a 1 1842. (See sketch of R. McLeod.) In 1854 "^ they came to Marion Township, where they passed , ^ their remaining years on a farm, and died at the ,; ) ages of 77 and 79 years. On coming to Sanilac County with his parents, Mr. Read began to labor as a lumberman, which pursuit he followed some time. The present site of Downington was a complete wilderness, with all the accompaniments of primeval forest. In 1855 he cleared 16 acres of land now included within the village corporation. Mr. Read was one of the first to respond to the call for troops to aid in suliduing the rebellion after the battle of Bull Run, and he enlisted Aug. 28, 1861, in the Fifth Mich. Vol. Inf., Co. E, com- manded by Capt. Traverse, of Port Huron. His command was assigned to the Army of the Poto- mac. He was in all the early actions where his fl regiment was involved, and at the battle of Charles %. City Cross Roads, June 30, 1862, he was shot through the neck. The day following he was taken prisoner and conveyed to Richmond, Va., where he was incarcerated in the notorious Libby prison. He V endured all the common horrors of that place and tLjhe added sufferings of a wound without medical assistance, besides lameness from collision with an artillery wagon the day previous to being wounded. He was discharged Sept. 12, 1864. He served his entire period of enlistment, spending 18 mon-ths in the hospital and one year on detailed duty. He returned from the seat of war to Marion Township, and has since lived in the vicinity of Downington, with the exception of three years, when he resided at the mineral springs of Alpena. Mr. Read is a Republican, and has officiated some time as Highway Commissioner. He owns 80 acres of farming land, and three village lots. His marriage to Eliza Denison occurred Sept. 10, 1857, at Forester, which was then called Cherry Creek. They have had two children, one of whom — James A. — is deceased. Roderick was married in March, 1880, to Mary Plunkett, and now resides on her father's farm in Bridgehampton Township. Mrs. Read was born in Akron, Ohio, Sept. 24, 1844, and is the daughter of Avery and Betsey (Bolster) Deni- son. Her parents were of Yankee and German origin, and were born respectively in Vermont and Pennsylvania. They located in Akron, Ohio, where the mother died, in 1846. The daughter was then two years of age, and she was adopted by Rev. John Pettit, of Crawford Co., Ohio, a clergyman of the Congregational Church, by whom she was carefully reared to womanhood, receiving a fair education. ^•r^/^ ' I C?] v.hristopher M. Oldfield, merchant at Port ', y -^^g Sanilac, is a representative of one of the g|j|f^'"^ very first pioneer families of Sanilac Town- Ijfe ship, his father, Anthony Oldfield, having re- /'.■ moved here in 1850. The latter was a native '> of England, and while a resident of that country was engaged in trade. On removal to the United States he settled in Cincinnati, Ohio, and was a far- mer in the vicinity of that city eight years. At the date of his making a permanent location in Sanilac Township, the "Port" rejoiced in the significant cognomen of Bark Shanty, the place then consisting of about three shanties, one of which was construct- ed of bark. Civilization and its concomitants were at a decided discount, wild game and wilder Indians ^ c (V ^sr^ $^#- ■^v <>I1I1^ID>> T-^^ ■iii^^ t i^ (f) I SANILAC COUNTY. 381 abounding in the forests. Mr. Oldfield, senior, in- terested himself and invested his resources in lum- bering and merchandise, in which he was actively occupied until his death in the winter of 1876. He was born about 1801. His widow, Ellen (Miller) Oldfield, resides at Port .Sanilac with her daughter, and is more than 80 yeais of age. Mr. Oldfield of this sketch was born June 12, 1845, at Cincinnati, and was about five years of age when his parents settled at Port Sanil a His earliest rec- ollections of the home of his childhood's years, sit- uated at tliis point, are of living in a cabin, with a roof so dilapidated that he could lie in his bed and watch the stars of heaven peeping in ujwn his small figure through the cracks and between the "shakes!" (Let not the generations of the future suppose that this term refers to ague, which will be perpetuated in the minds of men to the end of the world, but un- derstand that " shakes " were a species of long shin- gle used to cover the roofs of pioneer homes, and constructed with the aid of such tools as early set- tiers might possess.) Mr. Oldfield assisted his father in his store and on the farm until he was 17 years of age, when he was sent to school at Ypsilanti, Mich., where he was a student one year. When lie was 20 years old he entered the Law Department of the University of Michigan at Ann Aiiior, where he prosecuted the prescribed studies of that branch one term. Instead of pursuing his original plan of fitting him- self for the practice of law, he returned to Port San- ilac, and was married, Oct. 5, 187 i, to Helen Mc- Gregor. Willie, Elwyn, Harry and Walter are the names of the four promising sons of Mr. and Mrs. Oldfield. The mother is the daughter of Archibald and Margaret McGregor. The parents are natives of Scotland.- They emigrated from their native land to Detroit, where they resided a few years, and where Mrs. Oldfield was born, Oct. 5, 1849. Her parents removed to Sanilac Township during the ne.xt year, and were among its earliest pioneers. They are residents and farmers on section 2 of this township. Subsequent to the event of his marriage, Mr. Old- field was occupied as a salesman in his brother's store three years. In 1874 he went to Carsonvilie and entered the employ of William Thompson, at the same time trafficking in grain. In i876'he established his jjresent business rela- tions at Port Sanilac. He operated three years in a building which he rented and where he transacted his operations with a capital of 1^4,000. In 1879 he purchased a brick building erected for mercantile purposes, and is now conducting a double store with an invested capital of $12,000, and transacting busi- ness estimated at $1 25,000 /tv annum. He is sole proprietor of the dock at Port Sanilac, and conducts all shipments of merchandise from this place. In political connection he was formerly a Repub- lican. He is a member of the Village Council, but has persistently refused other offices proffered him. ••<-^4<^^"^>-^ ■ '-■■-5r ?:a": m^ artin Decker, Postmaster and merchant xt Deckerville, was born April 18, 1S16, (T^ ''" in London, Middlesex Co., Ont. He is ^ the son of Charles and Diadama Decker. "\^ His parents located in Michigan in 1851, set- tling in Lexington Township, Sanilac County, ^ when the work of progressive civilization was then ic= in its infancy. In 1865 became to Marion Town ^ ship and began his lumber business on section 32, where, in 1870, the village which bears the family .\ name was platted. Mr. Decker, senior, built a saw ^ and grist mill there, which was destroyed in the fire of 1881, and he erected another grist-mill, where he was actively engaged in the prosecution of his busi- ness interests until the winter of 1882. On the sixth day of December of that year his coat became entangled in the main shaft while attending to his duties, the swiftly- revolving machinery whirled him from his feet and threw him violently to the floor, causing his instant death. He was 62 years of age. His widow resides on the homestead near the village of Lexington. His father, David Decker, is still living, in the vicinity of London, Ont., and is nearly 100 years old. Mr. Decker was a member of the paternal house- '^G) hold until his marriage, which occurred Sept. 21, 1875, i to Elizabeth A. Russell. Two children born of «^ this union died in infancy. Elizabeth P., adopted daughter, was born March 19, 1874. Mrs. Decker was born Feb. 13, 1853, in Ontario. Her parents were French by descent and natives of the Dominion. ^Svjf^j^d <^Il!l^.IItli^ Aj^. ■-^4?^^(<®Ai! <^DI1^CI1>>T ^^(^\m I T v^ > SANILAC COUNTY. They settled in Sanilac Co., Mich., in 1 866, where the mother died within the year. The daughter came to the State with her uncle, William Russell, when she was 14 years of age, and when she was 21 years old she came with his family to Sanilac County. He is a resident of Marion Township. Mr. Decker located in the village of Deckerville after bis marriage, and managed a farm outside tlie corporation. His worldly assets at the date of his marriage were $5, on the wrong side of the ledger; but activity and perseverance in judicious opera- tions have proven in his case what a man is worth to the world when in adverse circumstances. He is now the owner of 80 acres of land, one-half of which he has improved. He established a small grocery enterprise with a stock representing $50, which has increased to a trading basis of i|[,ooo. He owns two village lots where his store and residence are situ- ated, and he is now erecting a business building. He has been Postmaster since 1870. In political connection he is a Republican, and has discharged the duties of a Notary Public since his appointment in iSSi. In October, 1884, Mr. Decker established a trade in hardware at Deckerville, associating with himself in the enterprise James V. Pennel, a young man of education and ability, who has had a successful ca- reer as a teacher in Marion Township. '(^'W (^? illiani Phillips, farmer and carpenter, resi- '■^ ^^Ul l dent on section 6, Bndgehampton Town- ^^ ship, has lived in the county of Sanilac X> since i860. He became a landholder in the same year, by the purchase of 80 acres of and, which he made his homestead, and of which he has since continued in possession. His farm now includes 120 acres, with 40 acres of im- ^ proved land. He is an adherent of the Republican j party, and has held various township and school f-?.'9 offices. ^ Mrs. Mary (McLellan) Phillips, his wife, was born in Canada, of Scotch descent. She was married May 24, 1859, and has been the mother of 15 children, all \^ living but two, — Elizabeth M. and Warren D. Those r,^ surviving are named Alonzo, William J., Melissa, Wellington, George, Robert, Mary, Priscilla, Fred, Edgar, Emerson, Elmer and Flora. Long may this household be protected from the afflictions common to mankind. Mr. Phillips was born in Canada May 23, 1S36. His father, Peter Phillips, was born in New Jersey, whence he went to Canada and married Elizabeth Nevels, a native of the Dominion. Mr. Phillips re- mained there until i860, and followed the pursuits of farmer and carpenter. i|l!^red S. Viets, attorney at law, and insu- ^,„ ranee, real-estate, collection and loan agent E«^4- .iSjE^^. ju<:s(||j:^:]|||;>A-c ^^^ -«^^t§J^ ^T-r^HU^UU^^ V w ■;^^Qfi^ ^ ) SANILAC COUNTY. 38s the mercantile establishment of Mr. O'Toole at Os- coda. He returned thence to Forester, where he again attended school. When he was 20 years of age he became a teacher in the district scoools of Sanilac County, and spent some years in that voca- tion. He beyan the study of law when he was 24 years old, with Hon. O. E. McCutcheon, of Oscoda, and in Novepiber. 1879, he was admitted to practice in all the State Courts of Michigan. He engaged in a mercantile enterprise at Decker- ville in 1S80, and three years later sold out to enter upon the prosecution of the various duties pertaining to his present business relations. In February he re- moved to Downington and established his office. 'He was married July 17, 1879, to Mittie Hills. (See sketch of E. Hills.) She was born May 6, i86r, at Lexington, and has been a resident of Sanilac County all her life. One child, Maud, was born to Mr. and Mrs. Viets, Aug. 22, 1881. The mother is a communicant of the Episcopal Church. Mr. Viets is a Democrat in political views and connectl(3ns. He has held the office of Superintend- ent of Schools. -yuiMSJ%^r^--4^_ ■/^^^zraTrev ; T J^i \!,',avid Stuart, farmer, section 25, Wheatland Township, was born June 9, 1S47, in St. . , vj.^ Clair Co., Mich. His father, William Stu- JH I ndrew W. O'Keefe, Clerk of Sanilac Coun- 'iy^pJif ty, was born Aug. 7, 1845, in Lanark Co., Onl. John and Bridget (Walsh) O'Keefe, his parents, were born respectively in Cork Coun- ']'' ty, Ireland, and in the Province of Ontario. The father came to America in 1827, when he was but ten years of age, settling in Ontario on a fLirm. He afterwards removed to Sanilac County, and died Nov. 22, 1883, in the township of Bridge- ham pton, aged 67 years. The mother still resides there, aged 5 2 years. Eight of nine children born to the parents are still living. Mr. O'Keefe is the oldest born of his parents' chil- dren. Those younger are named and situated as follows: Michael resides at Galveston, Texas; Han- nah lives at Alpena, Mich.; Ellen is a resident of Harrisville, Alcona Co., Mich.; Richard D. is a citi- zen of Sanilac County. He is a station agent and telegraph operator on the Port Huron & Northwestern Railroad at Minden City. In the fall of 1884 he was elected Representative from the second district of Sanilac County on the Republican ticket. Mary B. lives in this county, and is a school-teacher by profession ; James P. is Principal of the school at Minden City ; John D. lives in Bridgehampton Township, and is a telegraph operator by occupation. Mr. O'Keefe went to Oxford Co., Ont., in 1852, with his parents, where they remained until the date of his removal to Sanilac County, — 1867. He loca- ted in Lexington, where he engaged in teaching, and later went to Huron County, where he again taught school and kept books in a saw-mill from March, 1868, until April, 1869. At the latter date he came to Forestville, Sanilac County, and engaged in the capacity of salesman and book-keeper in the mercan- tile establishment of Isaac Green. This relation ex- % •^ /N (•->: ^€§^- ■^ ^<^>D 3^ ntif^^^^ — ^^ r 386 T<^DIi:^IlIl>^v -®#if^((i I ^^ f ^ .( M SANILAC COUNTY. 387 s (Winter) Houck. The parents were natives of On- tario, born of Canadian parentage and Dutch Hneage. The father died in February, 1883, in Saginaw Co., Mich., aged 73 years. The mother is now Hving in that county, and is 74 years old (1884). After marriage, Mr. and Mrs. London located on a farm on section 35, Sanilac Township. In addition to his agricultural pursuits Mr. L. established a wood dock on the lake-side. In the fall of 1877 he purchased 200 acres of partly improved land on section 32. The place is very valuable with 120 acres improved, splendid farm buildings, ar,d a fine residence, recently erected, of brick, at a cost of $3,000. Mr. London is a "dyed-in-the-wool " Republican. He is an honored and trusted citizen of his township, and has been prominent and active in local affairs. He is serving his fourth term as Supervisor. 1,'^'f^f'^rames H. Hartshorn, merchant at Forester and owner of the Lakewiew House at that '^^ place, was born Feb. 6, 1833, in London, Middlesex Co., Ont. His parents were natives ^r of Vermont, and went to Ontario in 1823, when Middlesex County, where they located, was in its pioneer period, and the city of London had not even a beginning. He became a land-holder there and owned 100 acres, which is now traversed by one of the principal streets of the city. He sold the property just previous to the laying out and plat- ting of London. He died on a farm in the same township, Feb. 6, 1S47. Mr. Hartshorn's mother died when he was ten years old, and two years later he engaged in the lake service with Amos James, now tlie proprietor of the Cadillac House at Lexington. (See sketch). He was in the transportation service two years, running between Port Huron and Cleveland. At the age of 14 years he cjuit the life of a sailor and entered into a voluntary apprenticeship with H. Foster, of Port Huron, to acquire a knowledge of shoemaking. After serving two years he paid Mr. Foster $100 to release him from his indenture, and went to Detroit, whence, after a brief stay, he pro- ceeded to Saginaw City and East Saginaw. He went thence to the place of his nativity, where he operated as a journeyman about six months. Later, he came to Port Huron and entered the employment of his former instructor, Mr. Foster, and operated eight months as foreman of his shoe factory. At the end of that time he went to Lexington, where he man- aged a shop in the interests of Simons & Nichols, continuing there two years. He then established a shop there in his own behalf, which he conducted two years. In 1858 he made another remove, to Forester, where he managed a boot, shoe and harness shop for Smith, Kelly & Co., five years, and then purchased the business and operated in his own in- terests. He disposed of his stock and relations in that avenue April i, 1878, and established a general mercantile enterprise, which he urged on until he had a business of greater proportions than he desired, and he decreased its extent somewhat, and engaged in keeping a house of public entertainment connected therewith, at the same time managing a farm of 80 acres on section 5 of Forester Township. In political views Mr. Hartsiiorn is independent. He has held the offices of Treasurer and Highway Commissioner, besides the minor positions. He is a member of the Order of Maccabees. His marriage to Maria A. Bisbee occurred at Lake- port, St. Clair Co., Mich., May 9, 1854, and they be- came the parents of nine children — George S., Ar- thur, Calvin, Fred, Ida E., Pearl, Henry and Erna. The two last named and an infant child are deceased. Mrs. Hartshorn was born Nov. 6, 1829, in London, Ont. Her parents, Elijah and Sarah (Foster) Bisbee, were born in Vermont. They removed to Ontario, where they settled on a farm. In 1835 thsy came to Lexington, where they were among the very earliest of the pioneer settlers. Both are deceased. ^-— ( ^ —5 - ^ - tiC . "'Tifl ames Reid, farmer, section 23, Bridge- hampton Township, has been a resident of -' Sanilac County since 1863. He has been a landholder since 1874, when he bought 80 acres of land on which he has resided and followed agriculture until the present time. At the date of purchase the entire tract was in a wild I -^ ^K^^ gtr|«*- ii^ T25--ita^iSr 388 SAN/LAC COUNTY. -7 -l^^^((s\-S % :) \ >5 ^ s ) (^ state, and he has devoted his energies and efforts to such good purpose that he now has 70 acres under cuhivation. Mr. Reid has been prominent in gen- eral affairs, and has discharged the duties of several local township offices, with satisfaction to tlie public and credit to his abilities and integrity. He has been Supervisor nine years, Treasurer four years, and Justice of the Peace four years. He is independent in political sentiment. Mrs. Mary .\nn (McFee) Reid, was born in the north of Ireland, whence she came to Philadelphia, removing thence to Sanilac County, where she was married to Mr. Reid May 28, 1S70. She and her husband are communicants of the Church of England. Mr. Reid was born in Ireland, April 20, 1833, and is the son of John and Elizabeth (Crozier) Reid, also natives of Ireland, where they spent their entire lives. Mr. Reid was 22 years of age when he emigrated to this country. He spent eight years in Canada, before settling in the county of Sanilac. lanson Goodrich, retired lumberman, re- \\ siding at Forester, has been identified with the history and development of Sanilac County since 1848. Coming hither before its organization, he has seen the steps of its prog- ress and been able to note the effects of the operations of the various elements that have come hither, — some with only selfish purposes, some with honest, eager desires to achieve all that was possible .through judicious application of energies and strength to develop the Huron peninsula and place it, as speedily as possible, on a footing with other sections of the Peninsular State, its resources being in no de- gree secondary. He came to this point from Cal- houn County to prosecute the lumber business, and he engaged in the construction and management of a saw-mill on the lake shore in Forester Township, in the interests of Jarvis Hard and Ingersol cSi Co. After devoting three years to their business he estab- lished himself in the lumber trade, and after the season closed passed the summer in gill-net fishing. He passed four years in this manner, and in 1852 abandoned lumbering altogether, devoting himself S^v^))^#^ ^^^^ — -^m wholly to fishing and farming. He combined the two pursuits three years, and in 1855 turned his at- tention exclusively to his agricultural pursuits. At one time he was the proprietor of about 1,000 acres of farming land, and he sold about four-fifths of his acreage. He still holds 200 acres, which is nearly all under improvement and cultivation, and supplied with farm buildings of exf client character. When Mr. Goodrich became a resident of Sanilac County it was included within the municipality of St. Clair County, and the Township of Forester be- longed to Austin, which comprised about one-third of the county. He was a prime mover in the or- ganization of Forester, was its first Clerk and its second Supervisor, which position he has occupied 22 years, — consecutively with the exception of two years, — and he officiated as Chairman of the Board two years. He has also been Justice of the Peace a long term of years. In political faith he is a Democrat. Mr. Goodrich was born Feb. 9, 1814, in Fairha- ven, Rutland Co., Vermont, and is the oldest son of six children born to his father, Chauncey Goodrich, who was twice married. The mother of the four oldest children, Polly (Narramore) Goodrich, died Aug. 24, 1824. Her children were named Alanson, Lois, Mary A. and Chauncey. Polly and William are the children of the second marriage. The father died about the year 1859, the demise of both parents occurring in their native county in Vermont. Mr. Goodrich was educated in the substantial man- ner common to the county where he was born, and was trained to the business of a hunberman by his father, who was engaged in that calling. He re- mained at home until he was 22 years of age, when, in 1S36, he set out for the West. He made his first stay at Marshall, Calhoun Co., Mich. The place then was but a small village, and located in a dense forest. He operated there as a lumberman and es- tablished a saw-mill, which he operated until his re- moval to Forester in 1848. His marriage to Martha Ainsworth took place at Marshall, Nov. 9, 1843, and they became the parents of five children. George married Josephine Sharp and resides on a farm in Deckerville. Ella M. mar- ried AlLiert Clark, and lives in Deckerville. Frank married Phebe West, and is also a resident of Deck- erville. Ira married Esther Griggs, and lives at Sand Beach, Huron County. Chauncey wasrnarried (IS),' ^ /7s r> :#- -2^^ — 6V4^tll]>:iiii>>^ f SANILAC COUNTY. Nov. 2, 1879, at Forester, to Ida Hartshorn (see sketch of James Haitshorn), and resides on the homestead. Mrs. Goodrich was born Dec. r, 1816, in Pennsyl- vania, and is the daughter of Thomas and Rhoda (Crouch) Ainsworth, who were natives of Massachu- setts and descended from ancestors of pure New England origin. Her father was a farmer and re- moved after marriage to the Keystone State, whence he went with his family, in 1846, to Ogle Co., 111., where the father died, in 1S54, at the age of 50 years. The mother died in 1874, aged 74 years. Mr. Goodrich is a Yankee pure and so]id, and pos- sesses the intelligence, shrewdness and acumen that have been the accorded birthright of his ancestors from the days of the Puritans. He is very nearly three-score years and ten, but his physical vigor is unbroken, aijd he retains all the traits of his prime of manhood. ■—¥% '®|^Ufred Williams, farmer, section 32, Water- ■^^^■3 town Township, was born Oct. 2c;, i8s2, in ^ Middlesex Co., Ont. His parents, John and Sarah Wdliams, are both deceased. He was reared to the calling of a farmer, and at the age of 15 years he began his active life as a faim laborer, and also obtained employment in a brick-yard. He was married April 28, 1S74, in Strathroy, Mid- dlesex Co., Ont., to Nancy Rowe, a native of that place, where she was born June 16, 1850. Four children constitute the issue of this marriage : Walter A., Oliver S., Ernest A. and Rosannah M. .•\fter his marriage, Mr. Williams rented a farm in his native county and spent three years in the prose- cution of his business after that method. He came to Michigan in the spring of 1877 and purchased 80 acres of land in this township. He went vigorously to work in the improvement of his farm and placed 40 acres in first-class condition. The fires of 1879 and 1 88 1 swept away not only all his fences and farm buildings but also the material for replacing them. His loss from fire in the fall of 1881 was $900. He sold his devastated estate and purchased #^ 80 acres of partly improved land where he has since \' resided and expended his energies. His farm now exhibits 30 acres cleared and cultivated land, man- aged with skill and judgment of the most creditable character. Mr. Williams is a zealous Republican, and is fillins; his second term as Drain Commissioner. y^ ^m 1'^ illiam A. Sweet, farmer, section i2,Bridg- hamplon Township, is a native of the Dominion of Canada, where he was born, J> in August, 1833. He is the son of Jared L. and Martha (Purdy) Sweet, the former a native of Vermont, the latter of New York. After their marriage they settled in Canada, where they were residents during the remainder of their lives. Mr. Sweet received a common-school education in his native province, and in the winter of 1856 came to Sanilac County, where he has since continuously resided. He is a prominent land-holder of Bridge- hampton Township, where he owns 100 acres of im- proved and creditably cultivated land. He is amember of the Masonic Order, and has been Supervisor of his township four years, and Justice of the Peace 16 years. He has a war record that places his name in honorable connection with those of the native born citizens of the State. He enlisted Sept. 8, 1861, in the Sixth Mich. Cav. and was in the service in com- mon. with the other members of the regiment until April 5, 1S63, on which day he was discharged, hav- ing received a gunshot wound in his left foot at the battle of Falling Waters, Md. He was actively engaged in the battle of Gettysburg, and was con- stantly under fire from June 30 to July 14. His command was attached to the Cavalry Corps of Gen. Kilpatrick. After his discharge he returned to Sani- lac County, whence he enlisted. The marriage of Mr. Sweet to Margaret Hicks oc- curred Jan. 16, 1855, in Canada. She is a native of the Dominion. The household now includes ten children; three others have passed to the better land. The names of the deceased were Viola and Warren, and a child who died in early infancy. Those sur- C^ -::^K—^^T<^MUm>^ TT" -es^ ¥^(@\M SANILAC COUNTY. viving are William ^B., David H., I^ewis, Mary E., Martha E., Lydia M., Belinda S., Alberta L., David ^ G. and Emery A. Mr. and Mrs. Sweet are members T of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mr. S. belongs /§. to tlie Order of Masonry, Sanilac Lodge, No. 136. >^-- ; ) :^j V J;',elos Churchill, farmer and builder, resi- I S-^ 'l- dent on section 36, Wheatland Township, was born Oct. 14, 1834, in Cattaraugus Co., N. Y. His parents, Silas and Minerva (Wadsworth) Churchill, were born respect- ively in New Hampshire and Massachusetts. After their marriage they settled in the State of New York, where they spent the remainder of their lives. At the age of 15 years, Mr. Churchill was appren- ticed to learn the carpenter's trade, and served seven years. He obtained a common-school education, and was a resident of the city of New York from the age of 16 years until he was 29 years old. 'He remained in his native State until the spring of 1S82, and combined his trade with the calling of a farmer. In the season named he came to Sanilac County and bought 160 acres of land in the township where he has since resided. He has reclaimed and improved about 30 acres. In politics Mr. Churchill is a Re- publican. He belongs to the Order of the Knights of Maccabees. He was married in Chenango, N. Y., in August, 1857, to Percepta Nogar. She was born Aug. i, 1840, in the place where she was married. Irving D , De Forest, Wallace and Orlando are the names of the children now included in the household of Mr. and i\Irs. Churchill. One child was lost in infancy. 5lf) ^^^i irara Cudney, farmer, section xo, Sanilac tfiMMi Township, is a native of the Empire State, 4^^'^"' and was born Nov. 22, 18 10, in Dutchess County. He comes by descent from some of * the hardiest stock of Wales and Germany, his I ancestral line on both sides being noted for tenacity of life. He is 74 years of age at this writ- ing (r884), and exhibits but few of the traces of the course of time, or the effects of a life of unusual activity and vicissitude. His dark hair is but slightly gray; he is athletic and strong as in the prime of life, and is as able to perform a day's labor as when in his meridian of years. He has had no illness of any account in his life. Joshua Cudney, his father, emigrated from Wales about 1756. He was of pure Welsh ancestry, and married Margaret Franz, who came from Germany about the same time. The progenitors of both were engaged in the War of the Revolution. They went to Canada in 18 16, where they were residents during the remainder of their lives. The father died at 63 years of age; the mother when she was 98 years old, — almost a centenarian. When he was 22 years of age, the father of Mr. Cudney gave him 100 acres of land, all of which was improved, and on which he labored 14 years. He sold the place and went to McHenry Co., Ills., where he ])urchased 160 acres of land and operated thereon as a farmer four years, when he again sold his home and came to the city of Monroe, Mich. He enlisted from that place in 1847, in the Second Mich. Inf., Co. C, under Gen. Buel, to serve in the Mexican War. He was in action at Buena Vista, the most brilliant victory of the contest, and at the siege of the city of Mexico, being present at the surrender of the latter. He was discharged in 1848 and returned to Michigan. He made a location near Grand Rapids, where he resided four years, and where he was married. He purchased 80 acres of land in the vicinity of the city on which he expended the labors of the time men- tioned. He went thence to Oxford Co., Out., and in 1855 came to Lexington Township, in Sanilac County. He rented land for the next 14 years, and in 1869 purchased 240 acres of unimproved land, where he has since carried on his efforts to develop the place to the best purpose, the entire acreage being under improvements and supplied with farm buildings of excellent cjuality, among which is a fine barn erected to replace a similar structure which was destroyed in the fire of 1881. That disaster took away all his farming implements and the entire hay and grain crop of 160 acres of land, involving a loss of ^2,000. Politically, Mr. Cudney is a zealous Republican. He was married Nov. 13, 1852, while living near Grand Rapids, to Anna Enstnian. She was born A C< 0- i .'^, ^ )'N/^1))«^#^ <:mi^nny> v A *^ V ) (k\ SANILAC COUNTY. 'y^^i'isr Aug. 5, 1837,111 Oxford Co., Out., and is the daughter of Simon and Nancy Eastman. Her father died at Knoxville, Tenn., from a wound received while in action in the service of the United States daring the Civil War. Her mother died at Muskegon, Mich. Of her marriage to Mr. Cudney 13 children have been born, all of whom are living save one son — Marshall — who was drowned in April, 1884, in Black River, near Anderson, in Sanilac Township, while working on the drive. Hefell from a log, and, not being able to swim, he was drowned before assistance could be obtained. The others were born in the following order: Simon D., Charles, Elizabeth A., Justin \V., Henry, Sanford, Ida, Ada, Adella, Efifie, John and James. Mr. C. is a communicant in the Church of England, and Mrs. C. is a Baptist in religious belief. ^ esley R. Reinelt, farmer, section iS. \Vheatland Township, was born Aug. 28, -M^^' '^53> ''^ Bohemia. His parents, John and JESx' Barbara (Sostek) Reinelt, were also natives ^ of that country. Mr. Reinelt left his native land when he was eight years old, and since that age has resided in Sanilac County. He owns about 400 acres of land in the township of Wheat- land and Argyle, and has about 60 acres under im- provement. He is a Catholic in religion and a Democrat in politics. »aaL^^,.:,^« 1 1 cry McLeod, a resident of Downington, was born June 18. 1834, on the .\tlantic Ocean, while his parents were en route from Scot- M^ 4:DD^0I1^> 392 SANILAC COUNTY. #^^ i; Township. The father died there Aug. 5, 1865; the death of the mother occurred at the same place Nov. 10, 1880. Mrs. McLeod is the sixth of seven chil- dren born to them. She was born Aug. 19, 1839, and was a mere child when they removed to America. When they removed to Marion Toivnship, the village of Downington had no e.xistence, even in imagina- tion, and she cooked the first meal for settlers where the place is now located. She is now managing a millinery establishment at Downington. Mr. McLeod is a prominent member of the fra- ternity of Odd Fellows, and has passed all the de- grees of the order and held all the ofiScial positions in the local Lodge of which he is a member. He belongs to the A. O. U. W., and is a zealous, ardent Republican. ^ ^rSlfbadiah W. Lewis, farmer, resident on sec- '^\mA'- ^^^^ g^ Sanilac Township, was born July 13 1825, in London, Ont. His parents, Levi and Anna (King) Lewis, were also natives of Ontario, of New England origin and descended respectively from Scotch and English parents. They were farmers, and in 1855 removed from the Dominion to Michigan, settling in the township of Lexington in this county, where they passed their remaining years. The father died in 1870, aged 73 years; the mother's decease took place in 1877, when she was 80 years of age. Mr. Lewis was educated in the public schools of Ontario, and, when of suitable age, acquired a knowl- edge of the builder's trade, in which he was occupied until he was 27 years old, when he was married and removed to Michigan. He purchased 160 acres of land in the depths of the forest, which in 1853 cov- ered all parts of the township. There were no roads, and if there had been teams, they could have availed nothing, for want of roads. His farm includes 160 acres, situated on sections 8 and 17, witli 120 acres under improvement. Mr. Lewis is a Republican of the most decided and inflexible type. He was one of the foremost and most active assistants in the organization of the town- ship of which he was the first Supervisor, and he held the office in 1866, '68, '69, '70, '71, '72, '73, '74, '78, '79 and '80. He held the position of Treasure'r three years, and has served several years as Justice of the Peace. His first marriage took place in March, 1853, to Maria Harrtsliorn. She was born about 1832, in On- tario, and was of Irish lineage. She died in Sanilac Township, in February, 1855, leaving a daughter, Maria L. Mr. Lewis was a second time married Aug. 27, 1857, at Lexington, to Mary Law. They have had five children, born as follows: Mary S., Nov. 3, i860; Florence E., March 3, 1863; Ulysses E., Aug. 2, 1869; James A., born March 8, 1867, died Oct. 21, i88t. Cynthia E., born July 27, 1858, died June 17, 1878. The latter was the wife of Syl- vester Hubbell, of Sanilac Township. Mrs. Lewis is the daughter of Mark and Sophia (Caster) Law, na- tives of Ontario, and of German and Irish descent. They came to Lexington Township when the daugh- ter was seven years of age, and the father died there in 1856. The mother is still living, and is 67 years of age. Mr. and Mrs. Lewis are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which the former is Steward and Trustee. •WZ-CC^S^-* y^w-^^jiznyjwo V^- I A C<\ eorge Mater, farmer, section 10, Custer Township, is the son of George and Anna Mater, natives of Germany. They emi- ^'^^ grated to the United States in 1830, and the ^ father died in the city of Buffalo. The mother I died in Barry Co., Mich. Mr. Mater waS born Feb. 15, 1826, in Germany. He was four years old when his parents came to this country, and he passed the greater part of his life in the State of New York and Canada, until the spring of 1882, the date of his removal to the place where he now resides. He bought 160 acres of land, which now includes 30 acres cleared and cultivated. Mr. Mater was married in Canada, to Mary A. Wintemute. She is of Canadian birth and German ancestry. Nine children have been born to them — l.>^ 4^t§K^>^^i ®)^^^**^ 7- 1 s SANILAC COUNTY. :a?0^- ^^ ^^^ ^^^_ i)7^^(f* <>II11^I1II^>T ^<2V r '4 (0 .-^ 394 SANILAC COUNTY. County in the same year, where one of his uncles was a resident. He was surprised on his arrival here to find the country a mass of forest trees, but he soon became satisfied of the promise of the place and purchased 40 acres, made a clearing, built a house and proceeded with the work of imprbvement in earnest. He has also owned another " 40," which he transferred to a friend, and his remaining original acreage is all under improvement. Mr. Derges is a Democrat in political connection. He was married in March, 1844, to Christina Ho- man. She was a native of the same province as her husband, where she was born Oct. 5, 1822. They have been the parents of ten children, two of whom are deceased. The survivors are named Ferdinand, Martin, Oduff, Christina, Anna, Reaka, Bethele and Marion. Henry and Fritz are deceased. The pa- rents are members of the Lutheran Church. V^^., /®li eorge A. Parker, Principal of the Union .Schools of Lexington (1884), was born ^ Feb. 5, 1845, in the Dominion of Canada. His father died when the son was five years of age, leaving the latter the only representative of the family name, several sons and daughters having died in infancy. His mother married a sec- ond time and removed from Canada to the State of New York, residing successively in Orleans and Monroe Counties. Later, the parents removed to Sanilac County, where they passed the remainder of their lives. Mr. Parker acquired his education in the Empire State, and, subsequently to his completing an academic course of study, obtained a thorough busi- ness training in the Commercial College at Toronto, Ont. In 1868 he came to Sanilac County and engaged in teaching. He threw all his abilities and energies vigorously into the work and won for himself an enduring reputation in the vocation which he has made a profession. His interest in his duties as an educator attracted favorable notice, and he has been long and closely identified with the educational affairs of the county. He served several years as County Superintendent of Scliools, as Township Superintendent of Schools, and, under the existing law creating a County Board of School Examiners, was the first member elected for the full term of ihree years in Sanilac County. In tlie fall of 1884 he was re elected to the same position. Mr. Parker has been the Principal of the Schools at Port Sanilac, and has been more intimately con- nected with the educational interests of Sanilac County than any other resident within its limits. He has been a well known and effective instructor in institute and normal class work. scar Wetmore, proprietor of the Exchange ^ft Hotel at Port Sanilac, was born May 3, 1836, at Akron, Ohio. He is also engaged in farming on section 33, Sanilac Township. Wetmore is a representative of one of the most extensive families of New England, of trace- Puritan lineage, having branches in every one of the Eastern States. Both his grandfathers were soldiers of the Revolution, and his father, Buel Wetmore, served in the Civil War, being a Sergeant in Co. K, Ohio Vol. Inf., and died in 1863, after two years' active service, in the hospital at Nashville, Tenn. He contracted a pulmonary disease from ex- posure, from which he died, at the age of 52 years. His occupation previous to his career as a soldier was that of a merchant and speculator. He married Catlierine Barden, and they had six children. Mrs. W. died at Toledo, Ohio, in the fall of r 881, aged 64 years. Mr. Wetmore was the third in order of birth of his parents' children, and the third son. He was 13 years old when they went to Toledo, remaining under their control until the death of his father. He began to work at the business of making sash, doors and blinds when he was 18 years of age, which he pur- sued as an occupation until his removal to Michigan in 1864. On coming to Sanilac County he located on section 33, where he purchased a hotel structure and two acres of ground therewith. Later he pur- chased 160 acres of land on the same section, and combined agriculture with his hotel enterprise, until able V.^ 6 ^ ^ lll]s> Z. -^^^tf^ gs»- :m^- i) T p ^ /N :t: V -^ I SANILAC COUNTY. July, 1883, when he exchanged 80 acres of land for the hotel property of which he is now the proprietor. Politically, Mr. Wetmore is a Democrat, and he has been active in the discharge of several official posi- tions to which he has been elected. His marriage to Mary A. Hart took place July 4, 1862, in Verona, Mich. They have had seven chil- dren, one of whom, Oscar, Jr., is deceased. Those living are named James, Catherine, Buel, Oscar and Ida Carrie. Mrs. Wetmore was born in 1838, in Ireland. Her parents emigrated to the United States when she was 12 years of age, locating first in the State of New York, and coming later to Sanilac County. They live four miles from Port Sanilac. Mr. Wetmore belongs to the Masonic fraternity, Lodge No. 237, at Port Sanilac. The family are Roman Catholics. -^3=H= L_i__i. "7""7" Ct- "oel W. MeMahon, attorney at law, Mar- 1^^ lette, and State Senator 1882-3, has risen to greater eminence, probably, than any other native of Sanilac County. He was born y[ in this county, June 29, 1848. His father, \ John McMahon, was born in County Clare, Ireland, and came to America as a British soldier in 1837, at the time of the trouble with Canada. He was discharged from military service in the Dominion, and when war was declared between the United States and Mexico, he enlisted in behalf of the Re- public, his adopted country, and served faithfully two years. He finally located in this county, where he cleared a piece of land and engaged in farming, until his death in 1853. In 1843 he married Miss Bar- bara VVixson, a native of Canada but of New Eng- land parentage. To them were born six children, two sons and four daughters. Mr. McMahon, the oldest son and third child in the above family, spent his early boyhood upon his father's farm in this county, attending the district school and laboring for his widowed mother. At the age of 14 years he left home and went out into the world alone, to battle with its difficulties and trials, determined to conquer. He continued in farm labor, attending school during the winter months, until he K^ f ( was 17 years of age, when he entered a store as a ^ clerk for one year, and then for a few years he fol- '}r lowed agriculture and worked in the lumber camps, /■';. according to the season. At the age of 23 he | entered the Law Department of the Michigan Uni- versity at Ann Arbor, defraying his expenses with his own earnings. On completing one course of lectures he returned to this county and entered the office of Divine & Wixson, at Lexington, and after reading law there for eight months he was admitted to the Bar and began the practice of his chosen profession, y which he has since followed, with commendable sue- ^:: cess. Since his admission to the Bar he has resided '% at Marlette, where he enjoys a large share of the local patronage. For some years Mr. McMahon has been exten- sively engaged in the lumber business, both in the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. He also owns a half interest in the private banking house of McGill & Co., of Marlette. He resides upon his farm adjoin- ing the village, where he is also engaged to some ex- ^ tent in agricultural pursuits. ^ In politics Mr. McMahon has always been a Re- jj"? publican. He has ever taken an active part in the ^ political affairs of his own place, and has held many ^ local offices. Upon locating in Mariette he was *^ elected Prosecuting .Attorney, which position he held for two years. In 1870 he was elected Supervisor, *- which office he held three years. During every political campaign, even only of local interest, he has given from two to four weeks of his time to the canvass of his county in the interest of his party, and in these labors he has been eminently successful. In the fall of 1882 he was elected to the State Senate % of Michigan, on the Republican ticket, his opponent in the campaign being John Tenant, on the Fusion ticket. As a Senator he acquitted himself nobly in the interests of his constituency, and also of the entire State. He was Chairman of the Committee on Insurance, and a member of the Committees on Liquor Traffc, Railroads, Immigration and State Normal School The foregoing account is one well calculated to in spire all young men, no matter how poor, with an«*j ambition to fix their aim singly and proceed to ener-(.ii^ getic work with a patient determination to succeed.^ There is a "plenty of room in the upper story" of this(4^ republic for all such young men. ^ (^ .k -rC:I]I]>:i]0^>- y^^ vsaT'' -#t^((2^''il SANILAC COUNTY. S^ Senator McMahon was united in marriage July 27, 'M 187 I, with Miss Minerva Wheeler, a native of this 7, State, and a daughter of John B. Wheeler, who was ' a native of the Empire State. Her mother was born in Canada. V homas Barr, farmer, section 7, Forester Township, was born Feb. 21, 1849, in Lanark Co., Ont., and is the son of Thomas and Elizabeth Barr. When he attained his majority he came to Michigan and settled in Forester Township. He was married there Nov. II, 1873, to Margaret Emily Rushton, and they have four children, — Thomas, Calvin, Robert and Ruth M. Mrs. Barr was born in Branford, Ontario, and came to Michigan in 1867 with her parents. After marriage Mr. Barr took possession of 80 acres of land on section 31, Forester Township, where he resided two years, and sold out at the end of that rime. In 1877 he bought 80 acres, which now constitutes his homestead, and of which he has improved 60 acres. He was in prosperous condition, when the fire of Sept. 5, 1881, destroyed his house, barns and the entire farm appurtenances, leaving the ground alone where he had expended his labors and energies. Even his stock perished, as was so com- monly the case in the county. Mr. Barr is a Democrat, and has held the position of Supervisor since 1878. He has also discharged the duties of other offices, and has been Justice of the Peace eight years. (|^ 11 -■'■ "^ -^f'j'l', ohn Kasdorf, farmer, section 32, Water- i^Mllf~ town Township, was born April 2, 1842, in mother of seven children. They are named Fred, Caroline, Henry, Minnie, Mary, Bertha and Emma. Mr. and Mrs. Kasdorf were a part of the agricultural class in their native land until 1872, when they came to the United States. They settled in Marine, St. Clair Co., Mich., where the father became a saw- mill assistant, in which capacity he operated four years. He then engaged in farming four years in Columbus Township in that county, where he became the proprietor of 40 acres of land. In the spring of 1 88 1 he came to Sanilac County, where he pur- chased 80 acres of unimproved land in the township, where he has since resided. He has improved 40 acres, and erected good farm buildings. He is a Republican in political connection, and himself and his wife belong to the Baptist Church. «^ iehael N. Mugan, banker, attorney, real- tate and insurance agent, at Port San- '^ ilac, was born Aug. 19, 1848, in Oxford m Prussia. He was under the management of his parents until he was 14 years of age, when he became a farm laborer, in which em- ploy he was occupied until he was married, Oct. 22, 1866, to Rachel Gabbett, a native of Prussia. She was born March 13, 1839, and has become the Co., Ont. His parents, Patrick and Mary (O'Connor) Mugan, were narives of the south of Ireland. They emigrated to America pre- vious to their marriage, the respective families to which they belonged locating in Oxford Co., Ont. After their marriage they settled on a farm in that county, where they are living in retired affluence, having accumulated $30,000, in the enjoyment of which they are moving down the sunset walks of life, a situation which affords them satisfaction in view of the fact that they set out in life in actual poverty. They became the parents of 12 children, four of whom are deceased. Mr. Mugan of this sketch is the eldest. Martin B., James G., Sarah Allen, Katie and John are the names of the others who are living, all of whom reside in Ontario except Martin, who is a citizen of St. Louis, Mo. Mr. Mugan was reared on his father's farm, ob- taining a fair elementary education in the public schools of his native county, until he was 17 years old, when he entered the Commercial College at London, Ont., where he completed a full business course of study, and studied classics to some ex- tent. Afterward he came to Sanilac County and. C^, I V^ I G) f r % T ) A V St ) ^ rrr-T<^llI]5i^tlllf;>r-- S A NIL AC COUNTY. -:3!i^^^?iKr \^ taught school one winter. 4 He returned to Ontario K and entered the grammar school at Ingersol, where tr, he studied six months. At the end of that time he went to London, Ont., and he obtained employment as a salesman in a provision store, where he was oc- cupied some time. Coming thence to Michigan once more, he taught school in Sanilac County, at Forest. He remained in the Huron peninsula two years, returning again to Ontario, where he became a student in the C. L. I. College and remained a student there nearly two ■\jg, years. In the fall of 1872 he came to White Rock, Huron County, where he engaged once more in teaching. While thus engaged he was appointed County Superintendent of Schools, and was the in- cumbent of that position until the office was abol- ished. He was again placed in nomination by all the political parties, when the position was annulled. In 1875 Mr. Mugan established a mercantile enter- prise at Forestville in Sanilac County, in which he was engaged two years. On closing his affairs in that line he went to Port Huron for the purpose of E^ reading law, and he entered the office of O'Brien & ^ Atkinson. He remained under their guidance two 1=3 years, and in March, 1879, was admitted to practice in the State Courts of Michigan. In May, 1880, he opened liis professional career at Port Sanilac. His meicantile venture Iiad left him in financial delinquency, amounting to $500, but the influx of business in his calling of attorney soon enabled him to set himself right with the world, and in 1882 he instituted a private banking house, with a cash capital of $20,000, to which he soon added the several enterprises now constituting the list of his business relations. Mr. Mugan is in sympathy with tlie Republican element in politics. He was married at White Rock, Dec. 25, 1874, to Mary A. McKee, and they are the parents of three children, — James P., Mary W. and Allen V. Mrs. Mugan was born at Port Huron, and is the daughter of Charles S. and Mary (Stock) McKee. Her pa- rents are natives of England. They emigrated to Ontario, and after some years' residence in the Do- minion they removed to Huron County, where the father was occupied as a merchant, and later as the proprietor of a hotel, which he pursued until 1882. He is nov/ retired, and is about 65 years of age. His ^^00 wife is of the same age. Mrs. Mugan received a careful education in the common schools of White Rock and under the care of a private teacher until she was 18 years old, when she commenced a suc- cessful career as a teacher. She is a lady of intelli- gence and fine social qualities. The family are Roman Catholics. -4-<-^t^=c«^>S.>..^ h\ -xociZriS^^— ^^i -.^-S/OTWJv ^ •^'W r.,dward Cowan, farmer, section 2, Bndge- Ws hampton Townshiii, is a native of Ireland, ,Ky where he was born in September, 1840. 4^ He was but three years old when he was brought to Canada, where he remained until he came to Sanilac County in 1861, which has since been his home. He owns 80 acres of land, 60 acres of which are improved. Mr. Cowan is a Dem- ocrat in political faith. He has been the holder of several township offices. His marriage to Mary E. Nelson took place in Bridgehampton Township, Oct. i, 1873. She is a native of Ohio. Following are the names of the six children who have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Cowan: Rosa P., Edward J., William A., Arthur J., Thomas R. and Frederick A. The latter is not living. The parents are members of the Church of England. m; 4'( . ohn O'Connell, farmer and lumberman, '■}MJl resident on section 14, Custer Township, •;i:;3''' has lived in Sanilac County, since 1859. )f He was born Oct. 12, 1849, in Ontario, and is r the son of William and Grizelda (Wright) I O'Connell. His parents were natives of On- tario and settledin the townshipof Brideghampton,in 1859, and are yet living on their farm. Mr. O'Connell is the oldest of 1 1 children born to his parents. He was 10 years old when he came to this township and county, where he has grown to A c^: m m ®)$«^#«-- ■^V<^llt]^llDrt>-^ -#^C®V^ (h A V rQ^ 398 SAJSIILAC COUNTY. 't manhood and established his citizenship. He is a Democrat in poHtical sentiment. His wife, Mrs. Mary (Spiker) O'Connell, is a native of Ontario. Their marriage occurred Jan. i, 1874, in Bridgehampton Township. Three children have been born to them, — William, Agnes and Nora. Mr. O'Connell has held several local township offices. ^«^- onathan W. Babcoek is a leading attorney of Sanilac County and resides at Lexing- ton. He is the junior member of the law firm of Divine & Babcoek, and is prominent in the general interests of the locality where he ," lives. The business house to which he belongs is one of the most important and influential in this section of the Peninsular .State, and his official record is one that does eminent credit to his abilities and testifies conclusively to his popularity and the quality of the services he renders in behalf of the trusts reposed in him by his friends. Mr. Babcoek was born April 19, 1849, in Williams Township, Middlesex Co., Ont , and is the son of Henry A. and Betsey (Siryker) Babcoek. (See sketch of H. A. Babcoek.) His father was born in Oneida Co., N. Y., and his mother belonged to the German element which peopled the Mohawk Valley in the State of New York. She was born March 17, 1825, in Wyoming Co., N. Y. Her mother was born in 1800 in the Empire State, and passed her last years in the family of her daughter in Elk Township, where she died, in 1879. In 1852 the senior Babcoek re- moved his family to Romeo, Macomb Co., Mich., and a year later went thence to Richmond in the same county. Jonathan was 14 years of age when a third and last change was made in locality. In 1863 the family settled on a farm in Elk Township, in this county, where his parents yet reside, on the old homestead. Mr. Babcoek obtained a limited com- mon-school education in Macomb County, and after removal to Sanilac County he was an efficient aid to his father in the manufneture of hoops. He became skilled in all the departments pertaining to the busi- ness, and in 1869, when he was 20 years of age, he obtained a position as agent for the purchase of J V V SANILAC COUNTY. ";2if^^?^i^ 399 political connections. He was elected Supervisor of Elmer Township in 1876, and was one of the Com- mittee who drafted the resolution to remove the county seat to the geographical center of the county. In 1880 he was elected to the position of Prosecuting Attorney, and scored a decided triumph over the op- position candidate. He was re-elected in 1882, with- out opposition, and again in 1884. While resident at Peck, he officiated in several official positions in the village and township, and has been actively in- terested in school matters. He has been a member of the Republican County Committee six years, and Chairman of that body four years. Mr. Babcock has been married twice. His first wife was Nancy J., daughter of Chauncey and Lavi- nia Allen. She died in Lexington, Sept. 21, 1S82, leaving two surviving children, of three, of which she was the mot'ier. Willard was born Sept. 4, 187 i, Alice was born in April, 1873, and died in August following. Linda was born April ri, 1876. Mr. Babcock was again married Sept. 24, 1883, to Anna Farr. She was born in Sanilac County on the farm on which her father resides in Elk Township. She is the daughter of John and Mary A. Farr, pioneer set- tlers of the township of Elk. Mr. Babcock is a member of the Masonic fra- ternity, and was a leading actor in the organization of Elk Lodge, No. 353, of which he was first Master, holding the position until his removal to Lexington. ►^€^<^ (liHlliam K. Shirley, farmer, section 11, tt^S!:'Ii Bridgehampton Township, was born in 'j^K'^ Lanark Co., Ont., Aug. 20, 1838. John ^ and Jane Shirley, his father and mother, were natives respectively of England and Ireland. Mr. Shirley resided in his native province until 1868, the date of his coming to Sanilac County and also of his purchase of 120 acres of land. He is now the proprietor of 160 acres, and has 115 acres under first-class cultivation. He was married in Lambton Co,, Ont., Feb. 26, 1868, to Jane Larrett. She was born in that county, March 19, 1844. George A., Mary A. V., John W., Robert W., Amanda J. and an unnamed infant are the children born of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Shirley. The two last died in infancy. Mr. Shirley is an adherent of the National Greenback party. He has held the office of Overseer of Highways three years, and School Director three years, been Secretary of his Churcli (Episcopal) and Sabbath-s( hool teacher the past two years. Mrs. S. is also a member of the same Church. -5 — '^^^^^^y ttia P. Rass, farmer, section 6, Watertown Tp., was born in Fowler, Trumbull Co., Ohio June 9, 1848. His parents, Andiew W. and Sarah A. (Reams)*[Rass, were natives of Pennsylvania, and were respectively of Scotch and German descent. His father is a black- smith and wagon-maker by trade, and was a resident of Trumbull County 26 years. He removed with his family to Michigan in 1872, after passing three sum- mers in Iowa. He first located in Midland County, and went afterwards to Wayne County, where the family continued to reside two years. They removed thence to SaniJac County and settled in Elmer Township, where they now reside, and are aged respectively 66 and 59 years. In their household was one daughter — Layura, now a resident at Cleve- land, Ohio. Mr. Rass became the arbitrator of his own for- tunes at 14 years of age. He engaged in his native county in farm labor for a time, and next entered the employment of the Lake Shore Railroad Company, where he operated three years between the cities of Cleveland, Ohio, and Erie, Pa. He went next to Iowa, where he engaged as a farm laborer during two seasons. In the autumn of 1871 he located at Midland, where he spent two years in the manufac- ture of doors and window sash in the einploy of Reams & Ross, and at the end of that time em- barked in the same business in his own behalf. He did not succeed as he had planned, and at last sold his interest. He then entered the furniture estab- lishment of his father, with w-hom he remained some time as clerk. He then engaged in tlie saw-mill business, and went after a short time to Wayne VS •i o) •S& m i^V®)^€- u=:^^ <^Mm]\^ >i>■^— — i f J ^ a 400 SANILAC COUNTY. County, where he remained two years. At the end of that time he came to the township of Elmer, where he purchased 40 acres on section i. To this he added by subsequent purchase'a tract of ^o acres in Watertown. The entire property was in a wholly unimproved state, andhe has since that date cleared and creditably improved 30 acres. Mr. Rass is a zealous Republican, and has held the position of Supervisor since 1881. His marriage to Permelia Sigler occurred Dec. 25, 1872, in Fowler, Ohio. She was born March 9, 1851, in that place, and is the daughter of Austm and Me- lissa (Lamberton) Sigler, natives respectively of Ohio and Connecticut. The former is now a merchant at Cortland, and is 64 years of age. The mother died in Ohio in 1858. Mr. and. Mrs. Rass have one child, —Guy A., born Jan. 27, 1874. -13= =e^ ^ i^iif ittmon A. Wilton, farmer, section five, S}^imw,'. Bridgehampton Township, has been a resi- jlijp^ dent of Sanilac County since 1863. In tip August of that year, he bought 40 acres of un- ji^ improved land in the township where he now ^ resides. He has bought and sold various tracts of land in the township, and is now the proprietor of 50 acres, nearly all of which is under cultivation. He has discharged his duties as a citizen by serving in the local offices, having been Justice of the Peace 15 years. Township Clerk, Highway Commissioner, and filled the different school offices. He was formerly a Republican, but at present is identified with the Anti-Monopolist element. Mr. Wilton was born in Canada, May 28, 1836, and is the second son of his parents, William and Jane (Benzie) Wilton. They were natives of Eng- land, whence they emigrated to the Dominion of Canada in 1834. The father died there, Dec. 17, 1844. Their family included seven children. Mr. Wilton obtained only a limited education in his youth, but later in life he realized the necessity of mental cultivation; and, by application and taking advantage of all opportunities which presented, he acquired a air share of learning. After attaining his majority. he followed the trade of a carpenter and joiner in Canada, until his removal to Michigan, since which he has been a farmer. He was married Dec. 26, 1864, in Forester Town- ship, to Jane, daughter of James and Esther Aldred. She was born Aug. i, 1845, in England. Of seven children born of this union two are deceased, — Es- ther and Pittmon. Those who survive are Williain S., Ida J., Mary A., Eliza E. and Joseph H. g\f1jills Beech, farmer, section i, Bridgehamp- '>'y ton Township, was born Sept. 6, 1836, in Prince Edward Co., Ont. His parents, yi-^^'\ Harlow Land Phebe (Harrington) Beech, •!•■ were born respectively in the State of New York I and Canada. His father died in the Dominion, in 1879; his mother still survives, and resides in Canada. Mr. Beech came to Sanilac County in the winter of 1877. He bought the property he now owns, which consists of 80 acres of land with nearly 60 acres under cultivation. He is independent in politi- cal connection, and has held various offices in his township. He was married in Prince Edward Co., Ont., Sept. 12, 1855, to Nancy Gerow. She was born in Canada, and is the daughter of Benjamin and Martha (Wig- gins) Gerow. who were natives of New Brunswick. Both her parents are deceased. Al Fretta is the name of the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Beech, born Sept. 13. 1857- ^^r"^"^ *^ W ( A C — A/v^^S-i^S-v^^ — .harles Reinelt, farmer and lumberman, •> residing on section 7, Wheatland Town- | p, is a Bohemian by birth, and has resided ^ in Sanilac County since 1863. He was born Oct. 8, 1842, and is the son of John and Barbara (Sastek) Reinelt. His parents were also born in Bohemia. He emigrated to this country Wk T (^ SANILAC COUNTY. when he became 21 years old, and proceeded at once to Michigan. The township of Wheatland was then included in the municipality of Marion, and lie home- steaded 160 acres. As he entered somewhat exten- sively into the business of lumbering, he increased his real estate to 320 acres. His arable land com- prises about 80 acres. In political belief he is a Democrat and he was the first Highway Commis- sioner and the first Constable of Wheatland, being elected when the township was organized. He was married Nov. 12, 1865, in the township of Forester, to Mary J. Loub. She was born Oct. 28, 1849, in Ontario, Can. The following are the names of their nine children : John, Agnes, Albert, George, Mary, Charles, Ida, Arthur and Maggie. The family belongs to the Catholic Church. ^*-^« ■^'''i'*-^' f=^''t rs. Irene E. Adams, only daughter of Amos James, proprietor of the Cadillac '^?jS^ ' ' House at Lexington, with whom she re- :)^''*% sides, was born at Port Huron, Mich., March 14, 1845. She passed the early years of her life in her native place, where she attended the graded school and completed the High School course of study in her 18th year. She was subsequently a pupil under the instructions of Miss Hattii Hyde, now Mrs. F. S. Wells. She began the study of music when she was seven years old, under a private teacher. Miss Sarah Howard, who was her instructress until she was ten years old. Her next teacher, Louis Atkins, gave her two terms of lessons, and she studied music under Mrs. Maria Gough, seven years. She became very proficient, and after ceasing her lessons she became a teacher herself. When she was 13 years of age, her aunt, Mrs. H. N. Howard, of Port Huron, took her by boat to Chi- cago. The party took passage in the latter days of September, 1848, in the "Storm-King," a misnomer in this instance, as in making port at Chicago during a heavy storm the boat "reefed " on a sand-bar and the passengers were taken ashore in a small boat at three o'clock in the morning, after a disagreeable season of storm and sea-sickness. It is perhaps needless to state that the party returned by rail to Port Huron, with a disgust for lake travel which time has not obliterated. Miss James was married in 1S64, to Henry L. Adams, a salesman in the mercantile establishment of William Allen at Port Huron. After continuing in that avenue of business one year, Mr. Adams yielded to the solicitation of his father-in-law and removed to Lexington, where he became interested in ihe management of the "Cadillac," associated with Mr. James. In 1867, the hotel changed owners, Messrs. James and Adams returning to Port Huron, where the latter embarked in the livery business. A year later he exchanged his interests in that line of business for the hotel property at Forestville, owned by Charles Smith. Under the new manage- ment, the " Forest House" continued the most com- modious and comfortable refuge for the traveling public on the lake-side between Lexington and Port Austin until the fire of 1S71, when it shared the common fate and vanished in smoke and flame with its entire contents. . The succeeding days were full of trial and suffering to Mr. and Mrs. Adams, and a son, John William, who had been born to them May 22, 1866, and was a little more than five years of age. The family pushed out on the lake in a small fishing-boat, a terrific gale and a heavy sea making their chances of safety exceedingly small : but they preferred death by drowning, and they sat in their frail boat, seeing the destruction of their home, ill clad, burning bits falling upon them inces- santly, making it necessary for them to keep in a drenched condition to avoid burning to death on the water. The latter was warm with the intense heat that pervaded the atmosphere, and was converted into alkali. For three days and two nights they were afloat without water or food, save two or three cabbages picked up on the beach. Mr. Adams' loss aggregated about $5,000, and included a barn and livery equipments worth $2,000, the hotel fixtures and supplies. The large coach-dog, " Billy," was severely burned. Incidents abounded, and one that seemed the result of premonition must be mentioned, as it con- cerns " Polly," a part of the history of Lexington and well-known on the Huron lake-side. " Polly "' is a parrot, which is at this writing (1884) 35 years old, and has been a member of the James family 30 years. She is a remarkable sample of her remark- able genus, and wants the regulation "cracker," does s %m<>^ ^S/^®>)^#' 402 t V SANILAC COUNTY. not " have to " talk when she is not disposed, and is apt with her "good bye" when her capricious taste is offended. For some reason, not understood by herself, Mrs. Adams sent the bird to the " Cadillac " two weeks before the fire. Her piano had never been removed to Forestville, and about the time Polly was sent to what proved to be safe quarters, she ordered the instrument shipi)ed from Port Huron ; but, feeling a curious premonition, she sent instructions to have it landed at Lexington, which was done, to her great satisfaction when they were overtaken by catastrophe. Mr. Adams did not remain to accept the relief which came promptly to the fire- sufferers, but joined his father-in-law, and soon after became again asso- ciated with him in the management of the "Cadil- lac " at Lexington, of which Mr. James had become the proprietor. In 1875 he removed to Port Huron, where, associated with Will. James, his brother-in- law, he again embarked in the livery business, where he remained two years. His health had become broken and his disease developed into dropsy, from which he died Aug. 11, 1879, at Lexington, whither he had returned in 1S77. Mrs. Adams and her son are members of her father's family at the Cadillac. (See sketch of Amos James.) -^-.<^<44|.^.^>.- homas T. Nichol, farmer, section 18^ >l^®^li Bridgehampton Township, is the son of Xjjtg?='^ John and Elizabeth (Coulter) Nichol. The 'H,^ parents were natives of Ireland and became tJ residents of the Dominion of Canada, where I the son was born, March 24, 1838. He came to Sanilac County in May, 1855, his parents remov- ing hither at the same time. He has lived here ever since with the exception of one year, when he was in the service of the United States. He enlisted Oct. 3, 1864, in the 22d Mich. Vol. Inf., and was afterwards transferred to the 29th Mich. Vol. Inf. He is the owner of 160 acres, which includes 85 acres of cleared and improved land. He is a Deni- crat in political faith, and has been a faithful servant in most of the official positions in his township. He has been Justice of the Peace since 1865, has offici- ated as Township Treasurer seven years, and has discharged the duties of all the school offices suc- cessfully. He was married Feb. 3, 1 86 1, in Bridgehampton Township, to Sarah Tucker, a native of the State of New York. Eight children, named as follows, have been born of this marriage : Roxie A., William F., Maty J., Robert, Elizabeth, John, Thomas, Theo- dore and Ellsworth. The two last were twins, and Ellsworth is deceased. ■«^-^ h '^ illiam Murray, farmer, section 3, Forester ;. I' i'rlr^J , , Township, was born Sept. 10, 1841, in SVs'" Middlesex Co., Ont. His parents, Wil- -_f^^> liam and Jane (Murray) Murray, were na- tives of Scotland, and came to Ontario about 1838. The father was a farmer by profession, and followed that business in the Dominion until 1 85 2, when they came to Forester Township and passed the remaining years of their lives. The mother belonged to the Methodist Episcopal Church and died in 1S82, aged 62 years. The demise of the father occurred in 1863, at the age of 44 years. He was a member of the Congregational Church : was Township Clerk at the time of his death. Mr. Murray was 11 years of age when he came to Michigan. His father died soon after he attained his majority, and lie assumed the management of the homestead and the care of the family. His mother was his especial charge to the time of her death. To the area of the farm of his father, he has added 104 acres, and of the entire tract of 160 acres he has placed 100 acres in a condition suitable for agricul- ture. It was originally covered with heavy timber, but has now excellent barns and a good family resi- dence. Mr. Murray belongs to the Republican element in political affairs. He has been Township Clerk for four years, and has held other official positions. He was married Aug. 7, 1871, in Sanilac Town- ship, to Emmeline Mattison, and they have three children, namely: Arthur H., born June 4, 1872 Alice, Dec. 24, 1873; James, July 19, 1875. Mrs. ( wm> \^ -?«$!» @^(^€-^ t!7 ^VC:lili;^:i]ii^i>v ^''"S^ SANILAC COUNTY. 403 f /On >y^ V -4' '■> Murray is the daughter of James and Emma (Heri- tage) Mattisoii. Her parents were among the earliest of the pioneers of the county of Sanilac, and are still living, in the township of the same name. She was born July 2, 1S42, in Monroe, Mich., and was six years old when she was brought to Sanilac. She was educated in the city of Monroe, and at 16 became a teacher in the public schools. She followed her vocation 14 years and won a reputation for ability and skill in the calling of teacher. illiam Cowan, farmer, section 2, Bridge- p I'lli^Sl i';, hampton Township, was born in 1834, in jl-S'-i^"* County Tipperary, Ireland. He was 16 ^^fS$Y years old when he bade farewell to his native •^^tT' land to come to America. He went first to ' Canada, where he remained until 1S61, the year in which he removed to Sanilac County, where he has since lived. He is the owner of So acres of land, and has 50 acres under creditable and profit- able cultivation. The first marriage of Mr. Cowan occurred in the township of Worth, when he became the husband of Lottie Webb. One child was born to them, William by name. The mother died in 1873. Mr. Cowan was again married in Carsonville, June 12, 1880, to Elmina Dixon. One child, born of this marriage, died in infancy. Arthur is living. Mr. Cowan is a Democrat in political connection. "vaaaz/®-^^ p4^4— ».^^WOTi»v. r'acob I. Deadman, Carsonville, Postmaster llir at Farmer's and manager of the mercantile establishment of C. M. Oldfield, was born Sept. 22, 1S55, in Canada. His parents, Wil- liam and Christina (McKay) Deadman, were born respectively in England and Scotland. They emigrated to Ontario in early life, married and settled there, and afterward came to Alpena, Mich., where they now reside. Mr. Deadman remained in the Dominion until he was 19 years old, and received a common-school education. In 1874 he came to Sanilac County, and engaged in clerking for a period of seven years. In 1S82 he entered the employment of C. M. Oldfield, merchant at Carsonville, as manager of the business, and has since operated in that capacity. In October, 1882, he was appointed Postmaster at "Farmer's." He is a Republican and a member of the Order of Maccabees. Mr. Deadman was married at Port Huron, May 27, 1879, to Mary McMuldroch, daughter of William and Hannah McMuldroch. She was born Nov. 19, 1862, at Port Sanilac. Three children have been born to them, — Elizabeth, Carrie and Christina. •?^ ,v.-ii;qi._ nthony ]jeins, a farmer in Sanilac Town- ship and engaged in the busines of a mar- ketman at Port Sanilac, was born June 11, .'?{!]\a 1838, in Wurtemburg, Germany. When he li/' reached the age of 16 years he left his native I country and came alone to the United States. He landed at the port of New York, where he made a brief stay, proceeding thence up the Hudson River to Albany, where he obtained employment in a brick-yard. He went next to Onondaga County, coming, 18 months later, to Michigan, where he ar- rived in 1856. Within that year he enlisted in the regular army of the United States, and was first stationed at New- port, Ky. His command was next sent to Texas, and later to Florida. He was in the service 18 months, and at the end of that time he was dis- charged on account of minority (being under age), before the expiration of his period of enlistment. He remained in Florida, in the employment of the Gov- ernment, nearly two years, and then went to Arkan- sas, where he first began to operate as a butcher, and continued there in that occupation two years. He proceeded thence to the "plains" of the Indian Territory, where he was similarly occupied in the in- terest of a Government contractor. He was there employed si.K months, coming thence to Michigan, ^ ^ '^^^h u:^^ <:]\m tlll>1>A^ ^ ^ m ^K/-®))?^?!^ ^:^tlll^llll^>r tfe^'S .404 SANILAC COUNTY. I -It ) >:> where his stay was brief. He returned to the South, and when that section of the United States seceded he was compelled to enter the Confederate service, and enlisted at Mobile, Ala. Twenty-one months elapsed before he had an opportunity to make his escape. He had had enough of war, and he again made his way to Michigan, going soon after to New York. In 1865 he returned to Michigan for a per- manent abode, coming to Huron- County. In the following year he located at Port Sanilac. He at once established a meat market, and has since continued the prosecution of that business, together with farming. Mr. Leins is a Democrat in political belief and connection, and has served two terras as Township Treasurer. He is a member of the village Board of Trustees {1884). He was married June 5, 1866, at Port Huron, to Mary E. Flynn. Tliey have been the parents of five children, two of whom — Thomas C. and Augusta — are deceased. A. Elizabeth, Ida A. and William A. are those who are living. Mrs. Leins was born Dec. 25, 1S34, in Emily, Victoria Co., Can. The family are Roman Catholics. ^ I 'O ) ^laf'w,^-. Kulius Bisbee, farmer, section 20, Bridge- ,'!£MJ,.,r hampton Tp., was born Oct. 11, 1829, in ||l^'''' Vermont, of which State his parents, Elijah and Saria (Foster) Bisbee, were also natives. They removed to Canada in ^1832. The son remained there until 1S45. In February of that year he came to Sanilac County, and was a resi- dent here until 1S62, in which year he went to Ma- comb County. He remained there until April, 1880, when he returned to Sanilac County, and bought the farm on which he has since resided. It comprises 140 acres of land, 75 acres of the place being under culture. He is a Republican in political views and connection. Mr. Bisbee was first married at Port Huron, July 4, 1852, to Clarissa Warren. She was born in Can- ada and died in Sanilac County, in 1856, leaving one child, — Ira W. The present wife of Mr. Bisbee was Mary A. Wade. She is a native of Michigan, and has been the mother of five children, — Nettie C, Frankie, Cora, Ida and Kitty. The second child is deceased. — '^.- U>rastus B. Barrett, foreman of the agricul- ttjl^^ls tural property of Edward Smith at For- 'kjlSf''' ester, has been resident at this point since 1865, when he came hither from Hampden County, Mass., and engaged with Messrs. Smith, Kelley & Co. as foreman of their lum- ber interests. He operated in that capacity seven years, iiaving control of 200 men. On the suspen- sion of their lumber business he succeeded to the management of the extensive farm of the firm, which includes 500 acres of improved land. Under the supervision of Mr. Barrett the place has proved a financial success. He has improved the stock on the place and made a specialty of breeding horses. He owns a fine Percheron stallion, worth $2,000. The principal barn on the estate was planned by Edward Smith, and constructed under Mr. Barrett's supervision, and is perhaps the best in the state. It is 66 by 150 feet in size, with stone basement, with facilities for the shelter of 100 head of stock and 250 tons of feed. Only an extended description would convey an adequate idea of its style and con- venience. Its finish renders it a prominent addition to the appearance of the place. Mr. Barrett was born Nov. 7, 1836, in Hampden Co., Mass. His parents, Butler and Polly (Covves) Barrett, were natives of New England and belonged to the agricultural class of society. His mother died in 1863, aged 54 years. His father is 83 years of age, and is still living in the Bay State. Mr. Barrett was married Oct. 27, i860, to Mary J. McRae, and they have two children : Edward S. is the elder. Jennie married Geo. P. Brown, of Port Huron, Dec. 25, 1881, and resides at St. Ignace, Mich. Mrs. Barrett was born in June, 1847, in Somersville, Conn., and is the daughter of Lathrop and Delia (Owens) McRae. After marriage Mr. Barrett resided in Hampden County until the advent of civil war. He was ^ A ^< r I ^'^^X§^ ^ <>\^mm^>^^ <^IIIl^IlIl^>-r T-r^ SANILAC COUNTY. -:2^'#iisr ^S>i^ •,'^*gj; M : [I f1 lexander Miller, farmer on section 19, Sj tt^Pt S Sanilac Township, has been a resident of ?^I|i»j5 Michigan since i8i;o, and has lived in Sanilac "ijal County since 1863. He was born May i, 'I 1S13, in Roxburghshire, Scotland. He was married there in 1837,10 Rachel Scott, a native of /IT Scotland, born May 30, 1810. She died at her home in Sanilac, Jan. 2, 1883, leaving seven children to mourn the loss.of a wise, judicious and well beloved mother. She is sincerely missed and lamented by a large circle of friends, to whom she had become endeared by the tests of 20 years of continuous ac- quaintance. The children are named Robert. Adam, Alexander, James, Margaret, Barbara and Rachel. William is deceased Three years after his marriage, Mr. Miller re- moved from " Auld Scotia " to Ontario, where he was interested in farming seven years. In 1847 he trans- ferred his family to St. Clair Co., Mich., and settled on the river of the saine name, whence he came in 1850 to Sanilac County. He at once purchased 80 acres of land in the southern part of Sanilac Town- ship, which he sold afterward and bought 80 acres on which he established his present home. The nature of the energy and perseverance which char- acterize Mr. Miller are manifest from the fact that in 20 years he has developed 160 acres of farming land in this county through his own efforts. Politically he affiliates with the Republican party, and has been active in local affairs in the township. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church, as was also his wife. vt- -VUZQ/®^' ^M^4— «/®|^wroOTv. ohn McGregor, farmer, section 18, Bridge iljir hampton Township, was born Dec. 15, ' 1835, in Scotland. John and Christian (McEachran) McGregor, his parents, were It also natives of " Auld Scotia." Mr. McGregor came to .\merica in 1852 and settled at first in Canada, where he lived until the winter of i860, when he came to Sanilac County. He made a small beginning as a proprietary land-holder, purchasing at first 40 acres. His present estate includes 740 acres, and he has 300 acres improved and under the plow. He is independent in political belief and action, and has discharged the duties of several local official positions. His marriage to Lydia Sampson occurred Dec. 25, 185S, in Canada. She is the daughter of Nelson and Elizabeth (Wilton) Sampson, natives respectively of Canada and England. Mrs. McGregor was born May 29, 1843, in Canada. Eleven children have been born of this marriage : John, Mary, Lillie, Adam, George, Christian, Gilbert, Lydia, Freddie, James and Elizabeth. The latter is deceased. #^ S)(|if iL.^rank Murray, merchant and Postmaster, mMk -Mi and farmer at Richmondville (Forester WF^"^ Township), was born April 27, 1849, in j^ Ontario, and is the son of William and Jane s^ ^ <:>' J)\^ (Mumy) Murray. He was still in childhood when his parents removed to Michigan and located at Forester, where his father died, in March, 1862, and his mother in March, 1882. Mr. Murray became the independent master of his own fortunes when he reached his majority, and engaged in the manufacture of shingles. Jan. 3, 1872, he engaged as a salesman at Richmondville, e«^ SM^vl- -:^^^^ ^^^<->ll!ir^IlDi'>^- ~^^st. a^^ m mlM (&^^^'>- ^r <^\ \%n<>^^ 406 SANILAC COUNTY. > ^ 1=3 1=3 ^ with E. B. Harrington, now of Port Huron. He afterward attended the Commercial College at De- troit, and again entered a mercantile establishment, engaging as salesman for Thomas Canham, at For- estville. He then purchased the business formerly owned by E. B. Harrington, at Richmondville. Two years later, he became the owner of 100 acres of valuable farming land under partial improvement, situated on section 16, Forester Township. He has since conducted liis two-fold business, with satisfac- tory results, and has improved the entire acreage of his farm. Politically, Mr. Murray is a Republican, and is active and zealous in his support of the principles of his party. He was married July 20, 1S73, at Forester, to Lizzie Allen, and they have two children, — Maud, born May i, 1874, and Hermon F., June 29, 1884. Mrs. Murray was born Jan. 6, 1856, and is the daughter of William and Mary Allen, natives respect- ively of Ireland and Scotland. They came to On- tario, whence they removed to Sanilac Co., Mich., whsre they now reside. The fire of Sept. 5, 1881, was the cause of loss to Mr. Murray, of unusually aggravated character, as it swept away the entire village of Richmondville with the exception of one residence. He lost 12 dwell- ing-houses, a blacksmith shop and his business build- ing, including a stock of $7,000 value. His aggre- gate loss .("as about $15,000. The scene of the ruins can be better imagined than described ; at night not a vestige of the appearance of the place in the morning was to be found. I trying D. Churchill, farmer and carpenter |t resident on section 36, Wheatland Town- ship, is one of the prominent and ambitious young men of Sanilac County. He is a son of Delos and Percepler (Nogar) Churchill (see sketch), and was born May 2, 1859, in Clie- nango Co., N. Y. He accompanied his parents from their native State to Sanilac County, in 18S2. He has received a good common-school education, and has been instructed in tlie details of agriculture and building by his father. In May, 1883, he bought 120 acres of wild land in Wheatland Township, wliich he intends reclaiming and placing in profitable condi- tion. He is active in the general mterests of his township, and is present Township Clerk, to which position he was elected in the spring of 1884 (current year). He is already identified with the cause of morality, and is zealously engaged in active temper- ance work. In May, 1SS2, he organized the Marion Temperance Union, and has also been instrumental in establishing several other branches of the same order, whose aggregate membership is about 500. He is a member of the United Bretliren Church, and is Su])erintendent of the Sunday-school. He has held the same position in the Methodist Church at Deck- erville, where he was formerly a member. His political views are in accordance with those of the Republican party, and he is known as an advocate and promoter of reform in every needed avenue, and the friend of morality and good order. J enry Oldfield, resident at Carsonville, was born Feb. 24, 1S33, in Preston, Lancashire, Eng. His parents, Anthony and Ellen (Miller) Oldfield, emigrated to the United States in 1842, and located at Cincinnati, O., where they spent eight years, and where Mr. Oldfield obtained a fair degree of education in the corarnon schools. In 1850 the family removed to Sanilac County and settled at Bark Shanty, now Port Sanilac. The significant name of the place suffi- ciently outlines the existent state of affairs at the time, everything being in a primitive condition, and the only traces of civilization being the rude tempo- rary shelter constructed by those who had come hither to avail themselves of the undeveloped re- sources of lumber and fishing afforded at this point. (See sketch of C. M. Oldfield.) His father and John S. Thomson's father, of Port Sanilac (see sketch), en- gaged in lumbering and he worked for them until the suspension of the lumber interest, when he inter- ested himself in a mercantile enterprise at Port Sanilac. He continued to conduct his interests in that avenue until 1S76, when he sold his business to his brother, V^' V j^.iUi^ <^I1 B^ !llly>^ ^^^^jK- ®))^Tt^ TT v4:Dll^IlP>i>v TT -:2iiw!sr ^ ;-3 P /• /N "\ SANILAC COUNTY. C. M. Oldfield. He took possession of his farm in the vicinity of Port Sanilac, where he continued to operate as a farmer for five years. His place in- cluded 40 acres, and he considers it one of the most valuable pieces of land in the county, its worth be- ing materially increased by a brick residence of supe- rior character for a farm house, which cost $3,000. In 1883 he removed to Carsonville, and has since been connected with his son-in-law, J. A. Hosemer, in business. Mr. Oldfield was married June 12, i860, at White Rock, Huron County, to Mary S. Ferguson, and they became the parents of seven children, viz.: Ellen A., Thomas, Anna W., Emma, Frank L. and Eliza- beth T. One child died unnamed in early infancy. Mrs. Oldfield is the daughter of Laban and Amanda (Waterbury) Ferguson. Her parents were natives of New York, and in 1850 came to Michigan. They settled at first at St. Clair, and came afterward to White Rock, where her mother still resides. Her father died there in 1878. Mr. Oldfield was born July 30, 1838, in Herkimer Co. N. Y. Mr. Oldfield is a zealous and earnest Republican, and has held all the local offices of the township of Sanilac. ^(2^^ ; illiam A. Badeau, merchant at Minden City, was born March 15, 1832, in the city of New York. He was brought up l> and educated in his native city, and when but a youth he became an accountant in the mammoth business house of L. N. Bates & Co. He operated in their interests 18 years in the aggregate, becoming accountant soon after he engaged in their service, and fulfilled the trust im- posed in him with the utmost credit to himself and satisfaction to those most intimately concerned. He went thence to Boonton, N. J., the seat of the famous iron works, where he conducted the United States Hotel for two years. He continued that business until 1881, when he established an extensive furni- ture establishment at Minden City, and later con- nected therewith a mercantile enterprise. He has recently erected a brick structure for business pur- poses, 22 X 40 feet and two stories in height. It is the first brick edifice in Minden City. He was married Jan. 16, 1866, at Boonton, Morris Co., N. J., to Julia A. Speer. She was born Nov. 20, 1849, at Montville, Morris Co., N. J., and died there May 15, 1 88 1. Mr. Badeau is a Democrat in political principle, and held the position of member of the Village Council two years. #-# ^— ■' '%% eorge Mahoon, Supervisor of Delaware Township (18S4) and farmer on section 9, was born June 27, 1S39, in Kings Co , 'W^ Ireland. His parents, James and Mary (Kid- by) Mahoon, were both of Irish birth, and while residing in Ireland his father operaled as farmer and land agent for an English gentleman. In 1848 he emigrated with his family to Oxford Co., Ont., and he engaged as a teacher in the schools of the province. He became deaf later ia life, and at the age of 63 years retired from labor. He died May 24, 1S74, in Oxford County, aged 73 years. The mother survives. Mr. Mahoon is the third, in order of birth, of his parents' 12 children, and was under the control of his father until the age of 17 years, when he was ap- prenticed to a resident of Oxford Cbunty, to acquire a knowledge of the builders' trade. One year of that business sufficed, and in the year following he came to Sanilac Co., Mich. He entered the em- ployment of a Mr. McKenzie, of Lexington, and operated as a farm assistant two years. He then went to work for Jacob Buhl, as a carpenter, and was occupied in that capacity five years. In 1870 he locatedon 80 acres of land, of which he had been the owner since a few weeks before the fire. It is situated in Delaware Township. He had made preparations to take possession of the place at the time of his purchase, had made a clearing, erected a shanty and other indispensable buildings, but their destruction by the fire necessitated a change of plans, and he returned to his trade, which he followed nine years, until he had once more placed his affairs in suitable condition to enter upon the im- (^ O s :2i%^fK- ^ 408 SANILAC COUNTY. ■?) i 2f '"^ t >^ ) ^ I provement of ]iis farm, which he did in 1877. He added ten acres to his original tract, and now has 50 acres in excellent condition for successful fanning. He is among the solid citizens of the township, and enjoys a fair reputation as an agriculturist. Mr. Mahoon is a decided Democrat. He has been Supervisor continuously since 1880, and has served as Treasurer of the township, besides having dis- charged the duties of most of the other local offices. He was married Sept. 5, 1869, at Port Sanilac, to Isabella M. Papst, and they have five children,^ Edward, Anna, James, Herbert and Mary. Mrs. Mahoon is the daughter of John I. and Sarah R. (French) Papst. Her fatlier was born in Canada, and lier mother in the State of New York. She was born Dec. 8, 1843, near Toronto, and was 15 years of age when her father came with his family to Michigan. They located at I.exington, where Mrs. P. died, in 188a. Mr. Papst lives in California. Mrs. Mahoon is a member of the Episcopal Church. She was a teacher in the schools of Sanilac County seven years. ,r rKq") aptain Israel Huekins, farmer, proprietor J i J-,d r'' of 70 acres of land within the incorpor- ^W' "^ ^^'^'^ limits of the village of Lexington, is li,^ a pioneer resident of Sanilac County, whither yjj he accompanied his parents in 1839. His I father, Rev. Thomas Huekins, entered a claim of 160 acres of land from the U. S. Government, situated three miles west of Lexington village, on section 34, in the same township. He was a Baptist minister, and probably preached the first sermon in Sanilac County, where he labored as a minister of the gospel until his death. He and his wife, Polly (Randall) Huekins, were both natives of New Hampshire. Their family consisted of four daugh- ters and a son. Captain Huekins was born in London, Can., July 1 r, 1822. He was 17 years of age when his family removed from the Dominion to Sanilac County. He was reared a farmer, and on the death of his father succeeded to the ownership of the family homestead, by purchasing the interests of the other heirs. He was deeply interested in the progress of events in the affairs of this nation, and watched earnestly the development of the issues created by the infatuated \jL'>-^&^ ^-<^«^ ^ .V^.-jj H ^ and infuriated South. In the fall of 1861 he aban- doned his agricultural affairs, to render all possible aid in the service of his country. He enlisted at Lexington, and was chiefly instrumental in raising Co. D, of the Tenth Mich. Vol. Inf, and, on its organization, was made its commanding officer, which position he held until he received his dis- charge at Nashville, Tenn., Nov. 2, 1864, after three years of arduous service. His company was at- tached to the Arn.y of the West, First Brigade, Sec- ond Division, Gen. Pope, Corps Commander. On being relieved from militarj' duty, lie returned to his farm. Capt. Huekins is a prominent and zealous Repub- lican, and has been for many years the incumbent of important public offices. In 1856 he was elected County Treasurer, and received a re-election in 1858. He has also served two terms as Supervisor of his township. In 1866 he received the nomina- tion for Representative, and was elected by a large majority over the opposition candidate. He accom- plished effective service in the Legislature of Michi- gan, serving on Committees on Military Affairs, on Printing and on the Legislative Manual. In 1873 he purchased his present property in the village of Lex- ington. The acreage is all in a highly creditable state of cultivation, and supplied with a fine brick residence and suitable farm buildings. The value of the place is largely increased by good orchards and other acquisitions. Capt. Huekins was married Sept. 12. 184^, in London, Can., to Melinda Pierce. She was born in London, of parents who were born in Vermont. Of three children born of this union but one survive, — Fanny, wife of John \V. Norman a dentist at Lex- ington. She was born in 1848. ^l^gAl* 3 illiam H. Hacking, proprietor of the Hurd House at Minden City, is a native of Sanilac County, and was born at Lex- s^ ington, Feb. 11, 1S54. His parents, William "* and Agnes (Harneaux) Hacking, were mar- ried in the Province of Ontario. They were natives respectively of England and Pennsylvania, and were born of German parentage. They were "r^^ I v:. ( c<>: V r^ ^#^f ;n^^^^ SANILAC COUNTY. IS^ 411 1;) >J V (i) .^ r^ ^ farmers, and removed to Michigan, whence, after a short residence, they returned to Ontario, where tlie father died, in Markham Township, in i860, aged 35 years. The mother is a resident of Macomb Co., Mich., and is 58 years of age. Mr. Hacking is the third child of five born to his parents, the Hst being John N., Anna, WilUam H., George and Joseph. WiUiam was but eight years of age when his father died, and he came to Macomb County with his grandmother. He was there brought up, and after obtaining a fair education at the com- mon schools, he operated as a laborer in various capacities. In 1883 he came to Minden (3ity and established himself in the saloon business. He managed his operations in that line about 18 months, at the end of that time entering upon the enterprise he is now prosecuting. The Hurd House, under the manage- ment of Mr. Hacking, is one of the most attractive and comfortable houses for public entertainment in the county of Sanilac. In political connection Mr. Hacking is a Republi- can. He is the owner of 240 acres of land in Huron County, of which 100 acres are in a state of ad- vanced cultivation. He was married July 24, 1872, at Croswell, to Rachel Schoettle, and they have two children, — Nora and Burt. Mrs. Hacking was born Jan. 28, 1855, at Utica, N. Y., and is the daughter of Daniel and Christina (Schoetde) Schoettle. Her parents are natives of Germany, and on their emigration to the United States they located at Ann Arbor, going thence to Jackson County, in this State. They came to Sanilac County in 1868, and are engaged in farming. ^>«-^"5^ !;-^f1. ohn Southworth, of the business firm of ^''/Jl ,' Downing & Southworth, at Downington, - was born Feb. 28, i84i,in the township of Augusta, Washtenaw Co., Mich., and is the %Z son of Ezra and Letitia (Dansingburg) South- worth. His paternal great-grandfather was of English extraction and was a resident of America at the period of the Revolutionary War, in which he was a participant. His grandfather, William South- worth, was born Oct. 3, 1773, and married Sarah Finton, who was born June 2, 1784. The date of their union was June 21, 1803. William Southworth died March 14, 1833; his wife died March 15, 1808. Their records are taken from the fly-leaf of a copy of "The New Testament of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, newly translated out of the original Greek, and with the former translations diligently compared and revised." The book was printed by Benjamin Johnson in 1792, in Philadelphia, and was originally the property of a relative of Mr. South- worth — William Brown — whose ownership is dated April 29, 1794. Ezra .Southworth was born Jan. 31, 1806, in Steu- ben. Co., N. Y. He removed thence in early life to Seneca County in the Empire State, where he was married in 1833. Previous to that event he came in the " 2o's" to Michigan, and was a passenger on the steam sailing vessel " Niagara," in her famous trip from Buffalo to Detroit, which consumed but 48 hours, an unparalleled feat, being the quickest trip on record at that date. Ypsilanti, where he passed a one summer, consisted of a log store and a log yH tavern, and Ann Arbor included less than half a dozen shanties, built of logs. No buildings marked the present site of Saline, in Washtenaw County. He returned to New York the same fall, where he remained until 1840, when he settled in Augusta, Washtenaw Co., Mich. In 1857 he made another transfer of his interests, to Newport, Monroe Co., Mich., where he is still a resident. His family com- prised seven children, — Hannah, William, Mary, John, Benj. F., Ezra and Sarah E. Mary died Jan. 17, 1876; Benjamin died Sept. 17, 1882. Their mother died March 29, 1861, at Newport. Her parents were of German birth, were married in their native country and emigrated to the United States with two children. They located in Steuben Co., N. Y., where Mrs. Southworth was born, June 20, 1806. Her surviving children, with one exception, reside in Michigan. In the paternal line of descent, Mr. Southworth comes of a race which from its earliest traceable gen- erations has been remarkable for stalwart proportions. His grandfather was one of four children all more than six feet in height, ranging from that stature to six feet, nine inches. The deceased brother of Mr. Southworth was about six feet in height. The family Cm ^ ^ i) ^ $ SANILAC COUNTY. vmi '0 y^ :) belongs also to a race in the maternal line remark- able foi tenacity of life. The father of Sarah Finton died at the age of no years. His preservation of faculties and ambition may be determined from the fact that he died from the effects of a broken leg, the result of a fall while on his way to woo a bride. Mr. Southworth was early made acquainted with a life of labor, commencing to work by the month when he was a lad of ten years on the neighboring farms. He lived at home winters and attended school. He continued this method of operation until he was i6 years of age, and at the age of 20 years, became his own man wholly. He engaged as a farm assistant in his native county until 1867, when he came to Wash- ington Township and associated with Alonzo Dowii- ing, his brother-in-law, in the manufacture of hoops. In June, 1870, they established a mercantile enter- prise at Downington, the first permanent institution of the kind at that point. All previous attempts had been abandoned after a limited trial. The relations of the original association still exist and its factors have been largely the instruments in accomplishing the permanency of Downington, secur- ing for it the passage of the railroad and other ad- vantages. Their business has been satisfactory from its commencement. Mr. Southworth is independent in political opinion and action. He is the owner of an undivided share in 120 acres of land in Marion Township and is the proprietor of other property at this point. Mrs. Southworth owns 80 acres of farming land. His marriage to Susie E. Watt, daughter of Archi- bald and Sarah (Crawford) McAlister, occurred April 17, 1873, in Marion Township, at the residence of Hon. John Leitch. Her parents are natives of Kentyre, Argyleshire, Scotland. They are of unmixed Scottish descent, as indicated by the 'family names, both belonging to clans that have been recorded for hundreds of years. They were married in Scotland in 183 1 and emigrated soon after to America, settling in Queenstown, Ontario, whence they went a year later to Lobo, Middlesex Co., Ont., where they are yet living. Their children are nine in number — Margaret, Mary, Catherine, Sarah, Ellen, Sarah (2d), Susie, Elizabeth and Flora. Margaret and Sarah are deceased. Mrs. Southworth became a teacher at 15 years of age and pursued her vocation in Ontario until she was 20 years old, when she came to Mich- igan and was similarly employed. She completed her education at Flint. She is especially interested in the intellectual cultivation of her children and devotes much time to their mental progress. They were born as follows: Nora B., Feb. 22, 1874; Ezra K., April 4, 1876; Friend P., Sept. 16, 1877. The mother was born Aug. 18, 1845, in Middlesex Co., Ont. Mr. Southworth belongs to the Order of Masonry and is a Knight Templar. He attended the Trien- nial Conclave held at San Francisco in 1883 and at the same time made a point of visiting the Western States and Territories, extending his route of travel to Mexico. He also made a profitable and protracted journey during the centennial year, visiting the Ex- position and several States. In character he is of reliable integrity, clear, rational judgment, and pro- gressive in ideas. He is a careful business man and alert to discover opportunity and mould it to his own advantage and that of the community to which he belongs. The family relations of Mr. and Mrs. Southworth present to the observer one of the liveliest pictures of home life conceivable. It manifests the quality of the culture and genuine refinement which render it a model. Unbroken harmony of purpose, tasteful surroundings and acquisitions which interest, in- struct and instigate the younger members to activity in learning are the predominating features. Books, music, rare and curious mementoes of travel, period- ical literature of the best type and a numerous list of other attractions form the highest order of ele- ments in the training of the family of children. Their elementary education is received wholly at home, under the cultivated supervision of their mother, resulting in physical and moral wholesome- ness of the present type. In the years to come, the ALBUJiof Sanilac County will be among the most highly prized treasures of one of the fairest homes on the Huron peninsula, containing, as it does on another page, the features of the considerate, judi- cious father, who has established their enduring comfort and well-being. As the permanent portrait of an honored, consistent citizen, the patrons of this work will esteem the likeness of Mr. Southworth an eminent addition to its merits. ^ 9 A C^. ^ o) (^. iSf. »« ;^V^^(^tK -^ ^ ^m"^ ■mi cm I T2fiC^^^ crv<^:>llU^UUv:/>T^^ "^Jr^&as:' 4^@§5f SANILAC COUNTY. -S^ o<.5o~ eorge Whitehouse, meicliaiU at Mindeii City, was born in "Dudley, AVorcestershiie, Eng., Aug. 21, i8i8. His parents, George and Mary A. Whitehouse, emigrated to Can- ada in 1832, locating in the vicinity of London, ? Ont. Tiiey were educated, cultivated people, and maintained an excellent standing in the com- munity where they passed the closing years of their lives. Mr. Whitehouse was but 14 years of age when he came to Ontario. He had received a good education in his native place, and on coming to a new and un- settled condition of things in the Dominion, he found his qualifications available in many ways. Mean- while he purchased 70 acres of land, to which he devoted his time for some years. He was married in Middlesex Co., Ont., in 1835, to Mary A. Irwin. She was born in 1820, in Cumberlandshire, Eng., and came in early youth with her parents to Ontario. Her parents were well-to-do, cultivated people, and much care was exercised in her education and train- ing. Her father and mother are deceased. Mr. Whitehouse lived several years on his farm in Ontario after his marriage, and in 1859 he sold the place. He removed to Michigan and settled in the unorganized portion of Sanilac County, included with- in Austin Township. Everything was in its original, natural condition, and he purchased zoo acres of un- improved land, where he entered into the work of reducing his property to a condition of civilization and progress. He was one of the first to make a clearing in that section of the county. He persevered in his efforts until he cleared 80 acres, and was in fairly prosperous condition in all respects when the fire of 1871 made a clean sweep of all his visible property on the surface of his farm. Produce, build- ings, stock, — all went, and in an hour's time his pos- sessions had vanished, all Init the bare acres on which they stood. Within the same year he came to Minden and purchased the stock of merchandise of Albert Jones, now of Forestville. Mr. Whitehouse has erected a larger and more convenient building for the purpose of transacting his btisiness, and is engaged in tlie prosecution of an increasing and profitable trade. His place of business and residence are located on improved lots, of which he is the pro- prietor. Mr. and Mrs. Whitehouse attend the Methodist Episcopal Church, and take a deep interest in its prog- ress and welfare. He is a Repulilican and prohibi- tionist in political bias, and is the Treasurer of Minden City. While a resident of Austin he was connected with its official affairs, and was prominent in promoting the well-being of the township. ^^6»dwin Bostwick, farmer, section 8, Dela- Ss ware Township, was born Dec. 25, 1829, \t I in London, Middlesex Co., Ont., and he is 'w- the son of Gideon and Henrietta Bostwick. His father died when he was 17 years of age, and he continued the companion of his mother until he reached his majority. After that period arrived, he engaged in lumbering, in which he was occupied five years. In 1853 he engaged in clerking in Strong's Hotel in his native place, where he offi- ciated effectively five years. After a respite of one year, he engaged in the same capacity in the Tecum- seh House, a new hotel in London, and one of the largest in the Province of Ontario. After a service of six years he became the manager of the hotel and continued to officiate in that capacity until Septem- ber, 1865, when he assumed charge of the City Hotel of London, and conducted its affairs one year. He then converted its facilities into those of a res- taurant, which he managed with success three years. He spent some time after that as the representative of a rnercantile house in his native city, and in the spring of 1872 he came to Michigan. He conducted a house of public entertainment at Cato, in Delaware Township, about two years, and then rented a farm which he managed five years. At the expiration of that time he purchased 80 acres of land, and ap- plied his efforts and energies to its improvement. He has placed 70 acres under cultivation, and has a fine residence in process of erection. Mr. Bostwick is a Republican in political prin- ciple, and has served three terms as Township Clerk. His marriage to Lucy Netherclift took place at \ ^< ^m^f^ Si^ ^ C^^ ^D !1 ^ Dtlf^'t^ sijg^n -4>^((?1 m -vmim^^ t 414 V i SANILAC COUNTY. Port Stanley, Ont., Aug. 6, 1855, and they are the parents of five children, — William, Charles, Ella, James and Alexander. James is a teacher by pro- fession, and possesses the qualifications necessary to fit him for positions of a high grade. Mrs. Bostwick was born Aug. 12, 1833, in Sussexshire, England, and was three years of age when she emigrated to Ontario with her parents. She is a member of the Congregational Church. Illexander Stephens, M. D., retired physi- ig cian, and senior member of the real-estale and colonization firm of Stephens & Gernt, at Forestville (Delaware Township), was born Dec. 28, 1842, in Wellington Co., Ont. His parents, John and Jane Stephens, were farmers in the Dominion and are now deceased. Dr. Stephens remained on the family homestead until he was 20 years of age, and acted as assistant on a farm. He then became interested in the drug business, in which he acquired a complete knowledge of the qualities of drugs and a taste for the profes- sion of medicine. In 1864 he came from his Cana- dian home to Ann Arbor, where he entered the University of Michigan in October of the same year. He was graduated in the Medical Department of that institution in the spring of 1867. He went to Rochester, N. Y., to enter upon his career as a practitioner, but remained there only a year, his health having become seriously impaired as a result of assiduous application to study. He re- turned to Ontario and resided in his native place for a time. In 1869 he accepted an appointment under tlie Canadian Government as Immigration Agent at Par- ry Sound, Ont. He discharged the duties of the posi- tion until 1873, when he resigned. In 1874 he located at White Rock, Huron County, and entered again upon the practice of medicine. He came thence to Forestville, reaching this place July 15, 1875, and resumed his work as physician and sur- geon. In 1882, associated with Mr. B. Gernt, he em- barked in traffic in real-estate, combining their busi- ness in buying and selling lands, with a colonization project in which they have realized substantial and satisfactory results. In the fall of 1882 they pvir- chased under contract 300,000 acres of land in Tennessee, included in the counties of Fentress, Morgan, Pickett and Overton. They propose to colonize with English and German emigrants. They have already sold more than 12,000 acres of land, and aided nearly 200 settlers to secure homes and locate permanently. They have in process of con- struction the Tennessee & Pacific Railroad, 100 miles of which is surveyed through the counties named. A mining scheme is already instituted and will soon be in operation, which will rapidly develop the counties and give an impetus to settlement. Dr. Stephens owns a valuable village property, and is a member of the Ward Dock Company at Forest- ville. Politically, he endorses and sustains the Re- publican party, and he has officiated several years as Health Officer of the Township of Delaware. His marriage to Charlotte Wakefield took place July 15, 1869, in Ontario. John Alexander, only child of tliis union, was born March 6, 1870. Mrs. Stephens was born Dec. 25, 1840, in Warwickshire, Eng. She was but six years of age when her parents emigrated to Canada, and settled in Oxford Co., Ont. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Dr. Stephens was trained under the tenets of the Presbyterian Church. -«= ==i=, 7 T I .A "r~7' £k- ®^ ?«tf T^Dfl .aptain Hannibal Hodges Nims, de- ceased, a former resident of Lexington, was born Aug. 23, 1834, in Richmond, Chittenden Co., Vt. The family of wliich he was a representative is of New England origin, and its records, dating back to 1665, are still in existence. His earliest American ancestors are inseparably associated with the history of the de- velopment of this country. They were located at Deerfield, Mass., a fact which in itself contains a significance as to their identification with the his- toric early days of the Colonists. They were active in the early Indian wars, and suffered the fate com- mon to tliose who were participants in them, yielding \^ ()) ca: (^ ^^^ r^^^ &V<>Ill]^I]Il^i>v -^^^ ,^ f >^ s (!) SANILAC COUNTY. their lives in their struggles to protect their homes from the vengeful sons of the forest. One was killed at Bunker Hill, and in the death of Capt. Nims, in the coarse of the struggle against the dis- ruption of the United States, he manifested how the best traits of noble ancestors m ;y be transmitted to their posterity. He died iiolily, and is fitly remem- bered and characterized as the hero of the village of Lexington. His comrades attest their remembrance and appreciation of the character of his services in the naming of the local Post of the Grand Army of the Republic, at Lexington, which perpetuates his name. Capt. Ninis was the third son of Dr. Reuben and Sophia (Whiton) Nims. He obtained his education in the common schools and academies of his native State, and began his active business life in a mercan- tile establishment at Winooski Falls, Vt. He went thence to engage in the same variety of employment at Burlington in the same county, and resigned his situation there to come to Lexington, Sanilac Co., Mich., where he arrived May 20, 1854. He entered the service of J. L. Woods, with whom he continued as salesman, and later as partner, until his with- drawal from the life of a civilian to become a de- fender of the Union standard, with the single excep- tion of one season, which he passed in Kansas. He was appointed Postmaster of Lexington in June, 1 86 1, the appointment continuing operative as long as he lived. During the summer and fall of that historic year he performed noble service for his country and for Lexington, by acting as recruiting officer. On the first day of October of the same year he received his commission as First Lieutenant of Co. D, loth Mich. Vol. Inf , that regiment then being in process of organization at Camp Thomp- son, at Flint. His command left Lexington Nov. 19, 1 861, and the winter was passed in recruiting and organizing. The regiment received marching orders .\pril 22, 1862, and reached Pittsburg Landing, Tenn., eight days later. Lieut. Nims participated in the active service in which his regiment was involved until July following its taking the field, when he was detailed for recruiting service in Michigan, and he arrived at Lexington July 15, receiving a few days thereafter official notice of his promotion to a Cap- taincy, his commission dating from July 5, 1862. He was assigned to Co. K of the same regiment, vice Captain Judd, resigned. His record of recruiting service was the same as in his earlier efforts in the same direction, and in the summer and fall he en- listed and forwarded nearly 100 men. The " loth Michigan " was iii Nashville during the late fall and winter, and all communication being cut off, it be- came impossible for Captain Nims to rejoin his com- mand, and he spent the winter at Lexington. He was married Jan. 28, 1863, to Miss' H. N. Waterbury, eldest daughter of Hon. J. C. Water- bury, of Lexington, and April 9th following he left Michigan to rejoin his regiment, communication be- ing re-established. He was a participant in all the military service in which his command was involved during the year. Among the arduous events in which he was an active sharer, was the march to Knoxville to relieve Gen. Burnside. One of its hard- ships, which were of so severe a character as to ren- der the occasion conspicuous, was the scarcity of food, which caused much suffering among the troo[)s. The command made but a brief halt before Knox- ville, retracing its steps in season to take part in the fights at Mission Ridge, Nov. 24, Chickamauga, Nov. 26, and at Ringgold, Nov. 27. \n February, 1864, the regiment veteranized, re- enlisting for three years, and the members were awaiting their furloughs of a month and confidently expectant of soon seeing their homes, when, Feb. 23, they received orders to advance. Two days later they reached their position, and were in action at Buzzard's Roost, where the regiment lost 75 men in an engagement which continued but a few minutes. Shortly after the battle the men received their fur- loughs. Capt. Nims arrived at Detroit, March 11, 1864. The regiment left the State April 20 following, and arrived at Chattanooga May 11. On the next day they started to join Sherman's army on its march to Atlanta and the sea, arriving five days later at Rome, Ga., participating in the capture of that place on the i8th of May. Capt. Nims was engaged in the fights and skirmishes which followed the action at Rome through that memorable campaign, until the attack on Jonesboro, which resulted in the fall of Atlanta. In the course of the battle his regiment made an as- sault on the rebel works, which resulted in their capture, after a severe conflict. After gaining the inside of the fortification, Capt. Nims received the ^5 i^V|))$^#^ r^ctiriy^r^^^ — ^^^^ T^Mm\i^>T "Zi^^S^ "^ SANILAC COUNTY. wound from wliich he died the day after the action — Sept. 2, 1864. His death took place in the hospital, and he was buried at Jonesboro. After the war was closed his remains were disinterred and brought to his old home. His final resting place is among his kindred and friends, and over his grave the soft sum- mer breeze from the restless Huron chants its mel- ody, and the snows of winter wrap the spot in a mantle as stainless as the record of his brave young life. Crowned as he was with hope and ambition, his death was the peerless gem of his career, and his laureled name floats down the ages with those of the world's heroes who have died that liberty might live. Sanilac County treasures the memory and the fame of Capt. H. H. Nims. -^-•.- 'I eorge Thompson, farmer, section i, Dela- t ware Township, was born Nov. 6, 1846, in })^ ^ the township of Lancaster, Glengarry Co., Ont. His father and mother, William B. and Joanna (McGillis) Thompson, were natives respectively of England and Ontario. The former died in Lexington May i, 1883; the latter still resides there and is 55 years of age. After arriving at his majority Mr. Thompson took possession of a farm of which he has become owner, and where he has made his home from the time he cut the first tree and turned the first furrow, until the present time. He has improved and placed under a good state of cultivation 60 acres. He suffered heavy losses by fire in 1868 and 1S71, that entailed by the latter amounting to $1,000. Mr. Thompson is a Republican in political senti- ment and connection, and is present Treasurer of Delaware Township (1884). He was first married April 8, 1868, at Le.xington, to Mary Hillburn. One child — Grant — was born to them. Mrs. T. was born in 1848 and died from the effect of injuries received at the burning of the house Feb. II, 1872. Mr. Thompson was again married Nov. 30, 1874, at Lexington, to Barbara Hillburn, sister of his first wife. Three children have been born to them, one of whom — Walter — is deceased. The others are named Mary S. and Joanna T. Mrs. Thompson was born in Ontario, March 9, 1857, and removed thence with her parents to Michigan, when she was nine years old. The parents are members of the Methodist Epis- copal Church, of which Mr. Thompson is Steward. James and Charlotte (Ferguson) Messmore, having become residents of Wayne County when the city of Detroit was in its incipiency. They were located in the vicinity of the City of the Straits, and the father became prominent in general and public affairs, his education and position bringing him in contact with the best class of people, among whom were Zachariah Chandler and C. C. Trowbridge. The senior Messmore and his wife were born in New England, of English and German extraction, and came to Wayne County in 18 18. The father was a man of genuine claims to a superior position, and the mother was a lady of attainments and influ- ence. Their deaths occurred about the same date in 1854, of cholera. They were aged respectively 47 and 40 years. They left seven children, of whom Mr. Messmore of this sketch was the youngest. He was little more than three years of age at the death of his parents, and he was cared for by his eldest sister, Mrs. Eliza- beth H. Whiting, until he was 15 years old, when he obtained a position in a drug store, where he operated two years. He received the education to be obtained in the common schools, and he set himself to the work of jireparing himself thoroughly for a business career. He had a taste for knowledge and an ambi- tion to rank with a high order of humanity in point of fitness and qualifications, and at 17 he was enabled to attend Mayhew's Business College, where he obtained a thorough course of instruction. He secured, through the influence of the president of the institution, a situation as book-keeper in one of the most extensive wholesale houses in Detroit, re- (^ C j&f^^v harles L. Messmore, banker and dealer ^j[^Q^^ in real estate at Minden City, is one of ©fe' "*" ''^^ leading and prominent citizens of the Ij!!^ Huron peninsula. He is a native born citi- -1^ zen of the State of Michigan, his parents. J I — ■ f^s*- U^ -^tltl^llllf> r^A. (h V /s 1 I SANILAC COUNTY. maining in the position some time. He had a fair salary, but another firm, becoming apprised of his abilities and integrity, offered him a considerable ad- vance in the matter of remuneration, which he ac- cepted, his late employers asserting their willingness to have retained control of his services at a similar rate if they had been seasonably notified of his wislies. The latter relation into which lie entered existed until 1874, when Mr. Messmore went to St. Clair, Mich., engaged as a commission merchant, trafficking in produce. In the spring of 1875 he came to Le.xingion, San- ilac County, to enter upon the duties of book-keeper with Nims, Tewksbury & Co., merchants at that place. The extensive interests and business rela- tions of the firm required a person of the highest grade of ability and integrity, and Mr. Messmore was furnished with a recommendation of the strongest character by Col. Wm. Barron, of St. Clair, as being in all respects eligible to the place. He discharged the duties of the position five years. Being in poor health at that time, he purchased a farm near the village of Lexington, on which he resided a short tiine ; returning to his former employers, he acted as book-keeper for Messrs. N., T. & Co. until 1881, when he dissolved his relations with them and went to Marlette. He erected the first brick edifice at that place and established the first bank. While a resident there he was appointed, conjointly with Mr. D. Donaldson, as distributing Rebel Agent among the sufferers in the " 'burnt district" in the eastern [)art of Sanilac County. He sold his banking interest there to the present banker, Mr. McGill. \Vhile a resident there he offi- ciated, without interim, in the Village Council. Mr. Messmore came to Minden City in the summer of 1883, and instituted the first bank. The financial ability, the inflexible integrity and the per- sonal worth of Mr. Messmore have built for his busi- ness a wonderful success, and he has acquired a surprising degree of confidence among the citizens of the county, with whom he has widely extended and increasing business relations. He has interested and identified himself with the progress and prosperity of the northern portion of Sanilac County, and gives in- telligent consideration and support to every scheme that extends a reasonable promise of advantage to the general welfare. Mr. Messmore is a Republican of a most decided kind, and has be^n active and prominent in the party interests since his removal to Sanilac County. Among other duties to which he has been called are those of delegate to the various conventions, from the State and Congressional down to the smallest. The family belong to the First Congregational Church. The village property of Mr. M. includes a valuable and handsome house on a lot situated in a most desirable part of Minden City. Mr. Messmore was married June 10, 1874, to Clara W. Barron, and they are the parents of three children : Clara W., Byron S. and Fanny F. Mrs. Messmore was born Dec. 16, 1854, in St. Clair, Mich., and is the daughter of Emery and Mary B. (Sanborn) Barron. Her parents were natives of New Hampshire and reside with her at Minden City. She was a teacher for some time previous to her mar- riage, and is a lady of pre-eminent domestic traits and fine social abilities. itjzjze;©^^ *;S^-i;.* ^y,^ yto; ^5 Iroseph H. Brown, miller and member of ^1' ,;^ the firm Harvey & Brown, proprietors of P^^ the Eureka Mills at Downington, was born -m^ April 26, 1839, in Knox Co., Ohio, and is the ^r son of Samuel and Nancy (Carter) Brown. The I parents were natives of Virginia and belonged by descent to the long established Quaker families of that State. The father was a miller during the major portion of his active life, which calling he followed until his death in May, 1850, in Knox Co., Ohio. The mother lives in Clinton Co., Mich., and is 72 years of age. Mr. Brown is the sixth of nine children born to his parents, and during his minority he resided with them and obtained a good education at the common schools. In October, 1861, he became a soldier in the war of the Rebellion, enlisting in Co. E, 36th Ohio Inf, Capt. Warren HoUister. His regiment was assigned to the Army of the Potomac, and he was a participant in the battles of Lewisburg, Cross Keys, Bull Run (2d), South Mountain, Antietam and Winchester, tak- ing part also in the numberless skirmishes and minor v) ^. ^^D!1^I1II<>^' mr^ ^t|^ rr 418 SANILAC COUNTY. "^iJ^^S^S^ t >;! s> ^) 'x^ actions which are the every-day occurrences of war. He was honorably discharged in February', 1864, at Marietta, Ohio. After being relieved from military service he went to Cleveland, Ohio, where he spent a year, and pro- ceeded thence to Ontario, where he was married, in Norfolk County, in 1866, to Margaret Maybee. One child — Samuel A. — was born to them May 19, 1870. She was born Sept. 22, 1841, in Norfolk Co., Ont., and is the daughter of Thomas P. and Deborah (Culp) Maybee. Her parents are natives of Ontario and are of Dutch descent. They were residents of Ontario during their entire lives. After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Brown resided in Ontario one year, when tiiey removed to Houston Co., Minn., where Mr. Brown pursued his trade as a miller, in which he had operated more or less since he was eight years of age. He came thence to Shiawassee Co., Mich., and was similarly engaged two years. He made his first settlement in Sanilac County in Forester, in September, 1874, where he remained until his removal to Downington, Julys, 1883, where he purchased his milling interest of Alonzo Downing. In political connection Mr. Brown is a Demoerat. ^34=4 A A T~7" E>- I'fiehard J. Nye, farmer, section 14, Dela- ware Townshi]), was born June 11, 1848, in Kent Co., Eng., and is the son of Rich- ard and Mary (Dulcet) Nye. (See sketch.) He emigrated to the United States when he was five years of age, and resided with his parents in Wayne Co., Mich., near Detroit, about seven years. He was 12 years of age when they re- moved to Sanilac County. He was a member of the paternal household until he reached his majority, being brought up to the calling of a farmer, which was the occupation of his father. On reaching manhood he became a laborer in the lumber woods and followed that occupation until the spring of 1873. At that date he purchased 80 acres of land in Delaware Township, of which he took possession in May, 1883. He has improved 45 acres. Mr. Nye is an adherent to the principles and issues of the Republican element in politics. He was married July 2, 1873, at Port Huron, to Monia Case, and they have three children, — Mary E., Horace E. and Chester A. Her parents, Christ- opher and Mary A. (Hatlidge) Case, were natives of Germany. In 1839 they emigrated from the father- land to the United States and located at Mt. Clemens, Macomb Co., Mich., afterwaid removing to St. Clair County, where Mrs. Nye was born, Feb. 24, 1848. She was a small child when her father died, that event occurring in 1849, in her native place. Her mother still resides there. -^ ----^^^^^s-^ f g (' v''',iUis P. Morse, farmer, section 18, VVater- :, town Township, was born Oct. 19, 1849, in Livingston Co., Mich. He is of New Eng- fyk land ancestry, his parents, Orrin and Celinda ^ (Hendrick) Morse, having been born respectively i in Connecticut and New York, of Yankee par- entage. Their respective ages are 67 and 57 years (1884). The father came to Livingston Co., Mich., in the year 1835, where after his marriage he became a successful farmer, and in the year 1880 retired from active service. The son spent the years of his non-age in farm labor and attending school at Flint, whither he went after leaving the common schools of his native place. He completed an entire course of commercial study in the business college of William F. Thomas, at Flint, and was graduated. He was married about the time ot attaining his majority, to Sophia Hall. The date of the marriage was Jan. 11, 187 1. Mrs. Morse is the daughter of John Hall, of Genesee County, a prominent specu- lator and business man, who came to Michigan about 1836, and died in 1848. He married Juliette Hill, a native of Pennsylvania, who is now living with her daughter and is 74 years of age. Mrs. Morse was born March r7, t845, in the vicinity of Flint, Mich. She received her education in the schools of that city, and began teaching when she was 20 years of age. She pursued that calling until her marriage. ^ ( ^< "sly «: ( r 9 ^^^ m r^^^^ 6V^^tlP:^.BD^-> ^ P ?• <% y^^ 'O k) (^ SANILAC COUNTY. 4^t^;^v|| 419 and secured the reputation of havuig unusual skill and success in the profession. Of this marriage four children have been born, as follows : H. Beach, Dec. 31, 1S71; Olney R., Aug. 7, 1S75; Elba L. and Eva E., (twins). May 13, 1882. After marriage ISlr. Morse purchased 60 acres of his father's homestead, where he made a pursuit of agriculture, until August, 1S79, at which date he came to Sanilac County and bought 160 acres of land, most of which was in a wholly unimproved state, where he made a permanent location. The rapidity and efficiency of his agricultural operations may be inferred from the fact that he has already placed 45 acres in first-class farming condition. He has won a substantial reputation as a progressive and skillful farmer, and is now engaged in the con- struction of a creditable farm-house, which will cost $1,500. The place is supplied with a large stock and grain barn. Mr. Morse is a Republican of most decided views. He has held several local offices, and is now Justice of the Peace. He and his wife are members of the Free Methodist Church, of which he is a Trustee. He has been Superintendent of the Sunday-school four years. oseph Parkinson, freight agent at the dock f at Forestville, Delaware Township, was born Nov. 10, 1825, in Dublin, the capital city of Ireland. His father, John Parkinson, was a soldier in tlie British service and came with his family in 1827 to Quebec, and was subject to the course of life couimon to the English soldiery, — constant change, — ^which afforded large opportunities for sight-seeing and observation, and served to develop kindred traits in his children. Mr. Parkinson came to the extended section of Michigan known as the Saginaw Valley, in 1844. He knew, literally, every white family tvithin the limits named. He engaged as a cook witli a trading company, who had business connections with all the early settlements on the Huron and Saginaw coasts, which was liis first regular employment. He was familiar wiili all the lakes and principal river courses of the United States, and has seen as much adven- ture as any man to be found in the Peninsular State. He has been through several disasters on the lakes, and has been instrumental in saving many lives. He lived for a time on Beaver Island, when it was in possession of a branch of the Mormons under "King' Strang. Mr. Parkinson came to Forestville some years since and obtained the position he now holds, and in which he lias officiated continuously, that is, the management of the dock. His two daughters are now- engaged in teaching school in Delaware Township. ! ^(^ f^f\^^^^^ '-ohn W. Chute, jeweler and dealer ii watclies, clocks, silverware, musical mei- chandise, sewing-machines, books and no- tions, at Deckerville, was born July 28, 1843, l£' in Elgin Co., Ont. He is the son of Andrew and Olivia (Woodworth) Chute, and was edu- cated in the Dominion. He left liome in 1S66 to accept a position as book-keeper for Wisdom & Son, in Chicago, remaining in the same employ until 1871. While in Chicago he attended Bryant & Stratton's Commercial College, where he was gradu- ated on completing a full course of study. In the summer of tliat year lie went to Missouri, partly for the purpose of restoring his liealth, and explored tlie State on horseiiack, teaching music to pay expenses. He returned to the Garden City in 1872, and en- gaged as shipping clerk with Hepp & Schoentlialer, ojjerating in tlieir interests two years. In 1S73 lie became book-keeper for Smith Bios, in the same city. Late in that year he went to Middlesex Co., Out., and opened an establishment in London for the sale of musical instruments, making a specialty of the Mason & Hamlin organ. \\\ 1S77 he con- verted his relations into the subscri[)tion book busi- ness, which he piosecuted two years with success. In 1879 he came thence to Oakland Co., Mich , and taught music there and in St. Clair County. He came to Deckerville in the fall of 1880 and spent 18 months as a teacher in tlie public scliools. In the last months of 1S81 he opened the business which he has since prosecuted, and in which he is oper- ating successfully. T — 1 r=i ^ (1 %m;y^ "m. ®^')^#«- SANILAC COUNTY. ^ (c^ Politically he is in affiliation with the Republican party. He was married Oct. 8, 1867, in Middlesex Co., Ont., to Lucy Warren, and they are the parents of four children, — Minnie G., Augustus, Andrew E. and Frederick. Mrs. Chute was born in Middlesex Co., Ont., Aug. 27, 1839. Her parents were born in New England, and died in Middlesex County. Her father's demise jccurred May 3, 1867, when he was 69 years of age. That of her mother took place Feb. 27, 1881, at the same age. Mr. and Mrs. Chute attend the United Brethren Church. homas L. Ward, merchant, miller and * farmer, resident at Charleston, Delaware Township, has been the Postmaster at that place since the office was established there. He was born July 8, 1842, at Green Bay, Wis. His father. Dr. David Ward, was a physician, who married Phebe Smith about the year 1835. Mr. Ward enlisted, when he was 19 years of age, in the military service of the United States in the suppression of the Rebellion. He enrolled in Feb- ruary, 1862, in the 17th Wis. Vol. Inf, Co. K, Capt. Welcome Hyde. The regiment joined the Army of the Cumberland under Gen. Grant, and was in the service during the remainder of the war. Mr. Ward was discharged April 4, 1865, at Galesboro, N. C. He was under fire at Corinth, Vicksburg, and in the Georgia campaign. He fought at the siege of At- lanta on the memorable July 22, 1864. At the battle of Vicksburg he received a gunshot wound on the top of his head. Only the scalp was injured, but the suffering in his head from the concussion and flesh wound was quite sufficient to satisfy him of the discomfort of the chances of war, and he is at times even now reminded of the complimentary notice of a rebel bullet. This would suffice to keep his po- litical faith in the right channel, even if there were no new question of principle involved. He obeyed the injunction of one of the standard-bearers of the Republican party in 1884, and "voted as he shot." On obtaining his discharge from the service he set out for his home in Wisconsin, and in the fall of the same year he proceeded to Detroit, where he took a course of study at the Bryant & Stratton Business College. He was on the lake one season, and went next to Forestville, where he operated as a clerk in the store of Jacob Buel. The next year he returned to Wisconsin and resumed the same occupation, in which he continued two years. In 1869 he returned to Forestville and engaged again for Mr. Buel. He went next to Dodge Co., Wis., and established himself in a mercantile enter- prise there. He sold his interest and returned to Michigan, reaching this place May 12, 1872, and instituted the several branches of business in which he has since been engaged, excepting his agricultural relations, which he set in operation in 1877, when he purchased 400 acres of land and commenced farm- ing. His farm now contains 340 acres of excellent land, and includes 200 acres in fine agricultural con- dition. His grist-mill has a producing capacity of 80 barrels per day. In the fire of Sept. 5, 1881, the village of Charles- ton was entirely destroyed, the loss of property to Mr. Ward amounting to $25,000 in value. Mr. Ward was married in November, 1875, in Del- aware Township, to Elizabeth Geek, and they have three children, — Lizzie M., Irving L. and Nellie. Mrs. Ward was born June 20, 1856, in Detroit. Her parents, Henry and Elizabeth Geek, were natives of Germany, and were married in Rochester, N. Y., in 1 85 1. After a short residence in the city of Detroit they came to Sanilac County and are now residents and farmers of Delaware Township. ''g '(f^'ndrew Chute (dec.) was born Sept. 15, 1789, ^ ^ in Nova Scotia. His ancestral descent is I'l®'^"'^ traceable to the period of William the Con- queror, and it is supposed on that basis that the family name is Norman French in its ori- I gin. He wms a farmer by occupation, and about 1842 removed to Elgin Co., Ont., where he purchased 200 acres of land in the township of Bay- ham. On this he spent his life, redeeming almost the entire acreage from the unl)roken forest. He married Alvira Woodworth, and they became the parents of 1 2 children, as follows : ^ ^5 A sy 4 ( /f^^ I -:J^^ cr-7|]lJ^UUs>r I (0 •■>. I SANILAC COUNTY. Edmund was bom Dec. 31, iSi5;Sarah Ann, May iS.iSiS; Harriet, July 16, 1820; Alfred, July 29, tS22 ; Sidney, Nov. 20, 1824; Ezekiel, Feb. 20, 1827; E. Freeman, May 30, 1829; Wm. Edward, April 24, 1832; Aaron (deceased), Aug. 6, 1834; Lovenia (de- ceased), Sept. 15, 1836; Cynthia, April 7, 1839; John Milton, Jnly 28, 1843. The mother was born July 24, 1796, and died Jan. 18, 1864. Alfred, eld- est son, is a minister, and Edward is a Deacon in tlie Baptist Church, to which their parents belonged, and in which their father was a Deacon for 50 years. He was a man of stainless character, and a zealous, outspoken Christian, never failing to discharge what he believed to be his duty to his fellow men, with deed and voice e.xemplifying the faith he professed. He died in Ontario, Feb. 17, 1862, aged 72 years. ^ illiam Merekel, merchant at Forestville, slBvVl,' (Delaware Townshi[)), was born March 17, 1S46, in Bavaria. He emigrated in 1> 1868 to America, and for a time found em- ploy in the city of New York, where he landed. He went thence to California, and after a brief stay at San Francisco he proceeded to Placerville, in the interior, and obtained a situation as clerk in a hotel. (He there made the acquaint- ance of Mr. Marshall, the original discoverer of gold near Placerville, and who before his death fell into reduced circumstances.) Mr. Merekel had received a good education in his native country, and was fitted to discharge the duties of any position in business. He continued to operate as a hotel clerk for some time. In 1872 he returned to Germany to close his business affairs. While there he was married, April 6, 1873, to Franziska Piatz. She was a native of Nuremberg, and was born May 29, 1852. She was brought up and educated in her native place, and was employed in its shops as a saleswoman. Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Merekel, — John William, Charles, Sophia C. and Selma C. After his marriage Mr. Merekel came again to the United States and located at East Saginaw, Mich., establishing a grocery and provision trade. In 1878 he came to Forestville and founded the business in whose successful prosecution he has since been engaged. He is the owner of considerable improved village property, and is considered a substantial and reliable citizen. He is a member of the Lutheran Church, and his family are Catholics. Mr. Merekel is a Republican in political faith and is present Township Clerk. He has served some time as Justice of the Peace. --^'vv^ — 5- ;^4£:l iii ^: ^ V© / ) f\]|;-javid Oughton, farmer, section 25, Dela- ;• ;cvXa/| i ware Township, was born Nov. 21, 1826, J ;^yi ^ in County Wexford, Ireland. His parents f'j» emigrated to the New World in 1830 and located in Perth Co., Ont. The son remained an inmate of the paternal household until the age of 24 years, when the most important event of his life occurred, his marriage to Mary Ann Page. Five children have been born to them — William, Margaret, Maria, Emily and David E. Mrs. Oughton was born in 1834, in County We.xford, Ireland. She was a resident of Perth Co., Ont., from early chijd- hocd. After his marriage Mr. Oughton located on 150 acres of land in Perth County, where he operated as a farmer until 1879, the date of removal with his family to Michigan. Settling in the township of Delaware, he secured a claim of 240 acres of land, of which two-thirds is improved and cultivated. Mr. and Mrs. Oughton are communicants in the Episcopal Church. Jjavid A. West, M. D., modern allopathist jiL and eclectic physician, located at Lexing- '^^f"^ ton, was born Jan. 16, 1847, near Bradford, ?\tk Ont. He is the son of Benjamin and Mary (Howard) West, and was reared by his father to the calling of agriculturist. (The father of Dr. West was born near Cincinnati, Ohio, and was a descendant from an old English family, which emi- 422 SANILAC COUNTY. m^ V ® grated to America during the reign of George III.) Young David attended the winter terms of the com- mon schools until 1862, when he became a student ? at the Bradford High School, remaining until 1864, A), when he began teaching. He continued this occu- pation about 18 months, when he matriculated at the Victoria Medical Branch College at Toronto. He passed the severe ordeals of examination required by the regulations of that institution, and was graduated in the fall of 1868. Before receiving his credentials, he established himself as a medical practitioner at Raymond, Wis., but abandoned the place in the fall following, and returned to his home in the Dominion to receive his diploma. He then taught the home school for three months and commenced the practice of medicine in connection therewith, but soon re- ceived a call to Lexington, Mich., which he answered in March, i86g. At that date, he came to Lex- ington and opened an office in company with Dr. Hiram Hayward. The association continued until Dec. I, 1872. Shortly afterward lie became a resi- dent of Sanilac County. Dr. West made a purchase of 40 acres of land in Worth Township, situated three miles from the village. He increased iiis acreage by a second purcliase of a like amount. He continued the practice of his profession in Worth Township until December, 1882, when he removed to the vil- lage of Lexington. He bought the fine residence where he has since lived, and where his office is established. His farm is under an excellent order of cultivation ; lie also owns 200 acres of land in Buel Township, chiefly in a wild state. Dr. West is a member of the Order of Masonry and belongs to the I. O. G. T. He received an appointment from the Government in September, 1875, as United States Ex- C amining Surgeon for Pensioners, for Sanilac and part of Huron Counties, Mich., and still holds this office. Mrs. Isadore (Farwell) West, wife of Dr. West, was born June 20, 1848, in Oshawa, Ont. She is the daughter of Alexander and Elizabeth Farwell, and was married Dec. 25, 187 1. The children which . constitute the issue of this marriage were born as fol- S lows: Mary E., Dec. 5, 1872; Ruth E., Aug. 28, g 1874; Alfred Albert, Nov. 26, 1S75 (died Oct. 4, 1876); Fannie A., Feb. i, 1877; Raymond A., Aug. I, 1878; Lena, Oct. 8, i88r. Thomas West, the earliest ancestor traceable, and (& great-grandfather of Dr. West, was a Dissenter and ^ came to America as a missionary in 1760. He set- ^) 1 tied in the vicinity of Bunker Hill. He was connected with one of the earliest schools of Boston as a member of the Examining Board of a graduating class. His family included his wife, Deborah Freeman, and five children, Freeman, Deborah, Thomas, Samuel and Eunice. All are deceased. Freeman died from the results of exposure at Valley Forge in the war of the Revolution. Eunice married a Dr. Vincent, of Ver- mont. Their mother died in Massachusetts, and their father went to Vermont and afterwards to Ohio, where he died. T homas \Vest, grandfather of Dr. West, was born July II, 1874, near Charlton, Mass., and removed to Vermont in 1786, where he married Polly, daughter af Colonel Jacol) Davis, of Revolutionary fame. June 19, 1799, he was appointed Captain of the Ninth Company, Third Regiment, Second Brigade of the Vermont State Militia, by Governor Tichenor. He went to Ohio about 1808, when he took up land now included in the site of Cincinnati. Li 1S13 lie went to Harmony, near Springfield, Oliio, being troubled by the uncertainty of the water level of the fickle river, and there engaged in agricultural and mercan- tile pursuits. The latter venture involved him in disaster, as he purchased goods in the city of Pitts- burg on the half-credit system. The depreciation of paper money under the old State banking arrange- ments caused his failure. In 1820 or 1821 he removed to Canada and set- tled at Youngstreet, near Newmarket, York Co., Ont., in a settlement of Friends, of which body his wife was a member. He taught school two years and took up 200 acres of the Clergy Reserve or Glebe lands, situated near Bondhead, Simcoe Co., Ont. He afterwards gave it to his son Thomas, and in 1S45 went to Franklin, near Milwaukee, Wis., where he es- tablished a home. He died there, at the age of 95 years. His wife died wlien she was 88 years of age. The homestead then passed into the hands of his daughter Deborah, and is now held by his son Quincy P., both of whom reside there. . He was the father of ro children who attained adult age, and were born in the following order : Julia (deceased), Deborah, Thomas, Eliza (deceased), Benjamin F. (deceased), George W., Quincy P., Alfred A (de- ceased), Derrick and David M. (deceased.) Benjamin F. West was born April 16, 18 10, near Cincinnati, Ohio, and married March 14, 1834. His wife was the daughter of Stephen and Tamma (Fos- K^ / ¥. V/ *? ^ I ^\ ^WM^'^ m ^1 ^ ®))«^ri^ '4:mi^:ill]>>v rrr SANILAC COUNTY. 'r'\^ 423 V t ter) Howard, born ISFarch 10, 1813, near Holland Landing, Ont. They had 11 children — Stephen H., Olive H., Alfred A., Mary E., Derrick, Thomas W., Esther, David A. and Tanima Amelia. A pair of twins died unnamed. Their mother died Aug. ig, 1853, near Bondliead. Mr. West was a second time married, Dec. 20, 1855, to Mrs. Sarah (Baker) Hay- ward, of Saratoga Co., N. Y. One child, William B., was born to them, Aug. 7, 18157, and died Oct. 22, 1867. She died Nov. 6, 1857. The father died Oct. 8, 1873, at Lexington, Mich., while on a visit to his son, Dr. West. He was a man of sterling qualities, a professed and consistent Christian. otlieb Sehubel, farmer, resident on section II, Delaware Township, was born April 26, 1829, in Prussia. He emigrated to the United States on arriving at the period of his majority, and went to Sandusky, Ohio, where he operated as a farm laborer for a time, after which he worked as a carpenter, having acquired a knowledge of that business while in his native county. He was also a practical brewer. In 1853 he came to Sanilac County. He stayed a brief time at Forestville, and in com])any with his brother and a man named Matthew Schwab, he jmo- ceeded a few miles from the lake shore, where they pre-empted 400 acres of land. This -was during the administration of Franklin Pierce, and was the first permanent settlement in the township of Delaware. Everything was in the most primitive condition, and the ex[)eriences of Mr. Sehubel were the same oft- repeated account of the pioneer, but just as severe as though no other had encountered them. He owned 80 acres of the tract located by the three, and has since purchased 80 acres. His homestead now comprises 140 acres, under excellent tillage. His residence is one of the finest farm dwellings in the township, and was erected at a cost of $3,000. He has two large, convenient barns, and is consid- ered one of the most substantial and skillful farmers in Sanilac C'ounty. Mr. Sehubel is a Republican of no uncertain kind. He was married May 8, 1858, in Delaware Town- ship, to Frederica C. Binder. Their children are eight in number, — Emma, Ida, Mary, Louisa, Albert, Olive, Lizzie and iNLirtha, and William (deceased). Their mother is a native of Wurtemburg, Germany, and was born Oct. 16, 1839. She came to the United States with her parents when she was 14 years of age. They located in Hancock Co., O., and later came to Delaware Township, where she has since resided. She is a member of the Evangelical Association. lljdgar Hills, proprietor of the Howard House at Downington, was born May 28, 1842, in 'Wt Westmmster, Essex Co., Ont., and is the !|^ son of Ensign_C. and Diana (Carney) Hills. The father was born July 26, 1810, in Char- lotte, Chittenden Co., Vt. He was early orphaned, and was reared to manhood in his native place in the family of a man named Palmer. He spent a brief time after attaining his majority, at various points, prospecting for a location, finally settling in \Vestminster, Essex Co., Ont. He en- gaged primarily as a clerk in a hotel, became the proprietor of a considerable tract of wild land, of which he retained ownership until his removal to the States. He was married to Diana Carney, who was born in the State, of New York, Oct. 23, 1816. They became the parents of 13 children. Eight years after marriage, Mr. Hills came to Michigan with his family, locating at first at Fort Gratiot, St. Clair County. He pre-empted 30 acres of land situated adjoining the Government grounds, where the bar- racks were placed. He built a structure which he utilized as a hotel and remained there resident three years. He sold his land and removed to what is now Pine Hill, Sanilac County. At that date (1847) Sanilac and Huron Counties were included within the municipality of St. Clair County. He came to that point in the interests of Cole & Leutz, lumber- men, managing a boarding-house, and also operating in lumber. Later on he purchased 157 acres of land partly improved and known as the Hitchcock farm, situated two miles south of Bark Shanty (Port Sani- lac). It lies on the lake shore, and on the termina- tion of Mr. Hills' engagement with Messrs. Cole & '^, S;y () fi«a k SllD?>va 424 ^7s ^^ n (|^ I SANILAC COUNTY. #^^ Leutz, he took possession of the propeity, which he managed 12 years, clearing and improving a large proportion of the acreage. At that date the main thoroughfare was the beacli on the lake-side, and Mr. Hills was instrumental in Iniilding the lake shore road from Potts' Landing through Sanilac Township to the boundary of Forester. His liouse was the only place of public entertainment on the lake-side for the limits named. During the period of his resi- dence there the county was organized, in which work Mr. Hills was a prime mover and actor. He was elected first Sheriff of the county and discharged the duties of the position in a manner that reflected credit on his abilities and energies, and relieved the county of many of the difficulties with which it had struggled at the hands of the unscrupulous lumber tiiieves and land-grabbers. The hardships and ex- posures he encountered in all seasons were such as can readily be estimated from the location and period. In 1865 Mr. Hills sold his farm on the lake-side and removed to Lexington. He passed two years there engaged in various occupations, and in 1S67 went to Croswell, then Davisville, and became the proprietor of the Union Hotel. (This building is still standing.) Later he occupied a hotel situated in the village proper, which was recently burned. In the fall of 1876 he came to Deckerville, and in the summer of 1882 removed to Downington, and here he entered upon the management of the Howard House, where he was operating at the tin.e of liis death. He died of apoi)lexy, April 2, 1884. Mr. Hills, of this sketch, is the third son of his parents. He was reared under their guidance, and acted as his father's assistant in his various enter- prises until the removal of the family to Lexington, where he became a salesman for Andrew Monroe. He was a resident of Lexington until March, 1881, when he entered into a partnership with his fatiier in the conduct of tiie Union Hotel at Deckerville, a relation which continued to exist after their removal to the Howard House at Downington. Mr. Hills was married July 17, 1862, in Sanilac Township, to Jerusha Haiton, and they have three children: Alma, i)orn Dec. 21, 1S63, was married Dec. 26, 1880, to Andrew Conrad, resident at Down- ington ; Nora, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Conrad, was born Oct. 29, 1882; Nettie, second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hills, was born May 6, 1866; Ensign, only son, was born May 8, 1868. Mrs. Hills is the daugh- ter of Thomas and Matilda (Carney) Hatton, and was born July 11, 1S45, at Port Huron. Mr. Hills is a Democrat in political views and action. The Howard House, which he has managed singly since the death of his father, is one of the best country hotels on the Huron Peninsula. It is conveniently constructed, and its accommodations are of a character which successfully recommends it as a place of public entertainment, and it is deserv- edly popular. #-# ^— _ JJlbert Wickware, merchant, residing on sec- 'i KlS ' Pk ' t'O" 35' Greenleaf Township, was born in '■J\SS Leeds Co., Can., May 10, 1845. His father, ijal Libeus P. Wickware, was born in the same county, Nov. 18, 1817, and died March 4, 1877^ in Cass City, Tuscola Co., Mich. The mother, Cath- erine (Mallory) Wickware, was also a native of Leeds County, and was born in 1S15. Slie resides iir Ellington, Tuscola Co., Mich. Mr. Wickware left home at the age of 16 years and interested himself in lumbering, in which he was engaged continuously about 14 years. In 186S he located at Caro, Tuscola County, where he operated until 1875. In that year he opened his business as a Ijlacksmiih at Ellington, which he pursued there two and a half years. In 1878 he removed to Cass City, and formed a partnership with a man named Lutes, which relation e.xisted one year. At the end of that time, Mr. Wickware met with an accident wJiich disabled him for two years, after which he was variously occupied until August, 1882, when he es- tablished the mercantile enterprise in which he has since been engaged. The postoffice at this point is under his management, and the post station is dis- tinguished by his name. In political connection he adiieres to the National Greenback party. In 1S83 he was elected Justice of the Peace, and is now dis- charging the duties of the position. He is a member of the I. O. O. F., Lodge No. 203, at Cass City. The marriage of Mr. Wickware to Agnes Higgins took place in 1875. She was born April 4, 1855, in @) ^ r=i Si/ ■^^Dn^nnf^ Au^ (h 1 f s SANILAC COUNTY. -e€^ ^^ Canada, and is the ds (Watson) Hi Li .o ...^ daugliter of George and Mary A. liggins, now resident at Elmwood, Tus- cola Co., Mich. Morley ('., born Aug. 22, 1877; Etta M., born March 29, 1879, and Myrtie B., born April 29, 1 88 1, are the names of the children of Mr. and Mrs. Wickvvare. JCohn MePhail, fanner, section 34, Greenleaf Iflr Township, was born in 1844, in Scotland. His parents, John and Flora (Thompson) McPhail, were natives of the Parish of Kil- yC colmonell, Ayrshire, Scotland. After their marriage they emigrated to America and lo- cated in Dunwich, Elgin Co., Ont., where they became members of the agricultural community and spent the remainder of their lives. At the age of 25 he left his paternal home and became a farm laborer. When his father and mother came to Canada, he accompanied them and was a resident of the Dominion until 1866. In tliat year he came to Sanilac County and located where he now lives. He entei'ed a claim of i6o acres of land, and has applied his energies and efforts to such good purpose that he has 60 acres under good improve- ments. Mr. McPhail suffered heavy losses from the fire of 1 88 1, but has rebuilt his house and barn. He is a Republican in political faith and action. His marriage to Mary I. Hunter took place Jan. 28, 1884. She is the daughter of Hugh and Matilda (Brown) Hunter, natives of Canada, wliere she was born April 15, t866. r I ohn Fotheringham, farmer, section 27 Delaware Township, was born Oct. 20, urated l-g)''"'^ 1828, in Lincolnshire, Eng. He '^ to Ontario when he was 23 years of age, com- ^ ing alone from all his friends and home asso h |- ciations. He went from the Dominion to Ohio, and went thence four years later to Illinois, where he was employed as a laborer on the Central Railroad of that State. He returned to Ontario, and in i860 came to Michigan, obtaining employment in tiie lum- ber woods of the Huron peninsula, where he was occupied two years. In 1865 he purchased 40 acres of land where he has since resided and prosecuted his agricultural operations. He made a later pur- chase of 40 acres, and has improved the entire tract, his homestead including 80 acres of valuable land. Mr. Fotheringham is a Republican in political opinion, and he has officiated in the various school offices. He was married Sept. 13, 1865, at Lexington, to Mrs. Jane (Richmond) Lapp. One child — William — has been born to them. Mrs. F. is a native of Northumberland Co., Ont., where she was born Nov. 4, 1828, and where she resided until her marriage to George Lapp. Smith and Marilla are tlie names of the children born of her first marriage. The family attend the Methodist Church. «4aaerE^ .^#^^^P>|^4— «/^.SW)OTJv. ffUffiilliam McLaughlin, farmer, section 28, „jiH^^J[g Custer Township, was born Nov. 25, 1831, jl^^i^ ' in tlie county of East Dunham, Ont. His ^!) ^ parents, Thomas and Jane (McGill) Mc- Laughlin, were born in Ireland. The father wr (h ;^ SANILAC COUNTY. Republican. He has been School Superintendent six years, and has officiated two terms as Assessor. During the fire of i88 1, the farm builings and most of their contents were consumed, including a fine set of joiner's tools. The dog and cat were also burned. The house has been rebuilt, and Mr. Charlton is energetically engaged in the re-establishment of the former condition of things. He was married Feb. 20, 1867, to Emmeline, daughter of John and Phebe (McConnell) Hartwick. She was born Sept. 12, 1846, in Canada. Clara B., born Aug. 24, 1868; Acher, born June 22, 1870, and Birdsall, born Aug. 29, 1872, are the children of Mr. and Mrs. Charlton. lexander McDonald, farmer, section 12, I Minden Township, was born about 1820, in Scotland. He emigrated to America when he was 14 years of age, with his parents, who settled in the Province of Ontario and are still living there, in greatly advanced age. They had seven children, of whom the subject of this sketch is the eldest. Mr. McDonald became the proprietor of 100 acres of land before his majority, and when he became his " own man " he took possession of the place and resided upon it until his removal to Michigan. He came to this township Dec. 25, 1857, and purchased 160 acres of land in a wholly wild and unimproved condition. The route thence to Forestville, where all supplies were obtained, was traversed l)y means of Indian trails, there being no roads of any other character. His entire acreage is now under improve- ment, with good buildings, orchards and other farm accompaniments of excellent and valuable type. Mr. McDonald is a Republican of decided prin- ciples. He was married July 29, 1844, in the State of New York, to Fanny Coredale, and they have been the parents of 15 children, five of whom are de- ceased, — John and James are not living and three children died in early infancy before they were named. Those living are John (2d), James (2d), William, Henry, Sarah, Maxwell, Alexander, Mary. Elizabeth and Robert. Mrs. McDonald was born in Dublin, in 1824, and is the daughter of John and Sarah (McGill) Coredale, both of whom were natives of Scotland. After their marriage they went to Ire- land, whence two daughters came when grown to womanhood to Ontario. Mr. and Mrs. McDonald are members of the Presbyterian Church. -^-•H'##=^»" ■i: fh V^ i ra P. Wilson, retired farmer, section 3, jl'j^^i Minden Township, was born May ii, i8o6, ^ytly T in the State of New York. He was six years of age when his parents removed to On- tario, and he lived at home with them until their demise. As he was the youngest child, he took charge of the homestead, which is located in Newcastle District, Durham Co., Out. He sold the place later, and purchased another farm, containing 200 acres, in the same county. On this he spent 45 of the best years of his life and effected a work of improvement which greatly increased the value of the estate. In 187 1 he sold the place and went to London, Ont., whence he came to Michigan in 1875. He fixed upon Minden Township, in Sanilac County, for a location, and not long afterward purchased 140 acres of land, now constituting his homestead. Of this he has cleared and otherwise improved 75 acres. The place is a very fine one and is under the man- agement of the youngest son of the family, Wellington J. Wilson. Mr. Wilson was married Nov. 13, 1828, at Bow- manville, Durham Co., Ont., to Henrietta Morley. She was born Aug. 6, 18 10, in Watertown, N. Y., and removed with her parents to Ontario when in early youth. .She grew to womanhood and was educated in the province and died Sept. 13, 1850, in Downing- ton, Durham Co., Ont. She became the mother of seven children, two of whom are deceased. They were named as follows : Sophia, Sarah, Harrison, Esther, George, Frederick and Wellington. She was a communicant of the Episcopal Church, to which the other members of the family belong. Wellington J. Wilson was born in Darlington, Dur- ham Co., Ont., Dec. 16, 1850. He was married Sept. I 13, 1875, in Perth Co., to Georgie M. Rice, and they c^: 428 T<^M)^iih^^r^ 7^f^ -«iS*?@ f ) /• ^ 'S ^ c a t ^ ^ SANILAC COUNTY. have been the parents of three children. Nellie H. was born Oct. 23, 1879. Charles B. and Mabel died in infancy. Mrs. Wilson was born Feb. 19, 1856, in Durham Co., Ont., and is the daughter of John H. and Elizabeth (Brown) Rice, of English descent, and are now residents of the township of Minden. Mr. Wilson and his father are Republicans of zealous and earnest principles. K m r?^[' P^f on. John Leitch, Representative from the r '2:s]'A; Second District of Sanilac County in the \;^ Legislature of Michigan in 1882-3, and resident in Marion Township, was born Nov. 10, 1832, in the parisii of Knappdale, Argyle- shire, Scotland. His ancestois for six genera- tions were born in the same shire and are traced through tradition to the first settlement of western Scotland. His father, Neil Leitch, married Mary McLaughlin of the same shire, whose family belonged also to the same clan — the '' McDonald." In 1841 Neil Leitch emigrated to America with his family. They settled in Canada, in a then uninhabited and unorganized portion of the Dominion, which is now included within the township of Dunvvich, Elgin Co., Ont. The family maintained a residence there about six years, holding their claim by virtue of pos- session, and improving the land to some extent. In 1847 the senior Leitch settled in Ekfrid Township, Middlesex Co., Ont., and purchased 100 acres of land, where the family resided until 1857, clearing and improving one-half the tract. In April of that year they made another transfer, to the township of Austin, Sanilac Co., Mich., where the father pur- chased 120 acres of land in town 13, range 15, now section 34 of the township of Marion. In the depth of the wilderness, remote from neighbors, with no thoroughfares save the rude trails which served to connect the forest homes with civilization, the family settled and entered upon a struggle with the forces of Nature. The fair fields and fruitful acres of to-day attest the quality and merits of the efforts brought to bear upon the untamed wilds of this portion of the Huron peninsula. Neil Leitch died Sept. 17, 1875. His widow is now living (1884) on the homestead. John Leitch brought his wife with him from Can- ada when liis parents removed hither. He was at that time a husband of only a week's duration, hav- ing married Mary McAlister April 7, 1857, in Lobo Township, Middlesex County. She was born Nov. 1, 1833, and is the daughter of Archibald and Sarah (Crawford) McAlister, natives of Argyleshire, Scot- land. The family of Mr. Leitch includes one son and three daughters. Mary was born Feb. 24, 1858, in Lobo Township, Ont., and is the wife of Allen M. Kay, M. D., of Tyre, Sanilac Co., Mich. (See sketch of A. M. Kay.) They have one child, John L., born May 17, 1883. Sarah was born March 26, i860, and married Andrew J. Emrey, lumberman at Manistee, Mich. One child, George, was born to them March 2, 1882. Archibald was born July 20, 1864. Isa- bella was born June 2, 1866. The three children last named were born on the homestead in Marion Township. On coming to Michigan with his parents, Mr. Leitch bought 280 acres near the location of his father. Two acres had been slashed and contained a small shanty. The remainder of the acreage was dense forest, and here Mr. I>eitch and his wife en- countered the vicissitudes of the pioneer. Elk and deer abounded, particularly the latter animal; and so unaccustomed were they to the presence of man and the crack of the murderous rifle, that they seemed filled with an innocent wonder on encountering the new comers to their sylvan retreats. Mr. Leitch in- creased his landed estate by later purchases, and has recently reduced the responsibilities and cares of ex- tensive proprietorship by sate. His homestead farm contains 160 acres, and is all under cultivation. In political opinion Mr. Leitch is a Democrat, and trusts in a development of the fundamental princi- ples on which the element was originally based to re-establish the harmony of practice and precepts according to the significance of the distinctive term. He cast his first Presidential vote for Abraham Lin- coln. He is a man who has inherited and exempli- fied the sterling traits of the race from which he sprung, and his unswerving integrity and business capacity and executive ability are fully recognized by his fellow citizens, who have repeatedly availed themselves of the benefits of his character and con- fided the public trusts to his management. He has served eight years successively as Township Treas- V.^ t AC^I!!i:^Ilt]v^ ±, -4^^^@yi •T^^ K o^/ C^n n It: Q iiv>"r ■«^ SANILAC COUNTY. 429 """ 1=1 > v!) 1 urer, has been School Director ahnost without inter- mission since the estabUshment of schools in his township (nearly 20 years), and in 1882 was elected Supervisor. In 1884 he was elected Justice of the Peace. In the fall of 1882 he was the candidate of the Union Convention held at Deckerville, for Represent- ative, and after a most gratifying campaign scored a triumph, running in advance of his ticket and receiv- ing a majority of 58 votes. His district comprises 14 of the 27 towns of Sanilac County. He served his constituency in a manner which proved the quality of the judguiert which had elected him to the posi- tion, and in the Legislature acted on Committees on Education and on the Public School at Coldwater. He introduced the bill to provide more inexpensive and uniform text-books for primary departments of schools of all grades in Michigan. He has been active in the Democratic State and County Conven- tions, and was a delegate at East Saginaw Jinie 10, 1880, for the purpose of electing delegates to the National Convention at Cincinnati. He was a mem- ber of the Congressional Convention at Port Huron in September, 1882, representing the Seventh Dis- trict, and of the Convention at Lansing, March 7, 1883, to nominate a Supreme Judge and Regents of the University of Michigan. •«ia2?s^» |<4— x^-S'Zra'J'W" William, Feb. i6, 1869; Jeanette, Nov. 4, 1873- Robert, July 13, 1875. Mr. Wilson is a Republican in political principles. In r882 he was elected Township Treasurer and held the position two terms. In 1884 he was elected Highway Commissioner, and has been one of tlie officers of his school district 12 years. ^^^P"i^©'v>.~— 5- ndrew Wilson, farmer, section 30, Green- ^ leaf Township, was born Sept. 10, 1S46, in ^^ Scotland, and is the son of William and Eliza- beth (Fairburn) Wilson. His parents were natives of Scotland and born respectively in 805 and 1804. On emigrating to America in 1861 they located on 80 acres of land, on section 30, Evergreen Township, and were the first settlers on the section. The mother died in 1874. On arriving at man's estate Mr. Wilson located 114 acres of land, which is still in his possession, and of which lie has cleared 28 acres. He was married in 1866 to Susan Neil, who was born in September, 1852. She died SeiJt. 16, i88i, and left four children, born as follows: Emily, July 16, 1867 ; ^ ohn Getty, farmer, section i, Austin Town- -SMJ.i,,^ ship, was born April 4, i83r, in Upper iU'i-- -i Canada. His father, Robert Getty, was a native of the State of New York and removed to Canada, where he died. Harriet (Bigford) ' Getty, his mother, died in 1836, in Michigan. Since the age of 14 years, Mr. Getty has sus- tained himself He came to Sanilac County in 1847 and settled at Lexington. In 1855 he came to Austin Township and located 120 acres of land, and also 160 acres in Minden Township. Mr. Getty is a Republican in political connection. He was mar- ried in 1858 to Rebecca, daughter of Eli and Mary A. (Brown) Seaman. She was born Dec. 8, 1840, in Nova Scotia, of which province her mother was also a native. Her father was born in the State of New York. Mr. and Mrs. Getty have had 12 children, all of whom are living except a pair of twins, who died in infancy. Those surviving were born as follows : Ada, Jan. 3, i860; Ida, Jan. 9, 1862; Morris, Feb. 15,1864; Eli, Oct. 16, 1867 ; Effie, March 27, 1869; Herbert, Sept. 5, 187 i ; Cora, Nov. 20, 1874; Maud, May 28, 1878; Minnie, Dec. 28, 1880; Ethel, Aug. 7, 1883. The parents belong to the Methodist Epis- copal Church. < ames F. Wilson, farmer, section 30, Green- f^ leaf Township, was born May 9, 1849, in Scotland. His father, William Wilson, was born in 1805, and married Elizabeth Fairburn, also a native of Scotland, born m 1804. In 186 1 the family, consisting of fatlier and mother and six children, came to America, settling <^nD>>:(lD^> 43° SANILAC COUNTY. #^5^ I 2j <^ in the township of Evergreen, on section 30, where the father located 80 acres of unimproved land. They were the first permanent settlers on the sec- tion, where they were called to encounter most of the hardships and severities of pioneer life. The mother died in 1874. Mr. Wilson is still residing on the farm on which his parents settled about a quarter of a century ago. He is a Republican in political faith. In the spring of 1884 he was elected Township Treasurer of Greenleaf. His marriage to Sarah M. Wright occur- red in February, 1869. His wife was born in August, 1854, in Canada, and is the daughter of William H. and Margaret (Smith) Wright. Her father was born in England, and was a soldier in this country in the Civil War. Her mother was born in Canada, and the family came to Michigan in 1861. Following is the record of the three children born to Mr. and Mrs. Wilson: Elizabeth, bom May 12, 1870; Mar- garet L., June I, 1872, and Walter W., April 25, 1874. aeob Seder, farmer, section 10, Argyle j- Townsliip, was born Aug. 22, 1827, in France, which was tiie native country of his parents, Nicholas and Barbara (Phillips) 1l Seder. The family came to America in 1836 and landed at New York, proceeding thence to Canada, where the parents passed the remainder of their lives, the father dying in 1845, the mother in 1883. Mr. Seder was a resident of the Dominion until i860, spending his time as a farmer and lumberman. In that year he came to Sanilac County and located 320 acres of land in Argyle Township under the regulations of the Graduation Act. He was the first permanent settler in the township, and his memory of those days is full of reminiscences that would make an interesting volume if related in detail. His farm lay four miles from any traveled thoroughfare, and he cut a road to his place. He has improved and placed 60 acres under cultivation. Mr. Seder has officiated several terms in various local offices, and has always been a Republican. He was married in 1846, to Mary Kalar, daughter of James and Susanna (Whiting) Kalar, natives of Vermont, and both deceased. The demise of the father occurred in 1866; that of the mother in 1872. Mrs. Seder was born Nov. 22, 1826, in Canada West, and is the mother of 12 living sons and daughters'. They were born as follows: Nelson, Jan. 15, 1847 ; Susanna, Sejjt. 15, 1848; Rosa, April 8, 1850; Mat- thew, Feb. 17, 1852; Mary J., Oct. 3, 1854; Wesley I., June 4, 1856; Jane H., July 18, 1858; Sarah D., Sept. 15, i860; Isaac A., July 4, 1863; Harriet, May 22,1865; Emily, May 12, 1867 ; Ida, March 19,1868. #^-- <-^ illiam MuUoy, druggist at Minden, Mich., in^^^u was born April 8, 1836, in the Province of ii^§fe-s ' Ontario. His parents went to London, t^^y Ont., about 1839, and after a residence there of ten years they removed with their family to Sanilac County, Mich. Mr. Mulloy was 13 years of age when he came to Michigan, and within the subsequent year he went to Wisconsin. Four years later lie returned to Sanilac County and entered upon the vocation of a fisher- man in Lake Huron, which calling he pursued 25 years. His process was the variety known as gill- net fishing, and he had an excellent reputation for skill and ability in his calling. Mr. Mulloy talks interestingly of the knowledge of the piscatorial tribe he has collected within the period of his experience among them. He claims that the ages and habits of fish must ever remain an unsolved problem, from the fact that no one has ever been able to prove that a fish died from natural causes. Their remains are not found, nor do they come to the surface after death. His nets have sometimes captured other treasures of tiie water besides their legitimate prey, and sometimes they have brought to light the evi- dences of atrocious crime. His '' catch " or " lift " with gill-nets has been at times as heavy as 30 bar- rels at a single " lift," and he has caught about 300 barrels of fish in a season. After the termination of his business as a fisher- man, he embarked in the drug trade, coming to Minden in 1879, where he erected a building for his ^^V®))^^# ^ ^' A I <^ A<^^D !l^nD;>^r^ ^^^ "^^L. ^^f -j&^ — ^v<4ii m p n^ ^"^ -*6i SANILAC COUNTY. (h V ? business. He carries a stock worth $2,500, and is managing a successful and popular enterprise. His fixtures and equipments are of the best and most creditable character. Besides his store he owns a considerable amount of village property. Mr. Mulloy is a Democrat. He has officiated as Village Trustee, and has been School Director one year. He was married Dec. 20, 1862, at Port Sanilac, to Ellen Shipley, and they have two children, — Mary and William. Mrs. Mulloy was born Aug. 19, 1846, in Ontario. Her parents became residents of Sanilac County in her early childhood. She is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Christopher Murphy, Supervisor of the X township of Greenleaf, and resident on l?r/» '*' section 34, is the son of James and Han- nah (Walker) Murphy. His father was a native of Dublin, Ireland, where he was born in 1794. In 1830 he was married, in Eng- land, and in 1854 came to Canada, with his family, consisting of himself, his wife and four children. He died in London Tcifuship, Canada, in 1865. The mother of the subject of this sketch was born in 1799, in England, and died, in 1873, in Greenleaf Township, at the residence of her son. The latter was born July 26, 1842, in England. He grew to man's estate in the Dominion of Canada, and obtained such education as the common schools afforded. At the age of 18 years he entered upon an apprenticeship to acquire the trade of a black- smith, in wiiich he served six years in Canada. In 1866 he came to Micliigan, and spent the following winter working at his trade. In 1867 he located the property on which he has since lived and labored, entering his claim under the provisions of the Home- stead Act. It comprised 160 acres of valuable wooded land, and he has 80 acres of well improved real estate. His career was one of uninterrupted prosperity until i88i, when the historic fires which devastated this section of the Peninsular State destroyed his dwelling and household goods and all his barns and farming implements. The loss in round numbers was $5,000. His persevering indus- try, good management and indomitable purpose have again put him in a fairway to restore all he has lost ; and he has refitted his place with two fine bams and a suitable dwelling. Mr. Murphy is a firm adherent to the principles of the Republican party. He has been the trustee of the local offices of his township since his settlement here, in various cay^acities. In 1867 he was elected Highway Commissioner, and was elected to the same position eight times successively. He has been Supervisor continuously since 1875, and has served as Chairman of the Board. In 1881 he was a Mem- ber of the State Board of Equalization from Sanilac County. He is a member of the I. O. O. F. Lodge, No. 203, at Cass City, and in 1882 was a Delegate to the Grand Lodge, held at Lansing. He was married in 1863 to Eliza, daughter of George and Margaret (Oram) Nelin. Her parents were natives of Ireland, and she was born April 23, 1839. She was orphaned in early childhood, and all record of the births and deaths of her father and mother are lost. The family includes three children, born as follows : Viola O., Oct. 24, 1867; Francis E., Sept. 29, 1869, and John H., May 21, 1873. Three children have been removed by death. Mr. Murphy is County Treasurer elect, having been elected Nov. 4th, current year (1884), by a handsome majority. -^-•<-^-'##=^^>-5- 9 1 V ames Wright, farmer, section 1 6, Green- leaf Township, is the son of William and Margaret (Smith) Wright. The father is a native of England and has passed his life in the pursuit of farming. In 1859 he came with his family to Sanilac County and located in Minden Township, where he was a resident until 1879, when he settled in the township of Greenleaf on section 16. He bought 320 acres of land, where he now lives. The mother was born in Canada. Mr. Wright is a native of Canada, where he was born June 18, r856. He remained an inmate of his father's house until he attained his majority, when he was married to Jessie McAIpine. She was born Aug. 7, 1855, in Canada, and is the daughter of Archibald ®))C^#^ StfsJiS^- j:^^ ^n%m<> Au2. -i^^^ iis/®^€^r#— SANILAC COUNTY. ^'■V<^^l '-^^m\m "1i >^ and Harriet (Mackenzie) McAlpine, born respectively ',Q in Canada and Scotland. Her parents came to Huron .'!iai County, where they lived until 1873, in which year they came to Greenleaf Township and located on section 17. In 1877 Mr. Wright settled on 80 acres of land, where he has since resided, and has about 30 acres with good improvements. The property was fortu- nate in escaping the ruinous fires of 1881. Politically Mr. Wright is a Republican. f ^r^ilt^m'^-^ ) V ames Henry Shults, editor and proprietor of the Minden City Post, was born at Howell, Mich., March 18, 1855, and when two years of age his parents moved to Seville, Gratiot Co., Mich., where all the hardships of pioneer lite were endured and a liDme gradu- ally hewn out of the forest. When 18 years of age the subject of this sketch C3 had obtained a good common-school education and '^ began life as a school-teacher. After teaching one term he secured a position as apprentice in the office of the St. Louis Herald, where he remained until April, 1877, when he took charge of the Isabella Times, at Mt. Pleasant, Mich. In October of the same year he moved to Chicago and accepted a posi- tion with Donnelly, Lloyd & Co., a large book-print- ing establishment, where he remained for some time, finally resigning to accept a position on the Chicago Telegraph, now defunct. He afterwards was em- ployed on the Chicago Hotel World for two years. Nov. 3, 1879, he was married to Miss Kate Dow, of St. Louis, Mich., who died on the 9th of April following. In November, 1880, he purchased the St. Louis (Mich.) Herald, and sold it in February, i88r. He then returned to Detroit, and April 26th to Minden City, where he founded The Post, meeting with fair success until the great forest fires swept over the Huron Peninsula, rendering many of his patrons homeless and destitute. On the day following the fire he was appointed a committee with W. A. Mills to draft and send to the press resolutions urging the necessity of relief for the people. On the same day he wrote several letters to his Chicago friends describing the terrible condition of affairs and asking them to send all relief possible to the Port Huron committee. They answered by sending him a check for $r,ooo, with instructions to distribute it according to his best judgment. This was followed by some $r,3oo more, all of which was distributed among the people of the burnt district, receipts obtained and almost every cent accoimted for. In distributing this Mr. Shults endeavored to relieve actual distress rather than attempt to replace losses, and hence sought out those whose property was not insured and were otherwise unable to provide for present needs. He was also appointed a member of the Minden Relief Committee, but resigned. Finding tlie people too poor to supix)rt the Post for a time, he removed to Pott Huron, and estab- lished the Saturday Tribune. This venture proved successful, and in February, 1883, he sold the Tribune to its present owner, Mr. A. H. Finn. He then devoted his attention to the job-printing busi- ness in Port Huron, and to publishing the Post, which he revived a short time after the fire. In Oc- tober, 1S83, he purchased the Sanilac County Reporter, which he still owns. April 7, r884, he moved to a Minden City, equipped the Post office with a steam press and necessary material, enlarged the paper to a six-column quarto, and has succeeded in placing it in the front rank of local journals. It is strictly in- dependent in politics, and has a wide circulation among all classes. Being the only newspaper in the entire northern portion o!" Sanilac County, it enjoys a field particularly its own, and as the county is devel- oping rapidly, its influence and circulation is con- stantly increasing. The office is equipped with a fine assortment of new job-printing material. Local departments for the surrounding towns of Decker- ville, Downingion, Tyre and Ubly make it especially interesting to the people of those places and vicinity. — :@J- oseph Brown, farmer, section -jo, Austin l ^^ K- Township, was bjrn O ct. 10, 1832, in Louisville, N. Y. His parents, John and Jane (McPherson) Brown, were natives of Ire- land. The father was born in 1795, and died in 1854, in Canada. The mother was born in 1797, and died in r837. They removed to Canada in 1835, when their son was but three years old. ( < c^: r^) ..o. i^. '^^/®))^#- T=rv <>Dn^iii]^> V — :2ii'=^^is: SANILAC COUNTY. I f ) 1=3 t 433 The latter re.nained under the care of his parents until he was 12 years of age, when he began to work in an edge-tool factory. Two years later he was employed in a blacksmith shop. Later, he engaged in lumbering in the winter seasons, and passed the summers in working as a carpenter, until 1859, when lie came to Michigan. He was married in 185- to Ann Fisher. She was born July 20, 1836, and is the daughter of Alexander and Sarah (Graham) Fisher, natives of Scotland. Her mother was born in 1806 and died April 6, 1881 ; and iier father was born in 1794 and died May 6, 1855. On coming to Sanilac County, Mr. Brown located 1 6c acres of land on sections ig and 30. The fires of 187 I and 1881 visited his farm in common with others and in the latter he lost a large barn, together with crops, the whole representing $3,000. He has been extensively engaged in real-estate transactions, and at one time owned upward of a thou- sand acres of land. His estate now includes 500 acres of land situated in the most desirable portion of the township. He was among the first of the per- manent settlers in Austin, and Mrs. Brown relates her experiences luinting tlie cows with a gun on her shoulder and guiding her labors by a compass. Mr. Brown is a Democrat in political faith. He has been Treasurer of Austin, and has officiated 18 suc- cessive years as Justice of the Peace and school officer. The births of ten children are recorded, as follows: John, Dec. 30, 1854; Alex. L., March 13,1857; Joseph, Jan. ir, 1859; Sarah J., Aug. 21, 1861 (died Aug. 26, .i88i); Fanny E., Sept. 15, 1863; Lilly, Nov. 25, 1865; William T., March 12, 1869; Robert, May 9, 187 I (died Feb. 2, 1872); Stanley A., April II, 1873; Frank, March 3, 1878. -t98— . iiij illiam Hill, farmer, section 13, Greenleaf Itl^aL Townsliip, is a son of William and J^Si-j Asenath (Turner) Hill. His parents were -Ik^ natives of the State of New York, and after ■^'■^r- their marriage removed to Canada. He was born July 30, 1825, in Oxford Co., Can. He left his paternal home in 1844 and first obtained employ as a farm assistant, which he followed at various points as opportunity served until his mar- riage, which occurred Jan. 4, 1848, Miss Caroline Wright being the bride. She was born Feb. 22, 1828, in Simcoe, Can . and is the daughter of John and Ann (Barrister) Wright. Her parents were natives of England, and lier father was a butcher by trade, in the old country ; but on coming to Canada he became a farmer. ' Both are deceased. The record of the four children born to Mr. and Mrs. Hill is thus given : Charles was born Aug. 6, 1849; Amanda, Jtnie 28, 1851; Alonzo, Sept. 18, 1856: Barney, Oct. 27, 1S66. Three children have been removed by death. In 1871 Mr. Hill came to Sanilac County and bought 160 acres of land. He has given his sons each 40 acres of land, and has 80 acres in the home place. His loss in the fire of 1881 was heavy. His political sympathies are with the Republican party, and he has officiated six years as Assessor of his district. Mr. Hill is a member of the Baptist Church. ®)>f§^i|^ j;^ -^WM^^O^ •; wen F. Teeple, farmer, section 13, Elmer JK Township, was born in the village of Vit- toria, Charlotteville Township, Norfolk Co., Ont., and is the son of Captain Alexander and Mary A. (Winter) Teeple. His paternal grand- father was a pioneer preacher of the Baptist denomination, and was the sixth settler in the town- ship where he located. His father, Alexander Tee- ple, was a tanner by vocation and the son was instructed in the same calling. The father met his death by being caught under a stone while digging a hole to bury it, according to the custom of some sections in disposing of boulders which are too large to roll away. He was about 50 years of age. The mother lives in Ontario, and is 62 years of age. Mr. Teeple resided with his mother two years after the death of his father, when he became a sailor on the lakes. He passed five summers as a common seaman, working as a tanner during the intervening winters. After that he was variously I ^ ^ c) I ■52*^4^^ -74^Dll^0Dy>r rr- -®s§ |7^f 434 (^ (f> SAN/LAC COUNTY. employed in Norfolk County and in the State of New York for some time, when he again spent a season on the lakes. He was married Feb. iS, 1875, in Forestville, Norfolk Co., Ont., to Sarah J. Severance. They have six cliildren, namely: Sewell E., born Nov. 24, 1875; Mary E., June 4, 1877; Francis A., March 23, 1879; Ros;imond C, Jan. 6, 1881 ; Owen V., April 3, 1883; Helen E., May 2, 1884. Mrs. Teeple was born Nov. 24, 1854, in Rockport, on Cape Ann, on the coast of Massachusetts, and is the daughter of Sewell and Mary J. (Tait) Severance. Her father traced his lineage to the earliest settlement of this country. She lived at home until she was 16 years of age, when she went to Lowell, Mass., and spent three years, occupied as a cloth-folder in a cotton factory. In 1878 Mr. Teeple removed his family to Michi- gan and located on i6o acres of land, wholly unim- proved, where he has since operated and cleared and placed in profitable agricultural condition 50 acres. His barn — 40 x 86 feet — is the largest in Elmer Township. The family are Baptists in religious connection. Mr. Teeple is a Republican in political views, and a member of the Order of Masonry. -»=K= I f, T 7" €>■ eil McEaehin, farmer, section 6, Green- leaf Township, was born in Scotland, ^ March 16, 1833, and is the son of Neil and Sarah (Campbell) McEaehin, now de- ceased, both of whom were natives of the land wherein "on either hand the knolls and swells are crimsoned by the heather bells." Mr. McEaehin grew to mature years in his native land, and in 1850 came to America. He made his first stop at Quebec, Can., where he continued to re- side until 187 I, when he removed to his present loca- tion in Sanilac County. He settled on 200 acres of land on which he has since resided and expended his energies to the best possible advantage. He is one of the substantial land-holders of Sanilac County, and has creditably achieved what may beac- complished by foreigners, who bring the old-country thrift, industry and economy into full operation under the fostering influences and liberal possibilities of a republican land with unequalled resources. Mr. McEaehin is now the proprietor of 800 acres of land. He is a Democrat in political principle, and has served a number of years as Highway Commis- sioner. He was married in February, 1857, to Flora Mc- Isaac, daughter of O'Neil and Mary (McEaehin) Mclsaac. Her parents were natives of Scotland. She was born in 1837, and is the mother of four sons and two daughters, born as follows . Norman E., Feb. 8, 1858; Angus, Feb. 27, i860; Sarah, April 17, 1862; Malcolm, March 16, 1864; Neil, June 16, 1868; Mary J., Dec. i, 1874. The family are Roman Catholics. ^avid Murdock, farmer, section 12, Minden Township, was born July 9, 1838, in I'Uhjf'^ '^ County Tyrone, Ireland. His parents, Wiv David and Jane Murdock, were also natives ■^ of Ireland, and emigrated with their family to i Ontario, in 1847. They settled near Stratford. In 1852 they transferred their family and interests to Sanilac County, where the father died, when he was 70 years of age. His mother is now an inmate of her son's home. She is 70 years of age, and is in fine, robust health. Mr. Murdock was a lad of nine years when his parents became residents of Canada, and he came with them to Michigan. He assisted on the home place a year after he attained his majority. He passed the next two years in various occupations, and in the fall of 1864 yielded to the pressure of the times and became a soldier in the Union army. He enrolled in Company E, 13th Ind. Vol. Inf., Capt. Stepp. The regiment was first attached to the Army of the Cumljerland, and later to that of the Potomac. Mr. Murdock was in hot action at Fort Fisher, N. C, and in several minor skirmishes. He received an honorable discharge Sept. 5, 1865, after the war was closed. He returned to the Huron peninsula and became A^^^^ lf> ^^^^^^ >») I "v Si/ k:^^ '^^^r^^m^ -^^&K — 6v<:Hii:t:Dii^->-r ry ~^m((^!M SANILAC COUNTY. 435 :-«5 V > t (| interested in fishing along the lake-side, employing the gill- net and other methods. He continued in this avenue of business nine years. In 1876 he took possession of a farm he had purchased previously, where he has since expended his time and energies. He now owns 100 acres of land, and nine-tenths of the farm is in a good state of improvement and culti- vation. In political faith and action Mr. Murdock is independent. His marriage to Mrs. Anna (Hunter) Tyler occur- red Sept. 16, 1876, and they are the parents of three children — Margery E., Anna M. and James D. Mrs. Murdock was born in Blackburn, Lancastershire, Eng., and is the daughter of John and Mary (Burton) Hunter. She received a common-school education in her native country, and came with her parents to Au Sable, Iosco Co., Mich., when she was 16 years of age. Her first husband. Squire Monroe Tyler, was a native of the State of New York, and became a resident of Michigan when he was 16 years of age. He married when he was 24 years old, and died Dec. 29, 1876, in Iosco County, aged nearly 36 years. Six children were born of the first marriage of Mr. Mur- dock, one of whom is deceased. The others are named John, Henry, Charles, Mary A. and Tliomas J. Mrs. Murdock is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. -«= *^^lexander Gillis, farmer, section 4, Green- _ \ leaf Township, was born in Kilmora, Ar- 5^|p? gyleshire, Scotland, June 10, 1831. His jjaT parents, John and Mary (McNaughton) Gillis, were natives of Scotland, and were born re- spectively in 1798 and 1804. They belonged to the agricultural class in their native land. At the age of 26 years, Mr. Gillis became a seaman and ship- ped as such on the " Champion of Greenock," where he remained i8 months, and later served under Cap- tain Cochrane. He followed the sea 15 years, and in 1862 settled on a farm in Canada. Subsequently he became a sailor on the five Great Lakes, and was also in the service on the Ohio and the Mississippi (g\.V.>~.:-'^ , -. >«U?SUIi'^ ■-! i», Rivers. In 1867 he made a permanent settlement where he has since resided. He was married Feb. 15, 1 861, to Jane McEachin, the daughter of John and Jane (Black) McEachin. The parents were natives of Scotland, whence they emigrated to Canada, where they still reside. They were born respectively in 1794 and 1807. Mrs. Gillis was born March 3, 1841, in Canada. The 12 children of whom she is the mother are all living, and were born as follows: John, Sept. 6, 1862 ; Jane, March 18, 1864; Mary, Oct. 24, 1865; Archibald, July 31, 1867; Ann, Nov. 4, 1869; Catherine, Sept. 18, 1871; Duncan, Aug. 18, 1873; Sarah, July 6, 1875; Jessie, May 13, 1877; Maggie B., May 5, 1879; Dugald A., Dec. 21, 1881 ; Violet E., May 6, 1884 Their parents are members of the Presby- terian Church. ^^^^^-^ ^ rchibald McPhaii, farmer, section ;^^, Aus- tin Township, was born m i83i,in Scot- land. In 1854 he left his native land and came to America. He went to Dunwich, Canada, where he passed the summers in farming and the winter seasons as a lumber- man, until 1859, when he came to Sanilac County. He pre-empted 160 acres of land in Austin Town- ship, and in the year following he bought the claim for 25 cents an acre. He has since added by pur- chase 127 acres to his estate. He was married to Nancy Gillis, who was born in November, 1841, in Scotland. (Both of her parents were natives of Scotland.) Six sons and six daughters were born to them, and of the 12 only five are living. The record is as follows: John, born March 31, 1867; Flora, Sept. 4, 1868 (died sixteen days later); Betsey, Dec. 8, 1869; Archie, born Jan. 18, 187 1, died March 24, following; Dugald, born Jan. 18, 1872, died Aug. 8, in the same year; Florrie A., born April 22, 1874; twins, born in July, 1875, died Sept. 29 and 30, following; May, born March 3, 1877 ; Thompson, May 10,1878; Maggie J., June 12, 1879 (died Oct. 6, same year); Ferguson, born Sept. 27, 1880, died Jan. 14, i88r. ^ ^' i^ (■) "-^<;^llIi:t:llD^.>-r SANILAC COUNTY. Mr. McPhail is a Democrat in political connec- tion, and has discharged the duties of several local official positions. The family attend the Presbyte- rian Church. ^ o f :) ^ m --^< eorge C. Vincent, M. D., practicing phys- ician and surgeon, at Deckerville, was ^ born Dec. 25, 1842, in Ontario Co., Ont. His parents, Stephen and Dorothy (Truax) Vincent, were natives respectively of New York and Quebec. His father is of New England parentage; his mother descended from Dutch ancestors. They were married in the Prov- ince of Quebec, and in 1S47 located in Lexington Township, Sanilac County, where the father died, April 8, 1873. Mrs. V. resides with a son in Le.x- ington, and is 80 years of age. Dr. Vincent is the seventh son and tenth child of 13 born to his parents. He was five years old when the family removed to Michigan, and he resided with them until he was 17 years of age. At that period he obtained his father's consent to enter upon a combat with fortune in his own behalf, and he went to Dane Co., Wis., with the family of John Wilson, an old friend of his father. They remained in the Badger State but a short time, going thence to Iowa, but Dr. Vincent proceeded no farther west. He obtained employment as a farm laborer during the agricultural season, and attended the academy at Albion in the same county, in the winter. He returned to Sanilac County in 1862 and began teaching before he was 20 years old, alternating his task in that avenue by attending college. Later, he taught music during his vacations and also taught winter terms of school. He passed 1 2 years in this manner, meanwhile reading for his profession as he found opportunity. March 3, 1874, he came to Deckerville and com- menced the practice of his profession. His abilities and attention to his business soon established his reputation as a practitioner. He continued his course of study, and in [875 was graduated at the Homeo- patliic School of Medicine at Detroit. His field of practice was at first, for obvious reasons, full of dif- ficulty, and he sacrificed comfort of all varieties to meet the demand for his services. In seasons of prevalent sickness he has passed three weeks at a time without removing his clothing to sleep, and could only obtain rest by seeking a place unknown to his family for a few hours. Dr. Vincent realizes and responds to the responsibilities of his profession. He is a radical Republican, and is as active in the maintenance of the principles and issues of his party element as his business will permit. He is promi- nent in school matters, and was Township Superin- tendent during the entire period of the operation of the law which created the office. He is present School Inspector, and has been almost continuously a member of the village School Board. He was ap- pointed first Health Officer after the organization of Marion Township, and has since held the position. Dr. Vincent was married Nov. 3, 1862, in Dane Co., Wis., to Evelyn L. Turner. She was born in Vermont, Feb. 9, 1843, and is the daughter of Solo- mon and Rhoda Turner. Her parents removed from the Green Mountain State to Wisconsin in 18156, where she obtained her education. Two children are now included in the family of Dr. Vincent, — Elva J., born July 12, 1864, and Minnie, April 10, •873- • The estate of Dr. Vincent includes 20 acres with- in the village plat, a residence worth $4,000, 160 acres of land on section 6, Custer Township, and 40 acres in another county. '^tojinf^^^ |?4— w^^j^OTjrjv. homas Nicol, Township Clerk of Greenleaf, and farmer on section 35, was born Nov. i, ^ 1840, in Scotland, and is the son of James and Anne (Young) Nicol, both of whom were born in 1804 in Scotland. Her father was a custom-house officer, and was drowned in 1838, while engaged in tlie discharge of his duty. Her mother is still living in Scotland. Mr. Nicol came to America in 1859. He landed at Quebec, and went thence to London, Canada, where he became a farm laborer. In 1867 he came to Sanilac County and located on 160 acres of land, on which he has since resided. He has placed 90 acres under good improvements. The place is in v|) (^1 ^ n t #= -^Sis^^!^ ■2<^Da^no;^^ s - — -:2^^ cr-7<>|]0i^Uflr->^ SANILAC COUNTY. eminently creditable condition, notwithstanding the fact that it has been twice devastated by fire, the scourges of flame in 187 i and in 1881 having both swept over the place, the latter destroying all the (hj fences and buildings. The energy and industry of the proprietor is plainly manifest in the rapid prog- ress of the work of reclamation. Mr. Nicol is a prominent member of the Republi- can party. He has been Township Treasurer 13 years, and was .School Superintendent several terms. In 1880 he was elected to the position he now holds. He is also Superintendent of the Poor and has been in that office five years. He was ap- pointed Census Enumerator in 1880, and was re- appointed for the same duty last spring (1884). The marriage of Mr. Nicol to Elizabeth Ord occurred in 1865. She was born in London, Out., in March, 1832, and died Nov. 20, r883. She was a N daughter of Ralph and Cecilia (Bettie) Ord. The family belong to the Presbyterian Church. ^-r(S)}^^'^ m^\im ) >5 o o % (^ T7 SANILAC COUNTY. He received honorable discharge at Newark, N. J., July 13, 1865, after the close of the war, having seen much actual service. Among the important engagements in which he was an active participant were those of Bentonville, Atlanta, Chickamauga, Savannah and Lister's Ferry. After the death of his wife he decided to change his location, and he removed to Greenleaf Township, where he settled upon the property which has since been his home- stead, then comprising 160 acres of unimproved land. Later, he bought 160 acres of State land, and retains the ownershi]) of 240 acres, with 100 acres in fine tillage, and with first-class farm fi.xtures. Like other estates in this portion of Sanilac County, that of Mr. Wright was subjected to the fiery ordeal of the year 1881, but his losses were comparatively small. In political principle Mr. Wright is a Republican of de- cided type. He is a member of the G. A. R., Post Milo Warner, No. 232, Cass City. Following is the record of seven children born to Mr. and Mrs. Wright : Cerilla A., born Oct. 16, 1867; Elmer Z., May 24, 1870; Ida C, June 21, 1872; Melinda J., March 3, 1873; Vesta Deleta, Feb. 19, 1875; Pearlie M. ; Levy H., July 28, 1881. >VAV« S/MiS SllrSMLiien M. Kay, physician, surgeon and den- SB list at Tyre, Austin Township, was bora Dec. 17, 1850, in Lanark County, Can. His parents, John and Catherine (Miller) Kay, were natives of Scotland. The father was born in 1790 in Argyleshire, the mother in 1800 in Glasgow. In 1828 they came to Canada, where they passed the remaining portions of their lives, dying respectively in 1863 and 1871. Dr. Kay obtained his elementary education in the common schools of his native province, and when he was 13 years of age he entered upon a voluntary ap- prenticeship with a shoemaker, and followed the business several years, when he began to fit himself for his profession in the county of Huron. He continued his studies until, in 1870, he completed a regular course of medical instruction, both in Canada and in the United States. In 1874 he came to Michigan and began his career as a practitioner in Sanilac County, locating at Tyre, where he has since been engaged in the prosecution of a lucrative and successful business. Dr. Kay is an adherent of the Democratic party in political connection. He is a member of the Masonic Order, and belongs to Cato Lodge, No. 215, in Minden. His marriage to Mary Leitch occurred Dec. 25, 1876. She was born Feb. 25, 1858, and is the daughter of John and Mary (McAlister) Leitch (see sketch of J. Leitch), natives respectively of Canada and Scotland. They are now residents of Marion Township, Sanilac County. John L., only child of Dr. and Mrs. Kay, was born May 17, 1883. Vi^^i3?a ; §Ji^;|!i O^JKaniel Sommerville, farmer, section 12, }■ i^^S£_ i-\^(» jiji(^ "^ land, the native country of his parents, f^K John and Jeannette (Johnson) Sommerville. ^ They were born in Argyleshire, respectively in « 1822 and 1821. Mrs. S. died Nov. 11, 1882, in Austin, Sanilac County. Their family included three daughters and five sons. The senior Sommerville left his native land in 1855 and settled at first in Middlesex Co., Can., where he engaged in farming until the year i860, when he came to Sanilac County, when the townships of the section where he located were yet unorganized, that of Greenleaf being indi- cated as "town 14 north, of range 13." He pur- chased 160 acres of land on section 18, under the provisions of the Graduation Act, and is still resident thereon. Daniel Sommerville was born in the Scottish capi- tal, Glasgow, June 8, 1847. H!e came to America with his parents, and was a rnember of the paternal household until he was 27 years of age, when he married Charlotte, daughter of William and Eliza (Smith) Wright. Her father was born Dec. 5, 1822, in Birmingham, Eng. Her mother was born Sept. 6, 1826, in Canada. Mrs. Sommerville was born April 14, 1855, in Canada, and is tlie eldest of eight chil- dren. In 1876 he took up his residence on the place whereon he now lives, which includes 80 acres of valuable land, with 40 acres under fine improve- 9 Greenleaf Township, was born in Scot- vS- :< r^ m ? ^«*^T; ^/®))^^ ■tr-r4:llll>;illlv>'r rr r^^^KT ^m -4^^K(sV^ ^ V i 4- I SANILAC COUNTY. 439 ments. His place has fine farm buildings, among which is the largest barr. in the township. He is a radical and candid Republican, and has been offi- cially connected with the affairs of the school district where lie resides since he took his location. He is a member of the Masonic Order at Cass City. Three sons and two daughters have been included in the household, as follows: John ^\^, born Sept. i, 1877; James, March 15, 1879 (died April 29, 1879); George B., March 26, 1880; Jeannette, Se;.n. 11, 1882: and Eliza, Aug. 13, 1884. *^ Tilexander Soule, farmer and breeder of Ir stock, section 13, Austin Township, is the son of Samuel W. and Elizabeth Soule; the latter was born in 1805, in the State of Maine; the former was born in 1785, in the city of Boston, and died in 1856. Mr. Soule was born Dec. 8, 1834, in Avon, Somer- set Co., Maine. He became an assistant in a cabinet shop when he was 12 years of age, serving an ap- prenticeship of two years, after which he worked as a carpenter and bridge-builder. In 1S57 he came to Sanilac County and entered a claim of 80 acres of land. He has since increased his estate until he owns an aggregate of 524 acres, with 100 acres in fine arable condition. Mr. Soule is independent in political belief and action. He was appointed the first Clerk of tiie township on its organization, and has served a number of terms as a school officer. He was married in 1857, to Susan Blake, who was born Sept. i, 1839, and is the daughter of William and Elizabeth (Darch) Blake, natives of England, where the daughter was born. In 1838 her parents came to Canada, where they now reside. Twelve children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Soule, as follows: James, Jan. 12, 1859; George R., Aug. 23, i860: Bertha J., April 8, 1862; Wilbam A., Oct. 6, 1863; Lucy A., June 19, 1865; Arthur J., Dec. 31, 1867; Susan M., April 17, 1869; Eleanor M., Nov. 27, 1871; Amy O., Oct. 18, 1873; Samuel W., Aug. 17, 1875; Myrtie E., May 6, 1879; Ernest G., Aug. 29, 1881. The family experienced the horrors of the fires of 187 1 and 1881. The loss in the latter, of crops, buildings, etc., aggregated $8,000. Mr. Soule has erected two large barns and other out-buildings. Ai^S t\ iilvS obert M. Cleland, farmer, section 7, Austin Township, was born Nov. 2, 1841, in Scot- ".!«->*> land, and is the son of Alexander and y\^ Janet (Moore) Cleland, both of whom were natives of the same place. The family came to America in 1853, landing at New York. They proceeded to Detroit, and after a residence there of five years they came to Sanilac County, where they located 160 acres of land on section 7. The mother died in 1873, on the homestead. The father died in 1865, in Forester, Sanilac County, whither he had gone to nurse his son, who had re- turned from the prison pens of the South as far as to that point, but was too ill to reach home. Mr. Cleland grew to man's estate on his father's farm, and in 1864 became a soldier for the Union. He enlisted in Co. H, Fifth Mich. Vol. Inf. He was captured Oct. 27, 1864, after the action at Boydton, Va., and taken to Richmond. A week later he was transferred to Salisbury, N. C, and was held there for four months. He was sent, March 22, 1865, to Wilmington, and thence to Annapolis, Md., whence a transfer was made to Camp Chase, Ohio. He received a furlough of 30 days, and before its ex- piration was taken ill. He did not recover until some time after his date of return had passed, but received a final discharge at Triplar hospital, near Columbus, Ohio, May 30, 1865, when he returned home. He was married March 31, 1875, to Ellen Annis, who was born May 17, 1854, at St. Thomas, Canada, and is the daughter of Matthew and Abigail (Gibbs) Annis, both of whom were born in Canada. The father died in 1880; her mother resides in Bingham, Huron Co., Mich. Abby M., only child of Mr. and Mrs. Cleland, was born June 2, 188 i. Politically, Mr. Cleland is a Republican. He has been Supervisor of Greenleaf Township, and has held several official positions in Austin Township. ^5 '^. I <^n!]gllllr> y_ <^^DD^CD^> 440 SANILAC COUN2Y. -es» fy^^ oco , :-<^^ > Krehibald MeAlpine, farmer, section 18, [^ Greenleaf Township was born in 1822, in ,r||j^ panada. His parents, Hugh and Jeannette iilr (Campbell) MeAlpine, were natives of Scot- <^ land, born near the city of Glasgow. His father was a weaver and came to the American continent in 1820. His mother died in 1823, and in 1827 his father went to Ontario, and died soon after. He then went to live with an aunt, who had the care of him six years. He was but a lad when he went to the State of New York, and shortly after to Michigan, where he worked on the railroad. He has been a resident of Michigan since 1838. In i860 he came to Sanilac County and located 240 acres of land in Speaker Township, where he spent three years, in the manufacture of staves. He then re- moved to Sand Beach, Huron Co., Mich., where he engaged in the construction of a State Road and completed five miles. He went next to Port Hope, where he was similarly occupied. In 1874 he loca- ted 480 acres of land, in Sanilac County. Of this he retains 240 acres, and still retains the same area, which includes 45 acres under good improvements. His buildings were all destroyed in the fire of 1881. He was married in 1850 to Harriet McKenzie. She was born in 1828, in Inverness, Scotland, and died in August, 1865, at Huron City, Mich., leaving six children, who were born as follows: Maggie, July 7, 1851 ; Hugh, April 20, 1853; Jessie, Aug. 8, 1855 ; Isabella, Jan. r, 1862; Julia, Oct. 11, 1863; Harriet J., born in July, 1865, died in September following, a month after the death of her mother. Mr. MeAlpine is a Republican in political affilia- tion, and is a member of the Presbyterian Church. &-^>^ ames G. Read, farmer, section 32, Green- ly leaf Township, is a native of England, and and is a son of James and Sarah (Morray) Read. They were both born in England, where the father died, in 1853. In 1856 the mother and son came to America and first ^ settled in Ingersol, Oxford Co., Ontario. In i860 he Wk\^^^^^ — ^ — ^^^ --^^D D ^ came to Michigan and located in Tuscola County, where he remained two years, going thence to Caro, where he operated as a carpenter and builder, and remained until 1879. In that year he removed to Sanilac County. He located 40 acres of land for a homestead, on which he has since resided, and has increased by later purchase to double its original acreage. He contemplates a further purchase of 40 acres additional. Politically, Mr. Read is a Republi- can. He is a member of the Order of Odd Fellows, and belongs also to the Orangemen. He was married in 187010 Isabella Chrystal. She was born Feb. 19, 1852, in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, and is the daughter of William and Christina Chrys- tal. Her father was born in 181 1; her mother in 1812. They came to this continent in 1853 and landed at Woodstock, Oxford Co., Ont. The death of the mother transpired in 1877. Her father resides in Seaforth, Ont. Following is the record of the children born to Mr. and Mrs. Read : William M., born July 18, 1871 ; Pericles G., Aug. 9, 1872; Walter J., March 21, 1875; Charlie, Nov. 19, 1877. The loss of Mr. Read in the fire of 1881, which disaster is given in detail elsewhere in this volume, was about $7,000, including the injury to the timber on the place. The house was burned, and the lives of the childien saved by the parents covering them with quilts saturated with water. While doing this they were obliged to keep their own clothing wet. lexander Nicol, farmer, section 25,Green- '^ ^MM a leaf Township, is the son of James and Ann W'^'M (Young) Nicol, natives of the parish of "i^'^ Barry, Scotland. His father was a farmer 1;^ during the earlier part of his life, and later I received an appointment as custom-house offi- cer, which position he held until he lost his life by drowning, while engaged in the discharge of his duty. Mr. Nicol was born Jan. 4, 1826, in Scotland, where he remained until he was 17 years of age. He passed two years as a farm laborer, when he entered a brewery, in which he was employed eight years. In 1854 he came to Canada, where he obtained employ- % V' T — r Z=I 4?^ T 1=1 A -^ij^^fe: ^V^>n B'^: n Dv^^r^^ ^8«f&r 4^^|5f SANILAC COUNTY. ill a similar establishment. After a service of six months he came to London, Ont., where he was variously occupied until i860, when he came to Sanilac County and entered a claim of 160 acres of Government land, his patent bearing the signa- ture of James Buchanan. Politically, Mr. Nicol is a Republican. He has officiated three terms as Clerk of the township. He was married in 1848, to Mary, daughter of Charles and Ellen (("hri.stian) Sontaer. Her parents were natives of the parish of Carymilie, and she was born in the same county, in 1820. Five children have been born of this union, as follows: Stewart, May 25, 1849; James, Jan. 13, 1851 (died in 1857); Ellen, April 2, 1853 (died July 23, 1866); Charles, Jan. 4, 1855 (died July 23, 1866); Agnes, April 25, i860 (died Aug. i, 1866). Four ciiildren are de- ceased — three of them dying within one week, two of them on the same day. This affliction made that of i88i,when the farm buildings and slock were completely destroyed by fire, of comparatively trifling importance. fedward Kivel, farmer, section 12, Green- gii li'xS^ifc leal Township, was born in 1 831, in Eng- @fiV^'^ ° ^'I'^d, of English parentage. His parents belonged to the farming class in their native country. The son bid a final farewell to the land of his nativity when he was but iS years of age, and set out alone for the New World. He landed at Quebec, but made only a short tarry there, proceeding thence to London, Ont. He was a resi- dent there 19 years, and in 1870 came to this town- ship in Sanilac County. He located 40 acres of land and has 20 acres under good improvements. He passed through the fire of the year following with only the loss of one cow; but he sustained some losses in the fire of 1881. Mr. Kivel was married in 1S50, to Mary J. Mor- risli. She was born Jan. 10, 1834, in England, and is the daughter of George and Elizabeth (Boyans) Morrish, natives of the same country. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Kivel were born as follows : Eliz- abeth, Oct. 6, 1854; Henry, Aug. 28, 1856; William J., Oct. 3, 1858; George, March 31, 1862; Alfred E., Oct. 7, 1866; Charles, Nov. ir, 1870. The parents are members of the Methodist Episcopal Churcli. -> ■wfc I rV '&•: ^dward Lazenby, farmer, section i, Green- leaf Township, was born July 10, 1842, in Lacole, Clinton Co., Lower Canada. °stS- His [)arcnts, George S, and Elizabeth (Stock- dale) Lazenby, were born in Yorkshire, Eng. j His father was head manager of the farming interests on an English estate and came to Canada in an early period, settling in Clinton County. Li 1843 he came to Cape Vincent, Jefferson Co., N. Y., ( ?) and five years later he settled at Brampton, Peel ^ Co., Upper Canada. In 1858 he proceeded thence /vS to Goderich, where he was a resident until 1869. In = that year he became a citizen of Sanilac County ^ and located on section i, Greenleaf Township. = He died there March 19, 1884, at the age of 86 years. Mr. Lazenby set out from home at the age of 16 years, with his small earthly possessions lied up in an insignificant bundle, which he carried in his hand. He knew there was need of him where there was work to be done, and he found employment as a farm laborer, engaging one year. At the end of his term of service he went to the State of New York and passed the ensuing year in teaming. In i860, the next year, he returned to the place where he was born, where he passed between four and five years in various occupations. In 1865 he came to Bay City, Mich., where he spent the summer. The winter following he passed upon the farm lie now owns, of which he became the proprietor in 1S66, by purchase. It includes 80 acres of valuable land, and he has since added 40 acres to his farm. He has placed 80 acres under the best improvements. Mr. Lazenby is adherent to the tenets of the Repub- lican party. He has been Justice of the Peace one term. Overseer of Highways, and School Director two terms. He is a member of the Order of Odd Fellows, Lodge No. 104, Bay City. (g-J^^f^ -^^^ 6V<^IlI]:^nily>^ rrr ■^jj^^&T .442 SANILAC COUNTY. He was married July 10, 187 r, at Bay City, Mich., to Ellen Ferguson. She was born Feb. 9, 1849, and is the daughter of William and Margaret (Fee) Fer- • guson. Her father was a native of Canada, and her i mother of Ireland. Mr. and Mrs. Lazenby have Y had six children, born in the following order: Ida A., Oct. 23,1872; Hattie M., Jan. 26, 1874 (died Sept. 30, following) ; Eddie B., Oct. 13, 1876; Nellie M., April 9, 1879; Carrie, Aug. 31, 1882; Oliver F., Sept. 19, 1884. Mr. Lazenby has been called on to endure the ordeal of fire and flame three times. In 1871 his buildings succumbed to the fire fiend; also in 1881, in common with the inhabitants of Sanilac County ; and Jan. 16, 1884, his house and granary were again destroyed. Notwithstanding, his affairs are in pros- perous condition. (') ||^1|( lexander McRae, farmer, section 15, Aus- AsASl tin Township, was born Jan. 21,1818, in %)|^^ """ Lower Canada. He is the son of Christo- Lower Canada, pher and Selinda (Phelps) McRae, who were W natives respectively of Scotland and Canada. 1 His father emigrated from his native land to Canada, where he engaged in farming until his death (( ) in 1858. His mother residas in the State of Iowa. When he was 21 years of age, Mr. McRae engaged as an assistant in a saw-mill, and later was employed on a farm, after which he became a soldier in the regular army of the United States, whence he was discharged, for disability, after a connection therewith of tivo years and three months. He was married in 1844, to Caroline H. Rodgers. She was born in 1S27, near London, Can., and is the daugh- ter of Jonathan and Tamson (Wells) Rodgers. Her parents were natives of Massachusetts, and after their removal to Michigan were members of the agri- cultural community. In 1858 Mr. McRae went to Illinois and came thence two years later to Sanilac County. The fam- ily settled on section 21, Austin Township, where they resided four years, when they entered a claim of r2o acres of land, under the provisions of the Homestead Act. This place has smce been their home. Mr. McRae is a Republican in political connec- tion. He has been Supervisor of the township five years and Clerk several terras. He has recently re- signed the office of Justice of the Peace, to which he was elected in 1880. He has also held the office of Notary Public, 20 years; was Census Enumerator for 1884. Mr. and Mrs. McRae belong to the Baptist Church. (d\ '"^- ^r^Y^^ < c< m ■^^''^^ ^T^^H B^ DDf-^^ sj^jse: m Z^^ K (j\ ,ar*^ m&^ m m^r^^ ^^€^ .••CO.. '7T'-^~^m^, *^5C(®V^ ^ €> ) •Yi 1:3 (^ ^ Pi<®))^-i ^C'^D 3 ^ dd;i>-^^ ^^gg^ ^4?^ SANILAC COUNTY. -#^jC(®vS 445 ^ "v'- Value of Local History. ERY few of the present generation realize the great value of local history, living as they do in an age of industry and thrift. The opportunities for speculation and the haste to become wealthy take precedence of everything else, and the fact is not taken into consideration that the pioneers are rapidly passing 5i:f5^^ m^ ^- ^ .^53^ SANILAC COUNTY. £/^^ w, f 113 s from the scene of their labors, leaving but little time for the compilation of biographical sketches which constitute the heretofore unwritten history of Sanilac County. Their children have heard from the lips of their aged sires the story of privation and toil of those who were first at the front in the settlement of the county, but their children will lose sight of the facts unless they be recorded in such manner as to become intelligible and kept fresh in the minds of succeeding generations. Surrounded, as we are, with everything which wealth and taste can suggest, the fact is almost lost sight of that here were the best years of the lives of our ancestors devoted to the development of one of the best agricultural counties in the State. As the virtues, privations, toil and hardships of the pio- neers of Sanilac are well worthy of a more fitting memorial than can be secured by a granite monu- ment, the design of the publishers is to record a his- tory of inestimable value to every citizen. The facts mentioned have been carefully culled from every source; neither pains nor expense has been spared in the compilation of this work, which, although not without error, is as correct as can be gathered from the pioneers themselves. Upon local history depends the perpetuation oi facts heretofore unwritten, as well as the biographical sketches of every worthy pioneer in the county that could be procured. Each sketch speaks volumes ; and a history of one man's life, perhaps of an entire family, is now recorded where naught can efface or destroy it. From this will all future volumes of like import take their data. Those who have volunteered the information from which this work is compiled, will live in the history of this county as long as time lasts. No manlier hands e'er drew a sword than they who faced privation and danger while engaged in the subjugation of the dense wilderness which once cov- ered this now beautiful land, and to them is this volume dedicated. Kyj e^ ( 8^^^ S^'i. -X:^Il!i:^I]Ilr>^ :t#«- <:im:^:iiii^> ■r^^ SANILAC COUNTY. iJ\Scr 447 Se^ >^^//gi;,;^5;;;^^$^^^^ .i^ieff : ^^<^1^::F 1 1=2 CO ^'m^m^!^^ AVING no literature, no per- manent records have ever been made by the Indians themselves of their own Tradition alone li"^^ history. ''■ has been the one uncer- ^/W-^ t^"'' method of preserving the fame of "the noble red man's" achievements of the earlier ages ; and, like the ancients of centuries ago, their deeds of valor were re- membered only by rehearsal to the younger generation around their camp- fires, when it was not possible to make war any longer with neighboring tribes, and where hunting had become tire- some, and sports had lost their charm. Indeed, the times were rare when this state of affairs existed in the Indian village — in fact the story-telling era came only when his majesty, the redskin, could do nothing else. It is a lamentable fact that no great literary genius ever sprang up from this race, however laugh- able the possibility may seem ; hence, when the modern historian attempts to construct anything near a readable record of only a few tribes, he has to build a large edifice with a very little, very raw material, which, if there were any "tariff" on it, would indeed come high, and even tiow is generally of questionable quality. The first Indians mentioned in authentic records, who possessed the present county of Sanilac and adjacent territory, were the Sauks, who were far on the decline when Columbus discovered America. A few years later (about 1519-20), the Otchipwes, or Chippewas, came from the East, probably from the northern part of the New England States, struck the Great Lakes on the north of Lake Ontario, and fol- lowed along Lake Erie, -vithout having touched Niagara Falls (since they make no mention of the place in their traditions), thence up Lake St. Clair and Lake Huron to Mackinaw, or Mee-she-niee-ke- nak, the "Great Turtle," as they called the island of Mackinaw. The Oh-dah-wa (Ottawa) family or branch of the Otchipwe tribe took its coarse up Lake Michigan (Mee-she-gane), the great lodge of the great "Manitou;" while the main body lingered many years around Georgian Bay and the shores of Lake Huron, finally spreading to the Sault Ste. Marie and the Saginaw Bay country, in a more or less constant state of war. The scenes of their principal traditions are about these places, and up to the head of Lake Superior. The name "Otchipwe " was very naturally trans- formed to "Chippewa." Nothing could be easier for the speech organs of the English than to pronounce Ot chip-we, Od-jib-wa; and with their natural pro- pensity for clipping words, the Britisli soon made it " 'Jib-wa," which, when spoken lightly, becomes "Chip-wa," hence "Chippewa." And here it may be stated whence Lake Huron takes its name. The derivation is originally French. When the Wyandot Indians were dispersed by the Iroquois, a portion of them settled around Detroit, and still retained their old custom of dressing tlieir hair in the most fan- w: tf^ ^c^nmtiii^^-^ ^^ 4>DD^(iDr>v r^^^'^^^ -^m ^*^ >: > SANILAC COUNTY. tastic mode. The French explorers saw them and were indeed out-Frenched, exclaiming " Quelles hures! " (what heads ! ). From /lurcs conies " Huron," and the lake was called for the tribe. The reasons for believing the Atlantic coast to be the original home of this tribe, is the reference in their traditions to many Eastern landmarks, and also a similarity between their speech and that of the Algonquins. When the great struggle for tribal supremacy took place — in the first part of the i6th century — the Chippewas gained possession of the district from the mouth of the Kawkawlin River to the river called by the French Riviere aux Huroiis, now known as the " Clinton." At this tiine the last Sauk warrior fell, in the valley of the Saginaw. Throughout all this district, particularly along its rivers and streams, may be found mounds filled with human bones, scat- tered around in all directions, unmistakably showing that they were cast together without regularity, and telling of fierce and sanguinary battles. As late as 1834 a few aged Indians resided on the shores of Lake Huron. During that year each of them was questioned in regard to the ancient history of his nation, and they were not slow to relate all they remembered concerning the Chippewa conquest of Northern Michigan. Finally the old chief, Putta- samine, was interviewed in the presence of Peter Gruette, a half-breed, well-known from Detroit to Mackinac. Gruette acted as interpreter, and as a result the following valuable legendary history comes down to us : " The Sauks occupied the whole country from Thunder Bay on the north to the head waters of the Shiawassee, and from the mouth of Grand River to the Huron River north of Detroit. The rest of the country was occupied by the Pottawatomies, the Lake Superior country by the Otchipwes (Chippe- was) and Ottawas, the Menomonees around Green Bay, and the Sioux west of the Messipi. The main village of the Sauk nation stood on the west side of the Saginaw River, near its mouth, and from that place they were accustomed to rush out to war with the Chippewas, on the north, the Pottawatomies on the south, and the nations in Canada. At length a council was called by the Chippewas, Pottawatomies, Menomonees, Ottawas and the Six Nations of New York, to meet on the Island of Mackinaw. Their deliberations resulted in declaring a war of extermi- nation on the Sauks. The chiefs summoned the warriors, a large army was organized and embarked in canoes down the west shore of Lake Huron. Ar- riving at Saginaw Bay, the warriors sailed over the waters by night, lay concealed during the day, and so continued their advance until they arrived at a place called " Petobegong," about ten miles above the mouth of the Saginaw River. There they disem- barked a portion of the army, while the main divi- sion crossed the bay and made a landing on the east bank of the esluary of the Saginaw during the night. Next morning both divisions started up the river in order to attack both the eastern and western towns at the same time. The warriors on the west bank attacked the main village, surprised the inhabi- tants and massacred almost every man, woman and child found there, a few survivors escaping across the river to another village which occupied the site of Portsmouth. " While this was being done, the eastern division of the allies came up to the village, where Bay City now stands, and a desperate battle was fought. Not- withstanding the favorable position held by the Sauks, they were defeated and great numbers of them were slain, the survivors retreating, some into the eastern wilderness, while others sought refuge on Skull Island. For a time they considered them- selves safe here, as the enemy did not appear to possess any canoes ; but the season offered the invaders that which art denied, for on the next night the ice was found sufficiently thick to warrant a crossing, and the allies at once advanced on the island. Here was nothing left of the Sauks save 12 women, and those who fled eastward to the river country. The victory was as decisive as it was bloody. After reviewing their forces the victorious braves divided, some going up the Cass and Flint, others up the Shiawassee and in various directions, spreading over the whole land. The most important battles were fought against other tribes in the neigh- borhood of the Flint Bluffs and eastward to Detroit, but the details have been forgotten by the keepers of the traditions. " However, before dispersing the allies, a council decided the fate of the 12 women captured. Some were for torturing them to death; some recom- mended mercy ; while others were for sending them 1 Si/ illA (S^^=^< fc^ss- .^Mf-%^L. ln>A^ :^«iB>iS '^^^>- ^* ®))^#' T^V^>|] n:^ D ll^D>^r^ ^"^%sr SANILAC COUNTY. f V (:) west of the Mississippi. The last proposition seemed to meet the approval of the majority, and an arrangement was made with the Sioux that they should be the guardians of the women and be responsible for their protection. These pledges were faithfully kept by the Siou.x until death took their charge from them. The hunting grounds of the Sauks were divided among their conquerors, but many a brave gave up his life while on the chase, at the instance of a Sauk rifle, and no tidings of him ever reached his wigwam. A few of the conquered tribe remained secreted here and there to pick off their trespassers, and this led to the belief that the spirits of the extinct tribe still haunted their former homes, and finally the territory was almost aban- doned. But the Chippewas claimed it, and were found there in 1640 by the French, who established a mission for them at Sault Ste. Marie, under the leadership of Fathers Joques and Paymbaut. At that time they numbered about two thousand." In physique the Chippewas are tall, well devel- oped, good-looking, brave, expert hunters, little given to agriculture, but fond of adventure. After they became well established in Michigan they were at war continually with the Foxes, Iro- quois and Sioux, driving the last named from the head-waters of the Mississippi and the Red River of the North, always defeating them in the woods, but being worsted on the plains. Their wars so reduced their numbers that when the Frencli missions were restored in 1760 only four bands of the Chippewas, numbering 550, were found on the Sault. They always assisted the French in their expedition, and were very devoted as long as the French ruled the country. In Pontiac's war they surprised Mackinaw. During the Revolution they aided the British, but considered themselves bound by the treaties of Fort Mcintosh in 1785 and Fort Harmar in 1789. Subse- quently they joined the Miamis in their hostilities, until General Wayne reduced them, when they again made peace at Greenville in 1795. At this time some of them had moved as far east as Lake Erie, but they gave up their claims there in 1805. When the second war with Great Britain began, the Chippewas (or Ojibways) again cast in their lots with the foreigners, but submitted to the general pacification of the tribes in 1816. Six years later there were 5,699 Chippewas at Saginaw, 8,335 along the Lake Superior line from Mackinaw to the Mis- sissippi, and 550 mixed with other tribes. The limits of their territory were fixed in 1825; and in 1830, when all was peace elsewhere, they picked an- other war with the Sioux, which had to be stopped by the interposition of the United States Govern- ment. Gradually their lands were ceded to tiie Govern- ment, which, in 1837 and in 1842, agreed to pay tliem for 25 years $22,000 in money, $29,500 in goods, $18,700 in other forms, $45,000 to the half-breeds, besides off $145,000 in debts against tliem. After 1850 but few bands remained east of the Mississippi, the others having been removed. The Lake Superior bands and those in Michigan were generally peaceful, industrious and far advanced, having been for years under the salutary influence of the missionaries. The Red Lake band are still chiefly hunters, while those farther west are restless and lawless. The early missions established by the Catholics are, for the most part, still maintained. The work of this Church can be found in the Church history of this book. There are also Methodist, Presbyterian and Episcopal missions, but most of the Indians are still pagans. "Kitche Manitou" is their Great or Good Spirit, and " Matchi Manitou" the evil one. The Medas are a body acting as a priesthood, but each has his own " Manitous" revealed to him in dreams. Their mythological ideal is " Menabojou," who aids the Great Spirit in creating the world. Their industry reached its highest development in making mats and canoes. To give a description of their best civilization the following is quoted from a Frenchman who visited this region about 1810 : " I remember one fine afternoon about ten years ago accompanying an old Indian trader thither. Seated in a light canoe and each armed with a pad- dle, we started from the mouth of the river for the ostensible purpose of bartering w'th the Indians for furs and trinkets. For my part I was perfectly de- lighted with the idea, as I never had an opportunity hitherto of seeing the Indians at home, at least dur- ing the summer season. "The river was sufficiently agitated to cause our tiny boat to rock dreamily, and as we sped onward the rich wavelets leaped and sported against our ca- I K^ c^ O. (o) ^ ^ <^0[i:<^Dtiv> rN^^^. .^Jj.Oij!'^ ^r^^m^- Wid ^^^ ^V<^^I]0>:n(ls>r- ;,a5i^ 45° SANILAC COUNTY. I (h >:> V t noes prow and sides like sportive kittens, ever and anon greeting our faces with a damp paw that was by no means unpleasant. On we sped, now under the shades of the green woods, now by the fringed, rich borders of the clearings, or by the grass-covered marsh. We could see from a bend in the river the Indian village, and hear the wild, joyous shouts of the dusky juveniles as they pursued their uncoutli sports and games. As we approached their camp, what a busy and exhilarating scene was presented to our view ! I clapped my hands in the exuberance of my spirits, for never before had I witnessed a scene so full of real, unaffected, natural happiness as there greeted my senses. My companion did not appear to share in my enthusiasm, owing, doubtless, to the fact that he was accustomed to such scenes. Little Indian boys and girls could be seen prowling around like little Cupids — some wrestling, some shooting with tiny bows and arrows, some paddling their toy canoes, while others sported in the waters of the river, like so many amphibious creatures, each striv- ing to excel the other in the manner and demonstra- tion of its enjoyment. " Superannuated Indians and squaws sat by the tent doors, looking on with a quiet, demure pleasure, or arranging some toy or trinket for a favorite little toddler, while the more efficient were engaged in va- rious occupations. Oh, how I longed for an artist's skill, that I might sketch the wild and picturesque scene! Here, thought I, is human nature in its free, untrammeled state. Care seemed to be a stranger to those children of nature; no thought of sorrow seemed to engross their minds; and the world, with all its vexations, was allowed to pass along, unnoticed by them. Buoyancy of spirit was a striking feature in their character. As we drew our canoe out upon the beach, the Indians came forward to greet us, and with a hearty shake of the hand wished us a cordial bon jour. The dusky urchins left their sport to take a full survey of their visitors, having done which they returned to their games with a yelp and a bound. ' Situated upon the greenest and most beautiful portion of the camp ground, were a number of white and neat-looking tents, which were closed, and iso- lated from the dingy, smoky tepees of the village. The trader, who seemed a sort of privileged character, was entirely at home, while I, considering myself among ^^^^-- ~r\ A^u strangers, clung to him, and followed him wherever he went, not venturing to throw myself upon my own responsibility. I was therefore pleased when I saw him start toward the white tents, for I was curious to know what they contained Drawing aside the can- vass, he entered without ceremony, I, of course, fol- lowing him. Seated upon beautiful mats of colored rushes, which served as carpets and divans, were some three or four good-looking squaws, very neatly and even richly attired in the fanciful style of the na- tive, busily engaged in embroidering and ornamenting moccasins, broad-cloth leggings, and blankets with variegated beads and porcupine quills. Everything around evinced the utmost order, neatness and taste. No bustling tiichee or dirty urchin was allowed the freedom of those consecrated tents; but all was quiet and calm within ; and if conversation were carried on, it was in that calm, soft, musical tone so peculiar to them. So, thought I, here we have a sort of aris- tocracy — a setof exclusives, and a specimen of high life among the natives ; yet it was just the kind of high hfe, in many respects, after which their white sisters might take pattern. No idle gossiping or scandal was indulged in; they quietly plied their needles, and kept their counsel to themselves. If they had occasion to visit their neighbors' tents, it was done quietly and pleasantly, after which business was resumed." The feasts and festivals of the Indians consisted chiefly of tlieir celebrated "dances." Foremost of all was the " war dance," when the " tom-tom " and home-made drums sent their monotonous noise through the forest, while the "braves" would form various groups of from five to twenty, clasp hands and circle around the drummer, who was generally a squaw — singing their "tah-dah-da-dah-da-dah" with- out any variation of the voice from the note on which the " tune " was begun. After that, were their feast and various performances, all done to incite the young men to valorous deeds, after which the general initi- ation of their youth into the army took place. Then there was the " sugar dance " of the sugar season, and the " green-corn dance " and "harvest dance " later. Some tribes had the "sun dance," but it is not known that the Chippewas ever indulged in this " sport. ' The Sioux " sun dance " is familiar to all students of Indian history. It consisted of a fast of several days, until the warriors became most fran- Ci. ^ r C< ( ' k ^.^nn^Diif^-^ Ifto^ •^ im/®)$(^^« :jm^ — crTau^uu>i>v Pin'i ■^ihi)(^%<" SANILAC COUNTY. 451 tic with hanger, then individual torture took place. It is written that at one of these dances, one of the ? bravest iiad himself suspended to the limb of a tree by means of a willow run through a slot cut into the (hj skin of his back, and remained thus for several hours before the flesh tore out and let him drop. This was considered " heap much brave," as a sacrifice to the sun. Another cut out a piece of his own liver, roasted it over the fire, and then ate it, exclaiming, " Who is braver than I ? " After they became tamed a little by civilization, some of these " amusements " were abandoned. Matrimonial customs among the I.ndians were very accommodating and convenient. They had a sort of probation ; they could marry for a " moon " or for life, and the men were permitted to have more than one wife. The ceremony consisted in presenting the bride a fine blanket, necklace, or any nice trinket. If she accepted, the union was settled. Nearly all of the Indians had left this county be- fore the first settlers came in, and hence reminis- cence of them is very limited. In Custer Township a few remained after the general departure, and Arthur Carson tells of their friendliness towards the first settkrs. His was the first cabin in that region, and frequently on long journeys to the shore for pro- visions he was detained over night, so that Mrs. Carson was often alone. Frequently some " locator " of lands would pass in the evening and desire to lodge at the Carson house. Two or three Indian huts stood only a few rods north of the present Car- son House in Sandusky, and when it was too late in the evening to turn strangers away, Mrs. Carson was ^ accustomed to call over two or three squaws, who . f i^ SANILAC COUNTY. III' '/iv ^1^^ g>..C^ ^ Look now abroad ; another race has filled These populous borders ; wide the wood recedes, And towns spring up, and fertile realms are tilled ; The land is full of harvests and green meads ; Streams numberless, that manj' a fountain feeds. Shine, disembowered, and give to sim and breeze Their virgin waters ; the full region leads New colonies forth, that toward the western seas Spread, like a rapid flame among the autumnal trees. HAT blessing is too great for the aged pioneer, — for him who, 'i in the strength of youth, i-j leaves childhood's play- ground and goes forth to plant a people where noth- ing but the wilds of nature grow? Indeed, could all the hardships be foreseen by those who venture thither, our frontiers would recede slowly, however well equipped the pioneer might be. To those surrounded by the comfort of a cheerful home, with neighbors on every hand, a relative here and a pleasant privilege there, within the sound of the school bell and under the shadow of the church steeple, there comes no adequate conception of what the world would be without all these. Yet the pioneer was without all these, and long lives were spent without what in civilization are absolute necessities. "There is a pleasure in the pathless woods, there is society where none intrudes," may be well enough for the entertainment of those rocked in the cradle of affluence; but tiie spot where the only evening hymn is the concerted howl of sav- i (: age wolves, or the bleat of a deer in distress, while the wind whistles along its familiar path through the pines as it has done for ages, — becomes monotonous from long habitation. Yet, when the first crude barriers were gone, those were happy days. Where love is, that is home. After the winning of the daily bread, peace was there. Neighbors were few, but were friends, their friendship being sincere. No quarrels arose; there was little for dispute. Days came and went like the brook that ebbs its careless way through the woods. That was all. The First Settlers. N 1838 John B. Hyde brought a span of horses into the county and settled north of JL. Lexington, but there was no passage through V the timber, nor feed for them, and hence they | could not be used. Mr. Hyde traded them for ^ a team of oxen, which was the only yoke in ^ this vicinity. This yoke of oxen was used by the '^ neighborhood in general when any hauling was to be ^ done. Of course no hay or corn was raised at that ^^ ^^M^ r^ --#^^<®y^ W0 (h >^' V r^ time, as the whole country was an unbroken forest. To keep the oxen from starvation, Mr. Hyde cut down huge maple trees each evening after returning from his work, and fed the buds and tops of these to the cattle. Often it was long after dark when he would return from his work, but he would take his ax, and while his children held a torch, would chop down three or four large maple trees in order to get sufficient food for his oxen. This would be a good day's work for people of an easier mode of life, but was only an item in the pioneer's career of heroism. Unfortunately the country at large was but little more than in a pioneer condition at that time, and its infantile experiences in establishing a currency are too plain upon the pages of history to need men- tion here. Suffice it to say, that just previous to the settlement of .Sanilac County the whole country had undergone a panic. In the Huron Peninsula money was a curiosity. Shingles were the currency. A thousand shingles were considered ample pay for a day's labor at anything; 10,000 shingles bought a barrel of flour and 20,000 were paid for a barrel of pork. The market price of shingles was $1 per thousand, but this was only the gauge of their value, as they could not be exchanged for that sum at will, since the transportation of them was not practical for so much miscellaneous trade. Shingles were taken at the bar for whisky and beer, and it behooved the dealer to care for them closely as they were brought in; otherwise his tricky customers would sell him the same launch of shingles several times during the evening. During this period, Mrs. Buel, mother of Jacob Buel, kept a hotel in Lexington and a thousand shingles were charged for five meals; but the- men never tried to delude the good lady by stealing her shingles and paying their board with the same shingles twice. The country abounded in pine of the finest quality, hence money values and property could be accumulated in the form of shingles, and were far preferable thus than in the form of " wild- cat " bank bills. In the earliest days the long straight pines were cut into short block logs the proper length for shingles, which were then split off the proper thickness, then shaved by hand. This was quite a trade for several years, and many of the beautiful farms in Sanilac to-day were purchased by the original settlers with proceeds from the shingle- making of their own hands. vL The heavy growth of timber over all the land gave ^ f opportunity for but one kind of occupation, that of lumbering in some form; and there were many incomers who took up their abode temporarily in this county without any intention of remaining here after the lumber was cut off and the proceeds were in their pockets. Quite a number of the laborers, how- ever, changed their opinions upon a closer examina- tion of the soil when the forests had been cut away ; they took up claims, and became actual settlers. This leads to much dispute as to who were the first actual settlers in any given locality ; but this trivial point of history sinks into insignificance when we behold the fine homes and farms made by men who came here without money enough to buy scarcely a month's provisions, all of which attest the genuine worth of Sanilac County as an agricultural district. The classes of settlers were Scotch, Irish and ma f -N ng- / o $>: ( ^«^# English from Canada, with a number of New Eng- landers and some from the Middle States. The county was settled from the shore and the southeast part. The following paper, from Captain Israel Huckins, deals with the individual settlement of the county : "The completion of the survey of 1834 led to the discovery of large tracts of valuable pine lands, and speculators and capitalists immediately followed up the discovery by purchasing all such lands, especially along the shore, as were considered valuable on ac- count of the proximity to market or water carriage. The same practice has prevailed throughout the settlement of the entire county ; the speculator and lumberman have kei)t in advance of the settler. A careful examination of the record shows that in the township of Lexington, 72 per cent, of the lands were first purchased by speculators; in Sanilac town- ship, 70 per cent.; in Buel, 90 per cent.; and in some of the western and northern townships the percent- age was greater still. Thus a very small portion was left to the actual settler; and it may be added that the timber take from this county — vast as it has been in quantity and valuable in quality — has bene- fitted the inhabitants but little. Scores of non-resi- dents have enriched themselves at our expense, while most of the resident operators have gone else- ^ where to enjoy the fortunes made here. "The character and circumstances of the settlers. 4^t^ ||S/^®^^#- r^ ^. c e:a[i>:Da>> 'm^-'Xs^ 454 SAJSIILAC COUNTY. "^ and the causes that led to the settlement are un- '(?? usual. In 1837 a rebellion was inaugurated in the t,%t British provinces, chiefly on account of the dissatis- I faction of the inhabitants who settled there immedi- /^ ately after the war of 18 12-14, under what to them seemed the very liberal terms of the Canadian gov- ernment, which gave to each actual settler one hundred acres of land. A very large portion of the Upper Province was thus colonized by emigrants from New York, Pennsylvinia, New Jersey and the New England States, whose sympathies and impulses had been so deeply imbued with the spirit of popular government that they became dissatisfied with British rule. Finally a number of inferiors who wished to gain royal notice prevailed upon the Queen to at- tempt an establishment of the English Church there. This, with other provocations, was the incentive for organized insurrection; and, seizing upon what seemed to be a favorable time when most of her majesty's troops had been called home, — the new settlers and their sympathizers made a general movement throughout the provinces to make themselves free, with an ultimate view of annexation to the United States. The scheme was a failure, and those who had been in any way connected with it were declared rebels, arrested and thrown into prison. A number were banished to Van Dieman's Land, under sentence of penal servitude. All who reasonably could removed to the United States. The early settlers of Sanilac were of this class and many had suffered severely on account of their connection with the rebellion. Of these may be mentioned Lount and Matthews, who were executed at Toronto ; Randall Wixson, who was banished to a penal colony, but who, on reach- ing England, was released on a \sn\.(:>i habeas corpus; Joel Wixson, also banished from the province without the semblance of a trial, and many others, whose property was confiscated. Thus, many of the first settlers here had accumulated fortunes there, but were compelled to leave empty-handed, and start anew in a wild, strange land. But they were hardy and industrious, if poor, and came as pioneers in a twofold sense. Having subdued the wilds of the Canadian forests, they came here to repeat their experiences of removing the dense woods from ^ homesteads, and by incessant toil and the most rigid f economy to provide subsistence for their families. " But they found here a soil that responded boun- ) ^ tifully to the cultivator; a climate salubrious and healthy. Lake Huron afforded them a convenient source of communication with the metropolis of the State, and in its waters an abundant su pply of the best fish was found. Berries were found in the for- ests and there was plenty of wild game, as elk, deer, bear and partridge. " The first white man who settled with his family in Sanilac County was Joel Carrington, who came into what is now the township of Worth in 1834. He engaged in the manufacture of deck planks for ship-building, engaging a considerable number of men, sawing the planks with whip-saws. . " Reuben B. Dimond came next, and was the first Justice of the Peace, holding the first elective office in the county. In 1836 he also taught the first school, occupying a small log house a short distance south of the present village of Lexington. " The first child born in the county was a son to Mrs. Charles Anderson. "In r836 Dr. Woodard built the first saw-mill in the county, on section 32 of Worth township, subse- quently selling it to N. B. Chase, who built a grist- mill at the same place in 1841. R. B. Dimond built the next saw-mill in 1843, in the township of Worth, and two years later Ephraim Pierce built one in Lexington Township. In 1846 the first steam saw-mill was built by Hubbard, Lester & Co., in Lex- ington, on the present site of John Feed's woolen mill. John Smith built a water mill some years before this on Mills' Creek, but the date is disputed. " The second school in the county was taught in Worth, by F. C. Blood, in 1841. The first school in the township of Sanilac was taught by Uri Ray- mond in 1847; first in Forester by Miss Sarah Dewey in 1851 ; first in Austin by C. H. McKay in i860; first in Moore by Miss Mary J. Moore in 1864. The beginning of the schools in the other townships is somewhat uncertain, but is given in the township history according to the memory of the oldest settlers, since the records have been lost on account of the great fires or other causes. [For the first churches, turn to the '' Church Histoyr " of this county.] " After Carrington, Dimond, and Woodard, the first settlers for agricultural purposes ' were John Ryan, the Leonards, Doctor Galbraith, George Smith and others in 1837-8 around the present village of Aui- adore in Worth township. f m 0) ^. 1^.' ^ mi<> r^m^ — srvC'it] n >: ti^>r r^^^^^ SANILAC COUNTY. 4SS mi T 1 "The first white family to settle in the town of Lexington was that of John Smith. He came from Canada in 1S37 and built a small log house on the lake shore, preferring to keep in advance of civiliza- tion. He had a family of 12 children, and their livelihood was gained by hunting and fishing, which was kept up until the neighbors became too thick, when, like the Arab, he ' folded his tent and silently stole away.' The first permanent settlers were Reu- ben Simons, Thomas and Miles Huckins, S. W. Munn and the Sheldon family, in 1838-40. " The first inhabitant of the township of Buel was James L. McGrath, somewhat famous as a politician, an advocate of temperance and a religious enthusi- ast, who settled in 1S50. "The first permanent settler in the township of Sanilac was William Austin, long and well known to many of us as the Collector of Customs on the plank road, and familiarly known among the poets by the nam de plume of ' Toll Gate.' Henry Cooper and John Kelly were his pioneer contemporaries in 1842. " In the township of Forester, Ingersoll, Hurd & Co. commenced lumbering operations in 1S48. The first family that moved in was that of A. Goodrich, in 1849. Mr. Goodrich has been a Supervisor al- most continually since that time. Jacob Sharp came shortly after. " George Stroud and John Stroud were the first to plant a colony in the town of Austin, settling 20 miles from the lake shore, in 1857. "The settlement in Speaker was inaugurated by Messrs. — Davis and — Parker in 1853-4. A mel- ancholy event in commencing this settlement was the accidental death of John McMahon, saddening the hearts and making deeper impressions on the few than a like calamity would at any other time. He had bought his land and had taken a few men with him to assist him in building a house. Arriving on the land late at night, they built a fire beside a large tree and lay down to sleep. The tree soon took fire and, falling, killed Mr. McMahon and seriously injured two or three others ! " The first death in the county was that of a young m.in named Perry, who was accidentally killed in the building of Dr. VVoodard's mill in 1836." The first marriage ceremony in the county was performed by Rev. Thomas Huckins, on July 11, 1839, the contracting parties being James Hughes Vto; and Miss Helen Ann Ellsworth. The event took place at the house of the bride's father, who was a farmer living about one mile and a half south of Lex- «^ ington. Miss Ellsworth at that time was but little ] more than 12 years of age. She soon moved with her husband, who was a fisherman, to Green Bay, where she died shortly afterward. Hughes then re- turned to this county. It is related of him that he built the largest seine ever made along the Huron shore. The seine was made in 1838-9, and, with its appendages, was over half a mile long. When he had finished it he took a trip up to Northern Lake Michigan, and from the first haul 204 barrels of whitefish were taken out ; but not having sufficient salt, most of the fish were lost. The Fourth of July was not forgotten by the pio- neers, but the first notable celebration that occurred was at Lexington, in 1847. W. A. Mills, editor of the Sandusky (O.) Democratic Mirror, was the speaker. A pole was raised on the corner where Bell's drug store now stands, and the usual festivities were enjoyed. From the very first the nation's birth- day was observed, as the first settlers were all patriots from the war in Canada; and their joy found vent in the music of the fife and drum, the firing of anvils, small arms, and such other inventions as could be made with their limited facilities. Saloons were plenty, and of coarse the Bacchanalian idol received his portion of the popular worship. The first frame building in the county was Dr. Woodard's mill, erected in 1836. The first brick house was built by Thomas Huckins three miles west, of Lexington, with brick made on his own farm; but no more brick were made from this yard. The foregoing statements are probably accurate, but the following letters are of interest, the first being by Mr. N. HoUister, and is without date, but was written sometime in 1883: Editor Jeffersonian : — I noticed in your paper two or three weeks ago a request for some old settler to give some dates in regard to the first settlers of Lexington. Now, I think that I might probably pass for an old settler. I came to Michigan in 1837, or in other words, 47 years ago. My first stopping place was Burtch's mills, seven miles south from Lexington, at the time owned at operated by Jonatlian Burtch, where I stopped the next four years, working mostly at the lumbering business ; and I think I ought to know something of the early history of Lexington and Sanilac County in general. 1=3 :s^^f:^ j^mmm<^>^^ o. -«®^ ii^jC(< 6V<^nn^DI|v>r ^•^ SANILAC COUNTY. % f V I r^ At this time, all the territory embraced in Sanilac and Huron Counties belonged to St. Clair Co., and was little less than a howling wilderness. In 1837 I don't think there were over 15 or 20 families in Sani- lac and Huron Counties, all told. Between Burtch- ville and Lexington there were only three families, consisting of a man by the name of Cummins, R. B. Dimond and Mr. Catrington's people at this tin e. I think there was only one family living where Le.xing- ton now stands, by the name of John Smith ; he lived near the lake and I think not far from where the grist-mill now stands. Smith and boys had a boat that consisted of two large pine logs dug out and fitted together side by side which made considerable of a boat in which they used to carry away shingles and bring supplies. The next settler in the village, I think, was Reu- ben Simons. I think he came in 1838. Among the other old settlers was Mr. Hyde, father of A. Hyde, of your village; Mr. Ellsworth, Mr. Monroe, father of Andrew Monroe. Some of them came as early as 1838. In the winter of 1S39-40, John Wright came to Lexington with a small lot of groceries, and soon after he and Captain Darius Cole formed a partnership and started a little grocery store. After this Capt. Cole and Isaac Leuty formed a partnership and done considerable business in dry goods and groceries. About 1840 settlers began to come in and scatter over the township of Lexington and Worth. Elder Huckins and Dr. Huckins, brothers, came in 1839-40 and settled three miles west from Lexing- ton. George Ward came in the spring of 1841, and .\mos Wixson came in the fall of the same year. I think the date Webster Stevens came in was 1839 or '40. I think you were correct in regard to the barn standing on Webster Stevens' farm one mile south of the village, being the first barn built in the county, but not correct in regard to date. The barn was built in the summer of 1838, by Mr. Cauington, father of Mark Carrington, residing now in Port Aus- tin. The barn when first built stood on the other side of the road, not far from the lake. Mr. Stevens moved it to its present location after he bought the place. Now, I don't know of but two men living that helped raise that barn, except myself: one is Mark Carrington, of Port Austin, and the other is David Fowler, I believe, now living in Washington Town- ship. Respectfully, N. H. The author of the other is not known. The letter was published Aug. 17, 1844, in the Lake Huron Observer, oi Port Huron; and is here given as a relic: Lexington, Aug. 10, 1844. Mr. Editor: — Permit me to say a few words through the columns of your valuabls journal, in relation to the agricultural prospects, the business and lumber trade of our new and flourishing town- ship. It is pleasantly situated, 20 miles from the beautiful village of Port Huron and 90 miles from Detroit, on the western shore of Lake Huron, on a bluff or piece of elevated table-land, surrounded by as rich and fertile farming lands as can be found in the Western States. The timber is princi|)ally maple, ash, oak, beech, birch and pine. A settlement was commenced in the township in the years 1838-9, principally by lumbermen. Within three years past, it has been rapidly filling up with enterprising farm- ers from the Eastern States and Canada, tlie latter of whom have been driven from their native shores by the iron hand of despotism, to seek homes for themselves and families in a land where equal rights are extended to all. The township contains at present about 400 inhab- itants, two-thirds of whom are farmers. I recently took a stroll about the country, and must say I was actually surprised to see the large and beautiful fields of grain and other produce, which the owners were busily engaged in harvesting. One of our most enterprising farmers, Mr. A. Wixson, will have pro- duced from his farm this year seven or eight hun- dred bushels of wheat, besides large crops of other produce. IMr. W. emigrated to this place some three years since, and commenced in the forest with the axe and grub-hoe. As near as I can ascertain there will be produced in this township this season, four thousand bushels of wheat, and large quantities of barley, oats, hay, etc. I would say to those who wish to procure farming lands to settle upon, that there are several thousand acres of as fine farming lands in this vicinity as can be found in Michigan, Indiana or Illinois, for sale at Government prices. R. B. Dimond, Esq., has recently elected a large saw-mill about three miles from this village, and it is now in successful operation. A gentleman from Canada is now building a large flouring and saw-mill on Black River, five miles from the lake. Our little village now contains four trading establishments, a large potashery, several mechanics' shops, etc. A fine brig, the "Big Z," which has been built by our enterprising townsman, Z. Wright, Esq., will be launched next week, when we " Shingle-Weavers " hope to have the pleasure of a visit from you, Mr. Editor. The " Big Z " is to be full-rigged ere she leaps into her destined element. She will "walk the water like a thing of life." It has been generally ad- mitted by all who have seen her that she is as fine a vessel as can be produced on the lakes, .\nother brig, of 250 tons, is to be placed upon the stocks im- mediately after the launcliing of this one. Over three millions of shingles and large quantities of lumber, bark, potash, etc., have already been shipped from Lexington this season, which articles are our principal exjxjrts at the present time. How- ever, the time is not far distant when these will have ^ A c^: ( )l^t# SANILAC COUNTY. -^i^i^^ -««^j^ 457 t ^ >^ A ■ >. 1 f I to make room for wheat and other agricultural pro- ductions. The steamer Huron pays us a visit every other week. Our citizens are about building a pier into the lake. The work is to be under charge of Mr. R. Everett, under whose superintendence tlie pier at Milwaukee was built. It is to be completed in June, 1S45. The Buffalo and Chicago steamers can then give us a call occasionally. Yours, CVRENUS. The first newspaper establislied in the county was the Sanilac County Leader, which made its appear- ance in July, 1854. The editor was Joseph C. Wyl- lis, who came here from Sturgis, where he had published the Sturgis Journal. The Leader changed hands several times and finally died a natural death, without a funeral, in i860. A relic of pioneer life is the Bark Shanty Ti?nes. " Bark Shanty" was the original name of Port Sanilac, and the Times was almost the first institution for tlie public weal. No presses or types were needed to conduct this enter- prise; it was self-executing, and the editor was not howling continually for the subscribers to "pay up." The community in general took a hand in editing the paper, but Mr.U. Raymond acted as janitor and prop- erty man, though he disclaims any responsibility for its publications. He simply allowed blank writing paper to remain on the counter of his store, and any and all were at liberty to write anything they chose, and the public were at equal liberty to go and read without money and without price. As the pages were written they were sewed together, and the entire accumulation of this literature of years lies before the writer. It is of foolscap size, and numbers about 200 pages. It was begun about the time Buchanan was elected, and the following verbatim selection from it exposes the character of the journal : " For the Bark Shanty times. " Whoever herd of sich a place as Kansas. They say the damakrats has split and one Buckcannon has caried part of um off clean up salt river and mr Uuglis has got togher part of am & is goin to mak squaters of um — Well if them damakrats aint the tarnelest fules you ever did see they say kansus is to squat — or the people must stick to squaterty or squaterness or something about squateringness — this Duglis they say is a smart feller but i kant see what he meens by talken so much about squatin in kansus and He says they must do everything they wantoo in their own way — that Buckcannon they say thinks niggars is horses & He says kansus is a good place to keep sich kind of animels for they git fat tliere he must be a darnd fule to think as how niggars kin eat grass. Further along, previous to the changing of the name of the village, the following appears : For tilt' Bark Shanty Timos. Quis Says our place has a lop-eared name — the first part he thinks has afinity to the canine race, or a close resemblance to the rind of a certain tree — the latter he thinks is significant and analagous to the place Bui I dont respect his judgement — al- though the wise man has said a good name is a good thing — which we admit, we think ours is a good one. An instance of absent-mindedness is notable, as set forth in the Times: Not many years ago Mr. W. S. Allen, well known by most of us, started one morning to get his horses shod. He tramped down to Mr. Thomson's shop, went in, and in his blunt way told Mr. Thomson to shoe them. "Bring them in," replied the latter. Then Allen looked around in surprise, and not until then had he discovered that the horses had been left at home. The young men and women of to day have very little conception of the mode of life among the early settlers of Sanilac County. In but few respects are the manners of the present time similar to those of a quarter of a century ago. The clothing, the dwell- ings, the diet, the social customs, etc., have under- gone a total revolution as though a new race had taken possession of the land. Pioneer life in San- ilac County finds its parallel in almost every county in the State and throughout tlie entire Northwest. The land was to be cleared of forests, and the skill of human art used to transplant to the fertile re- gion the civilization of the East. Caljins were to be erected, wells dug, and the rivers and creeks made to labor for the use of mankind. As many living citizens can well remember, the pioneers had many difficulties to contend with, not the least of which was the journey from civilization to their forest homes. The route lay through a wild and rough country ; swamps and marshes were crossed with great exertion and fatigue; rivers were forded with difficulty and danger; nights vrere passed in the dense forests, with mother earth for a couch and the trees and foliage for a shelter; long, weary days and weeks of travel were endured, but finally their eyes were gladdened and their hearts beat 1 M. >^i^a trnr<::Ull^UU^^v SANILAC COUNTY. 459 m (b t ,:"*ff' 1^' ^p?*C^"**^' -««t RANGE claimed this territory with all the Northwest from 1 67 1 to 1763, when it was surrendered to the British, and the " Quebec Act " of 1774 placed it under the local administration of Canada. But this was only a despotic military government, and benefitted the country very little. After the ^ Revolution, conflicting claims to this territory, held by Virginia, New York, Massachusetts and ^ Connecticut, were relinquished • in favor of the general Govern- ment, and when the British gave it up it was at- tached to Ohio, then to Indiana until 1805, when it was separated, William Hull becoming the first Governor, and holding the office for eight years, or until 181 3. Lewis Cass was the next Governor and remained so until 1831, when George B. Porter was appointed and held it until his death, in r834. Stevens T. Mason then became acting Governor, For the remaining Governors and their administra- tions, see the first part of this book, commencing with page 105. The first mention made of Sanilac County in offi- ^ cial records is in the old Territorial Laws of 1827, ^ several years before the survey was made. A special ^ act then attached it to St. Clair County for judicial (® purposes. At that time it extended to Saginaw Bay ^ and west to Tuscola County. The origin of the name is not known, but the county is supposed to be named for a Frenchman who traversed it in the latter part of the seventeenth century. A special act of the Legislature in 1848, in force after Dec. 31, of that year, authorized the separate organization of this county and fixed the county seat at Lexington until 1853. By the same act the sheriff was authorized, under direction of the Board of Supervisors, to furnish suitable offices for county purposes and a place .for holding court. The offices were foui d in various places until 1857, when a building was erected in the west part of the village for the purpose. The county at that time was too poor to raise the necessary funds for the building, and a subscription of $1,268 was taken to assist it, with $600 additional for a jail. Geo. S. Lester sub- mitted a plan for the building, to cost $2,750, taking the subscription list at $1,150, at his own risk of col- lection, — the county paying the balance. The territory was all embraced in Lexington Township until the act setting off' the county was passed, when the townships of Worth and Sanilac were organized, the former including town 9 north, ranges 13, 14, 15,16 and fractional 17 east. The town of Lexington included towns 10 of all these ranges, with the north half of town 10, range 12 east. Sanilac Township was made up of all the remaining territory in Sanilac and Huron Counties. The first county officers were elected at the gen- eral election held in November, 1849, and were installed Jan. i, 1850, as follows v^ .*^- sv -c C 460 T<>fili:t:Dli-.>r > t SANILAC COUNTY. County Judge — Reuben B. Dimond. Judge of Probate — Clark M. Mills. County Clerk — Benjamin F. Luce. Register of Deeds — Benjamin F. Luce. Treasurer — James L. Smith. Sheriff — Silas Bardwell. Prosecuting Attorney — John Divine. The first Board of Supervisors was as follows: Worth, Peter H. Benedict; Lexington, Clark M. Mills; Sanilac, Charles McMillan. The Board met in their first annual session Oct. 15, 1850, and pro- ceeded to do the county business in a straight-for- ward and economical manner. Read the assess- ment rolls as they were equalized : Worth SS4,795 Lexington 67,515 Sanilac 47,05 9 Total $169,369 After transacting their usual business, the accounts were audited : C. M. Mills, Supervisor from Lexington $1-5° P. H. Benedict, Supervisor from Worth 2.04 Charles McMillan, Supervisor from Sanilac. . . . 1.80 Hiram Bacon, Deputy Clerk 1.50 The County Judge received the enormous salary of $50, and the Prosecuting Attorney, $45 ! Peter H. Benedict was the first Representative in the State Legislature from this county, having been elected in 1852. He was at that time, and is still, a farmer in Worth, and is now about 70 years of age. The political complexion of the county was from the first overwhelmingly Democratic until 1854, and even that year the Hon. John Divine was elected to the Legislature on the ticket by a large majority over two other candidates, one the regular nominee of the Whigs, and the other of an independent ticket. About this time Sanilac County became imbued with the spirit of the whole country, and the Republican party sprang into being as if by magic. It swallowed up the entire Whig party with few exceptions, and so drew from the Democratic party that in 1856 the county was found to be as strongly Republican as it had previously been Democratic. Thus the popular sentiment was almost entirely revolutionized. The few Whigs who did not come into the Republican party joined the Democrats, and the Whig party never held a caucus after that. When the Sanilac County Leader appeared, in 1854, it was a strong advocate of Democracy, but had Free-Soil tendencies, and after 18 months came out as a Republican paper, no doubt being largely instrumental in causing the change. To offset this the Democrats started the Sanilac Signal, but after two years its inability to influence the public mind was demonstrated, and it was discontinued for want of patronage. After the death of the Leader Repub- licans purchased the equipments of the Signal and began the publication of the Jeffersonian. From 1856 to 1870 the Republicans continued far in the majority. Owing to the removal of the books when the county seat was changed, and on account of fires and other causes, the election records have been misplaced, so that they could not be obtained previous to 1870, but the following compilation of the vote for Secretary of State is given since then: 1870 — Daniel Striker, Rep., 966; Jonathan W. Flanders, Dem , 459; John Evans, Gr., 58. 1872 — Daniel Striker, Rep., r,335; George H. House, Dem., 407 ; Thomas C. Cutler, Gr., 22. 1874 — E. G. D. Holden, Rep., 1,257 ; George H. House, Dem., 544; Samuel W. Baker, Gr., 11. 1876 — E. G. D. Holden, Rep., 1,915; George House, Dern., 1,016; Albert Stegeman, Gr., 64. 1878 — William Jenney, Rep., 1,453; George Murdock, Dem., 635; George H. Bruce, Gr., 701. 1880 — William Jenney, Rep., 2,239; Willard Stearns, Dem., r,294; Ira D. Crouse, Gr., 188. 1882 — Henry A. Conant, Rep., 1,691; William Shakespeare, 1,275; Martin V. Rork, Gr., 8. The above does not include either the Prohibition or Anti-Monopoly votes, as they have been very in- significant until the present year. The returns for the election of 1884 are not in when this is written, but from a careful study of the situation the result can nearly be estimated. There have been no less than seven political parties soliciting the suffrage of the Sanilac County voter this year {1884), namely: Republican, Democrat, Fusion, Union, Greenback, Anti-Monopoly and Prohibition, with possibly one or two more without names. Though the Fusion and Union parties were a combination of all but the Re- publican party, and could hardly be called homogene- ous, yet that ticket received votes which would have been given to no other one party under other cir- H. H. 9 ^ \«^^^l^- DQr^A -SlS^ii.,^ ^^ ^£B :^2 V ^ SANILAC COUNTY. ^ cumstances. If disintegration continues, it must soon come to pass that Sanilac County will have a political party for each voter, who, it is hoped, will then " scratch " his ticket at election, and leave room for a more cogent organization. As it is, the Repub- lican party is in a small majority. The population of the county in 1880 and total vote were as follows by townships : Townships. Argyle Austin Bridgehampton. Buel Custer Delaware Elk Elmer Evergreen Flynn Forester Fremont Greenleaf Lamotte Lexington Maple Valley. . Marion Madette Minden Moore Sanilac Speaker Washington Watertown Worth Total 26,341 Popul.Ttion, 341 691 1,634 693 262 2,131 1,332 259 215 526 940 1,118 612 301 2,993 939 1,418 1,700 871 359 2,457 1,47 3 952 500 1,554 School Population. 165 258 5n 276 42 735 530 61 94 146 341 473 248 99 998 284 622 590 224 131 920 531 462 203 579 9,523 Total Vote. 44 100 168 103 39 213 189 39 36 51 121 170 82 51 525 123 179 28s 137 SO 364 213 99 70 272 3,723 The assessed valuation of property, both real and personal, in the county from 1874 to. date, is as fol- lows : 1874 $3,122,584 1875 3,139,402 1876 3,121,891 1877 3,117,121 1878 3,179,307 1879 $3,314,609 1880 3,886,795 1881 3,906,254 1882 5,781,046 1883 5,175,361 sale. For 1884 the equalization by townships stands as follows: The State Board of Equalization raised the value in 1882 to $5,000,000, and at this time a law was passed requiring assessments to be based upon a cash value rather than the value at forced or auction ^^^f^ ^s,^^ ^AC'ill a ^ I|[li>A;9 ^^^ Delaware $260,770 Minden Austin 175,770 1 15,000 Greenleaf 100,285 Evergreen Argyle Wheatland 109,150 103,950 70,505 Marion 260,290 Forester 110,380 Sanilac Bridgehampton. Custer 405,300 220,000 75,000 Moore 125,035 Lamotte $ro8,i6o Marlette 500,000 Elmer 1 19,623 Watertown.... 121,015 Washington . . . 185,000 Lexington 655,890 Buel 140,000 Elk 210,000 Flynn 1 15,000 Maple Valley.. 154,000 Speaker 240,000 Fremont 194,270 Worth 41 2,000 Total, $5,276,393 While these figures belong more properly to the financial history, they are the " bone of contention " in county politics and are given under this head. The cash transactions only of the Treasurer's office for 20 years ending Sept. 30, 1884, are as follows: 1863 $31,898.34 1864 27,501.03 1865 35,646.24 1866 35,135.44 1867 23,747.60 1868 30,723-31 1869 21,968.54 1870 26,628.76 1871 23,646.91 1872 47,592.82 1873 19,411.39 1874 $22,158.99 1875 24,458.15 1876 26,827.62 1877 28,255.53 1878 52,90355 1879 32,376-31 1880 35,790-38 1881 37,246.66 1882 44,372.63 1883 64,657.55 1884 (9 mos). 79,415.80 The increase of business in 1872 was due to the return of the taxes by the State; in 1878 it was due to the loan of $20,000 with which to build the new court-house, and in 1883 to the $7,000 loan for the jail. It will be seen tliat the first nine months of 1884 has given the county more business than any one year previous. This is on account of the in- crease of business in township improvements and also the primary school fund. As before stated, the election records previous to 1870 were misplaced, but the following is the list of ofificers since that time : SHERIFFS. Peter D. Kenney, Jonathan W. Babcock, James Minard, Hugh McKenzie, Andrew Gray, 1870 1872 1874 1876-8 1880-2 <^ t ^: •A- m I ■.V* r 3^ ^ /■ <> 1=1 f^ 462 s^t|-=»- ^^11'- T mmm^ T SANILAC COUNTY. COUNTY TREASURERS. Philip L. Wixson, 1870-2 David Crorey, 1874 John T. Faxon, 1876-8 Hugh McKenzie, 1880-2 COUNTY CLERKS. Samuel Burgess, 1870 Rudolph Papst, 1872-4 William Dawson, 1876-8 Andrew W. O'Keefe, 1880-2 PROSECUTING ATTORNEYS. John Divine, 1870 Watson Beach, 1872 Joel McMahon, 1874 Levi L. Wixson, 1876-8 Jonathan W. Babcock, 1880-2 CIRCUIT COURT COMMISSIONERS. Charles S. Nims, Isaac C. Wheeler, Wm. A. Mills, William C. Moore, Chas. E. Garner, Edward H. Bentley, Wilford Macklem, D. Stuart McClure, 1870-2 1874 1876 1878 1880 f 1870 1872-8 1880-2 1870 1872-8 1880-2 1870 1872 1874 1876 1878 1880 1882 c m COUNTY SURVEYORS. Alex. Sinclair, Jefferson W. Galbraith, Luther D. Mills, REGISTERS OF DEEDS. Samuel Burgess, Rudolph Papst, William Dawson, CORONERS. Archibald N. Johnson and / Luther D. Mills, \ Anthony Oldfield, Jr., and ) Archibald N. Johnson, ( Geo. C. Vincent and \ James .'Anderson, f Archibald N. Johnson and \ George Weaver, \ Henry McRae and I Henry Bridenbach, \ Archibald N. Johnson and \ William S. Moore, )' Archibald N. Johnson and \ Anthony M. Oldfield, ( COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS. Geo. A. Parker, 1870 Paden Macklem, 1872 (This office was abolished in 1875. Its duties now devolve upon three County Examiners.) The removal of the county seat from Lexington to its present location in Sandusky was probably the greatest political convulsion in the history of the county. The fact that three attempts were made before it was accomplished argues sufficiently that .ij) the feeling in regard to it became deep-seated ; and the smallness of the majority by which the final tri- umph was made, is a protest against the law permit- ting a Step of that kind to be taken by a bare ma- jority. It is not the province of history to burden itself with opinions, but only the facts are stated when it is said that the people became so evenly di- vided, with each party so determined to have its own way, that both sides were on the verge of des- peration. No good could come from this state of affairs. For convenience' sake the county seat of every county ought to be most centrally located, as far as geography is concerned ; but for the same " sake " the seat should not be there when it is inaccessible. This was the case when the event took place, and a more rational view expressed to the writer by many of the friends of removal is that the whole work, though proper, was premature, on account j=3 of the undeveloped condition of the region into v^i which the county capital was to be moved. The 1=1 county at that time was new and unable to stand v^ sufficient taxation to raise funds for needed roads *^ ,_ and ditches, and other improvements becoming to a ( >, county with such magnificent resources as this. On the other hand the majority of the citizens of the county expressed their will to endure a few years of " corduroy" roads through an undrained section, in order to have the question settled once for all ; and the choice was not entirely unwise, as the quickest ^ method of developing a country is to commence im- proving it at once. Those immediately benefitted by the former location made a strenuous protest, but the interests of a few should not be conserved at the ex- pense of the entire county. The first location of the county seat was made by a committee from St. Clair county. The enabling act authorized the Governor to appoint such com- mittee, and the persons named were : John Clark, Tames W. Sanborn and Marcus H. Miles. They located it on section 25, town 10 north, range 16 ^ east, within the present village of Lexington, where it remained for thirty years, when (1879) it was . moved to its present site in the village of Sandusky, Wj Custer Township (section 35, town 12 north, range "^ r \ % )^/^ ^«^#^ ■^^v4>tiii^nii^>T^ -T^i^ 4^^((®\«) ^ i o ^) SANILAC COUNTY. 463 14 east.) The first resolution to remove it was passed at the October session of the Board of Super- visors in 1870, and the County Clerk was instructed to post the required notices in the several townships throughout the county, in order to have the matter come before tne electors at the annual township meetings held in April of the following year. But the citizens of Lexington procured an injunction to stop the clerk from posting the notices. The result was that, although the notices were not posted, nearly every town in the county voted upon the question of removal, and the " removalists " main- tained a majority of 47 ; but in consequence of the great irregularity of the proceeding, the subject was dropped. Two years later the question was revived, and a second attempt was made by the Board of Super- visors passing the required resolution in their October session of 1873. Tiie resolution was again submit- ted to the electors for tlieir rejection or approval, at the April election of 1874, and was carried by a small majority. The Board of Supervisors met in June following, and after canvassing the votes, de- clared the resolution carried, and the county seat removed, it also authorized the loan of $1,000 with which to erect a temporary building for the offices. This building was to be finished by September of that year. At the same lime the loan was authorized, instructions were given to the county officers to re- pair to the new seat and take the records. When the first of September came the building was not completed, and the officers had no disposition to re- move, even though the building were completed. Hence it was not possible for the next Board to do any business at the new seat; so they met again at Lexington, with much chagrin. They audited the accounts so far incurred by the removal, and then refused to proceed further with the county business until the orders were issued, signed and accepted by the Treasurer for payment. When this was done, the Chairman of the Board served notices on all the county officers that the county seat had been re- moved, and ordered them to go thither with the records. The officers saw it in a different light. They concluded to remain where they were, for the time being at least, since some of the notices lacked date and others lacked signature. Not discouraged at this, however, the majority of the Board concluded to remove at all hazards, and with 13 members the Chairman departed for the new seat, taking with them a Deputy County Clerk. The officers and the other lomembersof the Board remained at Lexington. Here the n. alter hung fire. The 10 met and ad- V_ joiirned from day to day; so did the 13! The latter, however, concluded to give several townships the benefit of having the county seat, for a short time at least, and after movir.g to Custer and Watertown, they halted the portable Board at Carsonville to await some final agreement. The matter was laid before O'Brien J. Atkinson, of Port Huron, who advised the meandering Board to return to Lexington and finish up their business. This they did, and at the same time passed a resolu- tion to borrow the sum of $16,000 with which lo build substantial county buildings. The notices were properly posted this time and the matter came before the voters in Apiil, 1875, but was defeated by a majority of 207. Nothing daunted, those in favor of the removal succeeded in procuring the passage of the same reso- lution again in the following October. The question was submitted again in 1876, and carried by a ma- jority of 29 votes; but this time the legality of the proceedings in submitting this vote, as well as the passage of the resolution of removal, was disputed, and thus the movement to change the county seat was again check-mated. At the following June session the Board instructed the Prosecuting Attorney to place the whole matter before competent legal counsel and procure an opin- ion in writing. The opinion was submitted to the Board at the following October session, and was to the effect that the original resolution for removing the county seat had never been passed ; that in the various amendments the point of removal had been changed to Carsonville; that upon the final passage, if any point were designated, it was surely Carson- ville; that, as the other resolutions which had been voted upon referred to some other point, the whole proceedings were undoubtedly void, and would not, in the opinion of the counsel, stand the test of the courts; that the Board of Supervisors had better commence anew. The opinion was accepted, and the Board did commence anew, by passing the proper resolution at that session, October, 1876. It was successful, and ^^(^>H ^m^ 464 ■m- SANILAC COUNTY. -«# A the several townships approved of it in April, 1877, by the following total poll : For removal i ,3 1 4 Against removal 1,201 Majority 113 At the October session of 1877 a resolution was passed authorizing a loan of $20,000 for the purpose of building a court-house and county offices, the loan to be secured by the bonds of the county, and to be paid in five annual installments. This was submitted to the voters in 1878 and carried by a majority of 655. John S. Thomson, of Port Sanilac, Wildman Mills, of Lexington, and Alonzo Downing, of Marion, were appointed the building committee. They let the contracts in 1878, the building was done during 1879, and in January, 1880, the great task of removing the county seat was accomplished. The jail was then constructed, at a cost of $7,000, being completed in the fall of 1884. The buildings are commodious, substantial and beautiful ; and with the county seat in the exact center, the material equilibrium of the county may be considered assured. That this struggle had its influence in the politics of the county cannot be denied. In 1874 the " re- movalists " held a convention and nominated a full county ticket, of which they elected the Sheriff, Prosecuting Attorney and Treasurer. The "non- removalists " elected the remainder of the ticket. The small majority of this party consisted of Repub- licans, and the remainder were Democrats, all op- posed to the removal. The effect of this was to weaken the Republican party. Bad feelings were created, " bolts," independent tickets and independ- ent candidates became more numerous, and from that time the Republican party in Sanilac County has grown less until it has only a small plurality when the other factions combine to overcome it. From 1856 to 1874 the proportion of Republicans to other voters in the county was as 3 to i ; but, since that time it has somewhat disintegrated, from various causes, though some years the vote has been higher than others. i s b < (cS ^^c^nn^niif^A^ (h SANILAC COUNTY. 465 OOP ^ S h rHE record of Sanilac County in the history of the coiuitry is indeed confined ahnost exclusively to the Civil War, owing to the fact that there were no settlements in the county until about the close of the Black Hawk war. Southern Michigan is dotted with a respect- ful number of battle-fields in the War of 181 2, furnished a liberal number of soldiers for the Black Hawk war, and was well repre- sented in the War with Mexico; but from the lonely forests of " the thumb " no human voice responded to any of these calls. Indeed, San- ilac possibly could have furnished a baker's dozen of soldiers for the Mexican War, but the ease with which our armies pushed the " greasers " back into their ancient capital left no demand for recruits even from more thickly populated districts, and the inhab- itants of this beautiful peninsula were lulled in the cradle of peace, save their non-military conflicts with wild game, until he horrors of the Civil War broke upon them with awful suddenness. Even then, like their sister counties and States, the pioneers were unwilling to trust their senses, though they had had years of boisterous warning; but once the unwel- come news of Sumter was vividly before them, and they stood up, heroes ready for the trial. When Bull Run confirmed the uncertainty and magnitude of the war, the spirit of Sanilac warmed into activity, and the call for volunteers was answered with her voice in the chorus, '"We are coming. Father Abraham, Three hundred thousand morel" The " Sanilac Wolverines " was the first military company to come together, though a few volunteers from this county had joined the Second and Seventh regiments. The name was soon afterward changed to " Sanilac Pioneers," but the company was better known as "Co. D, loth Michigan Infantry." Capt. Israel Hucking made ihe first effort to raise the company, and after a few days' canvassing, found a ready response from about 60 of the best citizens. The necessary preparations were made, and on Tuesday, Nov. 19, i86r, the "Wolverines" were ready to step at the tap of the drum into active service. The company took passage on the " Forester "'for Flint, the rendezvous for the regiment, and were enrolled as Company D of the loth Michigan In- fantry. The night was dark and windy, — ominous of the stormy times through which the boys were to pass, — yet there were very large numbers of citizens from all parts of the county down to the dock in Lexington to see the " Forester" swing off with her load of brave men on a journey from which there was such uncertain return, and to add a " God-bless- you,' and perhaps a last "Good-bye!" As the last rope was pulled in, three times three hearty cheers were given to those on deck, who responded with a prolonged hurrah for the flag. The boys left in good A SPIlr.>* c7-T4^{ii]:t:o Driver SANILAC COUNTY. ^^>^^ I •^ (O, (0 V ■rs > (^ spirits, and thus was the inauguration of the war in Sanilac. The company was finally filled up to its maximum quota in January, 1862, with the following list of officers : Captain Israel Huckins, First-Lieutenant H. H. Nims, Second-Lieutenant G. W. Jenks, First Sergeant Richard Teal, Second Sergeant Rudolph Papst, Third Sergeant C. R. Bunker, Fourth Sergeant Watson Beach, Fifth Sergeant Henry Wideman, First Corporal Watson F. Bisbee, Second Corporal Robert F. Lewis, Third Corporal CM. Cross, Fourth Corporal T. J. Springstein, Fifth Corporal Lemuel House, Sixth Corporal Stephen R. Moore, Seventh Corporal Hugh McCaffery. Many of these officers were afterward promoted, and a few assigned to their companies. The com- pany was mustered into service in February, 1862, and left Flint for Pittsburg Landing with the regi- ment April 22, 1862, having a full roster of 103 men and officers. After participating in the movements resulting in the evacuation of Corinth, it marched to Tuscumbia, Ala., in July, where five companies. A, B, E, G and K, were made Provost Guard under Major Scarritt, four companies, C, F, H and L guarding the railroad, and Company D guarding the landing at Florence, on the Tennessee River. A month after this the regiment marched with its division under Gen. Palmer to Nashville, where it remained besieged until the arrival of the Army of the Cumberland, under Rosecrans. In April, 1863, Companies E and H were engaged while guarding trains on the railroad between Nash- ville and Murfreesboro, losing 18 killed, wounded and missing. The regiment remained in Nashville and vicinity until July, 1863, winning the respect and esteem of the citizens of that place by the faithful discharge of duty and the gentlemanly conduct of its members. To such an extent did the people of Nashville ap- preciate the good manners of the regiment, that a petition si-gned by a large number of citizens was presented to General Rosecrans, asking that the reg- ^^"i^ iment might be permitted to remain as guards. The petition was not granted, however, and the regiment proceeded to Murfreesboro. In September following they went to Stevenson, Ala., thence to Sequachee Valley, thence over Wal- dron's Ridge to Smith's Ferry, on the Tennessee River. Leaving there at the commencement of the battle of Mission Ridge, the loth, with the Second Division of the 14th Army Corps, about this time placed under command of Gen. Jeff. C. Davis, was temporarily assigned to the command of Sherman, being held in reserve during the battle of Mission Ridge, and driving the enemy out of Chickamauga on the morning after. With Sherman's forces it pro- ceeded to Knoxville and back to Chattanooga, marching 24 days upon five days' rations! About the first of January, 1864, the regiment went into camp at Rossville, Ga., and on the 6th of February was mustered as a veteran regiment. But before the regiment had received its furlough, shortly after muster, it was engaged at Buzzard's Roost, Ga., losing about 70 men killed, wounded and prisoners. Out of some \^ prisoners, only two ever returned, the remainder having been starved to death in rebel prisons. Of this engagement a correspondent of the Louis- ville Journal says that " with their furloughs in their pockets, and preparations made to visit their dear ones at home fr.m whom they had been parted so long, the bugles on the 25th of the month just passed found the roth responsive, with flags unfurled, and on the march for the battle field. Under Morgan at Buzzard's Roost, they fought with the 60th Illinois beneath the shadows of towering Rocky Face, carry- ing their colors to the enemy's very works through a murderous fire of infantry and artillery, losing 25 killed and wounded, among whom was Lieutenant Colonel Dickerson." After the engagement at Buzzard's Roost the regiment was furloughed as veterans, but returned from home with a number of recruits to join its brigade at Resaca, Ga., immediately marching to Rome and participating in the capture of that place. The regiment remained with Sherman's army through the long series of engagements which re- sulted in the capture of Atlanta. It was participated in by the loth, the boys bearing their burdens with remarkable courage and endurance. At Peach-Tree n ^ i < -^m'^M<^y^. SANILAC COUNTY. #^f 0 departure a flag was given to the regiment by the young ladies of that city. This flag was defended to the last at Chickamauga, where three color-bearers were severely wounded, with nearly the entire regi- ment, killed, wounded or taken prisoners. Col. Wisner died of typhoid fever at Lexington, Ky., in Januar)', 1863, and the regiment was then placed under the command of Col. LeFavour, serv- ing in the Third Brigade, Second Division, Army of Central Kentucky. It remained in the State until the 13th of April, 1863, having been stationed at Danville, Lexington, Nicholasville, Stanford and other places. On the 14th of April the regiment removed to Nashville, where it remained, doing " interior " guard duty, until Sept. 5, when it moved 122 miles by rail to Bridgeport, Ala., arriving there on the 6th, crossed on a pontoon bridge and encamped on the island in the Tennessee River. On the 15th the regiment moved to Rossville, thence to Ringgold, returning to Rossville* on the i8th. On the 20th they were ordered to re-inforce Gen. Thomas at Chickamauga, and at 2 p. m. of that day became engaged. In his report of the conduct of the 22d Michigan at Chick- amauga, Col. Le Favour says, that " at the second charge the rebels drove the brigade to the bottom of the hill. It was re-formed, marched up, and again took the crest. The regiment was out of ammuni- tion and word was sent to Gen. Whittaker to that effect. ' You must use your steel,' was the reply. The regiment rushed forward with fixed bayonets and emply muskets under a terrific fire of grape and musketry, received the counter charge of the enemy, repulsed and drove them at every point." But their gallantry proved to be their disaster. In their eagerness they had pressed far ahead of the other regiments, and ere they were aware an order came to fall back, — alas! too late! The enemy had closed in on their flanks and darkness found all but a few of the living prisoners and the dead on the field in the rear! Those who escaped returned to camp and on the following morning were ordered to the rear. Two days afterward the regiment encamped on " Moccasin Point," on the north bank of the Tennessee River, seven miles from Rossville, and was engaged at this place in building fortifications and doing picket duty until Oct. 28, when it was ordered to the south side of the Tennessee to sup- port Gen. Hooker. Vg) 0) ^^^ywrnm^^ — ^«^^ ^^^^^ m :f|^ ^'^ i^ ,#&r V V / ^ i SANILAC COUNTY. ^^m^M^ — e®^( 469 I ^ This wholesome state of affairs left no motive for opposition to the draft, and all passed peaceably through those riotous times. However, this county was somewhat stirred with just indignation at the turn of affairs in Huron County at that time, and a ripple of excitement vibrated along the lake shore when a company of 75 uniformed and disciplined soldiers, with ten days' rations, passed through to quell what was thought would result in a serious disturbance. The immediate occasion of the broil was the tak- ing out of two drafted Polanders, by Sheriff Mankin and County Treasurer Cottrell. This was the first week in January, 1865. Hardly had the officers left Paris Township, in Huron County, when an armed band of about 30 men, chiefly Polanders, under the leadership of one Francis Talaga, surrounded them, and, with loaded rifles pointed at their heads, de- manded the release of the drafted men. Under the circumstances resistance was of course useless, and />S the officers surrounded the prisoners. But this did =3 not satisfy the enraged rioters, and they fired several Vif^ shots at the officers, one or two of the bullets passing =t dangerously near to their heads. The foreigners, ignorant of our laws and customs, liad in all prob- ability been incited to the attack by the pestilential peace-makers who opposed the war. Believing this to be the true state of affairs, and that possibly there might be a general uprising, the officers wisely concluded that prompt measures were the most effective, and Mr. Cottrell at once pro- ceeded to the headquarters for this district and ex- plained the circumstances. The result was the appearance of the military company mentioned. The soldiers passed through tliis county on the isth of January, and the next day were upon the field of duty; but instead of meeting a desperate and deter- mined hand of men, fall of courage, tliirsting for blood, not a hostile soul was seen. Peace reigned serenely upon every clearing, throughout every dell of the woods, and upon all the wide border no hero was seen. The ladies were not slow to recognize the necessity of their assistance, and soon there was formed a Soldiers' Relief Society at Lexington, and a Soldiers' Aid Society at Port Sanilac. These societies were \^ very earnest and energetic in doing all that could be C^ done by woman's hands for soldiers in need, and many were the boxes of clothin-g, comforters, sheets, blankets, shirts, socks, bandages, handkerchiefs, dried and preserved fruits, knick-knacks, newspapers, magazines, etc., that were sent by these ladies to the hospital and camp of the Michigan boys. How much genuine benefit the work of these societies was to the soldiers and how well it was ap- preciated can be seen from the following extract from a letter written by a soldier under General Rosecrans in West Virginia to a friend in this county: " Perhaps no one informed you of my being a sub- ject of sanitary attention. After being permitted to share with my noble comrades the toils and dangers of the summer ajid fall- campaigns, my system finally gave way to the fever which had been sapping its strength for weeks, and an ambulance bore me to the hospital. Under the care of our skillful regimental surgeon, Dr. Salter, the fever was broken in a week; but a month had elapsed, and I had not yet recov- ered the full measure of my strength. It was not until I had been several days home on a furlough that I felt my physical strength renewed to its former standard. "My hospital life was far more pleasant than I an- ticipated. Up among the mountains, entering a hospital was equivalent to speaking for a coffin. Hence all made an effort to keep on duty, in order to keep out of the hospital. But it is not so bad at the post hospital at Charleston. Large, commodious buildings are used as an abode for the sick, and the comforts of the Ladies' Aid Society do much to pre- pare the soldier again for duty. Bless their souls! I well remember that, after lying with my knapsack for a pillow, my head almost bursting with pain, when I was removed to another ward and supplied with quilts, coverlets, feather pillows, sheets and pillow slips by their fair hands, and my head resting upon the soft, soothing pillow, — I could not help it — my eyes closed and I thanked God that our country has such women." The verdict for all soldiers from Sanilac can be only that of the most hearty approval. Well propor- tioned in stature, their courage and manhood were no less magnificent. "Men of the .silent bauds, Men of lialf-told days, Lift up yoiu' specter hands .\ii(l take our sweet honquet.=." i Cm ( ^iin>>A^- '^ 47° SANILAC COUNTY. ^ ESC 1 S ITaferlaT Tnfepests, ^ ^^SHJH*^ ^VJHE development of a county is a work of time. Changing a region so covered with for- ests that rarely a ray of sun- shine reaches earth, into meadows, orchards and wav- ing fields of grain, dotted with school-houses, churches, facto- ries, crossed by railroads and set with beautiful homes, is not the work of a day. It is this transform- ation from savagery to civilization with which this chapter proposes to [)^^^ deal, giving first an exposition of '-^i the climate, soil and capacities of -J. ll!l^llDr^ c^. ev^>tlli:«(inf^>^r^^^ ^&K- -#^C(®Vp| SANILAC COUNTY. I T i I f finished, the land given in remuneration required half a generation to bring it into a state of profitable cultivation. This being done, those who originally held land which is now drained by these ditches, and benefited by the improvements, received as great an increase to their fortunes as the capitalist who invested the money and did the work. A drain through three adjoiping farms of low land, increases the value of the central one just as much in propor- tion as the other two, and yet incumbers it nothing if by statute the others are given in payment for tjie work. In this way capital came into Sanilac County, and there is nothing like hard cash to assist in de- veloping a new county. The wonderful immigration into this county is not without a cause, and this, with many other facts, is well set forth in " Michigan and its Resources," from which the following paragraphs are taken: PHYSICAL FEATURES. The State of Michigan is 9,745 square miles larger than the State of New York; 13,700 larger than Pennsylvania; 17,855 larger tlian Ohio; 22,565 larger than Indiana; and 2,265 larger than Illinois. The entire area of the si.x New England States is 7,550 square miles larger than that of Michigan. When the State was admitted into the Union, less than 50 years ago, it ranked twenty-third among the States in the order of population. It is now ninth. It has a coast line of 1,600 miles — more than half the dis- tance between New York and Liverpool — around which vessels of 2,000 tons may sail without losing sight of its territory. The largest body of fresh water in the world forms its northern boundary; the second largest its west- ern; except these two, there are no lakes in Europe, Asia or America larger than that which washes its eastern borders ; and it has ports on two others. Lying in the embrace of these immense seas, its cli- mate has no equal in the moderation of ils temper- ature in any State or territory situated on the same degrees of latitude east of the Rocky Mountains. Most of the southern peninsula of the State lies between the same lines of latitude as the State of New York. The shore line of its upper peninsula on Lake Superior is mostly south of the latitude of Que- bec. It has 4,332 miles of railroad. Fifty-one county seats out of 67 in the lower peninsula have railroad connections ; nine others are lake ports ; there are only seven which have no outlets either by rail or water, and none of these is more than 20 miles from a railroad. In the upper peninsula there is only one, and in the lower peninsula there are only eight coun- ties, which are not reached by railroad connections already in operation or in process of construction. y^. ^mw^o^ The farmers of Michigan have also the assurance 3^ of permanent competition in the rates of transporta- tion to eastern and sea-board markets, not only by < various rival lines of railroad but by natural and arti- ficial water-ways. Every dollar saved in reaching consumers is added to the gains of the producer. ' The reports of the United States Department of Agriculture show that in a series of six years, pre- vious to and including 1880, the average cash value per acre of eight leading productions of the farm, taken together, in ten principal farming States of the West was greater in Michigan than in any other State. In the order of production Michigan stands first among the States in the growth and manufacture of lumber, first in salt, first in copper, first in charcoal pig iron, certainly second if not first in iron ore, first in fresh-water fisheries, fourth in wheat, and fourth in wool. It has the largest iron mine and the largest copper mine in the world. Seven-tenths of all the wheat raised in tlie country is grown in nine States, and only three excel Michigan in the volume of this crop. In the last census year it produced more wheat to the acre than any State in the Union, except Col- orado, whose total yield was less than a million and a half of bushels. It is also one of the best fruit- producing States in the Union. All its principal products are staples, for which there must be a con- stant and growing demand. The State is practically free from debt. Its public buildings are paid for. It is prohibited by its consti- tution from borrowing money in excess of $50,000, except in time of war. The entire local indebtedness of all its cities, villages, towns, counties, and school districts is less than ten millions of dollars. Its taxes are low, and one-third of them all is applied to edu- cational purposes. The school system of Michigan makes education free to all. The primary schools, the Agricultural College, and the University are open without charge for tuition to rich and poor alike. Even in nomina- tions to the Government army and navy schools at West Point and Annapolis, it has become an estab- lished custom to leave the periodical vacancies open to competitive examination. Young men of every nationality, creed, and condition have precisely the same right to public benefits and equal chances in the race for success. With all the advantages of a healthful climate, a fertile soil, easy access to home and foreign mar- kets, extraordinary facilities of transportation, a set- tled society, a generous school system, established institutions, freedom from debt, and a low rate of taxation, there are in the State several millions of acres of unoccupied farming lands, suitable to almost every variety of husbandry, some of them open to settlement under United States and State home- stead laws, and all within reach of moderate means.. 0) ^^>9v. V^BSiaT^viSr ■^v<^illli:^tlli>^-^ ^^(^Hl 472 SANILAC COUNTY. ^ • ^- 1=3 >'S^ Notwithstanding the enormous wealth of Michigan in other resources, it is in agriculture, in which at least lialf of its active population are employed, that it develops its greatest eminence. This eminence, of which ample proof will be given, has for its found- ations natura ladvantages of which the State can- not be divested, and which ensure to its prosperity a permanent and enduring character. I. The fertility and diversity of the soil. [I. The geographical position of Michigan, alto- gether unique in its character, affecting both its climate and its markets. Lake Superior, more than AGO miles long, and the largest fresh water sea in the world, washes its northern shores ; Lake Michi- gan, 345 miles in length, second in size, and the largest lying wholly within the United States, forms the greater portion of its western boundary ; and Lakes Huron, St. Clair and Erie, with their connect- ing rivers, mark its limits on the east. IIL The accessibility and nearness to the great markets of the world, taken in connection with the comparatively small capital needed, constitute an- other and very important reason for the profitable- ness of farming in Michigan. Every hundred miles saved in transportation to the seaboard adds to the value of the staple agricultural productions. No State or Territory in the Union has so many cheap and fertile lands within so easy reach of the leading markets. IV. The wonderful diversity of natural resources in Michigan, and the manufacturing interests to which they contribute, create a constant and increas- ing home market for the products of the soil. Vast quantities of the yield of the farm and garden go to the mills, lumber camps, furnaces and mines, and finds ready and profitable sale. There are few neighborhoods where some of these markets are not found, and the wagons of the farmers of the vicinity bringing hay, oats, potatoes, butter, cheese, eggs, poultry, fresh meat and fruit are always welcomed and rewarded with good prices. The Huron Peninsula is that fertile stretch of land projecting into the waters of Lake Huron on the east and north, with Saginaw Bay upon its west- ern boundary. This jieninsula is known as the "Thumb of the Michigan Mitten." This rich and beautiful rural district, with its undulating surface, its extensive coast line, its numerous safe harbors, beautiful rivers, gurgling springs and healthful cli- mate, render it a section of growing interest to the crowded denizens of the older States and neighboring provinces. Added to the advantages already enu- merated, there are numberless others of material moment, — spanned by railroads, underlaid by ex- haustless quarries of li me rock, building and grind stone, with untold subterranean reservoirs of salt, and with a subsoil which for general purposes of husbandry in ease of clearing and richness cannot be surpassed. In brief, the peninsula possesses all the advantages of older sections — foremost in its schools, educational facilities and churches; dotted with live, rapidly growing villages; enjoying the most ample mercantile facilities, and with every advan- tage in lines of railroad, steam and sailing vessels, and close proximity to the leading markets. The peninsula is traversed by the Black River, which empties its waters into the St. Clair at Port Huron, and the Cass River, with its head waters in Huron County, which empties into the Saginaw River near Saginaw. Indeed, the Huron Peninsula has a water- shed distinct from that of the east of the State. The central portion of the peninsula is an elevated plateau, rising some 400 feet in Sanilac and Tuscola Counties, and extending into a range of hills in the southern portion of Huron County. No portion, how- ever, of this hilly country is so broken as to render it undesirable for agricultural purposes. Indeed, this is the quality of land sought by practical agricultur- ists who are familiar with the hills of New York and Pennsylvania, and which form a desirable contrast to the more level and monotonous sections. From this plateau rise and flow a considerable number of streams in all directions, some north into Lake Huron, some west into Saginaw Bay, others east into the St. Clair River, and yet others into the Cass on the south and thence west into Saginaw Bay. Huron County is the head of the Huron Penin- sula, and Sanilac, with a part of Tuscola, forms the base. Originally, Sanilac included all this territor)', after it was detached from St. Clair, in 1S49, until Huron County was organized. The permanent county lines were then drawn, and the county is now bounded on the north by Huron County, on the west by Tuscola and Lapeer, on the south by St. Clair, and on the east by Lake Huron. It is trav- ersed from southwest to the north central line by what is knovvii as the " Huckleberry Marsh," which has an average width of three and a half miles. Within a few years this will no longer be known as a marsh, but must be called a garden, since the rich soil after drainage brings forth "an hundred-fold." On either side of this marsh the land rises, and on the east toward the lake becomes rolling, even bkiflfy in places along the shore. Its rivers have ! 4 i< -^^^(^J^ Mi m^^"^ SANILAC COUNTY. 4^^f^vM; 473 r h been traced, and the growth and history of its villages will be found in the history of the several townships. -t 4- The Soil. ^ ^•G3|f HE soil covering Sanilac County is almost |i entirely formed of drift, or else of alluvial "• material. That is to say, it is comminuted and triturated fragmental rock masses and of layer blocks of the various formations, trans- ported from the north by moving glaciers and floating icebergs, or washed to the spot by currents of water. According to the best evidences, the entire country under consideration was deeply submerged at a time subsequent to the glacial period. This loose material covers almost the entire face of the Huron Peninsula, as it does in a great measure the entire State, forming a layer of more than 200 feet in depth. This drift soil is per.nanently adapted to the growth of plants. Its composition, of a great variety of min- eral substances, furnishes an ine.xhaustible supply of those constituents necessary for successful vegetable life. Occasionally there is to be found on the shore, especially on the west shore, a limited area covered with a light, sterile, sandy drift. In other places oc- curs a heavy, fertile clay soil. But in most instances the drift soil upon the Huron Peninsula is composed of a mixture of clay with sand and gravel, which combines all the properties requisite to the produc- tion of a rich vegetation. It is easily tilled, suffi- ciently retentive of moisture during dry periods, and amply porous in wet seasons to prevent the drowning of crops. The actual experiments in agriculture for several years demonstrate the most favorable theories of the geologist to be well founded. In various por- tions of the county are found large beds of gravel, highly valuable for road building. On the shore is sand which upon test is found to be of the best cpial- ity for the manufacture of glass. In several localities, as well, is found a heavy clay, free from limestone, and admirably adapted to the making of brick and tile. Twent-five years ago this county was an almost unbroken, desolate wilderness, covered with a heavy growth of timber, consisting of beech, maple and other hard woods, and pine and hemlock of the softer varieties. At that time there was an occasional farm. Along the shore the lumber trade had stimulated the formation and growth of several small villages, but no general effort had been made looking to the culti- vation of the soil. The opinion was prevalent, both here and elsewhere, that pine lands were worthless for agricultural purposes, and consequently the emi- gration to this county was entirely in the lumbering interest. It was not until the great mass of the pine had been exhausted that the attention of the people became directed to its grand adaptability to agricul- ture. It took but little time for the practical agricul- turists to discover that tlie preconceived ideas in respect to the county and its capabilities were en- tirely erroneous, and that which had been deemed thin and sterile soil possessed the strength and every attriljute for the prolific production of all farm prod- ucts. In the earlier days, around the shanties of the lumbermen, small garden spots were cleared, and through the admirable growth of the garden products was discovered the value of the soil. Whilst pine was scattered over the county it was in no excess, but was almost invariably intermingled with hemlock, maple, elm, birch and a great variety of other timber. When the discovery was made that the lands were not pine lands, emigration became at- tracted to the section solely upon the merits of the soil, and without any stimulation by individuals or interested associations, and to-day what was an al- most unbroken wilderness contains twenty flourishing villages and is dotted with thrifty-appearing farms. _j_..<^. 3-V>— S- Climate. I^V®))«^#- ■^7■ #^ .474 SANILAC COUNTY. V The winter of 1883-4, which was exceptionally severe, the lowest point reached at the Sand Beach station was ic° above that at Lansing. The sum- mers are rarely accompanied by the excessive heat experienced in the interior portions of the State. The - ■^ dense, muggy days, so oppressive alike to man and beast, which accompany certain seasons in many localities, are of rare occurrence in Sanilac County, and fogs are infrequent. While but little cloudy weather is witnessed, frequent, agreeable and essen- tially valuable rains occur. So clearly is the atmos- phere happily affected by the peculiar location of the county in regard to its water surroundings, that an hour suffices after a rain fall for the appearance of bright skies and healthful atmosphere. No spot is more desirable and agreeable for summer residences than is the Huron Peninsula. The same influences which operate to cool the air of summer have the peculiarity of operating equally happily, but exactly contrary, during the winter season. During the months of summer the vast bodies of surrounding /fS water, through their continual motion while under >= exposure to the rays of the sun and warm atmos- VjJ phere, becomes heightened in temperature; and as it ==i retains this temperature much longer than the sur- •'^• rounding; atmosphere, as the change of the season be- y, gins, it tends to modify such surrounding atmospiiere and thereby considerably protracts the mildness of the season. Indeed, it is a notable fact that the Huron Peninsula enjoys the most delightful autumns of any portion of the whole country. This gives all kinds of fruit, cereals and vegetables ample opportu- nity to mature, and the farmer sufficient time to pre- pare for the approaching season. One of the most beneficial effects of the atmosphere created by these deep waters in tempering the severity of the winter is in the preservation of the buds of the less hardy fruit trees, this peculiarity of atmos- phere of the Huron Peninsula partaking of the temperature of the water, which, being materially above the freezing point, mingles with the cooler body, lessening the severity of the severer seasons. This fact has been clearly demonstrated by a long series of tests which leave no possible doubt upon the subject. As was before mentioned, the fall sea- son is greatly prolonged, and the early frosts, which sometimes affects the interior of the State, are of ex- tremely rare occurrence, and therefore the crops of O Sanilac County have the most advantageous op^rortu- nities for maturing. Another favorable condition, and one worthy of mention, is the freedom of the Huron Peninsula from the prevalence of those high winds which are so frequent in occurrence in the prairie sections of the Great West. The devastating "blizzards," ac- companied by blinding dust in summer, and paralyz- ing snow in winter, and which constitute one of the great terrors of so many western sections from whence emanate active exertions to attract emigra- tion, are unknown to this county. Crops. EADING, as it does, in the two great essen- tials for crop-raising — climate and soil — Sanilac County yields abundant returns for the labor of her farmers. As is the case with ^^ nearly the entire State of Michigan, wheat is I the staple product of this county, though other products are raised at a good profit. To the cultivation of wheat the farmer has given the greatest attention, and the results have proven that the soil and climate are favorable in the most satisfactory manner to its successful cultivation, while the quality of the grain is equal to the very best raised in the State. This happy condition of the aptitude of the soil of Sanilac County for the successful growth of the great Ameri- can cereal product, the truth of which being sub- stantiated by public official reports and by the testi- mony of the most experienced agriculturists, is of the utmost interest to the farmers of sections less favored in soil productiveness. Although the farms of the county are new, and the tillage consequently imperfect, the yield is consider- ably above the average of the growth throughout the State. When the tillage is advanced to that degree of perfection reached by the older portion of the country, Sanilac county will stand, in quality as well as quantity, by the side of the best wheat-bearing counties of Michigan. Indeed, in the south and east portions of the county, which have been settled longest, the average yield at the present time equals that of the most productive fields of other parts of the State. While wheat ranks first in order of pro- *>^ A c< (0 -^«r: ^T^^tm-g^nilr^''^? ^^^^ rrvSi^Bli^UU^^^ ■^asfi^J^i;;- 4^^(^ SANILAC COUNTY. &, fQ^ duction, cereals which can be raised in any other portion of the State grow equally well in Sanilac County, and in many instances surpass all other sec- tions. In illustration, we may cite in instance, peas. Tliis article, which mildews, becomes worm-eaten and is almost a valueless crop in the southern portion of the State to such an extent that attempts at their cultivation has been almost wholly abandoned, are raised bounlifully in Sanilac County. While the yield of oats is perhaps not equal to that of some other counties of the State, yet they can be satisfac- torily cultivated in this county. Corn can be raised easily and advantageously. In Sanilac County there are large tracts of land which may practically be termed " corn lands." This land is to be found in various portions of the county, and is to become of the greatest value and aid to agricultural success in the near future. While tliere are, as intimated be- fore, large tracts of particular choice land, all of the county is susceptible of prolific yield. Barley, both as to quality and quantity, is far above the average. Three hundred bushels is not an infrequent yield of potatoes, while in quality they excel those of nearly any other section. In the line of agriculture, among those articles which maybe grown may be specified: wheat, Indian corn, oats, barley, rye, buckwheat, clover seed, peas, potatoes, hay, hops, honey, maple sugar, tobacco, apples, peaches, pears, plums, cher- ries, grapes, strawberries, currants, gooseberries, etc. ; also wool, mutton, pork, beef, butter, cheese, cider and wine. The extraordinary growth of grass in Sanilac County has stimulated farmers to give extra attention to stock-raising. With such success has stock-raising been attended, that appearances point conclusively to the fact that in the near future this profitable and agreeable branch of farming will be- come one of the great elements of prosperity of the county. Fruit. Sl^ HILE tlie luxuries of this life are not ^jj equally distributed over the surface of ''^'§^.^^' the whole country, some sections abound :> in those delicacies which please the ai)pe- tite, while others, through the actions of ^' nature and the labors of the soil tiller, yield alone the commoner essentials necessary to human life. In providing a home where one is to spend his days, seeking to secure a competence which shall render less irksome his declining days, the desire also to so select a spot which shall be of endurance suffi- cient to form a home for his descendants forms part and parcel of his desires, and it is well that the mat- ter is taken into consideration. Again, the quality of food eaten by individuals, the cliaracter of climate and even the surrounding scenery have a direct in- fluence in molding the character of the inhabitants of a section. The mountaineer becomes, after a few generations, a sinewy, bold, daring man, while the dweller of the plains, dwelling amid scenes of refine- ment, partakes of the nature of his surroundings. In its native wildness the Huron Peninsula, with its running streams, broad lakes and bay and vast for- ests, spontaneously yielded the most delicious of wild fruits. When Father Marquette and his Jesuit brothers paddled around our beautiful peninsula 200 years ago, dropping here and there a few apple and pear trees along with the seed of tlie word, they little dreamed of the great future that was indicated for Michigan in the thrifty growth of seedling fruit-trees that were to spring up along their pathway. A few of these old trees, and some that were planted <& few years later, are still found in various places on the shores of Lakes Huron and Michigan, and are healthy and strong, bearing regular crops of fruit, monuments of the adaptability of the peninsula to the cultivation of the apple and pear. Since the great fires which destroyed the forest and assisted in clearing up the county the wild fruit-trees have been replaced by large orchards containing every variety of fruit known to Michigan. While peaches are not cultivated on the peninsula with as great success as is met upon the western shore of the State, still they are cultivated with far greater success than is found in the interior, and in Sanilac County give a more than satisfactory yield. Pears and plums are in every respect an ex- traordinary crop, and in no portion of the State can be found a county excelling Sanilac either in the quality or quantity of these fruits. Generally these patches of trees have been spared, while the stately pine and oak and hemlock have succumbed to the blows of the woodman's ax, and their places are now occupied by fertile fields. So popular have these fruits become in the markets of the cities and in the lumbering regions, that purchasing agents of the Vfo) () ^: (•) ^ ^m #58- 476 <^:llIi^DIl^> V^:t- SANILAC COUNTY. ■^•^^^■iisr' *4?^^C(®V^^ larger produce houses pass through the section in advance of the harvest, contracting the entire crop to tbe dehvered in its seasons at the highest market figures. In this respect the Huron Peninsula has (§11 greatly the advantage over all those western States and Territories where no one of these choice fruits are raised and all varieties of fruit are required to be imported for consumption. While- peaches, pears, plums, cherries and grapes excel in Sanilac County, it will readily be inferred that the apple production must necessarily be of equal value in magnitude and quality of production. Such is the case, and the growing apple orchards of the peninsula give promise of the greatest encouragement. In this culture of fruit in this county not unfrequently a single acre feahzes several hundred dollars after the family demand for fruit has been fully supplied. In addi- tion to the excellence of yield and quality there must be taken into consideration the contiguity of the county to the markets and the ease of access. In addition to its railroad facilities, steam or sailing vessels ply daily from the shore towns of the county to Port Huron and to Detroit. I J>^ rr iiMrs:^"- SANILAC COUNTY. 477 'W (b P V s effecting any improvements which should not be durable. A high post-and-board fence was also put up this year on the south side of the grounds, and included two or three acres of land, which the society proposed to purchase by voluntary subscription. The improvements, as a matter of course, placed the society deeply in debt; but be it said to the credit of those who did the work, that nearly all the labor needed was voluntary — nothing being charged for it. The fair was held on the loth and nth of Octo- ber, that year, and the efforts of the society were abundantly fruitful, tlie receipts amounting to almost enough to pay all the premiums awarded ; yet the expenses of the year, including the late improve- ments, had been large, and these, with the payment again due on the land, for which the annual tax from the county was half enough, left a great deficiency in the treasury, which must be filled in some way. At this crisis, those who had donated most liber- ally before, both labor and money, came forward again and proposed not only to donate their premiums, many of which were the largest on the list, but also to start a subscription and push it vigorously until sufficient funds were raised to lift the society from all indebtedness and purchase the land east of the grounds belonging to the society. The list of sub- scriptions was started, with a contribution of $5 from nearly all of the members, and the premium-holders were not slow to adopt the suggestion of the leaders, so that the accounts of the society were once more almost to a balance. By this method the grounds were enlarged from year to year, and improvements added as the society became able. ^0 — ?>—;-<- — • Salt. RIOR to the settlement of Michigan by white men the Indians supplied themselves SsF'1^ with, salt from the saline springs of the k~) Saginaw Valley and Huron Peninsula. In it 1859 a well was sunk at East Saginaw to the depth of 650 feet, and was the first to obtain brine in paying quantities. Of late the Michigan product of salt has largely exceeded that of any other State. Huron County is largely interested in the manufacture of salt. The best quality sell promptly for dairy and family use, and it is believed that the same stratum underlies the eastern portion of Sanilac. It is predicted that within a few years an attempt will be made to test the matter, when, it is hoped, Sanilac will be able to compete with her neighbor on the north in this production. ^'' vi c^: (k ^^^^ eACillII^IlIl>>^^ ^''^ -#^^f(®>^ m^ .478 ^, ^mm \[^^>^ — :^^^ ^^m\^ SANILAC COUNTY. (dS .-^a.'i3>: ia?f^ ^m -m:^ fev;.;a; HE total area of Sanilac County in square miles is about 1,050, which, reduced to acres, becomes 672,000, and at an average value of 10 per acre, which is low, ^ the real estate of the county can be said to be worth a round ,000,000. This is not more than one-third of what the value will be after the county is all put into tillable shape. In its ■*\ wild state the value of this land JW was but little over $1,000,000; but its adaptability to agriculture pur- poses has raised this to its present value, which is capable of being pushed up to $40,000,000. All this vast latent wealth and territory, with all north of it to Saginaw Bay, was formerly included within the boundaries of Lexington Township ; but the Legislative act, in 1848, organizing the county, also organized the two additional townships of Worth and Sanilac. The former included what is now the southern tier of townships in the county. The ne.\t strip of six miles wide, longitudinally extending from the lake back to Lapeer County, was set off as Lex- ington Township, and Sanilac embraced all the ter- ritory north of that. The organization of the other townships is given under their proper headings, but the misplacing of the various records when the great fires occurred, and at other times, made it difficult for the compiler to ascertain the exact dates in many cases. The county now has 26 townships, the one most recently organized being Wheatland, which was created in 1881. They are all of the regulation size except those made otherwise by the irregularity of the lake shore, and Marlette, which has the addi- tion of the half town south of it, in the same range. A short sketch of each is appended, and a careful perusal will repay the reader, as the development of the county is there shown, step by step. •5 #-# 1^ Jjexington, Township and Village. m^^-i HIS being the town which fostered the growth of this section before it was a coun- . ty, its antiquity deserves the first consider- »le) ation. The township covers town 10 (north), of ranges 16 and fractional 19. The credit of being the first settler is generally given to John Smith, who hunted and fished on the shore as early as 1835; but he made no permanent improvements, and those who came later found nothing in this township to indicate that a permanent settler had ever been here. The first actual settler in the vil- lage and one of the first, if not the first, in the town- v|) 9 A >: ( r^ -.^^^te: ^VC>I1 ll>: I Hn>-?' -«s#^ SANILAC COUNTY. D!l^llDft>^ until 185 1, when the Hubbards built the first dock, to accommodate the business of their saw-mill, which was erected in 1847. Much of the early history of this village is given in the chapter on pioneer life. The first hotel in the village, town and county was built and kept by C. L. Mills, on the present site of the Cadillac, in 1840. Mr. Mills kept the place but a short time when he traded it to James Yakes for the farm now owned in part by Luther D. Mills, two miles west of the village. Shortly after this, Mr. Yakes sold to J. VV. Buel, whose mother, Mrs. Mary Buel, kept the place until the house was removed or torn down to make room for the present Cadillac, which was opened July 4, 1S60. The Cadillac was built by John L. Wood, and named for Gen. De La Motte Cadillac, who founded Fort Ponchartrain at Detroit in 1701. Jeremiah Jenks was the first pro- prietor and kept it until 1 863, when William Wilson took it for a year. Amos James thert rented and kept it for two years, at the expiration of which time Mr. Wood sold the property to John Cole, in 1866. After some other changes, occupying two years, Mr. James returned from Port Huron, whither he had gone after the last sale, purchased the property and remained its owner, but finally turned over the pro- prietorship to his son. Will D. James. The Cad'Uac has a livery in connection with the house. At pres- ent there is only one other hotel in Lexington, the Henry House, which was formerly the Parsons House. This house also has a livery in connection. It was purchased by George Henry, in 1871, and in 1878 he added a lumber yard to his business. The village of Lexington grew rapidly in numbers and importance after 1849, being the county seat at that time, and in 1855 was incorporated. The re- moval of the county seat took with it the portion of business pertaining thereto, but the commerce of the village remained unimpaired, and to-day, with a pop- ulation of 1,200, it is one of the most prosperous and substantial business centers on the lakeshore. One of the oldest and most prosperous firms in Lexington is Tewksbury, Papst & Co. This house was established in 1849, by J. L. Wood, who con- ducted the business for nine years and then admitted W. I. Nims as a partner, the style of the firm becom- ing J. L. Wood & Co., which continued until 1863, when Benjamin Farrington also became a partner, and the firm was changed to Wood, Nims & Co. After two years Mr. Farrington retired, and with him ^S^f^ ^ c) 480 v<>|]||^:DDr> T SANILAC COUNTY. 4^5(©^-ii the "Co." of the firm name. No more changes were made until 1873, when S. C. Tewksbury purchased !^> an interest, and the name was changed to Nims, I Tewksbury & Co. In 1880 Rudolph Papst pur- (hj chased the interest of Mr. Nims and the present firm name was adopted, — Tewksbury, Papst & Co. Mr. Wood retired in 1884 and Mrs. L. A. Tewks- bury became a partner. The business of the firm is very extensive, embracing three large stores, which display large stocks of dry goods, groceries, crockery, hardware, school books, etc., etc. A large feed store and a lumber yard are kept in connection with the other business, and the firm also deals in grain and live stock. The other busiuess of the village as it appears to-day, with the date of establishment, is as follows : John L. Bell & Son, drugs, paints, oils, fir.e cigars and fancy groceries. The business was established ) about 1848, and is the oldest of the kind in the ^ county. Bernard Miller, merchant tailoring, established = 1851. ^^ W. M. Grice, saw-mill supplies, steam and gas ™ fixtures, guns, revolvers, cutlery, sewing-machines '^y and supplies. Mr. Grice started in with a smal' gun S store in 1864, and by T875 he was able to add a planing-mill to his business. J. P. Niggeman, jewelry and books, established 1863. M. Smith & Son, boots and shoes, tinware and bakery, established in 1864. F. Komoll, clothing and tailoring, established 1873- Jonathan Frostick, shoe shop, established 1873. John Schmidt, shoe shop, established 187 8. F. Hicks & Son, only exclusive boot and shoe store in Lexington, established 1873. Bernard Fox, harness, saddles and horse hardware, established 1854. R. D. Sherrick, furniture, cabinet -ware and under- taking. This was the first store of the kind started ^V on the Huron Peninsula, being established in 1849. :i Mr. Sherrick has a large planing-mill and cabinet- ^M shop, which were established at the same time as his q^ store, and he is also an extensive architect. ^ . G. H. Mason, 99-cent store, dry goods, notions, (^ groceries. Mr. Mason purchased this business of ZL Mrs. Ida Allen in 1882. ^) Mrs. S. Goulding, millinery store, established 1877. Mrs. C. A. Vasey, notions, established 1883. " Clarkes," dry goods, groceries, hardware, crock- ery, boots, shoes, hats, caps, ready-made clothing and general merchandise; also dealers in grain and country produce. The firm is composed of E. B. and Daniel Clark, and was established in 1869. Mrs. Daniel Clark has a fine stock of millinery and fancy goods in the same store. She also keeps a fine line of zephyrs, Saxony and Germantown yarns and stamped goods. Mrs. Clark is the successor of Miss Martha Vasey, who established one of the first, if not the first, millinery store in the county. W. T. Lee, groceries, books and stationery, con- fectionery and notions, in the postoffice building. Mr. Lee purchased this business of Mr. S. Burgess, who established it in 1872. C. C. L. Sly, furniture, cabinet-ware, undertaker and builder, established 187S. Michael Meyers, blacksmith, established 1869. Wm. Mclntyre, photographer, established 1877. Andrew Monroe, saloon, bakery and grocery, es- tablished 1864. Purkiss Brothers, brewery and saloon, established in 1884. The brewery was formerly owned and run by F. L. Walters. Its capacity is about 12 barrels per day. George Lord, bakery and confectionery, estab- lished 1882. George Oles, barber, established 1854. Charles Miller, barber, established 1875. Fenton & Cruikshank, blacksmith, established 1868. Purkiss & Son, meat market, established 1875. Wm. White, meat market, established 1S82. Lexington Bank of B. R. Noble, established in 1876. Beach & Macklem (Watson Beach, Wilford Mack- lem), attorneys, established in 1865. This firm was formerly Nims & Beach, but Mr. C. S. Nims moved from the county in 1882, and was succeed by Mr. Macklem. The original firm owned and controlled the Jcffcisonian, but this is now the property of Mr. Beach alone. John Divine, the first attorney in the county, opened an office in 1850. In 1859 W. S. Mills be- came a partner, and the style of the firm was I Divine & Mills. Two years later Mr. Mills received 1 < ( m ^^^ -^^^^ — ^r<^^iin:^(m^>r rr v% 6) :-<$ SANILAC COUNTY. 481 an appointment in the Treasury Department at ^1? Washington, and Mr. Divine conducted the office .<|i alone for a year or more, or until a partnership was formed with L. L. Wixson. This partnership was maintained for 18 years, when Mr. Wixson was elected Judge of the i6th Judicial Circuit (composed of Sanilac, Huron and Tuscola Counties), and Mr. J. W. Babcock took his place in company with Mr. Divine, the firm at present being styled Divine & Babcock. SOCIETIES. Lexington Lodge, No. 61, F. ^ A. M., was insti- tuted in 1853, and Hiram Bacon, now deceased, was its first W. M. The membership is now 144. For a number of years this was the only Masonic lodge in the county ; and at one time it had a membership of more than 200, but at the present time there are five lodges in the county, and all of them drew members from Lexington Lodge in order to organize. Damascus Chapter, No. 41, Royal Arch Masons, was chartered in 1865, and Arthur M. Clark was the first High Priest. The membership is now 92 mem- bers. Lexington Commandcry, No. 2 J, Knights Templars, was chartered in 1867, and George Smith was the first Eminent Commander. The membership is now 60 members. The Masonic Hall is one of the finest lodge rooms in the State. The building cost more than $1 1,000, and is elegantly furnished by the fraternity. It is owned by the Masons and Village of Lexington jointly. H. H. Nims Post, No. 118, G. A. R., Department of Michigan, was organized in March, 1883, at Lexing- ton. The first officers were : Post Commander, R. Papst ; Senior Vice Commander, George Henry; Junior Vice Commander, Josiah Reynolds; Quarter- master, John Wyllis ; Officer of the Day, H. H. Huff- man; Adjutant, O. Yake ; Surgeon, J. J. Bayed; Chaplain, J. B. Lucas; Sergeant Major, Watson Beach ; Quartermaster Sergeant, L Papst. The Post has increased in membership from 27 to 52, in good standing. Council No. JJ, Royal Arcanum, was organized in 1878. The principal work of this fraternity is mu- tual life insurance. Lexington Library Association. — In the autumn of 1870 very creditable steps were taken to form a library association, with Charles S. Nims as President, and Charles Partridge as Treasurer and Anthony Brunk as Librarian. The rooms were located in Fox's block, and about $150 subscribed as the initia- tory contribution. This sum, with that already re- ceived from the leoal appropriation, was expected to purchase books and sufficient periodicals for a read- ing room in connection with it, and also defray the current expenses for the ensuing year, the idea being that the library should be free. No charge was to be made for its use, but citizens were allowed the privi- lege of contributing to its supijort, — a fact in itself disastrous to longevity. The library was kept up on this plan for two years, or longer, but was never a success, and was finally stored in the book-case of the public schools. It is hoped that a movement will soon be made to re-establish it on a permanent basis. The Ladies' Aid Society was organized in Septem- ber, 1873, as a "Methodist society irrespective of denomination," designed for the benefit and main- tenance of religious worship. The first President was Mrs. L. L. Wixson, and Mrs. W. Lee was the first Vice-President. A fee of ten cents was to be paid every member at every meeting, with an initiation fee of 20 cents. The society is of an industrial nature, and with occasional socials the ladies have accom- plished great good. Croswell. HE name of this village was "Davisville" until the general change which took place in almost everything on the advent of the Port Huron & Northwestern Railroad, when the name was changed to " Croswell," in honor of Gov. Croswell. Since that time the village has experienced a new era, and is now noted for its neatness, enterprise and general business thrift. Its eariy history is similar to that of the surrounding country in the early days. Indians lingered around for five or six years after the first settlements were made. They traded baskets of their own make to the pioneers for salt, flour and pork. They were very friendly, and often the citizens would haul their canoes from Davisville ^ A <^iD II .^vl]lli>V^* ^^^ SANILAC COUNTY. f 2) ^ to I,exington for them. Meetings were held in the school-house, now known as the " District School- house." Rev. Clark King, of Kentucky, preached the first sermons here, to a Methodist congregation, and often the Indians would attend, enjoying the service and claiming to be as good Methodists as anybody. The first frame building erected in Davisville stands now on the west bank of the river, just east of the residence of Mrs. M. Davis. It was erected in the summer of 1849, and the following year the present house of Mrs. Davis was built. The school-house was built in the fall of 185 i. Randall E. Davis donated the lots for it, and was much interested in the erection of the building. The first teacher was Miss Mary Hart (later Mrs. John Robb). The pupils were the children of Mr. Davis, Mr. Stevenson and Mr. Hart, numbering ten or eleven in all. Mr. Davis completed the erection of a water mill commenced by Ephraim Pierce in 1845, which was the first mill in these parts. The mill was such a success that when the final payments were to be made, Mr. Pierce concluded to retain a half interest in it. This partnership continued for about six months, when Mr. Stevenson bought the interest of Mr. Pierce, and a grist-mill was added to the saw- mill. This was run night and day through the year, except a few weeks in the summer when the water was low, until 1854 or 1855, when the water became so low that the power failed and the mill was aban- doned. A steam mill was then built, which was operated until 1861, when it was burned to the ground during a severe storm. The fire was thought to have been set by the lightning, though incendiar- ism was charged by many worthy witnesses. The first house of worship in Davisville was the United Presbyterian church, and the clergyman was Rev. Mr. McClellan. The lots were donated by Mr. Moffet, of Detroit, who at that time owned a large tract of land in that vicinity. The history of the other, churches will be found in the chapter on that subject. The first Fourth-of-July celebration was held in 1855, on the island below the old mill. It was prin- cipally for the children, but people from miles around attended, and a pleasant time was had. The first wedding in Davisville was in 1852. The happy pair were Miss Maria Hart and Mr. Brown. The first death was that of Miss Helen Crommer, a sister of Mrs. Stevenson, in 1850. The remains were removed to Canada. The present cemetery was laid out in 1853, the ground having been donated by Mr. Davis, and cleared by a logging bee. The first store was a grocery and dry-goods store started by W. T. Jenney. A blacksmith shop had been put up in 1854, and the postofiice was kept here for a number of years. Randall E. Davis was the first Postmaster, being appointed in 1857, and the present Postmaster is M. V. K. Jones, since 1881. How Croswell has grown can be seen from the subjoined list of business houses as they are to-day : Mills & Gaige (Wildman Mills, J. M. Gaige), gen- eral real-estate dealers. The firm was established in i860 as Moss Bros.; then it became Moss & Mills, then Moss, Mills & Gaige, and upon the death of Truman Moss the firm was changed to its present style. It has been largely instrumental in the development and improvement of the raw lands through the central part of the county, and at pres- ent owns several thousand acres of valuable lands in the vicinity. T. B. U'Ren, land office, established 1879. Croswell Stock Brick and'Tile Yard, David Mark- ham, proprietor, established 187 i. The vein of clay at this yard is 40 rods wide, and over one mile long and of unknown depth. It is first-class, and brick from this yard are supplied for large buildings throughout this and other States. The capacity is about 15,000 brick per day. J. H. Richardson, dry goods, groceries and general merchandise, established 1883. Sherk Bros., dry goods and general store, estab- lished 1882. Sanilac County Bank was established Sept. 28, 1882, by J. M. Gaige. It does a large general banking and money-loaning business throughout the county. Horatio J. Emery, M. D., graduate of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons, Kingston, Can- ada, opened an office in May, 1884. G. A. Annand, M. D., graduate of Victoria Uni- versity, Toronto, established himself at Croswell in 1871. Dr. J. Steele, drugs, millinery and fancy goods, established 1S82. Dr. Steele is a graduate of the Detroit Homeopathic College, and Hahnemann Med- ^ V^ A c^: z. i^^f -HSS^^ @))^rf^ -^s^^ crv^"!!! U^ U U^ •>?■ ok' -HSSg^ SANILAC COUNTY (h 1 ^ s ical College, Chicago, and came to Croswell in 1879. P. L. Graham, druggist, established 1882. Brunk cS: Stevens, jewelers, established 1882. E. Gribben, boots and shoes, established 1881. Jjsiah Perry, blacksmith, established 1881. Cephas Arnot, general store, established 1870. Jenney & Stoner, meat market, established 18S4. H. H. Tyrrell, general store, established 1881. Anderson House, W. West proprietor, built 1S79. Franklin House and Livery Stable, H. D. Frank- lin, proprietor, established 1883. James Harvey, carriage and blacksmith shop, es- tablished 1883. H. W. VVixson, general store, erected 1884. Levi Mohorter, barber, established 1884. Samuel Ward, shoe shop, established 1879. C. A. Cowan, bakery, established 1883. Kennedy & Clunas, meat market and stock deal- ers, established 1879. The Croswell Cheese Factory was started in 1880, and is the only cheese factory in the township. J. H. Murdaugh is the proprietor, and the building was erected by William Mills, hi the present season, from May i to Sept. i, 622,287 pounds of milk received was made into 59,763 pounds of cheese on commission, the farmers furnishing their own milk and receiving cheese, which is disposed of generally in Liverpool and other ports of Europe at from 9 to 1 2 cents per pound. A. R. Haist, furniture and undertaking, established 1881. N. P. Houghtalin, hardware, established i88i. W. S. Gibson, druggist, established 1879. H. J. Heard, tinware, established 1884. Chas. McCormick, saddles and harness, estab- lished 1 88 1. Wixson & Pannell, hardware and groceries, es- tablished 1889. W. J. Hannah, general store, established 1S84. C. E. Pettys, agricultural implements, established 1881. Thompson & Stuart, flouring-mill, established 1S80. The capacity of this mill is 60 to 75 barrels per day, and the flour is of a superior quality. Croszwll Democrat, Horatio Pratt, editor and proprietor. The Z'd'//wtV(// was established in 1880 as a Democratic paper, but, espousing the cause of the laborer, it supported Gen. Butler in the cam- paign of 1884. The paper has a job office in con- nection, and enjoys a growing prosperity. A large Opera House was finished in the spring of 1883. The hall is 52 x 80 feet, with a 20-foot stage, and a seating capacity of 1,200. There are two large store rooms below, and the whole building cost about $20,000. The Croswell Cornet Band was organized in 1878, with 14 pieces. The organization is not chartered, but the property is owned in company. The present officers are : President, Wm. Straffon ; Secretary, George Smith ; Treasurer, Thomas Pomeroy ; Leader, Joseph Lee. Meeting nights are on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The Parochial Society is a social organization of the ladies of the Episcopal Church for general benef- icence and home mission work. It was organized about the same time as the establishment of the Church (1870), with Mrs. Julia H. Mills as the first President. The President now is Mrs. Horatio Pratt. The church was moved to its present location in the spring of 1883, and the Parochial Society purchased the lots for this for $225. The society contributes to the support of the pastor $100 annually, which is made by socials, sewing, etc. At a large Fourth-of- July celebration in 187 i, the society raised $108 to pay for the church bell, and the entertainments given by the ladies have always been very popular. The foregoing is a history of the settlement and development of Lexington Township, except the record of the schools and churches, which will be found in the chapter on those subjects. Being one of the first towns organized, Lexington has always had a representation in the Board of Supervisors, and the following is the list of her' Supervisors from the first : C. M. Mills, MarkCarrington, C. M. Mills, W. A. Nichols, C. M. Mills, Hiram Bacon, Israel Huckins, Daniel Wixson, Israel Huckins, James Hunter, Henry Weideman, James G. Hunter, John Sheldon, James G. Hunter, 1850 185 I 1852 1853 1854 1855 1856 1857-60 1861 1863-4 1865-8 1869 1870 187 1-3 ' — ' $«^^ A<.^Da^nn;>^r9 — ^»^ 484 ■7<^ail)$illll>^-: rrr- -es^ I^^^C^ SAN/LAC COUNTY. ? X (^ % Henry Weideman, James G. Hunter, Henry Weideman, John Atkinson, 1874-7 1878-9 So- 1 32 Worth Township. if N the early times township-making had to lit be conducted on an economical scale as far as inhabitants were concerned, but great latitude was allowed in measuring off the terri- tory. When Worth was organized, in 1849, it eiribraced all of its present territory, with the addition of the present townships of Fremont, Speaker, and Maple Valley. It was reduced from time to time, as the country settled, and there began to be enough people on the west to make more town- ships, until now it is the regulation size of No. 9 north, range 16 east, with a fraction of the same number of range 17, and is bounded on the west by Fremont, north by Lexington Township, east by Lake Huron, and south by St. Clair County. The first permanent settlers were the father of Mr. M. Carrington, with his family, and Mr. N. Hollister and his family. (See the chapter on the pioneers.) Mr. Carrington has the credit of putting up the first frame building in the township — a barn on the lake road, one and a half miles south of Lexington, in 1837 — -though this is disputed. In 1840 a school-house was built in the northeast corner of the township, and called the " Red School- house," which was the first; and there was no church until the Methodist Episcopals built one at Amadore in 1859. Amadore is a small village in the center of the township, where there are two stores, a blacksmith shop, a church, a school and a postoffice. There was a heavy forest fire in this township in 1856, and one again in 1864. No lives were lost, but a vast amount of timber was burned, which made way for the present beautiful farms, that equal, if not surpass, those of any other part of the Huron Peninsula. The fires 1871 and 1881 did not do much damage, as the country was about cleared by that time. ■ Bear, deer, elk and wolves were very numerous in this township in the early years, and a moose was , (|^^f|.. ^i^^^— _^;:i_A<-^[| g ;^: killed here as late as 1856. The entire to.vnship was largely sprinkled with sugar trees, and the con- sequent abundance of herbivorous animals, which fed on the succulent buds, was a standing invitation to the Indians in Canada to indulge their sports. The Indians also had extensive sugar camps here, but after 1838 the small-pox made such ravages among them that they did not return. Many of their remains are found now, in the cultivation of the fields, as their dead were buried very shallow, and it was only by the most careful efforts of Jonathan Hollister that they were induced to return and bury their dead at all. Worth has the honor of furnishing the first Repre- sentative from this county to the Legislature, in the person of Peter H. Benedict, who was also the first Supervisor. The list of Supervisors has been as follows : distance for men to travel who had any township business ; so a petition succeeded in apportioning to Lexington all of town 10 through the ranges from 12 to 17 east, and leaving the remainder of the country north as San- ilac Township. This was done in 1849, when it was found that there were a sufficient number of settlers to fill the offices and effect a township organization. There is considerable difference of memory among the pioneers of the present day, as to who were the V^' Peter H. Benedict, 1850-2 Norton Hollister, 1853 Peter H. Benedict, 1854 George Smith, 1855 Alexander G. Galbraith, 1856 Phillip L. Wixson, 1857^9 Andrew Macklem, i860 Phillip L. Wixson, 1861 George Huckins, Jr., 1863-6 Daniel Wixson, 1867-9 George Mclntyre, 1870-2 N. Hollister, 1873 Peter H. Benedict, i874~5 Joshua Wixson, 1876-81 Geo. Hinkson, Jr., 1882 ■•<-4-'4##5^>"^ Sanilac Township and Village. Hi^ROM the extreme northern point on the ll^jj^C Huron Peninsula to Lexington was a long 9 i (^ 'Ms"^^^^^ SANILAC COUNTY. *-<>^.: V Ss\;a ^ first actual settlers, as lumbering was carried on by a large number of men who at first did not intend to settle here, but afterward took up claims. Among the first comers into what is now Sanilac Township, were William Austin, Michael Joseph and Charles Maskell, and Hill Carney, all coming about 1844. The Maskells settled in the south central part of the township, and Mr. Austin took up a claim on the site of the present village of Port Sanilac, which was then known as "Bark Shanty Point." The name came from a small bark shanty, built several years before (probably 1840) on the beach by some Detroit tan- ners who came up to make tan-bark. This was the first building erected in the township, and the first along the shore for several miles. After 1854 the township began to settle rapidly. The name of the village remained thus until 1857, when the citizens petitioned the Post-Office Depart- ment to change it to the more enphonious name of Port Sanilac. Anthony Oldfield, William Thomson, Hugh and Quintin Thomson, under the name of Thomson, Old- field & Co., built a saw-mill on the beach near the bark shanty in 1848, which was the first mill in these parts. This company also kept a stock of general merchandise for the accommodation of settlers, but the first regular store was started by U. Raymond a year later. The first frame dwelling in the village and town- ship was built by William Austin in 1849, and is still standing east of the Exchange Hotel. Uriah Raymond taught the first school in the township, in a small log house in the southwest part of town II. He taught for $10 per month, which was good salary at that time, and "boarded round." One of his pupils in the first term was a married lady, who came to school with her own children. The following year the first school-house was built, on section 6. The first school in the village was taught by Miss Clara Finleyson, in 1S50. The first wedding was that of Paul Shirley to Miss Marshall, the ceremony being performed by Justice Ensign Hill in 1850. The pioneers remember that the bride's family were opposed to the match, but the contracting parties slipped away, and before any one was aware they had gone to the Justice. Hastening to the office of the legal functionary, the enraged relatives demanded the proceedings to stop ; but 485^ they were too late. The fatal words had just been pronounced John Oles fell under the wheel of a heavy logging wagon in 1850 and died from the effects of the injury, which was the first death in the township. He was buried in the present cemetery, which, however, was not laid out until September, 1856. The ground at first comprised but one acre, but was enlarged in 1874 to two acres and again in 1882 to nearly four acres. The first Postmaster was William VanCamp, who was appointed by President Pierce in 1854, holding it but two weeks, when U. Raymond took it for two years. James Yakes then held it until i860, when the present Postmaster, S. CoppernoU, was ap- pointed, and has held the office ever since, with the exception of about four weeks in 1864. Thomas Thompson was then the Postmaster. Previous to the establishment of the postoffice here, the mail was carried from Pine Hill, five miles south, once a week, by some one volunteering. The postoftice at Pine Hill was continued for several years after the one at Bark Shanty was established, but was discontinued in 1881. After Thomson, Oldfield cSc Co's store, and U. Raymond's, the next general store was started by S. CoppernoU, in 1852. He continued this store for 17 years, and then made it a drug store exclusively. The other business of Port Sanilac is as follows : C. M Oldfield, double store, general merchan- dise, established 1876. James Thomson, general merchandise, established 1872. D. E. Mead, shoe store, established 1878. J. Ogden, blacksmith, established 1883. William Riley, harness shop, established 1875. Frederick Plates, drugs, established 1879. George Katzenmeier, merchant tailor, established 1882. Mills & Sullivan, millinery and fancy goods, estab- lished 1880. Joseph Coates, shoe shop, established 1S64. O. F. Raymond, established 1883. T. & J. S. Thomson, general merchandise, estab- lished 1856. J. T. Daily, hardware, established 1879. William VanCamp, bakery, established 1879. M. N. Mugan, attorney, opened his office in 1880. VI. r c c< 1 H^iiii^nii>>^ ^c^^ ^ (^ '0 A >5 (i) w» He is also the proprietor of the Exchange Bank of Port Sanilac. The Sanilac County Reporter was started in 1876, by John A. Hopkins, and was sold in 1883 to D. W. Hammond, who conducted it for about three montiis, and then it was purchased by the present proprietor, J. H. Shults. Dr. J. M. Loop opened an office in 1854. He is a graduate of Ann Arbor, Department of Medicine and Surgery. Dr. F. M. Garlick, graduate of the Detroit College of Medicine, began practicing here in 1876. Dr. J. G. Viiiing, graduate of Detroit Medical College, came to Port Sanilac in 1884. In 1863 Wm. Van Camp built the Exchange Hotel, and kept it for two years. Horatio Wright then pur- chased it, and was the jolly proprietor for 1 2 years. During the year 1878, Finius [Phineas?] Godfrey was the proprietor, and then Alonzo Hunter held it for years, when Orson Whitmore purchased it, and is the present proprietor. A considerable industry was developed here in ship-building before the timber became scarce. Wm. T. Clarey built the first boat — -a small sailer — in 1852-3, and he continued in the business until he had built some 15 boats, each from 20 to 35 feet in length, with two sails. Two years later Harvey G. Wheeler began the business, and has been engaged in it until the present time. The boats were mostly for fishing purposes, and have sailed all the fresh- water lakes for years. The number of boats built by Mr. Wheeler reaches about 75, including two schoon- ers, the " Hazard " and the " Charley," the former of which was foundered in the St. Clair River, and the latter lost on Lake Superior several years ago. Sol- omon Brown was also an extensive row-boat builder. Port Sanilac has probably furnished more small crafts than any other place in Michigan. Bark Shanty Tent, No. 26^, Knights of the Mac- cabees, was organized in January, 1881. The first officers were : Sir Knight Commander, J. H. Hop- kins; Record Keeper, G. M. Wheeler; Finance Keeper, A. G. Berney. The society now has 14 members. Sanilac Lodge, No. 2j/, F. dy A. M., held its first communication Oct. 10, 1867. Mark Willis was the first W. M., and E. F. Holmes the first Secretary. At that time there were 11 members; in 1884 there onlots donated to the fraternity by C. M. Oldfield. The lodge joined with the city to defray the cost of the building, which will be about $5,000, and the lower part is to be used as a city hall. The Masonic hall is to be very elegantly furnished. The Port Sanilac Cornet Band was organized in 1868, by A. B. Caswell. The band now has 18 pieces, and is led by Dr. G. M. Garlick. Wm. Thomson is the President, and D. F. Raymond the Secretary. A Ladies' Aid Society, of the Congregational Church, was organized in 1876, and a notable enter- tainment in the history of the village, was the Cen- tennial Tea Party, with a "fair" in connection, given by this society in 1876. The receipts of the whole entertainment, which held two evenings, were $120. Benevolent societies generally expire when the neces- sity for their existence is removed. This is not entirely the case with this society, but it has not been very active since the church bell .and other appur- tenances have been paid for; and, though it is not dead, it has been in a very precarious state of " health " for some time. This is no reflection upon the excellent work done by the members; the ladies are 90. A large hall has been erected this year (1884), deserve great credit. The history of the churches of this township will be found in the chapter on that subject. Sanilac Township is of irregular shape, being nine miles long, three and a half wide at the north end, and five miles wide at the south end. It embraces town II, and the south half of town 12 north, range 16 east, and is bounded on the east by Lake Huron, the north by Forester Township, the west by Bridge- hampton and Washington, and the south by Lex- ington. Read the list of Supervisors: Charles McMillan, Henry L. Hopkins, William Austin, John Kelly, James Erskine, Joseph M. Loop, James Erskine, Henry Oldfield, James Erskine, Obadeahld Lewis, Rudolph Platts, O. W. Lewis, John H. Loudon, 1850-2 1853 1854 1855 1856-7 1858 1 85 9-6 1 1864-7 186S 1869-75 1876 1877-80 1881-82 A ro) <>tlI]>^tlB^> SANILAC COUNTY. 487 (h 1 V Austin Township. ^^s^ HE organization of this township has been shifted from place to place more than that ^ of any other in the county. It was first organized in 185 i, and included all the terri- tory north of Sanilac to Saginaw Bay. It was cut down from time to time on all sides until it reached its present size and location, Greenleaf, on the west, being the last taken off, in 1864. The other boundatied are: north, Huron County; east, Minden Township; soath, Argyle Township. In 1854 a Mr. Watson settled in the township, and is now credited with being the first. Soon after this was Alex. McRae, Joseph Brown and the Mere- diths; and by 1864 there were enough settlers to form an organization, after all the other territory had been cut off. Mrs. Alex. McRae taught the first school, in her own house on section 2r, receiving $iS per month therefor. Two years later the first school-house was built, section 23 being the location. The first church was erected by the Baptists on section 28, in i86g. The land was donated by Abram Meredith. In 1871, after the fire, it was blown down ; money was then raised and more steps taken towards its completion ; but it was not finished until after its removal, in 1879, to its present loca- tion in the village of Cumber. The building was sold before its removal to the United Presbyterian Church, but the Baptists retained the privilege of using it for their services. A Presbyterian church was built on section 30, in 1880, but not finished before the '81 fire, which de- stroyed it, and it has not been re-built. There is also a Methodist Episcopal church at Tyre. In 1868, on section 13, Mr. Joiner built a steam saw-mill and afterward added a shingle-mill, which was the first of the kind in this region. This mill was burnt and rebuilt three times. After the first fire Mr. Joiner rebuilt it, and then sold it to George Doroner, who added a grist-mill, and ran it two years. Then the boiler of the engine exploded, killing the fireman, A. Ray, and two strangers who had just at that moment stepped into the engine ^m^<^ ^^^ — ^-:^m room to warm themselves, the weather being very cold. No other serious damage was done, as only the fire holes gave way. The engine was then re- paired and run until the fire of '81, when the mill was burned to the ground again. It was replaced, with only a saw-mill this time, which was operated only two or three months, then moved to Cumber, where it remained about one year. It was then taken from the county. The question is, whether this is the "same mill" that was first put up, after being burnt, rebuilt, and changing hands so many times. Another stationary mill was built at Tyre in 1883, which at present is the only mill in the town- shi]j. There . have been several portable mills at various times. The only murder ever committed in Austin was that of Joseph Bradley, a young man of 17, who was at the time, September, 1870, living with his wid- owed mother on section 6. The shooting was done by young Kidd, a youth about the same age, who expected to find considerable money. Kidd and Bradley were companions, and while they were to- gether one day, Mrs. Bradley bade her son go to Tyre to change a bill. Kidd saw Mrs. Bradley have a $roo bill, and supposing this was to be changed, followed young Bradley into the woods and shot him. But he found only $5. He immediately left the country, but was arrested at Port Huron. His trial resulted in a life sentence, but he was pardoned by Governor Begole after 12 years. TYRE. This is a village in the northeast corner of the township on section i, on the Port Huron & North- western Railroad. The first store was a log building put up in 1865, by Richard ColHns, who sold out to A. Gunning in 1868. Mr. Collins was the first Post- master in the township, but resigned in favor of Mr. Gunning when he bought the store. Mr. Gunning kept it about seven years when O. Sullivan bought it and has it yet. The village was burned in the fires of both '7 I and '81, but has been rebuilt. At present there is a Methodist church, a large saw-mill, a grist- mill, and a lath and shingle mill. There are four general stores, kept by Sullivan & Ryne, Wm. White and McDonald Brothers. Dr. A. M. Kay keeps a drug store here ; Sanborn & Co., of Port Huron, have a large elevator; McPhail & Co. have a furni- ture store near the depot. The Tyre House is kept 1 9 m r<^tl[l^IlD^^' ■r SANILAC COUNTY. -»^C(®>|| w 'by A. Gunning, started in 1882. There are several other smaller business establishments. « CUMBER. The postoffice here was established in 1876, with 'William Jordan as the Postmaster, who is still the incumbent of the postion. E. F. Marr keeps a gen- eral store. A. blacksmith shop was started here in 1869, by T. M. Bradshaw. There is also a shoe shop at this point, and the school-house of District No. 3. SUPERVISORS. Following is a complete list of the Supervisors of Austin Township, through all its changes of territory : ^. ■^ Q) T William E. Crowell, Albert Jones, John Wells, John Mudge, Stephen Greenman, George Whitehouse, Richard Collins, Alexander McRae, Edward Boddy, Edgar P. Wells, John White, Alexander McRae, Thomas Pollard, Robert McEwing, Theodore M. Bradshaw, Edward Hunter, Alexander McRae, Hugh McKenzie, James White, Edward Hunt, Sr., Alexander McRae, Hugh McKenzie, Theodore M. Bradshaw, Alexander McKenzie, — .^ej- 1851-7 1858 1859 1860-1 1862 1863 1864 1865 1866 1867 1868 1869 1870 1871 1872 1874-S 1874 187s 1876 1877 1878 1879 1880 1881-2 Fremont Township. ag^^feevM iHtOI^ many years before any permanent set- ^glC tlements were thought of, a large lumber- (4 ?"'>'' ing business was carried on in this town- ship, as the timber was very excellent; and even when the professional lumbermen had left, many of the farmers engaged in the busi- ness in the winter and tilled their cleared lands in summer. This continued until the '71 fire destroyed all that was left of the valuable timber. ll)'^^))^^^^^ ^^^^ ^r^ John Saunders, Daniel Lawson, William Grant, Abram Spring, Silas Harris and Edward Branagan were the first settler^, all coming about the same time, — in 1854 and 1855. Fremont was organized in 1S57 from Worth, which now bounds it on the east. Buel Township is north of it, Speaker west, and the southern boundary is St. Clair County. Its number is 9 north, range 15 east. Peter Thibodeau was the first Supervisor and John Saunders the first Clerk. The entire list of Su- pervisors could not be obtained, but here they are from 1867 : John Saunders, 1867 Daniel Lawson, 1868-73 James Saunders, 1874 John Galbraith, 1875-7 Andrew Grav, 1878-80 Samuel Todd, 188 1-2 In the balmy days of the spring of i860, when nothing but the Civil War was disturbing the country, William Grant was married to Miss Miranda Beal, which was the first wedding in Fremont. Preachers were scarce then, and the ceremony was performed by Andrew Paisly, J. P. This was a remarkable pioneer wedding, since it was not an elopement, and was attended with no extraordinary circumstances. In 1858 a Christian Church society was estab- lished, which was the first, and met at the house of Abram Spring. It lasted about six years. The ubiquitous Methodists began their meetings in 1862 in the log school-house of District No. i, and have kept them up ever since. The United Presbyterians established their society about the same time, and are now building a church on section 32. On this section a school-house was built in 1859, which was the first in the township. Roseburg is the name of the postoffice on section 19, and there is also a cheese factory here, with a capacity of 600 to 700 pounds per day during the summer season. Game was very plentiful in this township during the first years, and furnished the pioneers with meat. There were large numbers of deer, wild-cats, pigeons, bear, partridge, raccoons, badgers and wolves, but not many elk. A good story was told the writer by a resident ot Fremont, who desired his name withheld, the reason for which will appear later. It occurred on the night of July 22, 186S. Tiie bear was a monster. A num- ber of hogs had disappeared during the spring, and ^ ( < (o^ <^mw^<^^^ — ^>^^ m. "im ^>/^®))4^#« :a4 ^ V ^tda-^HD^^v-e :2#ys^ SANILAC COUNTY. 489 /& A •^ t I it became necessary to search for the thief. Hence, one morning, after the usual quantity of live stock had been taken during the night, two men named Teats found his track, and came near to what they concluded was liis haunts. Here they built a fire in the evening, and awaited for his majesty to appear. A little before dawn one of the men saw the bear's eye flash ocily a few feet from where they were lying. Taking aim, he fired, and the bullet went straight to the mark, putting out Bruin's eye and life at the same time. Certainly there was nothing remarkable about this. The extraordinary part was yet to come. When the bear was measured, he stood 12 feet high in his stocking-feet! Or, in technical terms, from the zenith of his proboscis to the nadir of his posterior was four yards. Surely this was a " whopper," — not the story, but the bear, — and another remarkable feature of it is that the narrator even lived to tell it the sec- ond time! In the neighborhood where it occurred the incident is bear-lie believed. -»}- #^ Speaker Township. Township g north, range 14 east, is the location of this division of the county. It ^ was a part of Worth until 1858, when a sufficient number of settlers came in to make an organization. Most of them came in 1856-7, Augustus Siche being the first, and Nehemiah Stevens and son soon after. From that time the numbers increased rapidly, and in the latter part of 1857 there were children enough to warrant the build- ing of a school- house, which was put up one mile north of the present village of Speaker. The only and first church building in the township is the Catholic, which was built in 187 i, on section 28. The Protestant Methodists established a ('hurch organization two or three years previous to this, but held services in a school-house. The history of this township has been a record of the work attendant u[)on clearing the heavy timber from its surface. There is but little timber left at present, but the labor of preparing the land for tillage has extended through many years ; so that the prin- cipal events have been the famous " logging bees," for which Speaker has been noted. From 1857 to '67 "logging bees" were the principal occupation for both pleasure and profit. Jolly times were enjoyed. Nearly every citizen of the township would turn out to the premises where the '' bee " was to be held, and bring his ox team, the owner of the land having first cut down the huge trees. The great logs then lay scattered and crossed in every direction, over a field of usually 20 acres. The neighbors would assemble in the morning, and the field was staked off into "throughs"of about four rods wide across the field. This would give one strip of land or " through " to each ox team, which was generally assisted by six to ten men. Thus there were ten to fifteen teams, ^nd from 60 to 100 men at each bee. The work to be done was to pile the logs into piles three or four rods apart, ready to be burned. All the teams would start even, and the first to finish the " through " was to receive a prize. It required from six to eight hours of heavy lifting and dragging to remove all the logs, but with the excitement of nearly a hundred stalwart workers in the field, the labor seemed lighter than usual. Then it was the part of the host to show his appreciation of the labor rendered. This appreciation manifested itself in the evening in various pleasant ways, concluding with a bountiful supper and a dance. The " bees " form quite a chapter in the social and industrial history of Speaker, and as long as there is sufficient uncleared land they will still be held. The last one was held in September, 1884. Melvin is a small village in the southwestern part of the township, where the first building was put up for a saloon in 1862. The Port Huron & North- western Railroad runs through it, and it now has one hotel, two stores, a grist-mill and a saw-mill. Speaker is what was formerly " Moore's Corners," a little north of the center of the township. Mr. Andrew Moore keeps a store, is Postmaster, and has just started a creamery, which is the only institution of the kind in the county. SUPERVISORS. Wm. S. Moore, Mordecai Helborn, Wm. S. Moore, John Waek, Wm. S. Moore, Wm. B. I.aidlow, Wm. S. Moore, 1867 1868 1869-70 1871-4 1875-8 1879 1880-2 s % ^®*~ ^ s i<§ > (^ 490 ■er-r<2^IIII^IiDr>^r-e7- SANILAC COUNTY. Maple Valley Township. (J^jAPLE VALLEY was first settled in 1854. The first settler was Frank LaCass, who was followed soon after by Hiram Stien- '^^^^ hoff. LaCass was killed in the late rebel- '''* lion. His widow still lives on the old home- stead, but is insane, and has been ever since he was killed. Hiram Stienhoff died about four years ago. His widow still lives in the town. He has also several sons living in this township. John H. Beckett was the third settler, and has been, and is now, one of the most prominent citizens of the township. He was the first Supervisor of the town- ship, an office he held 14 years. He has also held several other offices, and was Postmaster at Valley Center till Jan. i, 1884, when he resigned and John Makelim was appointed. He owns a fine farm near Valley Center, besides several other lots in the town- ship. Jackson Brink was the first Treasurer of the town- ship. He now lives in Ingham County, Mich. R. G. Brown was the first Town Clerk. He lives near Brown City ; in fact, part of the village is built on his farm. He is a :vell-to-do farmer, and Postmaster of Brown City. Hiram Stienhoff, R. G. Brown, Wm. Martindale and John H. Beckett, were the first Justices of the Peace. The town was organized in 1857. The occupation of the people was principally lumbering, stave- making and hoop-making, till within the last 10 or 12 years, since which time they have been engaged in farming. The population in 1870 was about 350; in 1S80 was 939, and in June, T884, was 1,289. Some of the first settlers were engaged a good part of their time in hunting. There was plenty of game, such as bear, deer and elk; and there was one moose killed in the township, but such animals were rarely seen. The first wedding was that of Stephen Rockwell and Clarissa Bonney; R. G. Brown, Justice of the Peace, married them. Ministers were few and far between in those days. Mrs. Rockwell is dead, and he is now living in New Brunswick. Hannah Carter, wife of William Carter, was the first person who died in the township. He after- wards married a daughter of Hiram Stienhoff. The first and only railroad built through the town- ship, was the Port Huron & Northwestern Railroad, which was built in the summer and fall of 1880. There are two stations in the township. Valley Center and Brown City. They are both enterprising little villages, each containing a saw and grist mill, wagon and blacksmith shops, besides several stores, and other places of business. Each village contains an elevator, where farmers find a market for all kinds of grain. The Supervisors from the first are as follows : John H. Beckett, 1857-72 John M. Brown, 1873-4 John H. Beckett, 1875-8 Robert Jones, 1878-9 John Makelim, 1880 John M. Brown, 1881-2 Buel Township. ■^iFp^fN the eastern boundary of Buel is Le.xing. i ton ; Washington is north of it. Elk west. About one-fourth of SMi^ and Fremont south the town is cleared, so that most of its history is yet to be made. The bottom lands are very rich, and when drained and cleared Buel will be one of the best agricultural towns in the county. Being in town 10 north, range 15 east, it was a part of Lexington until 1855, when there were set- tlers enough to foirn a township organization. The first settler was probably Ezra Van Camp, though an old gentleman by the name of Wills came in very early. Mr. Van Camp came in 1852, and the next year James McGrath followed. Mr. Mc- Grath was very enthusiastic in politics and religion, so that he had a school and a church as soon as there were people enough within its domain to sup- port them. This was about the time of the organi- zation, and a school-house was built that year on section 35. When this was done, a Methodist church was established, but the meetings were held in the school-house until 1881, when a building was erected for that purpose on section 28. Thomas Delaney was the Supervisor for a number % ^ ( h C< V c ^c^tK o^ A<3iiii^[iiif^A^ — ^«^ m -2^^ ^^-7^>[1 Q v^ U U> ^V -^aii^^^^' 4^@§5((gvSi) -^SS§J. :^) SANILAC COUNTY. •191 of years previous to 186S, and since then the follow- ing gentlemen have held that office : (h Thomas Robb, John Cameron, Artemus Hicks, Homer Hall, John Cameron,- Homer Hall, John S. Baglcy, 1869-70 1S71-6 1877 1878 1879 1880 18S1-2 Elk Township. ■ ^^1^ I.K 'rounsliii.i shared tire political fortunes ^K^^i of Lexington until Buel was organized, |»][§^°^ wlien Buel held jurisdiction over its terri- ^^ tory for two years, or until 1857. Then Elk ;? was set off by itself, but Flynn was attached to j it until i86g. The township is bounded on ;* the north by Watertown, west by Flynn, south by <^ Speaker, and east by Buel. ° Nathaniel Vannest settled on section 28 in 1852. ^ He was the first settler, and has been largely identi- ^ fied with the growth and enterprise of Elk ever ^ since. S In 1854 Chauncey Allen came from the State of ^A ~\ Indiana, with two yoke of oxen, and settled on sec- tion 27. Mr. Allen started a store in i860 on his farm, and about one-half mile east of tlie present village of Peck, in 1862, Alexander Farwell started a store. But the first store started in the village was by Mr. Vannest, in 1868. Nine years before tliis, iiowever, Mr. Vannest built the " Globe " hotel in Peck, which was the first building in the village. The burg now has a population of nearly 300, with two hotels, a saw-mill and grist-mill combined, three doctors and one lawyer. The village is nine miles from a railroad, but has a stage to Croswell daily. There is also an Advent Christian church here, which was built in the summer of 1879, and was the first ^ in the township. rThe first school taught in the township was by the daughter of Ransom R. Pcarce, in her father's house. The next year (i860) the first school-house was built, a mile east of Peck, by a logging bee. David Wilson was married to Miss Sarah Vannest f® in the autumn of 1858, which was the first wedding. ^^ In the spring of 1855, Richard Thomas was hunt ^m^ ^^^^ — ^^M.m ing ducks on Elk Creek. He shot one and swam into the stream to get it, caught cold and died the ne.xt morning. This was the first death in the town- ship, but there was no funeral, and no gravestone now marks the place of his remains on the bank of the Elk. From a dense wilderness Elk has been changed into a beautiful farming country, which is a monu- ment to the enterprise of her citizens. The Supervisors have been as follows: Patrick Box, William Dawson, John Ryan, Frank J. Ryland, Byron M. Dutcher, Frank J. Ryland, N. Vannest, Frank J. Ryland, Byron ftl. Dutcher, Orrin Gould, H. A. Babcock, 1867-8 1869-70 187 1-2 1873 1874 187s 1876 1877 1878 1879 1880-2 Flynn Township. APEER County and the south part of Mar- lette Township form the western boundary, z-W0'^ Elmer Township the northern. Elk the east- tj[(j em, and Maple Valley the southern boundary of Flynn Township. The exact location is range 13 east, town 10 north. Before the organization, which took place in 1869, Flynn was attached to Elk Township. The town- ship was named for Thomas Flynn, who was one of the first settlers, and the first Supervisor. The other Supervisors have been : Richard Nicholl, M. J. Kolts, Purdy Jones, A. W. Payne, James McGregor, James Baldwin, 1870-1 1872-3 1874 1875-6 1877-81 1882 William Fitch was the first settler, stopping on sec- tion 36 in 1857. William Flynn came about one year later, and soon after they were joined by William McGregor and R. J. Nicholl. The first school-house in the township was a frame built in 1869, at Omard. The rest of this village consists of the postoffice. I 9 ^ © ('' A I T <:ail^OIi>> •:^T TSShi^r'iS^ (^ % SANILAC COUNTY. About the time the township was organized a Methodist Church was also estabhshed, but no building has ever been erected, the services having been held in the school-house at Omard. A large marsh runs across Flynn Township from southwest to northeast. This has been cleared of the heavy timber, but is not yet in tillable shape. When it becomes so, and is properly drained, the land will be very fertile ; but at present a large part of the township is new. Washington Township. (\SHINGTON Township was organized j^aaa^r, from Sanilac in 1S55. John Jones, on JiSe'p section 12, was the first settler. He came ^^'' to his present home so long ago that he has '' forgotten the date ; but says that he was one of the first, if not the first, white man in the county, having hunted and trapped through Sanilac County before Michigan was a State. Mr. Jones relates many tales of adventure that are interesting to hear, but are of slight use to the historian. Jona- than Lee and George Mitchell came into the town- ship in 1850, the former settling on section 13, and the latter on 25. Owing to the heavy timber, the settlement was slow, but when the trees were removed the land was found to be valuable and was rapidly taken. The first school was taught by Miss Harriet May- bee in a log school-house on section 13, probably in 1852. The district then belonged to Sanilac Town- ship, and was District No. 6 of that township. About two years later a frame school-house was built on section 14, and this was also the first frame building in the township. The first saw-mill was built by George Pack, in 1857, on section 14. A grist-mill was also built in connection with the saw-mill. The first church in this township was built on sec- tion 10, in 1879, by the Methodists, and the organi- zation was effected about the same time as that of the townshi]). In 1858 a United Brethren church was built, on section 14. Silas Hall was the first Postmaster, receiving his '^3, — ^^^_ 5^>-^?rf= r-<^My. appointment in 1855, and for some time carried all the mail around in iiis hat. In 186 1 Daniel Berney became Postmaster, and after two or three years the office was moved into Bridgehampton Township. George Pack was appointed a Postmaster for the southern part of the township in i86o, but upon his death four years later it was moved to what is now Anderson Station. This is a village on the Port Huron & Northwestern Railroad, where there are a saw-mill, a hotel and three or four stores, but is of the small commercial importance, since the country around it is not sufficiently cleared for agricultural purposes. The following have been Supervisors of Washing- ton Township : John Jones 1S55-68 Alonzo Downing 1869-71 J. Cleland 1872-3 William F. Chipman 1874-5 John Cleland 1876-7 James Anderson 1878-9 John Cleland 1880 W. F. Chipman 1881-2 The township is bounded on the north by Bridge- hampton, on tlie east by Sanilac, south by Buel, and west by Watertown ; and its number is range 15 east, town 1 1 north. Watertown Township. ij^'CAMES McCLURE was elected the first ^i^M?- Supervisor of Watertown, in 1868, when ^'^^ the town was organized ; George Morris was also elected Town Clerk and Edward Cash Treasurer at the same meeting, which was held at the house of Mr. Cash. All these were re- elected. There were only seven voters at the time, the remaining four being Thomas, Morris, and Hugh Codington and Hugh Johnson. All were elected to office and some held three or four offices. For instance, Mr. Cash was at the same time Treasurer, Highway Commissioner, School Inspector and Justice of the Peace. What a happy condition of political affairs that was, — when every office-seeker could " sleep, snore and forget," in the full knowledge of a contented ambition ! Mr. Cash was the first settler (on section 35), com- f e^: (. <*) M^^t^ ■€^i T-ry #@^ SANILAC COUNTY. 493 ^lill^> SANILAC COUNTY. ^ ■O 1 Elmer and Flynn Townships, and on the south by Lapeer County. Its number is range 1 2 east, town II, and the north half of town 10 north. ) :-« =3 V SUPERVISORS. Alex. Newman, 1867 George H. Fenner, 1868-70 Alex. Newman, 1871 W. Rudd, 1872-3 John Wilson, 1874 Wm. Rudd, 1875 John Donald, 1876 Tl»omas Walker, 1877-8 Wm. Rudd, 1879 James Ronald, 1880 Wm. Nash, 1881-2 MARLETTE VILLAGE. The land on which the village of Marlette was built was originally owned by Benjamin Hobson on the north, John McGill on the northwest, Charles Harwack on the west, and Robert Wilson on the east. The first frame building in the village was Robert Wilson's frame house, still standing on Wilson street. E. W. Ellsworth has the only planing-mill in Mar- lette. It was established in 1872, and supplies sash, doors, blinds and similar work for Sanilac and adjoining counties. For some years Mr. Ellsworth had a furniture store in connection with his mill, but sold out later. E. J. Gillespie now operates the grist-mill built by E. J. Warner in 18S0. Morton & Hood's grist-mill was built by Robert and John Wilson, in 1866. In 1876, E. W. Vail purchased it and operated it for two years, when it was sold to Bolton &: McGill. It was held two years by this firm, and then the present proprietors took it. H. W. Wilson, proprietor and manager of the Mar- lette Steam Elevator, established his business in 1 88 1. The capacity is 14,000 bushels, and it is the only elevator in Marlette. The Marlette Plow Factory was started in 1878, by Kilgour & Mavis, who operated until the summer of 1884, when it was bought by the present owner, H. Ward Bristol. All the plows manufactured here are for general purposes, and are of a superior make. The first saw-mill in the township was built by John McGill, in the winter of 1866-7. Before it was completed, however, George H. Fenner became V^ a partner in the enterprise, and before Christmas of 1867, a grist-mill was added, which was the first in this part of the county. In April following, both mills were burned. The saw-mill was soon rebuilt. Mr. McGill subsequently sold his interest to Charles Oakes. The postoffice for tlie township was established in 1865, about one mile and a half south of the village. Gordon W. Rudd was the first Postmaster, and held the office until 1869, when Mr. John McGill was appointed on Mr. Rudd's recommendation, as Mr. McGill's mill and its surroundings made a more cen- tral and convenient point for the office, Mr. Mc- Gill has held the office ever since his first appoint- ment. For the history of the churches in this village, ^ee the " Church History." The other business of the village is as follows : The first hotel in the village and township was the "Northern Hotel," and was built in the spring of i868, and was also the second frame build- ing in the village. T. H. Sheppard was the proprie- tor, and kept it until 1872, when it was sold to Edmund Rush, who sold it to John Durfee; Mr. Durfee owned and kept it for two years, when Chas. Furgeson purchased it and held it until the present proprietor, J. Ireland, became the owner — in 1883. Mr. Turner erected a small building to keep lodg- ers. Wm. Roberts bought it from him, and enlarged it, and kept it four years. Wm. Graves then became the proprietor, for two years, again enlarging it, and Abram Kitteridge bought the hotel from him, also enlarged it, and rented it to Matthew Warner, who kept it until the present proprietor took it. W. B. McGill, grist-mill, lumber yard, flour and feed store, established 1882. He was a partner of Daniel Bolton, but since Mr. Bolton's death, he Ikis conducted the business alone. H. H. Pratt, barber, established 18S1. Marlette Bank, of McGill & Co., was established in 1 881, by Charles L. Messmore. It was purchased by McGill & Co. in 1882, and is a private i)ank. Joseph Morris, general merchandise, was the first store in the village, and though it was the universal f^^i custom for stores to keep a bar at that time, Mr. (® Morris kept a temi)erance store. He luul to haul ^ goods 31 miles, from Almont. (g\ W. A. White & Co., dry goods, groceries, i)oots ^ C^ ( ^ f ^' f rv®)>^^#- ^ c^ii!]^ni]fi> ^iU=i. -^^(^J^ ^^^ ^^iin^iinf>>-: ^^ (^ y '^ ■•f^• V 6 i ■rr*r SANILAC COUNTY. -^®t^ and shoes, and general merchandise, estabHshed 1882. The store was formerly kept by J. McGill, who started it in 1869. Smith & King, general merchandise, ebtablished 1875. The business grew out of a boot and shoe store started by Mr. Smith, who conducted his busi- ness alone, adding a stock of general merchandise, etc., until 1884, when Mr. King became his partner. M. McLennan, dry goods, groceries, etc., estab- lished 1880. D. Donaldson, dry goods, groceries and gei''.eral merchandise, established 1879 W. VVinterstein & Co., dry goods, etc., established 1883. H. H. Doyle, dry goods and general merchandise, esfablished 1884. J. A. Medler, clothir.g and furnishing goods, es- tablished 1 88 1. L. Landan, clothing, established 1884. Mrs. A. M. Vliet, millinery and dress-making, established 1877. J. VV. Councilor, hardware, tinware, stoves, etc., established 1875. A. E. Vail, hardware, stoves, etc., established 1880. The business was purchased from F. E. Tallmadge. G. G. Rudd, groceries, crockery, glassware and bakery, established 1881. C. G. Tompkins, groceries, dry goods and general merchandise, established 1883. H'. C. Sloat & Co., groceries and provisions, estab- lished 1884. N. S. Fancher, meat market, established 1878. \V. D. Ragan, bakery and restaurant, establisiied 1881. G. H. Bullock, bakery, confectionery and home- made candy, established 1884. Charles M. Havens, shoe store, established 1881. H. C. Burget, harness, established 1881. W. McKee, shoemaker, established 1883. R. Powell, jewelry and music, established 1879. J. H. Hayden, carriage and blacksmith shop, es- tablished 1882. Henry Wiggins, blacksn.ith, purchased the shop from James Chapman, who started it in 1S68. This was the first blacksmith in the village, and also in the township. Since 1873 Mr. Wiggins lias enlarged the shop and added a wagon-shop. Rot/, Bros., fuinituie and undertakiiiL', eslablished 1884. They have a fine hearse. The business is a consolidation of that established by James Black in in 1879, and that formerly owned by E. VV. Ells- worth. C. H. Reynolds, drugs, patent medicines, toilet articles, etc., established in 1882. S. H. Warner, drags, established 1882. S. B. Shaw, drugs, medicines, paints, oils and wall- paper, established 1884. Dr. W. T. Dodge, graduate of the University of Michigan, Department Medicine and Surgery, estab- lished in Marlette, 1880. Dr. G. W. Harris, graduate of the University of Michigan, Department of Medicine and Surgery, es- tablished in Marlette 1881. D. H. McCrea, same university, also Bellevue (N. Y.) Hospital Medical College, established himself here in 1877. Dr. F. P. Drummond, eclectic physician, graduate of Albany (N. Y.) Medical College, established 1875. Dr. N. Vliet, dentist, established 1877. John A. McMahon, attorney, graduate at Ann Arbor in 1877, has practiced law in Marlette since that time. George McKay, attorney, came to Marlette, took a course of lectures at Ann Arbor, and has practiced five years. McMahon & McClure, attorneys. Joel W. Mc- Mahon studied law in Divine iS: VVixson's office in Lexington, spent one term at the Ann Adior Law Sciiool, and has been in Marlette n years. D. Stuart McClure graduated at Ann Arbor in 1880, and entered into partnership with McMahon in 1881. Doyle & McMahon, attorneys, Justices of the Peace, Notaries and insurance agents. This busi- ness was consolidated in the spring of 1884, from the same business previously carried on by the sep- arate members. Forester Township. SJr-fi^-S C \i^ |tORRSrp:R'S history is identical with that |l of Austin, until 1855, when it was set oflf i'""'^ under a separate organization. The town- shij) is bounded on tlie east by Lake Huron, •^k^ on the north by Delaware, west by ^Larion and i Hridgeharapton, and south by Sanilac. It was originally town 12 north, range 16 east, but a little 0) M (i^-^^g:^^ -^<>Dfi^nD;i> -i-a. .:3!if^^^ 1^^ m c^tfr' r^i^&K ^V<^^I1 II i^: D Il^>r -*#t^((®V^; 496 SAJSIILAC COUNTY. f (^ >^ V a) later the south half of this town was given to Sanilac, and it was replaced with all of town 13 on the north in the same range. The unevenness of the lake shore makes Forester of irregular shape, the township being nine miles long with an average width of three and a half miles. The first settler to cut the heavy forest from a farm was Alanson Goodrich, who settled on section 4, in town 12, the spring of 1849. There were no other actual settlers for several years afterward, except Jacob Sharp, who came in two years later on section 9, though there were many lumbermen in and out. The first frame building in the township was a barn erected on 33, town 13, in the spring of 1849. The first frame dwelling-house was built in 1852, by Imlay & Merriman, but occupied by Jacob Sharp. The first saw-mill was built by Hurd & Ingersotl, about 1852, on Cherry Creek, section ^;^, town 13, and was operated for 12 years, then torn down. The first school-house was a frame house on sec- tion 34, town 13, in 1852. The first school was taught by Mrs. Thomas St. Clair, in her own house on section 33, the previous year. She received $20 per month from the township for her services and the use of her house. F. T. .Smith & Go's general merchandise store was established in 1851, at Forester Village, under the name of Imlay, Smith, Kelley & Co. Upon the death of Mr. Imlay, a year or two later, the firm name became Smith, Kelley & Co., which remained until 187 I. Then George H. Tanner purchased an interest in the store and other business, and the firm name was George H. Tanner & Co. Four years later the present firm took it. This is the first store in the township, and the firm has been very instru- mental in building up the community. When it was Smith, Kelley & Co. the firm built and furnished the Methodist church in the village, at a cost of $10,000, including the ground, and donated it to the Methodist Episcopal Society. It was dedicated in 187 r, md is the first church in the township. For its size the church is not excelled by any outside of De- troit, and is a monument to the gentlemen who gave it. It is also to the credit of this village that it has been on the side of temperance from the first, no saloons ever having been allowed. The school-house was built in 187 1, and cost about $4,000. The postoffice has always been in the store of F. T. Smith & Co., and its changes have been that of the firm. Imlay, Smith, Kelley & Co. built the first hotel, soon after their store. This is the Adams House, and is still standing. The other hotels in the village at present are the Lake View House, established in 1884, and the Tanner House, established in i87r. The 'I'aniier House is owned by Edward Smith, and the Lake View by its present manager, James Hartshorn. Soon after building the hotel. Smith, Kelley & Co. built a shingle-mill, a planing-mill, a saw-mill, a grist-mill, a blacksmith shop and a cooper shop. All these are at present the property of Edward Smith. James Hartshorn has a general merchandise store, which was started in 1880. Richmondville is a village in the north part of tiie township. The first building was a store built by Luce, Mason & Co. in i860. Ten years later it was sold to C. B. Harrington, who kept it six yea;s, and then sold it to Frank Murray. The store was burned in 1881, but was soon rebuilt, in December of that year. A school-house was built in 1873, burnt in 1881, and rebuilt the following year. The dock here was also burnt in 1881, and is being rebuilt in 1884. There is a Methodist church about completed this year. SUPERVISORS, James Hunter, 1855-7 A. Goodrich, 1858-68 Louis Charbmeau, 1869 A. Goodrich, 1870-6 F W. Temple ton. 1877-8 Thomas Barr, 1879-82 Delaware Township. HIS township was organized in 1858, from Austin. Isaac Green was the first Super- _ visor, and Alva Kelley the first settler, who ''»)' took upland on section 4 of town 15 in 1853. w The following year Michael Kelley came, and I soon after were the VVolseys, Miners, Vartys, and McClearys. The first school-house was built in the fall of ^' < 1 — ' )^^t|- <^un # pS/®))^t|-« ^jC^ist %] ^ (o *^ SANILAC COUNTY. 497 1859, and is what is known as the " Kelley school- house." It was a log house, but was torn down several years later, and a frame built in its place. The first school was taught in Capt. E. B. Ward's house, in the present village of Forestville. In 1854 Capt. Ward built a saw-mill in Forest-, ville, which was the first frame building in the town- ship. The mill was burnt with the rest of the village in 1871. A Methodist cliurch was built in iSSi in the southwestern part of the fractional township, which was the first. An attempt was made earlier than this to build a church in the village, but was always frustrated by Isaac Green, who was not a church man, was opposed to churches in general, and had great influence among all those able to give money for the building; hence the church people kept up their devotion by meeting in the school-house. Forestville has seen better days than it does at present. In early times the mills there put out nearly a million feet of lumber every week, which made business lively; but after the 1871 fire de- stroyed what pine there was, the guardian angel of the village has failed to find other emidoynient for the people as a substitute. The stores of the village at present aie: Thomas Canham's, established in 1870; William Merckel's, established in 1874; D. W. Snowdy's drug store, which he started in 1879. There are also an agricul- tural ware-room and a shoe-shop, and several vacant store buildings. The first hotel in the village was built in 1858 by Isaac Green, who was also the first Postmaster, having received his appointment in 1855. He held the postoffice until 187 1, when A. W. O'Keefe erected a large hotel and was appointed Postmaster. Mr. O'Keefe kept the office for five years, when his successor, Albert Jones, was ap- pointed, and has held it since. The first funeral in Delaware Townshiji was that of a child of Wm. Hill, which died in 1854. The next year O. B. Williams, one of the workmen in Ward's mill, was married to Miss Granger, which was the first wedding. Delaware has more territory than the usual six miles square. Besides all of town 14 north, range 15 oast, it has a fraction of town 14 in range 16 east. It is bounded on the east by Lake Huron, on the south by Forester, on the west by Minden Township, and on the north by Huron County. These have been its Supervisors from 1S67, being as far back as the list could be obtained : H. Breidenbach, A. N. Johnson, I. Green, Charles Kelley, A. W. O'Keefe, George Mahon, 1867-70 1871 1872-8 1879 1880 1881-2 Minden Township. I HIS, Township was cut off from Austin in 1.1859. Albert Jones was the first Super- 'JM^ "^ visor after it became a separate organization. «l\i SANILAC COUNTY. -z^&is: T The first church in the village was a Methodist Church, built in 1880. The ground was bought of Michael O'Connor, and also ground for a parsonage, which was built in 1883. The first Church organiza- tion in the township was a Methodist society, and Rev. E. Body, in 1856, was the minister. The other churches in the townshi[) are the Congregational church in the village, completed in 1884, and the Catholic church two miles and a half south of the village, but is not yet completed, though services have been held in it for some time. .\n old gentleman by the name of Bolan came from Canada and settled in this township in 1856, and died two years later from old age. He was buried in the private cemetery about half a mile south of the present cemetery, on section 3. This was the first death. Ground for the present cemetery, be- ing half an acre, was donated by Frederick Wraschey in 1 86 1. The postoffice in the village was establislied in 1862. Wm. Downer was appointed Postmaster, and Wm. Seaman Deputy. Mr. Downer kept it until his death, when Alfred Jones was appointed and held it until 1872. He resigned in favor of George White- house, who soon turned it over to O. K. Kerr, the ^/ present Postmaster. The first store in Minden was established in tlie fall of 1859, by Alfred Gunning, who kept it two years and then sold to Wm. Downer. . Mr. Gunning then moved to Detroit, but returned three years later and built the second store in Minden. The building is now occupied by Oscar Hatfield, with a stock of general mechandise. These were the only stores until after the fire of 187 i. Afterthat the village began to grow until now it has a population of 600. The principal business houses at the present time are: Michael Ryan, general merchandise; Union Hotel, John Donlan, proprietor: Wm. Mulloy, drugstore; James Erskine & Co., dry goods; Fred. Benedict, dry goods and groceries ; Hurd House, Henry Huckings; O. McKay, agricultural implements; George McDon- ($* aid, hardware; Jacob Springer, general merchandise; O. K. Kerr, general merchandise ; Wellington Lloyd, harness: Dr. R. G. Haley, drug store; George Whitehouse, general merhandise; C. L. ^^ Messmore, banker; August Ronisczick, shoemaker; George Paff, notions and produce; W. Badeau, furniture, grocery and provisions; George Lewis, > grocery, provisions and bakery; Richard La Motte, hardware; E. Proctor, vegetables, meat market, also livery stable; L. S. Wiiig, notions and mil- linery; Leo Kreiiner, meat market; Mooney House, A. Mooney, prop'r; John P. O'Connor, groceries and provisions; George Steipps & Son, planing mill, foundry and carriage shop ; Wm. Glass, cabinet- maker; Richard Brown, blacksmith; James Ryan, blacksmith ; Minden Carriage Shop, Henry Pfaff & Brother, proprietors; A. N Johnson, physician and surgeon; R. G. Healy, physician and surgeon; Mills & Bell, attorneys. The Minden /"tfi-/ was established in 1880, l)y J. H. Shults, its present editor and proprietor. After the '81 fire, the village was incorporated. Mr. Martin Dimond was the president of the first Board of Trustees, which was composed of George McDonald, R. G. Healy, Wm. Badeau, Wm. Mulloy, A. Mooney and James H. Haviland. Minden Township is numbered town 14 north, range 14 east, and its Supervisors have been : A. Gunning, 1S67 Alfred Jones, 1868 Alfred Gunning, 1869-70 Frank Pocha, 187 i A. Gunning, 1872 Thomas Bradley, 1873 Alfred Jones, 1874 Thomas Bradley, 1875-6 Thaddeus O'Hara, 1877-82 S.*-^S^ Greenleaf Township mC REENLEAF Township was organized in 1864, from Austin. Thomas G. Thomp- 'rJ^l'Sr" son was the first Supervisor, serving one W year. Wm. Pollard then held the office for { two years, Robert Cleland three years, Wm. I Walker four years, wlien Christopher Murphy was elected (1876) and holds tlie office at the pres- ent time. The first permanent settler ivas Stephen Greennian, who came into the township and settled on section 26, in 1858. Alexander Nicol followed in 1859, lo- cating on section 25. About the same time Daniel Merchant, Wm. Curwell and Thomas Nicol came in, and shortly after came the Wilsons, the Gordons, the I y^ c C< < O- \ r^, ^,t#s»- ■^rr-7^->I] U ^. U Us>'7-^^5 ^2^^^^- SANILAC COUNTY. (h '^ (^ Murphys and many others, taking up most of the land in the southern part of the township. The first school-house was built on section 31, probably in the summer of 1865. Mrs. Wni. Mere- dith taught the first school there, the following winter, for $14 per month. This was then considered a good salary, and made a heavy tax on the property then, which was at a low value in the woods. The first saw-mill was built on section 35, in 1879, by Hugh Jordan. This is the only mill in the town- ship. A store was erected by Benjamin Mankin in 187 i, after the fire, on section 31, but was short-lived. The goods were those sent to Mankin by the relief coTnmittee for the benefit of the fire sufferers, but in- stead of distributing them to the proper persons he sold them at enormously high prices, and then fled the country ! Another store was started on section 6, in 1878, by George Dan, who kept it for two years and then sold to James McNeil. The postoffice was started at Wickware in 18S2, when Albert Wickware was appointed Postmaster. A blacksmith shop was started in 1S81, on section 22, by George Cutting, who was the first blacksmith in the township, but closed in September, 1884. Another was started at Wickware in the spring of 1883. The first and only church was built in 18S3 — Presbyterian church, on section 26. Mr. Green- man donated the lots. Stephen Greenman was married to Miss Mary Jordan in 1858, one year after coming, which was the first wedding. The first funeral was preached by Rev. Wm. Pol- lard, over the bodies of three of Mr. Alex. Nicol's chil- dren, who died in 1876, of diphtheria. They were buried in the center of the farm, back from what is the main road on section 25, the present location of the cemetery, which is about an acre in extent, and was donated for the purpose by Mr. Nicol in 1875. A State ditch eight feet wide, commencing on sec- tion 32 and running north to section 28. into the low grounds and on to Cass River, is in progress of ex- cavation. The township has made rapid strides in clearing since the '81 fire — more than all time before. The township is the northeast town of the county and is numbered 14 north, range 12 east. On its 6 ^^^^ — %^^u north is Huron County, west is Tuscola County, east is Austin Township, and south is Evergreen Evergreen Township. ?■ UST south of Greenleaf is Evergreen Township, which is numbered 13 north, range 12 east; and on the other three sides 'ip" of this township are: East, Argyle Township! south, Lamotte Township; west, Tuscola County. Evergreen was a part of Argyle ' until 1 87 2. Robert Wilson was the first Supervisor after organ- ization. He was also the first settler, coming in 1864, and for some time was Supervisor of Argyle, when it covered Evergreen. Patrick Walsh was the next, cominginto the town- ship in 1867, and taking up land on section 23; about the same time Cyrenus Gould, a brother-in- law of Mr. Wilson, settled also on section 2. Two years later, during the winter, the following families came in: Joseph Bond, section i, where he still lives; George W. Gotham, on section 28, but moved to section 23 in 1883; Henry Motney stopped on section 29, but left the county in the spring of 1872 ; O. J. Wethy, on section 29, his present home ; Frank- lin Beardsley, section 30, left county in 1S73. All these came in the winter of 1869. The first school taught was by John B. Proctor, at his own house on section 22, in the summer of 1872. He taught five pupils three months for $40 per month. The first school-house was erected by Pat- rick Walsh, on section 27, the same summer. A saw-mill was built by Robinson and Reynolds on section 29, in the winter of 1882-3, but was burned down in June, 1884; one now stands on the ground, built by Mr.- Parrott. There was a shingle- mill also attached to the saw-mill, and owned by Oscar Schulley, but burned with the mill. No insur- ance ; total loss, about $2,500. The first store was built by W. B. Brooks, on sec- tion 31, in 1S81, at what is now known as Novesta, which is on the county line of Tuscola, and takes its name from the adjoining township in that county. It is a general store, and supplies a large portion of Evergreen witli retail general merchandise. In the fall of 1882, Sylvester Day put up the next store T<^m}^m^ SANILAC COUNTY. I vl) on the southwest quarter ol section 22, which was called Evergreen Center. In the fall of 1883, he sold to Mark Turner, who, after a short partnership with James McArthur, owns it by himself at the pres- ent time. The first postoffice was established in May, 1884, at Evergreen Center, and is known as Shabbona; and George Jones was appointed Postmaster. Pre- vious to this, however, for some years, the people of the township have received their mail from the No- vesta postoffice. The first wedding was that of Enos Johnson, to Diana Clendenning, in 1876, by John B. Proctor, Justice, at Proctor's place, in the front yard. Mr. Proctor was just ready to leave for Cass City when Mr. Johnson and Miss Clendenning rode up. He called Mrs. Proctor to the door. She appeared with potato knife in hand, and was surprised by her hus- band saying the " magic words," " I pronounce you man and wife." The first person buried in the township was Jere- miah Clendenning, but with no regular funeral ser- vices. He was buried on section 35, on his own land. He had lived by himself, and died of inflam- mation of the lungs, in 1872. The first funeral ser- mon was preached over the body of Mrs. Lois Boyle, at the home of Mr. O. J. Wethy, in the winter of 1872, by Rev. John Marion, an Advent minister who was at that time lumbering in the township. She was buried at Cass City. As yet there is no grave- yard. John B. Proctor was the first Justice of the Pea^e elected in the township; Josiah R. Lewis the first Clerk, and John J. Robinson the first Treasurer. The following is the list of Supervisors, with their terms: Robert Wilson O. J. Wethy, Robert Wilson, O. J. Wethy, Robert Wilson, O. J. Wethy, Isaac Cragg, 1872 1873 1S74-5 1876 1877-9 1 880-1 1882 The first lawsuit in the township was School Dis- trict No. 4 7's. Robert Wilson, before Justice Proctor, in Februaiy, 1875. It was claimed that Mr. Wilson's children were infected with itch, and his refusal to take them from school resulted in the suit. It was decided that there was no cause for action, as the children were so far convalescent that the disease was not contagious. There are two township ditches, one the Harring- ton drain, crossing sections 31 and 32, and emptying into White Creek; and the other the Washburn drain, from section 19, crossing the corner of section 30 to section 29, and emptying into White Creek. The township is about halt cleared, and is a very rich, mixed soil, some parts being a clay loam, while the high lands are sandy and a gravelly loam. It is con- sidered a great soil for hay in the low lands, while tlie hills bring forth an average of 25 bushels of wheat, 40 bushels of barley, corn from 75 to 80 bushels. The rearing ot cattle pays better than wheat. Corn and barley will be the principal grain crop. Pota- toes do well. Albert Ryckman raised this year (1884), 30 bushels of finest, large, Early Rose, from one peck of tubers ! This is remarkable. S ^ 5, TT? v4^Illi;^tllls> ■^^^^ jfiST -^5»© (h ?i$ (i) SAM/LAC COUNTY. 5°i A I took the office and is the present handler of the mails. Alfred West established the first saw-mill, on sec- tion 33, in 1879. Dennis Soles established one on section 12. The first school taught in the township was in 1872, in a house owned by John Lamb on section 32. The first school-house was a frame erected one year later on section 30, but burned in 1881. Another was erected in the following year on the same spot. Nearly the whole township was entered as swamp land, but has been drained and makes the very best farming land. A ditch was made by the State in 1874, commencing on the south side of section -^h and crossing that section and also sections 29, 20 and 16. There are two Church societies in Lamotte, — Methodist Episcopal and Baptist. The former hold meetings in the school-house in District No. 3, and the latter in that of No. 2. The first wedding was that of Josephus V. Mosher to Melissa Tiff, the ceremony being performed by Spencer Warner, J. P., in 1872. The first death was that of a babe in the family of W. H. Lamb, in 1870. There was no regular funeral service at this time. The cemetery is on section 17, the ground being donated by William Mosher, in 1876, and is one acre in extent. The ground is in a splendid loca- tion. Several graves were made before the cemetery was laid out. Read the list of Supervisors: W. H. Lamb, L. Sawtell, Peter Fox, Levi Sawtell, Peter Fox, Levi Sawtell, 1870 1871 1872-8 1879-80 1881 1882 Moore Township. ASHINGTON Township originally covered this territory, but in 1865 the land included fe'-p in the present towns of Elmer, Lamotte and Wm^ Moore, was organized as Moore Township. ' ^ At present, Moore is six miles square, being _ town 12 north, range 13 east. East of it is Custer; north, Argyle; west, Lamotte; south, Elmer. James Minard was the first settler, coming in i860. Some locations had been made previous to this, but no permanent settlements. Four years later Martin Moore came in, and one year after that, Julius Oesterle came. The first funeral in the township was that of Mrs. Benjamin Shingley, in 1869. John Riley, an Indian preacher, conducted the services, and squaws fur- nished the music, in their native tongue. Samuel Moore built the first frame house in Moore Township, in 1876; but the log houses of the old settlers have been repaired and improved to such an extent that they are now preferable to frame build- ings. It is held that a substantial log house, plas- tered and well finished inside, with the outer covering of a frame house, is very desirable, and many of the houses in Moore to-day are of this variety of archi- tecture. They cannot be distinguished from frames in appearance, but are more comfortable. The first wedding in Moore Township took place at James Minard 's house, in the winter 1862-3, in the presence of four or five hunters and an Indian. The happy pair were Charles Dace and Mary Jane Scott, Justice Thomas Walker performing the cere- mony. SUPERVISORS. Martin Moore, 1865-8 Wilmot Alman, 1869-70 W. Hyslop, 1871 J. Minard, 1872-4 Samuel Moore, 1675-6 James Minard, 1877-81 Samuel Stanbaugh, 1882 .®^-^ m:£?^.. _j tAS) :si^^ Argyle Township. RGYLE Township was a part of Marion H Township until 1868. Mr. Alexander Mc- Lachlin was elected the first Siipervisor. Ar- gyle embraced Evergreen Township until 1872, when that town became a separate organiza- The other Supervisors are as follows: Robert Wilson, 1869-71 T. Wilson, 1872 A. A. Wheeler, 1873-6 Duncan McLean, 1877 Dugald Mclntyre, 1878-80 Duncan McLean, 188 1-2 Jacob Seder was the first settler in the township. tion. V^ V c^: d f m ®5 !#»- ■7-<-^DI]>>CDD>>^ 502 r, ■w> SANILAC COUNTY. ^ ^ ) ^ settling on section 10 in February, 186 1. The Kinz- leys were the next settlers, coming only a month or two later. Alex. McLachlin came about this time, and the next year there was quite a number of set- tlers. The first school was taught in a building owned by A. McLachlin, in 1863, by Miss Josephine Lamb (now Mrs. Charles Reinett). The following year a log school-house was erected on section 10, but burned in 187 i, and was replaced with a frame, on section 4. A church was built in 18S2, by the Lutherans, on ground purchased by them on section 22. A Meth- odist Episcopal society had services for two or three years, in the Mclntyre school-house, District No. i, and in 1S84 erected a churcli on section 10. In the winter of 1862, Jolm M. Cole was married to Susan Seder, by Alex. McRae, Justice of the Peace for Austin. This was the first wedding. The first death in the township was that of Allen <* McLachlin, aged five years. No funeral sermon was ?s? preached, as no minister could be found. The cem- 1— r etery was laid out on section 27, in 1878, when it ^^ was bought by the township, and is one acre in ° extent. \^ The first stationary saw-mill was built by Ralph S Stevens, on section 28, in 1882. Several portable U ) mills had been put up previously, but none of them remained for any great length of time. Before the settling up of this township, deer and elk were thicker than in any other part of the county. There was a character here by the name of Charles Draper, who used to trap large numbers of them by a spring gate, at the elk lick, on the northwest 13a rt of section 27. Their skin and horns were the prin- cipal parts of value. Draper was afterward sent to the penitentiary for forgery. There was not much clearing done until after the 71 fire, so that damage from that calamity was largely the destruction of timber. Alex. McLachlin was appointed the first Post- master, serving until his death in 1S79, when his son Andrew was appointed, and holds the office at tlie present time. Before that the Argyle mail was received at Tyre. kept respectively by David Ross & Joseph Barnum, and a blacksmith shop, started in 1882, by Peter Beogle. The surface is rolling, with some stone on the hills and a rich clay loam in the bottoms. There is a great deal of timber in the township, not more than one-fifth being cleared. A grist-mill and saw-mill was erected by Henry Nye, in the fall of 1884, in Argyle village. -5 vv^^f-i^S-v^^-i Custer Township. ARGYLE VILLAGE. The village is located in the center of the town- ship, and consists of the postoffice, two general stores, >K^-xUSTER Township is the centennial town- p^^3 ship of Sanilac County, being " admitted ^\!0^ into the Union " in the last days of 1876. It yC is only a litile north of the center of the 'j^ county, and, from its inland situation, was almost the last township to settle. Its exact location is town 12 north, range 14 east; and it is bounded on the north by Wheatland, on the east by Bridgehampton, south by Watertown, and west by Moore. The fact that much of C\ister Township is low, being crossed by the great " Huckleberry Swamp," kept many settlers from coming into this town early, as it was necessary to spend money on draining the land, before much could be done with it. Hence speculators had a chance and improved it. But Custer is partially cleared now, and when properly drained will be one of the richest agricul- tural townships in the county. Its history is that of Bridgehampton, of which it was a part until it was set off. Arthur Carson was one of the first settters, if not the first, though for some time he divided his time between Custer and Bridgehampton, in both of which townships he has a large amount of land from original entry. Silas Doan and John O'Connell were among the first settlers. The township did not begin to develop rapidly until it was decided the county seat would be located on the southern line of it. S. Doan was the first Supervisor, holding the office four years, and John O'Connell was the next Supervisor. Sandusky is partly in this township. It was named by VVildraan Mills for Sandusky, Ohio, which wa? A ^' ^. §89- (b i SANILAC COUNTY. founded by Mr. Mills' grandfather. Hubbard' & King, real-estate dealers of Detroit, donated 20 acres of ground for the county buildings, which stand in the northern part of the village. The removal of the county seat from Lexington to this phtce will be found in the " Political History." The village has a population of about 200, and its growth dates from the location of the court-house, in 1879. There are three large hotels, a Methodist church, and a good school building, two resident physicians and one lawyer. There is a daily stage to Carson ville, eight miles distant. From 1880 to 1882 C. A. Bacon published the Sandusky News here. The only secret society in the village is Sandusky Tent, No. 272. Knights of the Maccabees, which was established in February, 1881. The officers are: Post Coinmander — A. W. O'Keefe. Sir Kt. Commander — Edgar Simpson. Lt. Commander — C. G. Denio. Record Keeper — C. J. French. Finance Keeper— F. P. Philo. Prelate — diaries Corbishley. Sergeant — A. W. O'Keefe. Master-at-Arms — John Wilson. First Master of Guards — John Freer. Second Master of Guards — R. Sofley. Sentinel — Walter Freer. Picket — H. McKenzie. The other members are William Smith and Wil- liam Blackford. Bridgehampton Township. I'M 1854 this township was set off from For- 1^ ester, and for some time comprised Custer and Marion. It is town 12 north, range 15 east. Its neighbors are Sanilac and Forester on the east, Marion on the north, Custer on the west and Washington on the south. Bridgehampton 's first settler was Theodore Laurel, who came in the spring of 1853. The next settlers, in about the order named, were James Aldred, Orange Baker, E. M. Miller, Wm. Ellethorp, John Graham, Joseph Stephens, Charles Wood, James Lane, John Tucker. A barn was built by James Lane in 1858, which was the fi.rst frame building in the township. Orange Baker donated land for school purposes. on section 12 in 1855, and a school-house was built that year, which was the first. William Galloway built the first mill in the town- ship, on section 6, in 1S63. It was a shingle mill. The first store was built in what is now Downing- ton, in 1861. In 1881, John Pace started a store at Wilber Station, and he was also appointed Postmas- ter at this time. The first Church organization was the Methodist Episcopal, who organized 1855, holding their meet- ings in school-houses. This was done for 20 years, or until 1875, when a movement was instituted to build a union church, to be supported by all ortho- do.x people.. The ground was donated by Mrs. Mary Moore, on section 2. The deed was made out specifying that it was a union church, but before this deed was recorded the Methodists secured an- other deed, which was first recorded and took pre- cedence against the other denominations. This is what some of them call stealing a church. Another church was built on section 14, in r88t. CARSONVII.LE. In July, 1864, the first store in Carsonville was built by Arthur Carson, and is the hotel now kept by John Connors. The next store was built in t868, by U. Raymond & Co., who sold to Wm. Thomson in 1874. He kept it until 1882, when it was purchased by C. M. Oldfield and run as a branch store of gen- eral merchandise, in connection with his Port Sanilac store. In 1872 Arthur Carson built a large store and kept a large stock of general merchandise until 1S82, when it was closed and is now vacant. The Exchange Hotel was built by John Farley, in 1880. He kept it for two years, and Robert Griggs purchased it. Two years later it was sold to Wm. J. Crorey. John Ryan built a store in i88i. He kept it until the fall of 1882, when Preston & Cummings bought it and now keep a general merchandise store. About the same time Wm. Bowin built a small Store and now keeps a few notions. The other stores are: Dr. J. W. Smith's drug store, established in 1851 ; J. A. Hosmer, hardware, 1882; John Farley, general store, 1883. A large cheese-factory was built by a stock com- pany in i88r, at a cost of $2,200; capacity, five tons daily. The Methodists organized themselves into a class vs f^ ({^;>/^^«^^ -^^^ ©V<^:I1 n^ M'^>r 504 SANILAC K^OUNTY. in 1874, and now, in 1884, are building a church, which is the first in the village. The school-house i^ for the village is half a mile east. J In 1880 William Thomson built a large elevator, (hj and Arthur Carson's elevator was erected about the same time. SUPERVISORS. William Sweet, 1867 David Crorey, 1868-74 James Reid, i87S~7 David Crorey, 1878 John H. Kinney, 1S79-80 James Reid, 188 1-2 —5- #«* io Marion and Wheatland Townships. ^^^f HESE were organized in 1858, and were ^■\ under the organization of Marion Town- ^ ship, and their history is identical, until fuKp 188 1. Wheatland was then cut off, and com- pleted the full organization of the county into townships. It is west of Marion, and is >^ bounded on tlie north by Minden, on the west by ^ Argyle, and on the south by Custer. Its number is 13 north, rangi 14 east. Marion is in the same number north; but in range 15 east. North of Marion is Delaware; east of it. Forester; south of it, Bridgehampton. The Raspburys, Wixsons, and Catalines were nota- ble pioneers, but the first settlers were William Kurtz, James Ogden, Nelson Ross and M. W. Stevenson, who came in 1849. The first school was taught by Miss Mary Arm- strong, in a log house which was previously a dwell- ing, and the same year (1859) a school-house was built on section i . An English church was built in Deckerville in i88i,and is the first church in the township. There is now a United Brethren church in Deckerville, erected in 1884, and a Methodist church in Down- ington, built in 1S83. SUPERVISORS. A. J. Wright, Joel McMahon, A. J. Wright, A. Downing, 1867-8 1869-7 ' 1872 1873-6 Thomas Burgess, W. E. Stevenson, John Leitch, 1877-80 1881 1882 DOWNINGTON i.C^ Is built on section 6, Bridgehampton Township, and on sections 31 and 32, Marion Township, and is therefore divided by the township line. The first building erected on the present site of the village of Downington was constructed by William Bancroft, ot Port Huron, in 1862, and was located on the north- east corner of section 6 in Bridgehampton Township, on the farm of Morris Coconian. Mr. Bancroft estab- lished a mercantile enterprise in the building, which he entrusted to the management of Ezra C. Carleton, Congressman elect from the Seventh District of Mich- igan, then a young man. The business was con- ducted one year, after which the building remained vacant for a time. In the fall of 1868 William Thompson, of Carsonville, commenced the same business in the building, which he prosecuted until June, 1870, when Messrs. Downing and Southworth purchased his entire interest, and continued opera- tions on the same site until their removal into the building they have since occupied, in November, 1872. The structure was occupied by John Bena- way, merchant, from March i, 1S77, until June i, 1880. In th^it year the place took its first important im- petus from the construction of the railroad, which passes through the extreme west of Bridgehampton Township. In the year following, the grist-mill of Harvey & Brown was erected, by A. Downing and William Harvey; and the Howard House was built, by Alonzo Downing, on the site of the first building, which has been moved twice, — once to a position south of its former location, and again, across the road where it now stands, and is occupied as a residence and millinery and fancy-goods store, by Mrs. Sawyer. In 1883 the Methodist Episcopal church was built, and from August of that year until June, 1884, 2 1 buildings were erected. John Bena- way established his trade, in boots and shoes, in 1877, and again in December, 1S83, at Downington. In June, 1884, he commenced operations in a new building. The first drug store was built by Dr. Little in 1880, was sold to J. A. Dunlap in 1S83, and recon- structed. Dr. Little built his present drug store in ( C< m. M ^^# 8-s— s — =««;-<((■ >HE educational interests of the county merit special mention, as they have fully kept pace with other mat- ters in the struggle for ex- istence; and, like many other important interests, have come through it all with marked success. If the history of the first schools were all written, it would be a record of toil and zeal upon the part of the pioneer teach- ers, and of general m anifestations of sympathy and encouragement from the hardy, toiling parents. In many instances the settlers' earnest desires for schools, where their children might receive the rudiments of an education, so far exceeded their ability to support the same, that first schools were sometimes held in some family kitchen, slab shanty, or deserted log hut. Some of these buildings were without floors, and destitute of furniture, except the benches made by splitting a log, sticking pegs into the round side and hewing the slivers from the split side. The only desks used were made by sticking pegs into the logs of which the walls were made, and placing on them a slab upon which the more advanced pupils could do their writing. When school-houses were built in the neighborhood of the saw-mills, of which there were many in the early history of the county, lumber was used and better buildings erected ; but, as the population then was of a transient character, these schools were not more prosperous than those which were less fortimate in the matter of building material. As the lumbering interest disappeared, transient residents moved away ; permanent settlers filled mrfim:>^ r4tllll^(il]>>r- 4?^^ SANILAC COUNTY. >5 '<> n (^ their places ; agricultural interests took the place of lumber; the county began to show a healthy devel- opment, and as a result of this change more school districts were organized every year; new and better school-houses were built here and there, and town- ship and district libraries were established. We re- gret the fact, however, that many of these libraries have ceased to exist. The first schools were established in North Lex- ington and Sanilac Townships. Others were soon in operation in Buel, Delaware, Elk and Speaker. The log shanties and cabins gradually gave place to larger and more comfortable frame structures ; and at the present time there are schools supported in 127 dis- tricts, 1 1 of which are graded and located as follows : 2 in Lexington, 2 in Sanilac, i in Buel, i in Elk, i in Marion, i in Delaware, i in Marlette, i in Bridgehampton, and r in Minden. The largest of these is the Lexington Union School, where a corps of experienced teachers are employed, presided over by Prof. Geo. A. Parker, a teacher and educational worker of large ability and experience, who has been identified with the school growth of the county from the beginning. Next are the Marlette and Sanilac schools, of excellent reputa- tions. In fact, all the graded schools mentioned above are doing good work. Twice have the school interests in the northern and western townships been sadly interfered with. First, during the great forest fires of 187 i, when ten school-houses were burned, located as follows: Del- aware, 4; Marion, 2 ; Austin, 3 ; Greenleaf, r. The number of children deprived of school privileges at that time was 300, and the loss of school property nearly $4,000. To the casual reader, or to those living in wealthy communities, or in cities where school buildings are erected at a cost of many thou- sands of dollars, this statement of valuation may appear small and trifling, but when they consider that the little school-houses were, in many districts, the only places of resort for instruction, amusement and worship, their importance to these settlers may be better understood. The devastation produced by the fire was so general and wide-spread that the people were unable to build school-houses, and the prospect for them was gloomy in the extreme. At this crisis the State Relief Committee made an appropriation of several thousand dollars for the purpose of help- ing in rebuilding the ichool-houses, so that in every « ^!^^ @r^^ 11 D district in which the school-house was burned, a new building was erected, and generally much bet- ter than the old one. The second disaster referred to was the " Great Fire " of 1 881, in which this county lost 27 school- houses, distributed as follows : Austin, 4 ; Argyle, 2 ; Delaware, 2 ; Elmer, i ; Evergreen, 4 ; Foster, i ; Greenleaf, i; Lamotte, 3; Maple Valley, i; Mar- lette, i; Marion, i; Moore, i; Minden, i ; Wash- ington, 2 ; Watertown, 3. Fourteen hundred school children were thus deprived of school privileges for an indefinite time, lJg,ooo of school property de- stroyed and the country devastated. The people were destitute; they had no means of supplying themselves with those things absolutely necessary, so that this loss seemed irreparable, as these school- houses were the places in which the children of these stricken people were to receive the greater part of their education. Many districts had been bonded for the payment of the buildings burned. .Some had been too poor to build anything better than a log house, and in some instances the small amount of district funds, in hands of the treasurer was destroyed with the rest of the property. After the more pressing demands and immediate wants of the people had been supplied by a gener- ous public, attention was turned toward the school districts. Mr. Geo. A. Parker, Secretary of the County Board of School Examiners, had labored many weeks in securing the required information from all the unfortunate districts, and at the proper time forwarded petitions to the State Relief Com- mittee and to the Legislature, which had been called in special session by the Governor, to vote relief from the State treasury for the help of the fire suffer- ers, asking for an appropriation to help rebuild the school-houses. This was granted, and new buildings have been erected in all those districts. Since that time there has been a steady advance in educational matters, and although' the count)- can not boast of expensive structures, like' older and more wealthy counties of the state, immigrants and settlers may locate in any township with the assurance of being within reasonable distance of a school-house. The schools and teachers compare favorably with tliose of other counties, while the salaries are belter tlian in many older counties. Two or three incidents are mentioned connected with school supervision and visitation, as related by „5 I ^ 1=1 ]^ Ai=^ tm^ SANILAC COUNTY. «'%^- ^ the County Superintendent of Schools of that time: " On one occasion a gentleman drove 20 miles to see me, to make application for a legal certificate to permit a certain lady to teach school in his district. As I could not issue a certificate without a personal examination of the qualifications of the candidate for pedagogical honors, I made an appointment to visit the school, inspect the lady's teaching, and remain over night at this gentleman's house. At the time agreed upon, I made my way as fast as I could towards the district to be visited. Forest fires were burning in all directions at the time; the road for the last few miles was so obstructed by fallen trees as to be wholly impassable, and it was with great difficulty that I succeeded in reaching my destination, by driving along the course of the creek — sometimes in the river-bed, and at others, up its steep banks ; now lifting the buggy over logs, then down the banks again ; unhitching horse to get him extricated from some difficulty, and so plodding on through the blind- ing smoke and ashes with which the air was filled, till, just before dark, I arrived at the house of my search. Here was a large clearing, but woods on all sides and no other buildings except this gentleman's in sight. "After spending a pleasant evening, where I was most hospitably entertained, sleeping soundly after "v ) my adventures, and eating a hearty breakfast, I pro- ceeded to the school-house, a log building, a half mile distant. The teacher was not young and pretty, though pretty in one sense she was, but an old lady 70 years old; and as I looked at her sitting behind her desk in her quiet dignity, white cap, spectacles and old-fashioned neckerchief, I felt very much like the other urchins in the room, and as if I was just as likely as they to feel the effects of the long birch switch within ready reach of her hand. Here was this old lady daily toiling in that log shanty among her own grand-children and other youngsters, not for the money, but that they might not grow up in ignorance. I must not forget to mention that the old lady was the gentleman's mother. " On another occasion I drove several miles over a corduroy road, to visit a school in a certain district ; but, upon arriving at the place, I found the school- room occupied by several cattle, school not being in session, one saucy animal standing in the door as sentry and obstinately refusing to come out or to admit me. 1 f " At another time I was compelled to walk several miles through the woods, on a very hot day, to visit a school in a new township, where the roads were im- passable to horses. The heat was oppressive, the mosquitoes and flies terribly annoying, the track so obscure as to lead me several times into swamp holes, when I would have to retrace my steps for some dis- tance, and take another tack ; and before reaching the clearing a thunder shower came up, without much warning, giving variety to the tramp by wetting me thoroughly, twisting the trees in a mighty un- pleasant manner, and making me wish myself some place else. However, the house of the director was finally reached, the school visited, and good results accomplished even here. The people had antici- pated my coming, and although their condition was one not to be envied, having no furniture in the house except a rough, table, of home manufacture, and benches made from split logs in place of chairs, their kindness, and interest in having their school visited by the Superintendent, were highly com- mendable. " On one occasion I had stopped at a grocery inn for dinner, intending to start on foot for a school dis- trict three or four miles distant, and which could only be reached at that time by a lumber road. Making inquiry about the direction to go, 1 found that a lady also waiting dinner was going right there, and agreed to pilot me. I remarked that my t"me was so limited that I would have to walk fast, and if she would direct me she need not put herself to the inconvenience of trying to keep up with me. She replied that she thought she could ' keep up.' We started. After we had pushed through underbrush, dodged limbs, walked logs and waded swamps for about two miles, I was the one trying very hard to keep up. She had led me a worse tramp than any other woman had ever succeeded in doing before. " One of the most disagreeable incidents connected with this part of my work, was holding a trial over a teacher, who had excited the ire of some of the resi- dents of the district where he was teaching. A peti- tion, signed by several tax-payers and gotten up in legal form, was presented me, requesting a hearing and trial of the teacher. Giving legal notice to teacher and school officers, and appointing a day for the trial, I in due time repaired to the school-house, which I found filled with men, women and children. Tlie principal charge brought against the teacher was, ' Unbecoming and impioper conduct toward the young ladies of the school.' Upon investigating the matter I found that the substance of the complaint was that he had kissed some of the young ladies. Inasmuch as I was unmarried myself, the young ladies were so handsome, very tempting, and made no complaint themselves, I could not for the life of me find him guilty of the charge preferred against him; neither can I up to the present time!" I • /■/ C ^ %9- .^^N^ <^ii!i^ni];> 508 -7 ^ ~3J^^^ ill ' SANILAC COUNTY. ) ^c^ ^ glMors ^i CliuvcIiJ^ o(r>o ANILAC County religion began when the settlement began. The pioneers could not forego the sol- ace of righteous paths, even though these led through the woods, 50 miles from civiliza- tion. Godliness was a part of the pio- neer's daily life, and when that daily life was removed from some pleasant home far back beyond the borders, to the early forests of Sanilac, godli- 5ss came with it ; so that as soon as there were sufficient hearers, a sermon was preached. That sermon was by Elder Thomas Huckins, a Free-will Baptist min- ister, about July I, 1839, and was the first Protestant sermon preached in Sanilac County. The first Methodist minister was Rev. Mr. Noble, whose field was at Port Huron, but he came occa- sionally and preached, in 1S41. After that sermons were delivered irregularly until 1847, when a regular appointment was established at Lexington. Eider Abrani Sloat was the first regular Baptist minister, settling in Worth, in 1S50. Rev. Talmadge Water- bury, of the Congregational Church, located in San- ilac about the same time. Elder Hiram Hayward was the first Christian Baptist preacher organizing a Church in Worth in 1847-8. The Rev. John Mc- LelandjOf the United Presbyterian Church, organized a Church in Fremont in 1862, and one in Davisville in 1863. Rev. A. B. Flower, an Episcopal minister, organized a Church in Lexington and one in Davis- ville, in 1868. The Advent Christians were first m' Vi> represented in this county by Elder George Wright, in Lexington, in 1869. -H#f>H^" '^ ^ Catholic. REVIOUS to all these there had been ;v . Catholic ministers here laboring among the '^- Indians several years, and the following paper, by Rev. C. Denissen, will show the development of that Church in this region. " The history of the Catholic Church in America commences with the Indians, that is, with the first visits of the early missionaries to the Indians. In like manner we have to look for traces of missionaries among the Indians in Sanilac County. " We find records of Indian encampments along the shore of Lake Huron, south of Stevens' Landing and in the vicinity of the present village of Ama- dore. In 1838 the sniall-pox broke out amongst them and carried the most of them off. After bury- ing the dead and burning the camps, the survivors " As early as 1786, we find traces of Catholic mis- j sionaries, who visited the Indians encamped on the k banks of St. Clair and Black Rivers in St. Clair >|.' County ; we might, with a good deal of probability, «/ suppose that some of these missionaries then and ^ afterward visited the Indians in Sanilac County along ^ the shore of Lake Huron and on the borders of J» €r-7<^lin:t:illl>> V^^ SANILAC COUNTY. '«r -¥m^^k 509 ^fi^ — ^^^-^m On Christmas morning, 1872, Rev. C. Denissen, being then Pastor of Lexington, made his first visit to Sanilac. In his following visits he became aware that many improvements were necessary to keep pace with the increase of the congregation ; he found an old standing debt of about $350 on the church building. His first care was to have that debt liqui- dated. The grave-yard had not been staked or laid out in family lots. In order to make this possible the stumps of the " forest primeval " were removed, a substantial fence was built around the grave-yard, and the grounds were surveyed and staked in lots, and have since become the resting place of many a pioneer. Becoming apparent that the old church building had become too small for the congregation, an addition, the size of the old building, was com- menced, in 1883, and in 1884 was completed. This church is at present tlie largest church edifice in Sanilac County. SPEAKER. The first white settlers of the township of Speaker were John Davis and Peter Carroll (the correct or- thography, " McCardle "), who took up their resi- dences on section 23, in the year 1853. The first white child born in Speaker was Sara Davis, at present the wife of Frank Burnham, of Worth ; she was born in the latter part of October, 1853. In 1854, Michael Burns settled on the same section. Oct. 19, 1854, Rev. L. Kilroy came on a sick call to the house of John Davis. This was perhaps the first time that a Catholic priest set foot in the town of Speaker. Oct. 9, 1856, was the first time that Catholic service was held in Speaker. Father Kilroy said mass in the house of John Davis, and on that day Hugh Davis and his brother, James Davis, and Elizabeth Carroll (McCardle) were baptized. These were the first children baptized in that township. In the same month Terrence Monaghan settled on the same section. He carried his cook-stove on his back, a distance of over a mile, the woods being too dense to admit a yoke of oxen. In 1857 Anthony O'Meally settled on section 21. In 1858 Richard Mullany and Michael Leonard took up homes on section 28, and Stephen Mullany on section 22. In i860 the Catholic Baptism Records of Speaker commence. It is evident from them that Father Kilroy attended this settlement regularly yo; ca: m lfi>A ^. 1^ :'^^ ■H^. f r^^K — ^v<^iii m n iiri>v -«^>^ SANILAC COUNTY. :0 V until 1870, when Father De Smedt began his regu- lar monthly visits. In the beginning of 1872 Father Canters succeeded him, and in 1873 on New-Year's day, Rev. C. Denissen made his first visit to Speaker. At that time services were held in the house of Ter- rence Monaghan. The congregation growing to such an extent that either Mr. Monaghan would have to build an addition to his house or the congregation a church, it was decided to erect the latter. The frame was erected in the fall of the same year, and the church was ready for service by Sept. 20, 1874. Ter- rence Monaghan having donated two acres for a church-yard, a survey was made and a grave-yard staked off in family lots. From that time Speaker can be called a regular "mission." The congrega- tion kept increasing; the church, in the beginning too large for the congregation, became better filled from year to year, and at present (1884) a large addition to the church is absolutely necessary. MARION. It seems that most early French settlers selected their homes near a river or a creek. So it was in Marion, where Levi La Framboise (who American- ized his name to Raspberry) settled near Cherry Creek on section 5 of the Township of Bridgehamp- ton. Levi Raspberry has a large family of children, who settled in the immediate neighborhood after their marriages. These Raspberrys and a few more French Catholics constitute the mission of Marion. FREMONT. The first settlers of Fremont who professed the Catholic religion are Moses Burns, Timothy Mc- Carthy and his brother Dennis McCarthy, who came in the summer of 1855. A few Catholics have set- tled in that vicinity since. For these settlers Catho- lic services are held in Fremont. Episcopal. EV. A. B. Flower says of the establishment of the Episcopal Church : "In the summer of 1869 I became the missionary of Sanilac County, acting under the Bishop and Missionary Committee of the Diocese of Michigan. Lexington was chosen as the place of residence and the center from which to operate. A few funerals and perhaps a marriage or two had been solemnized by a clergyman of the Church. Nothing more was undertaken until a Sun- day-school was introduced by two young men, one, a trained Churchman, the other educated in a Christian body not in sympathy with the Church. "The newly appointed missionary found only a few communicants, but a strong Churchly element from which to form the congregation. Services were com- menced in the lower part of Masonic Hall. After a few years a handsome church edifice was erected where the people now worship. "An earnest Church lady of Davisville (now Cros- well), with her aged father and others of her house- hold, regularly attended services at Lexington. At the request of this lady (Mrs. Wildman Mills), the missionary began ministrations at Croswell, in the school-house. From the first the services were well received, and soon a church building became neces- sary. Land was given by Messrs. Davis and Steven- son upon which to erect the edifice. The firm of Moss & Mills subscribed largely towards its erection, and the citizens generally contributed generously of money and labor to the enterprise. As the work went on, Messrs. Truman Moss and Wildman Mills urged the missionary to proceed, promising to make up any deficiency that might ensue, and nobly did they redeem that promise ; for when the church was completed and consecrated, by the name of ' Christ's Church,' May 24, 1871, there was not a dollar of debt. The building was removed in the spring of 1883 to the place where it now stands. The Rec- tors have been the Revs. A. B. Flower, W. H. Smythe, and Mr. Carey. " It is not out of place here to say that Mrs. Wild- man Mills was the real founder of the Church, and the originator of the building, who, with her father and husband, with other helpers, faltered not until the church was finished and entirely free from debt." The Christian Church. HE Christian Church of Worth and Lexing- ton was organized June 24, 1867, by Rev. ^ Hiram Hayward, assisted by Rev. Jesse Vancamp, of Bowmanville, Ont. Organization services were held in Elder Hayward's barn, the district school-house, where religious ser- vices had been held, being too small to accommodate I ^ ( i 0. 1 I <^!l!l^Dni>^ 2®' :#» T 1^ V <> 3 S C) f SANILAC COUNTY. ■isr #^^((®^.^ 513 the congregation. There were 13 charter members, and the total number of members added to the Church since is 179. The present membership is 125. Rev. Hiram Hayvvard served tlie Cliurch as Pastor from the time of organization, in 1867, until the spring of 1878, when, on account of failing health, he was obliged to quit preaching. November 21, 1878, Rev. Geo. W. Sherman was chosen Pastor, and Rev. J. S. Warren Associate Pastor. May 10, 1879, Rev. Warren withdrew, and Rev. Sherman continued as Pastor until October 22, 1881. January i, 1882, the Church secured the services of Rev. Solomon Prosser, who continued to act as Pastor until December 31, 1883. March 3, 1884, Rev. William Burch was en- gaged by the Church as Pastor, and holds that posi- tion now. Edward Gordon, Henry Fockler and George A. Shell were the first Deacons elected by the Church, and have been re-elected from time to time, and still serve the Church in that capacity. Francis Car- min was elected Clerk in 1867, and continued to serve until Dec. 31, 1870. In January, 187 i, Hiram S. Hayward was elected Clerk, and has been re- elected each year up to this time (18S4). The church building was erected in 1868, on land donated by Rev. H. Hayward, and is situated on the southwest corner of section i, Town of Worth, Sani- lac County. The lot consists of half an acre of land, which contains church and sheds, and is fenced. The value of church property is $1,200. There is a flourishing Sabbath-school, under the auspices of the Church, comprising about 75 scholars, with the usual complement of officers and teachers. -134=4= et- was organized in 1847, with H. N. Brown as Pastor. Allan Atkins, Ebenezer Raymond, Darius Cole, Jo- seph Pety, Henry Young, James F. Buel and Isaac Leuty were instrumental in starting it. The building was erected in 1850, and the parsonage was donated by Mrs. Maria Pack. Methodist. HE Methodist Episcopal Church at Cros- well was organized in 1854, as the " Black River" appointinent, with Rev. Mr. John- son, of Lexington, in charge. There were but few members at that time, and they met at the house of John H. Hart, then in the school- house, until, in 1865, Mr. Hart donated an acre of land, upon which the present church was afterward built. In Lexington the Methodist Episcopal Church Minor Notes. 44 m,- 4^-^ for the Methodist society. The first church building in the village was the Congregational church, built in 1866, on ground donated by Arthur Brock. This was also the first church in the township, and its minister was Rev. Talraadge Waterbury. The Methodists commenced their build- ing about the same time, but it was not completed for some months later. Thomas Oldfield donated the lots for I his. The organization for the Congrega- tional Church took place in 1854. Vto) Congregational. JN organization of the Congregational Church |[ in Lexington took place Tuesday evening, l^J?." " March 13, 1866. Israel Huckins and Sam- uel Burgess were elected Trustees for one year; Joseph T. Moss and Watson Beach for two years, and E. Brown and Clark Hadley for three years. For some time the society occupied the Free-Will Baptist church. Rev. Charles Spooner officiated as Pastor for two years, and was succeeded by Rev. Charles Spittigue, who remained one year. The pulpit was afterward supplied by the Free-Will Baptists, Rev. Dr. Buthrick being the minister. Then there was a suspension of services until Sep- tember, 1878, when the Free-Will Baptists and Con- gregational society united, re-organized the latter society, and turned the Baptist church over to it. Rev. William Woodmansee was called as Pastor, and remained until September, 1883, when Rev. J. T. Husted came, and is still in charge. The build- ing was remodeled in 1879. The membership of the Church at present is about 30. ca: ^ d ■ HE first sermon preached in Port Sanilac ;j, was by Rev. Mr. Sealy, in 185 1. This was ^IlD^IiIlv> 514 SANILAC COUNTY. t The Adventist church in Port Sanilac was built in 187 1, on lots donated by Frederick Platts. The organization was effected only a month before the church building began, service in the meantime be- ing held in a tent. In 187 I the first regular Baptist Church was organ- ized, under the leadership of Rev. A. Curry. George H. Fenner was Deacon. Services were held on alternate Sabbaths in the Presbyterian church until 187s, when the Advent church was purchased. Rev. George H. Fenner occupied the pulpit from 1877 to May, 1882, when the church underwent a repairing. Then Rev. J. H. Girdnood was the Pastor for a year, and since then there has been no regular pastor. The first Methodist Episcopal church was built in Marlette in 187 1, and dedicated on New Year's. John Wilson donated the lots for the church, and Mr. H. W. Wilson the lots for the parsonage, which was built two years later. Several years before this a Methodist Church was established and met in the Montgomery school-house, three miles south of the village of Marlette, which was the first Church organ- ization in the township. The first church in the village of Marlette was the United Presbyterian, built in 1868, in the west part of the village, on ground donated by Jonathan Hobson. The logs were furnished by John Donald and Alexander Mur- ray ; and Rev. George H. Fenner, who at that time owned a saw-mill, as a partner with Mr. McGill, sawed the logs free. The building has since been moved down upon one of the main streets, and is now used as a carpenter shop. It was used as a church until 1SS2, but the congregation changed their creed to that of the American Presbyterian Church and then built the present commodious building, which consists of a large audience room and a lecture room, at a cost of $3,500. It is on Marlette and State Streets. Tlie first church in the township was built on sec- tion 34, town II, in 1859. Logs were rolled to- gether on three sides and crotch sticks were put up with polls across for a pulpit. There was no roof. It was Baptist and Methodist combined. At one of these meetings, a German lady, Mrs. Fischer, " got religion," and began to pray. The minister thought her broken English was altogether German, and shouted "All right! Pray on, sister! The Lord understands Dutch." 1 X=I (0 Wm^^^^^ t^ ^3^^^ — ^^^nn^Diic^:,^ — ^^^^ -#^f •'^^^'^®))^#« SANILAC COUNTY. 515 i ROPERLY regarded, the press '^'1 may be considered the truest ;-> evidence of civihzed life. It ,. -^,-,, is the chief proposer of great ''*slSa, enterprises. It is the e.\po- 'tS^yir nent of the American mind, with very few exceptions, and these occur only where ignorance or viciousness leads the freeman of our soil to become a convert to the savage opinions of theoretical Europeans. Hap- pily, the newspaper men of the country do not claim many professors who in- dulge in nonsensical praise of the slave- holding monarchies of the world. Such stuff takes root only in the minds of the more imbecile of our citizens. The press and people understand their duties to the Republic, and appre- ciate the blessings which a federal government confers. So long as these indefatigable framers of opinion stand faithfully by the pen and press, just so long will reason trample on all treason from within, all treachery from without. Proscribe the liberty of the press, and the nation suffers in just such proportion as the press suffers. Proscribe the freedom of the press, and the cause of human freedom is checked for a time; trade, the health of nations, rolls languidly on; man looks around him in alarm ; the safeguard of progress is enchained. Therefore, let us regard, cherish and support the honest journalist, stigmatize what may be really corrupt in the newspaper, and be always ■h vx^^-i^S'v> H \^ ready to co-operate with Justice and to applaud her holy work. Sanilac Jeffei'sonian. \ HIS is one of the oldest, best established and most influential journals published in V^^ this part of the State, and, indeed, we can .^y^ safely say, ranks among the leading news- ® papers of the State. It has ever labored, with zeal and ability, for the upbuilding and welfare of the village, county and State, and the nation as well. The Sanilac Ji-ffcrsonian was established at Lex- ington in 1858. The outfit of the office had been used in publishing the Sanilac Signal. The Leader had been established for some time as a Republican paper, but the party was split into two factions, and the Leader being owned and controlled by Joseph C. Wyllis, the leader of one of the factions, the other side bought the plant of the Signal, and started the Jeff, by which cognomen it soon became known. Charles Waterbury was established in the editorial chair, and by his genial manner, business qualifica- tions and vigorous handling of the local issues in the party, and of the great issues between the great parties then agitating the country, he soon put the new venture on the road to success. The local split in the party was virtually disposed, after two or three campaigns, in favor of the Jeff's side. The Leader was sold out in 1860 to the Democratic managers, ^^^ §39- s^ ^r' C^^ ^^^D n ^ llI]r>A::9— ^^€^ 1^ 516 SANILAC COUNTY. -^li^^'Sr f 4 :-<-5 :/>: and, after the Douglas campaign, went out of exist- ence. In April, 1865, the J^e^ passed into the hands of Charles S. Nims and Watson Beach, Mr. Nims having conducted the paper nearly a year for the owners, after Mr. Waterbury's retirement in 1864. Mr. Waterbury went to Sandusky, Oliio, engaging with A. B. Nettleton in the publication of the San- dusky Register. Afterward he removed to Glyndon, Minn., where he died, of an acute attack of a brain malady. The older residents of the county recall him and the early days of the Jcfi in the contests of those days with affectionate remembrance. The Jeff was conducted by Messrs. Nims & Beach jointly until October, 1882, when Mr. Nims retired, taking up his residence at Sand Beach, in Huron County. Although partisan in politics, the paper continued to win its way in the esteem and favor of the public, and has become an institution in hundreds of house- holds in the county. It has been the leading paper in the county in influence and circulation, and so continues to be under the management of Mr. Beach, the present proprietor. Since the first number was issued, its files are a complete history of the county. Ignoring the usual custom of offering inducements for new subscribers, Mr. Beach has adopted the plan of rewarding the faithful old subscribers by making his rates %i to twenty year-old patrons, and Si. 25 to all others. The writers of this history are indebted to the files of the Jeffersoiiian for many items of historical value. For a personal sketch of Mr. Beach, see page 330. ^'Q^ Croswell Democrat. i?? |jf|n^'jURING the month of July, 1879, the Port ' '__^. ': Huron & Northwestern Railroad was -°i.'J4> ■ completed to Croswell, and at once gave ?f^ the village an importance and impetus which attracted population and business. In Decem- ber, 1879, Horatio Pratt, who was then publish- ing a paper at Wayne, visited Sanilac County in quest of a location for a newspaper, and among other places visited Croswell. The citizens inter- ested themselves in the project, and gave it so much encouragement and promised aid, that in February, 1880, Mr. Pratt removed his office to Croswell, and March 5, 1880, the first number of the Croswell Democrat was issued, from a small building which then stood on the corner of Howard Avenue and Wells Street, near where the Opera-House Block now stands, and was the only building which could be had. While the first issue was being printed, the citizens fired a salute from a couple of anvils, and the Croswell Cornet Band gave the office a serenade. The paper started with a circulation of about 50 actual subscribers, which was rapidly increased, and before the end of the first year, had reached nearly 400, and has steadily increased until it is now (Nov. 10, 1884) nearly 800. During the summer of 1880, Col. J. M. Anderson erected a building on Howard Avenue, just north of the Anderson House, and in the fall the Democrat found an office on the first floor. On the 27 th day of November, 1881, this building was burned, with the entire contents, in- cluding the printing material and fixtures, and Mr. Pratt's law and editorial library, with office furniture and papers, and a stock of sewing-machines, the aggregate value of which was about $1,500. It was insured for only $465. As this was but about half the value of the printing-office alone, the prospect for a speedy resumption was not favorable : but the citizens again came to its aid, and after being printed at the Times office in Port Huron, for four issues, the Democrat resumed its publication, with new material for a newspaper and job office. Col. Anderson rebuilt the office, and in February, 1882, the Democrat \i3A back in a new and improved office. In the spring of 1S84, the building was sold to the village, and the Democrat was removed to the second story of N. P. Houghtalin's new brick store, on Howard Avenue, where it is now located. In politics, the Democrat has been a firm and uncompromising advocate of Democratic principles and measures, as represented, and promulgated by the revenue-reform, anti-monoj oly wing of the party, and supported Hancock foi the Presidency in 1880, and the Union State ticket in the fall of 1882 and spring of 1883. When the Anti-monopoly organiza- tion was effected at Chicago, the paper recognized its principles as true Democracy, and gave the organ- ization aid and encouragement. In December, 1883, it hoisted the name of Benjamin F. Butler as its candidate for President, and urged his nomination by the Democratic party ; and when the Democratic ^ I (7 r i ^mM'^<^ z. .:^^S^ # i^' #^ r^^ — ervC^D B)^: n Ds> SANILAC COUNTY. 517 4 T V 4> I National Convention put in nomination Graver Cleve- land, the Crosvvell Democrat, adhered to its choice, and supported General Butler and the Union elec- toral State and county ticket. The labors oixX^e. Democrat since its establishment have been especially directed to the unification and concentration of the opposition to the Republican party, believing that the only way to weaken and root out the undue and blighting influence of the corporate monopolies of the country in the adminis- tration of .the national and State governments, is to remove from power the party that has fostered and built up those monopolies, and in turn sustained and controlled by them. That its labors have not been fruitless, is shown by the returns which give the People's party a vote of nearly or quite 800, in Sani- lac County, and a Union vote of over 1,800, nearly wiping out the large Republican majority on electoral and State tickets of 1880. Horatio Pratt, editor of the Croswell Democrat, was born at Somerset, Niagara Co., N. Y., Dec. 10, 1830. In the spring of 1832, his parents removed to tlie then Territory of Michigan, and settled in Hillsdale County, in what was afterwards named the township of Somerset ; and here the subject of this sketch lived until he came to the age of maturity. Until he was 12 years of age, he attended the district school, summer and winter. After that he spent his summers on the farm, attending the scliool in the winter only. When 16 he attended the Union School at Jonesville, under the instruction of Prof. A. M. Welch, afterwards Principal of the Normal at Ypsi- lanti. Two years later he attended the Michigan Central College, at Spring Arbor, where he took an academical course of instruction. For several years afterward he taught school in the winter, and worked on a farm in the summer, devot- ing a portion of his spare time to a study of the law. In the spring of 1S58, he went to Lansing, and entered tlie law office of D. V.. Wiley, where he com- pleted his studies, and in December following was admitted to practice, and soon after opened a law office at Williamston, Mich., and built up a lucrative practice. In i860, he was elected Circuit Court Com- missioner, and re-elected in 1862, being the only one elected on the Republican ticket that year. In 1864, he was elected Judge of Probate for Ingham County, and the following summer removed to Mason, the county seat. ^^^#^ ^s^^^r^ @r^<-:II 3 5 In 1862 he became interested in a mercantile estab- lishment at Williamston, and had acquired several thousand dollars, and on removing to Mason, invested it in real estate; and in 1865, with other parties, built the first brick block in the place. In 1868, he was re- elected Judge of Probate, and in 1870, became half owner, and sole editor, of the Ingham County News. In 1872 he sold his newspaper interests and engaged largely in merchandise and real estate. The Jay Cooke failure found him with business sails full spread, and in the business depression and. shrinkage of values which followed, he was a heavy loser, and became financially embarrassed, with the thousands of other business men who were driven to the wall during that period. After an unsuccessful struggle to retrieve his losses, in 1876, he turned out his entire property to his creditors, and removed to Wayne, and resumed the practice of law. Soon after his location in Wayne he became editor of the Wayne Pilot, and a year later purchased the material, and established the Wayne County Tidings. In 1884, he removed the office to Croswell, and commenced the publication of the Croswell Democrat, in which he is still engaged. In politics, Mr. Pratt was an ardent supporter of the Republican party, until 1872, when, in the col- umns of the Ingham County Netvs, he opposed President Grant's renomination. For the following eight years he took no active part in politics. He favored many of the principles of the National Labor party but never acted with it. In 1880, he sup- ported Hancock for President, and labored for the success of the Democratic party. When the Anti- monopoly organization was effected, he took a deep interest in the movement, and warmly espoused the principles of that organization. He has been much in favor of the union of all the elements opposed to Republican rule, and has labored earnestly to bring them into unity, and promote combined action. In this respect he has as coadjutors many who are em- inent in statesmanship and in the various branches of learning, both east and west, and north and south, — many, too, who are honest and shrewd, 'and desire to uproot only the evil and establish the good. Mr. Pratt has been twice married — in 1852, at Somerset, to Catharine Houghtahn, whodied in 185:;, and in i860, at Williamston, to Louise Simons, his present wife. A daughter, and only child, is mar- ried, and resides at Ashland. Wis. ^ g"> 3=3 t—T ®;)(^# v<^iin^iiii^>v ^;sr -#^f5)Vi ■^ I [j SANILAC COUNTY. U^^.aJ; ) >5 Marlette Ijcader. NE of the numerous papers of Sanilac County, and one ably conducted and wor- q),^'^ thy the patronage and sympathy of the tSf community in which it is published, is the ''b Marlette Leader, published at Marlette. Po- litically, the paper is Republican, and during the last exciting and memorable Presidential cam- paign it ably advocated and defended the principles of the Republican party. In October, 1883, its present editor, William C. Sherman, came to Marlette, and shortly afterward assumed editorial charge and man- agement of the paper, and has since continued in charge of it. For a personal sketch of Mr. Sherman we refer the reader to page 34S. — {- #^ Sanilac County Reporter. - V"; MONG the numerous journalistic enter- % prises that have been inaugurated in this county is the Sanilac Comity Re/or/er. In October, 1883, it was purchased by Mr. J. H. Shults, editor and proprietor of the Minden Post. His father, Mr. James L. Shults, is associated I with him in this enterprise. The paper is independ- ent in politics, and is receiving a fair share of public favor and patronage. We refer the reader to page 37 1 for a personal sketch of J. L. Shults. The Minden Post. HE northern portion of Sanilac County is 1^^^ represented in the newspaper line by a neat f'w^ and vi'ell conducted sheet published at Min- ra den. The Fc>st was established in 188 r, by \ its present editor and proprietor, J. H. Shults. During the hard times following the terrible forest fires, which devastated that section of the State, the enterprise inaugurated by Mr. Shults suffered alike with all the business interests in the district. As soon as practicable he revived the paper, and it is now receiving the support and encouragement of the people in that section of tlie county, and is continu- ally enlarging its sphere of usefulness and influence. The Post is independent in politics, and its columns deal ably with the important issues of the day in an impartial manner. We refer to page 432 of this book for a biographical sketch of Mr. Shults. '^A.J 9 e^ §j^m^ -2<>oa^:iii];>^ mm. (^ -^&K — ^^V4^I1 D '^> Wi^ \''^'o - ^ ^^^ SANILAC COUNTY. m^ t^t^'^'^'^tj^'^; I'.Vi'.' I'.gi'i^'^t^JSi'iSilAtS^i.V.'i'.'i '.'it'-'r'-U". 't'T'r'.'i'aa't%.''t^<^t!as' Vto) 1 SKY of flame, of smoke a heavenful, the earth a mass of burning coals, the mighty trees, all works of man be- - . .f^-^^.f ., ^ „ - tvveen, and living tilings trem- %^:r'^''h^ bling as a child before a irj\/ demon in the gale! Such is a forest fire. To those wlio have seen, the picture needs no paint- ing. A simple record of the great ordeal is all that can be given here. Beneath the trees a cloak, formed by the dropping twigs and leaves, had been gather- ing for )ears, but had not yet re- turned to its original dust. The autumn of 187 i was unusually favorable for ridding the ground of this, together with logs and stumps that had stood in the way of I he plow. The farmers fired the heaps of wood and brush over their premises. The fires burned on and for a long time there was no rain to quench them. The earth became drier, the fires gradually ran together, the upward current of heat drew the dry air from the westward inland rather than the heavy atmosphere from over the lakes, and thus the wind was formed. Chips and fragments carried thither started new fires, and ultimately the whole surface was ignited, ready for one general conflagration. On Sunday night, Oct. 8, 1871, the hurricane was ripe and started on its wild career across the land, blowing, burning, killing, devouring. When aroused to the danger, human beings could only stand aghast in awe and wonder, until compelled to flee for refuge. In some places little alarm was felt, and people went to bed at night as usual, to be aroused at midnight by the fearful cry of fire, that called some to see their earthly treasures vanish into smoke and ashes, sav- ing themselves almost by a miracle, while others, choked with flame and smoke, left their charred bones alone to tell their friends where and how they died! The counties that suffered most from the fires were Sanilac, Huron and Tuscola. The extent of the losses can never be known. Thousands of acres of valuable pine were burned or rendered worthless. It was fortunate at this time that the country over which the tornado passed was not so thickly settled, except along the lake shore; otherwise the loss of human life would have been appalling. As it was, the greater loss was that of property and pine. The extent of this can never be accurately known, and the record at best must be incomplete. At Forestville the people were engaged in fighting the fire on one side of the village, when it rushed in like a tornado from the other side, and almost " in the twinkling of an eye " the village was in flames ^, JSi^!^ r<^llll^llll^.> 1520 SANILAC COUNTY. '■o5 V ^ and the citizens were compelled to seek shelter on the beach or in the water, or any place which of- fered safety. The storm of fire swept over the bank, grasping everything it could reach, to feed itself upon. Mrs. Green, who was an invalid, had to be carried out of the burning house and provided with shelter in a hole in the bank. Henry L. Adams, who kepi the Forest House, got his family into a boat on the beach and covered them over with wet blankets; but even in this situation Mrs. Adams' shawl was burned through until it looked as though it had been laid on a bed of coals. The people sought a refuge in boats or anything else they could reach, and man- aged to save their lives by covering themselves with wet blankets. Mrs. Jacob Buel, who at that time lived in Dela- ware, relates the following : " Mrs. F. Buschkowski, my daughter, was at that time in Paris Township, Huron County. They were living over the store, and were burned out, losing all their property. Mrs. Buschkowski's clothes were burned completely off. After the fire had raged some hours, Mr. Buschkowski saw the uselessness of attempting further resistance, and, loading a num- ber of woolen blankets into the wagon, he started for a mill race which had been begun about half a mile from the store, and by rapid driving succeeded in gaining tlie race before the wagon took fire. The family were snugly placed in the race and blankets thrown over them, and by keeping these wet pro- fusely they succeeded in escaping by the loss of only the clothes they wore. A little farther up an old lady was found who had plunged headlong into the race, blinded by the fire. When she was found her feet were burned off! There had been but little clearing done as yet, and the fire swept along over that portion of the country without any obstruc- tion. Captain Bridenbach, living two miles below Forest- ville, lost his barn and sheds, and the family saw the flames around the house so close and threaten- ing that they fled to the lake to save their lives, com- ing back to their homes the next morning to find the house uninjured! It had taken fire at one corner, but the flames went out and the house stood. Nearly all the buildings four miles south on the shore were burned, and how many in the woods west has never been known. In half an hour Forestville was in ruins — every building but one small saloon, and both d»cks crowded with valuable goods, lumber and shingles being in ashes. Everybody suffered. Most of tlie citizens lost their all. The following is a partial list of the sufferers, with the estimated loss of each so far as could be learned : Isaac Green, $20,000; Jacob Buel, $15,000; William Canham, $5,000; Joseph Parkinson, $3,000; Dr. Johnson, $2,000; J. Law, $r,ooo; H. L. Adams, $1,000; P. Riechrath, $r,ooo; and others probably to the amount of $75,000 and perhaps much more. The people of White Rock had apprehended some danger to their school-house and watched it part of the night. About midnight the storm came. The wind blew a perfect hurricane, unroofing buildings and envelopin'j the whole village in a sheet of flame. Men, women and children jumped from their beds, snatched what few valuables they could gather, and rushed over the bank pell-mell down into the lake and out on the dock, while the flame and smoke poured over their heads, scorching them so horribly that the cold water of the lake was regarded as a vifelcome relief The lake was so rough that women and children were thrown back upon the beach and obliged to risk death by drowning to be saved from death by fire. Part crowded on the dock and tore up planks and fought the fire from there and thus saved part of the dock and provisions in the ware- house. Mr. Corbett and his wife rushed out to save themselves, but became separated. .She went one way and was saved, but he went another and was never heard from again ! Dr. Johnson and his family at White Rock were driven into the water with the rest, where they re- mained for hours battling with the flames and water, Mrs. Johnson's shawl being burned ofl" from her head ! One family, consisting of an old father and mother and two sons, started for the shore, which was some distance. It became apparent that the old couple could never get through. So the sons dug a hole in the ground and placed the father and mother care- fully in, giving them a chance to breathe, and left them. It has since been ascertained that they were all right. The gale was so fierce that before the fire reached the salt block at White Rock the roof was lifted bodily and carried some distance. One man ran his wagon into the lake, covered his family with wet blankets and shawls, and the fire burned the ^ (f ^ e< A r tig^llll>>v-^ :^&s: 4^^((®V^ SANILAC COUNTY. 521 ^ spokes of the wheels to the water's edge ! One wo- f\ man, with a child only two day's old, was obliged to -•^_ stand in the water for hours to save herself and her I (0 A ^^ V 'p ^ ■^ V babe from the flames. Mr. Martin Dumond, whose mill was destroyed, was rescued from the flames by his workmen, having endeavored to save something from the fire until he sank down suffocated by the fire and smoke. At Gunning's mill the people huddled together in a hole in a sand-bank which had been excavated to ob- tain sand for building purposes. Two women whose names are unknown were burned, and a family of five persons named McDonald are supposed to have perished, as nothing has been seen or heard of them since the fire. In the township of Paris the people were crowded together at the Catholic Churcli, without food except meat, and no bedding, and scantily clothed. In Marion the fire was not so dreadful, owing to the large clearings and cultivated fields, but some families were entirely cleaned out, while all suffered more or less from the loss of barns and crops. Mr. \Vright lost everything but his house. At Decker- ville only three houses were burned, but all the lum- ber, sleighs and much valuable loose property. How anything was saved there, is indeed miraculous. Minden was spared from the devouring element which raged on every side. The whole country round about was burned : houses, horses and human lives were not spared. Two women were burned in Paris, Huron County, and one family of five persons. There was not provision left in the whole country to feed the people any length of time, and numbers suffered for the necessaries of life. The fires had traveled over a goodly portion of Buel and Elk, burning the buildings and crops of the settlers. The lumber shanties of Mr. B. Mills with all their contents of hay, grain, horses and sleighs, were totally destroyed. Numerous instances of poor families losing all their crops were reported. One poor woman, Mrs. Perkins, living a distance from other settlers in the northwest part of Elk, was alone with her children for nearly tvvodays, fighting the fire that attacked her- premises, and had not a drop of water within a mile. When visited by neighbors after the fire, she was found blind and exhausted, her house saved, but her outbuildings, which contained her hay for her stock, and the little store of potatoes, in ashes. The bridges and crossings in swamps were burned out, so that teams could not pass with loads west of Buel. John M. Lamb, of Lamotte, fought the fire so hard that he lost his life from the effects of the exhaustion. The fire took effect on his lungs. He was 64 years old. The property damage was principally timber, as the township was not settled at that time. To give a partial idea of the extent of the suffering, the fol- lowing is taken from the report of Mr. J. W. Bartlett, to the Detroit Relief Committee, Oct. 16, 187 r : "I am on my way down, and will try to give an account of my stewardship. At White Rock we loaded two teams and started inland, stopped over night at Mr. Campbell's shingle-mill, eight and one- half miles from tlie shore, and in the morning pushed through to Joseph Buschkowski's mill, 18 miles from the lake. The roads were terrible. We had three ax-men to cut the way through. The bridge was burned and we had to take the fields, going more than 25 miles to make 18. We got a large box, six bundles of clothing, six barrels of flour, two barrels of pork, and a box of bread into the burnt districts ; and it was needed. As near as I could find out, not one house in ten is standing. In some thickly settled parts every house was burned for five miles. The people are huddled into the houses that' remain,^ sick and burned, with little children lying around on the floors. I looked into but one house myself On the floor was a poor woman with both feet burned to a crisp. She had a nursing babe by her. Her com- plaint was that she was sorry her child was so dirty, as she had no change of clothes for it, and no soap to wash it. She lay on a pile of pea-straw, with an old bed-tick on her. Her clothing was burned, as was also her baby's. There were a dozen or more children there and several women. Near McGregor's a man and seven children were living in their cellar, on new turnips. Houses were pointed out to me where they had 17 families. "The suffering during the days of the fire was ter- rible. Children were buried in the ground, or put into wells. One family of my acquaintance, men, women and children, got into a dock, and lay with- out a drink of water for days. Many are blind for life. We found a committee, consisting of Joseph Buschkowski and a Pijlish man with an unpronounce- able name. They will see to a proper disposition of ^ c^, ^ 1 ^Dllfc^ijs s«*?J«Ei 7<^DD^DIls>T SANILAC COUNTY. '^: '^ ) whatever is sent. The best place to land is Rock Falls. White Rock is nearer, but the dock is bad there. Things have to be taken off in boats. Mr. Tliomson, sent up to take charge of the dock, and the teamster, J. Stoner, worked like a buck driving the team out for me over the worst road I ever saw. The people seem to try their best to help each other, and one of the strangest cases of honesty I ever saw happened here. An ox team followed us with 50 blankets, six beds, clothing, flour, etc. Not a thing was pilfered or begged on the road, but all was brought to me, though the blankets were worth more than gold. "One team, from Smith, at Forester, reached Paris before ours. We went ten miles further inland. When we got out to the road, we met four teams from Sand Beach who had been three days with about 20 men cutting through, under the charge of Richard Criedson, of Port Austin, Chairman of the County Relief Committee. I then went through to Minden, where the fire had been very serious, but not to tlie extent farther north. I found there a representative of a Detroit house relieving the poor suffering people by buying up their stock at $3 or $4 per head, to drive out. He was relieving want and making money at the same time. He gave his card and that of the firm. " I then went to Cato, to Jacob Buel's, whose peo- ple had fought fire successfully, and saved the mill and building. From there Mr. Buel took me to For- estville, and my legs took me to Richmondville, where I found T. Luce fighting fire, relieving the suffering, and fighting sharks, who make a pretense of suffering to get money. He had been imposed upon a little; but he says, when he gets his place safe for a day, those who imposed upon him will pay back, or be prosecuted for obtaining goods under false pre- tenses. I took the boat there and came up to White Rock, where we took on board one man dreadfully burned and one or two sick people with destitute families. At Rock Falls we received another con- signment of unfortunates. " I telegraphed you to send no more meat, as there is more than enough. They have plenty of cattle and hogs, and if they can get salt and barrels before the cattle starve, they will save meat enough. Axes with helves are wanted, and working utensils, needles, thread, soap and combs ; for they are the dirtiest people I ever saw, no one having a change of clothing or soap to wash with. I have been treated with the utmost kindness by every one. No one would take pay. Teams were at my disposal every- where, though I walked most all the way, the roads were so bad." The Board of Supervisors was in session at Lex- ington, but hastily adjourned, and the members hastened away to their respective homes, expecting to find nothing b'lt ashes of their firesides, and the charred bodies of their loved ones. The experience of Mr. Hugh McKenzie, m the following paragraphs, may well represent the trials of these men : " On Saturday, before I left my home in Austin to attend a regular session of the Board of Supervisors, to be held at Lexington Oct. 9, 187 1, I ^'as some- what uneasy, as the jjrobability that running fires would do some damage was fixed if the wind should continue to blow. On Monday we organized the Board and did some work ; but on Tuesday, soon after the roll call, I said to Alison Goodrich, one of the oldest members, that I was so uneasy about home that I could not content myself to stay and work. He replied that he himself was also afraid to stay any longer; and soon afterward he offered a resolution to adjourn, which was carried about half past ten a.m. " As we were walking toward the hotel, to prepare for our return home, our attention was called to a crowd of people coming up from the dock, which did not fail to arouse still more the feeling of anxiety for friends at home. They were a portion of the home- less people taken by a steamboat from White Rock, and many of the number were very destitute of clothing. I remember of only one expression that was made by John S. Thomson. In answer to some inquirer, he said that ' it looked as if hell had poured its flames upon them! ' " We were soon on our way homeward, a distance of 58 miles to drive as best we could. I had my horses and lumber wagon. In company with me was Robert Cleland, of Greenleaf, Frank Pacha, of Minden, and Robert Wilson, of Evergreen. Mr. Wilson rode his mule until we reached the burnt district. Here he found it necessary, owing to the mulishness of the animal, to fall back and tie it with a strong rope behind the wagon. The first 28 miles the roads were clear e.xcept one bridge. There we r s ^\®>^^^ ^^^nn^cntif^ r9- -4^^^ ft rl- ,(i)i«^ T<^nii:t:tiii>>- f (■^ A r-T V I ^ SANILAC COUNTY 523 1 were forced to climb over logs and around burning bridges and culverts as best we could. The night seemed to me the darkest that could be, except when we were lighted by the burning timber. "Through the kindness of Mr. Decker, at Decker- villa, I obtained an ax, which we freely used on many occasions before daylight. We arrived at Min- den soon after midnight and called at John Donlan's Hotel. He and Andrew \V. O'Keefe were up. Mr. O'Keefe said to me that all that he iiad left was on his back, and many others of his Forestville friends barely saved their lives. " We'could not gain any information about the people further west, only the reports were that they were all burnt out. We continued onward to Tyre, and when we got there we found numbers of the people of that neighborhood occupying the floor of one log house that was saved. At this point Frank Pacha left us and did not stop to say Good-by, boys. When he got to his family he had no home left. The only information that we could get was that the people were all burnt out, and that the roads were so blocked up with fallen timber that the people could not come out. The truth of the last state- ment was soon after verified to us, as within the next hundred rods south from there we had to begin cut- ting our way through. At this point our nerves were fully put to the test, such as cannot be forgotten as long as we are allowed to reflect upon it. It was about three o'clock in tlie morning, and so dark that we could scarcely see our way. The logs and tree- tops seemed to be piled up in the road to such an extent that any further advance with team seemed impossible. " We then had to consult as to what could be done with the team. We had driven them 48 miles, and had still 10 miles to go. If we succeeded in bring- ing them through we could not find a place to leave them. I said to Robert Cleland that I would begin cutting a hole through, and that he had better go on ahead and see about the extent of the jam, to which he agreed; so I began to cut as best I could, and must here say that the prospects were not in any way flattering. Soon Cleland returned with brighter hopes. He said that if we could get through the first jam of timber, that the others, so far as he had seen, would not be so bad, and thought that we could reach Patton's clearing. There we could pos- sibly find some place free from fire, where we could leave the team. "So we continued to cut our way through for about two hours, when we succeeded in reaching the Patton clearing. Here we found our way clear through the field, but could not find any building or people left ; consequently we concluded to take the team as far as we could. This clearing enabled us to avoid the heaviest jams in the way, although at the west end we were compelled to cut through another jam. About that time daylight relieved us to a certain extent, and our way was made easier. Soon after we arrived at the old home of the Cle- lands, which' was safe and out of danger. I alighted from the wagon, told Robert to take the horses and keep them until called for. Then I made the other four and one-half miles as fast as I could. Wilson mounted his mule, and the race began. He led me some distance while the road was clear — for the first mile and a half; then there was another mile of timber to make, in which I passed him. There we parted for that morning. "On arriving at Mr. Jordon's (now Cumber), I found that they had saved their house. Mr. Brad- sliaw's barn was burnt, and also John Weldon's house and the school-house. From there I had a mile and a half of bush road to travel to get home, and the nearer I got the more anxious and uneasy I became to find my wife and two children, they being constantly on my mind. As I approached the clear- ing I took the shortest way for the house, which I could not see on account of the smoke until I was so near that I could have called to my family. I found them safe, although very much overworked. My wife said to me, about the first words, ' Who told you about us?' she not realizing that the fire was so general." The fires were somewhat slow in reaching Lexing- ton, owing to the clearings and its removal from the interior; but on Tuesday morning, Oct. 10, the fierce southwest wind blew the fire into the field of Mr. Pack, where there were many stumps and old trees, and it kept on toward the village with resistless fury. The alarm was soon sounded, and the whole population were at once on the spot, fighting the demon with all the energy they possessed, but all to no avail. No power seemed adequate to stay its progress. The homes of the people were at its ^ C ' .^^ r^mM]\^ ss/^>^#- T<>IIIl^Iill>^V ^5C(®^' 524 SANILAC COUNTY. I '■) :^^ ^^#« TT ■T^'imj^&uu^i?^ 'tei,- -4^^5(<^V§^ (^ /7s ^ (^ SANILAC COUNTY. 525 pluck of the citizens and firemen again prevented the spread. The loss by this fire was about $10,000, principally falling upon Mr. Meyers, whose hard- earned savings had come by the hammer and anvil. As soon as the fire was put out a meeting of the citizens was held, and, though late in the evening, was attended by nearly everybody. A strong watch was organized and posted. Thursday morning the streets were filled with teams drawing water, and with people preparing for the prevention of fire. The e.xcitement began to abate toward noon, but the village was canvassed to ascertain the presence of any suspicious parties. About noon people had resumed their business again, when another alarm was sounded. The build- ing this time was Nicholas Wolfel's barn, and this and Jesse Howey's barn were the only buildings de- stroyed. The excitement was now intense, and a general suspension of business took place. The wind was blowing strongly from the west, and a fire in the western part of the town could not be con- trolled. Everyl)ody made a careful search of their premises, and kept a strict watch day and night. Finally a vicious-looking boy about 17 years of age was found, who could not give a proper account of himself, and he, with a man similarly conditioned, was arrested, as they were seen in the vicinity of the three fires just previous to the discoveries. The alarm then abated. Thousands of people were homeless and stripped of every description of personal property. Many were entirely discouraged, and every day many families could be seen passing out of the county, with their cattle and what other things they had left from the fires. In the burned districts the former resources of the settler for making a little money while improving his farm were gone. The pine was burned, hemlock bark almost entirely destroyed, and the wood gone, in many cases not enough being left for fencing. The food for the stock had been con- sumed by the fire, and the mills giving employment to hundreds of men were in ashes. Winter was coming on, and the country was destitute. These were some of the difficulties that stared the burned-out settler in the face. In order to go on with the work of placing his fences and building, and prepare for the next crop, it was necessary for the farmer to have a team ; but it was hardly possible to obtain sufficient feed. Many sold portions of their stock at ruinous piices in order to obtain feed for the rest. It is indeed difiicult to comprehend the terri- ble reality in which these people were placed. Their feelings and sufferings can best be set forth by some of the incidents related by those who lost their all. One illustration is the experience of Mr. W. B. Thompson, living west of Forestville. He was an Englishman of energetic character, and had been in the settlement seven years. Said he, " I had my farm in good shape with 100 acres cleared. Having served some time as gardener and also as a farmer, I took great pride in having everything neat about me, and raised the best crops in the township. My crop at that time was fully as good as any I had ever raised, and I had made arrangements for the sale of $750 worth from my farm, which would have paid off a mortgage I gave to get me a team, and have left me with money to spare. I had finished a barn 36 X 60, and had it in the best of shape for the ac- commodation of my stock and storing. My garden was the best in the township. Trees were just be- ginning to bear. When the gale sprung up there ^was no fire within a mile of me. I thought I could save the building, but the storm was soon upon us. The barn caught, and after fighting the fire for some time, I abandoned it to save the house ; but this, too, caught, and in a few minutes the smoke and flames were so thick that I began to look only for my family, when, alas! the next to the youngest was missing! I rushed into the house through the smoke, whicli was suffocating, and groping around found him on the floor by the crib, where he had sunk down too frightened to cry or moan. We then went out into the meadow, but the smoke and fire were so bad that we could find no safe place ; so we wandered around through the fields to find the creek, which we finally did. I placed the seven children in a heap and fought the fire from them for several hours, until the wind went down. I could have courage to go ahead, though this is the third time I have been cleaned out in the same way. If I were the only one ! but my neighbors are all in the same condition." When a man's entire premises were not burned, the wind was so strong that all his loose possessions were carried off, and many of them blown into the woods and burned. To show the force of the wind. 9 ^>: ^(^>^^ <^:llll^ilPr.>-: SAA'ILAC COUNTY. V ^ HZ 1=3 n -?> ■J t Captain Breidenbach, whose liouse was spared, tells this of his wife: "She was most grieved over the supposed loss of the old clock, which we had since we commenced keeping house. She attempted to carry it away, but the fierce wind snatched it out of her grasp. Next day, when we could get to our house, she found parts of it here and there, and kept putting them together until everything was there but the pendulum. Finally she hit upon a door- knob as a substitute, and the clock tolled off its minutes with the old regularity, to the great satisfac- tion of the household. Next day a little neighbor girl came in to show what a pretty thing she had found, which proved to bathe missing pendulum!" The losses from this fire can never be known. When the smoke had cleared away, and people had recovered sufficiently to estimate their losses, an at- tempt was made to arrive at an approximate value of the destruction. It was found that the property destroyed would amount to $4,000,000, in very round numbers; but the various itemized records were so misplaced, and in many cases consumed by the fire of i88r, that it is not possible to arrive at a definite calculation of the extent of the calamity. There were also many of the township records de- stroyed or lost on account of these fires, so that much of the early history in this book had to be taken from the memory of "the oldest inhabitant." While great care has been taken to verify the infor- mation thus obtained, it must necessarily be at vari- ance in some instances; but there are so few that the facts generally can be relied upon as accurate. The following is a summary of mills and stores burned by this fire in Sanilac and the southern part of Huron County : Gunning's mill and store at Tyre. Bael's mill and dock at Forestville. Green's dock and store at Forestville. F. Buschkowski's mill. Dumond's mill. Ludington's mill and store, Verona. Pack, Jenk & Co.'s mill, dock and store. Elm Creek. R. B. Hubbard & Co.'s mill, store and dock, Hu- ron City. Mill, dock and store, New River. Canham's store, Forestville. Thompson mill (flouring and shingle), salt block, store and dock. White Rock. Munford's store. White Rock. Thompson's store. White Rock. Whitcomb's mill. Rock Falls. Durant's store and dock. Center Harbor. Stafford, Haywood & Co., mill, dock and tannery. Port Hope. Irwin's store, Sand Beach. Carrington, Pack & Co's. mill and dock. Sand Beach. Joiner's mill, Tyre. Susalla's shingle mill, Paris. Grobell's mill and several other shingle mills, pro- prietors' names unknown. This is merely a list of mills and stores. Around each were numerous dwellings which shared the same fate. It is estimated that the dwellings, household goods, clothing, winter's provisions and supplies for stock of from four to five thousand [leople were de- stroyed, and with the mills the means to supply food for these. But beyond all these, there were losses which almost beggar description. Human life was lost; and when some trinket, cherished by a departed friend, is brought to view, or when even the charred stumps of the fields, ghostly relics of the past, are seen, the eye must fill with tears, and there burns afresh that fire of intolerable suffenng within, which will last while life lasts. Into a man's character enters the labor of years for a home, a fortune, a position in society, a deposit in the bank, an education for his children, and that sense of possession which induces a feeling of security and self-respect. All the accumulations of his life-time, gathered by means of his education, his genius, or his manual labor, and with economy and patience, laid by as a surplus beyond his daily wants, become a part of him. To take them from him is like tearing from him a part of his physical body. Wherever there is a vacancy that needs filling, a want thus unsupplied, there will be severe mental pain, prolonged and intensified accordnig to temper- ament. It may be alleviated by philosophy, stoicism, or Christian resignation, but the pain is there, hurt- ing and wounding more keenly than the fire which burns the flesh. When these accumulations are grown into one's very nature, the tearing them away is still more painful. The habits of the household are more or less connected with the surroundings of the household. Familiar books, pictures, articles of daily use, and little ornaments organize themselves into the very life of the family, and their sudden loss wrenches the soul. Out of doors the merchant weaves his goods into i V^ 9 A 1 I t (5^ ^<-:i]!i-^iia>> m i# ■^ i V (i) SANILAC COUNTY. 527 the warp and woof of bis daily experiences ; the farmer assimilates into liis moral character his grow- ing herds and swelling farms. At home they and their wives and children are daily feeding their minds and hearts on the little incidents and objects which surround them. Every home has something that is associated with the memory of a pleasant hour. There are mementoes of holidays, birthdays, family anniversaries of the dead and absent, all dear and beautiful, however tiny and rude. Money cannot replace them, any more than the whole world can pay for a lost soul. When multiplied by the many beautiful experiences with which some lives are rich, they form a large part of it, and their separation begets an anguish of soul that cannot be healed. " My wife," said one of the victims of the fires, " stood bravely by, and counted over our losses — the house, the gardens, the library, the pictures, the trinkets, the albums, the mementoes ; but when she recalled the little shoes of our dead baby, which were in a heap of ashes like the rest, she burst into tears." To lose in a single hour all these accumulations of a life-time, in its many phases, is a severe shock, and calls into being a long abiding anguish which does not lift when the smoke of the fires that made it clears away. It means real misery and suffering, a misery that put in chains ambition, affection, and all the well-spring of human happiness and satisfaction in an incalculable variety of ways. Every family who passed through the fires suffered all this ; and when we count the numberless pangs and heartaches, and the number of families, the result passes beyond the domain of mere statistics, and leads to a realm of distress, wide-spread, unbearable, crushing the very life— a distress which no balm 'can soothe, no remedy heal. -Kji- -^ -CSA" mi The Fire of 1881. ITH all its magnitude and intensity, the fire of 187 I did not consume all the tim- ber, but in most places only deadened the green timber and prepared the way for a more terrible calamity, ten years later. By the expiration of one decade, much of the country had been cleared, and since then was a larger \®^^^ r- \ number of settlers. The eastern part of the county had become more generally free from fuel for run- ning fires, but the development of the central and western townships, placed them in a better condition for the terror; and with the second growth of timber, and the thicker settlement, the circumstances were possible for a vastly greater destruction of property and life. Though many of the inhabitants had had the experience and skill gained by battling with the former fire, it availed them little, as the disaster of 188 1 was so sudden and appalling, that none could withstand it, and all efforts to resist it were futile. It also came so much earlier in the season that the settlers most exposed were the least prepared. The date of the last fire was Sept. 5, i88r. On Wednesday of the previous week the fires swept over much territory and destroyed many buildings, but it was left for the cyclone of Monday, the 5th, to com- plete the wholesale destruction. It required but little more than four hours for the fire to travel across San- ilac County. The wind blew a perfect gale, and fanned every ember into a flame that consumed everything in its path, and only ceased when there was nothing else to burn. In some townships in the northern part of the county, every person was a sub- ject of relief. In Northern Sanilac and the adjacent counties, 150 people were burned to death. The record is a sickening tale. Hundreds received per- sonal injuries from which they can never recover. The loss of property, though enormous, cannot be compared with this. Many are now suffering from effects of the fire that will be constant and life- long Among cattle, horses, swine, sheep and every living thing, the loss of life was frightening, and in many cases poor beasts, half burned to death, had to be shot to free them from their agony. One writer describes the approach of the storm as follows : " For several days the wind had arisen during the day sufficiently to fan the fires into relentless flames, ready at a moment's o[)portunity to leap forward in the work of destruction. That opportunity was pre- sented. Soon after noon on Monday, the 5th, the wind, which had been blowing steadily, began to in- crease in volume and force. Darkness settled like a vast pall over the earth, not having the appear- ance of being caused by smoke. It came on gradu- ally, like the darkness of an eclipse, and many t <^Il!l^tlllr>^ SANILAC COUNTY. -:ii&sr #^ (L ■=3- > ^ almanacs were consulted to see if that was not the cause of the darkness. In many places lamps were lighted at noon; a little later Egyptian darkness pre- vailed. The wind became a gale, then a tornado, and in the midst of the darkness the flames rushed upon their victims with a rapidity that nothing could withstand. The gale seems to have raged with the greatest fury in the northern part of Sanilac and southern part of Huron County. In some places in these localities it seemed almost as though the scenes of Sodom and Gomorrah were re-enacted, and that the heavens rained fire. Survivors from the burnt districts describe the scene as bordering upon the supernatural. The fire did not move from building to building in the usual way, but while the people were speculating as to the cause of the intense dark- ness, they were suddenly overwhelmed by a billow of fire that rushed upon them from out of the dark- ness, and enveloped whole towns in flames almost in the twinkling of an eye. Many had not even time to commit the indiscretion of Lot's wife, by looking back. As one passes over the charred and blackened earth where these scenes occurred, he can form some idea of the intensity of the fire; but no one, not even an eye witness of the terrible catastro- phe, can conceive of the vast accumulation of heat that could swallow up farms and villages at one swoop of its fiery breath. May a merciful Provi- dence prevent the repetition of such a dire calamity!" A letter purporting to be written to friends in Can- ada, by J. B. Morrison, contains the following lines descriptive of the scene after the fire: Now, to convince you, 111 relate A little of what I have seen In one day's travel o'er the State. This is no wild romantic dream. For fifteen miles along our way. Ruins were thick on every hand ; And since the flames have died away Grim desolation has command. The sight was shocking to behold ; No fence or building to be seen ; For when the wheels of fate had rolled The fields were black instead of green. And all along our dismal way, Horses and cattle might be found, Sad victims to this dread affray. Stretched out upon the blackened ground. Amid the ruins here and there. Women and children might be seen Searching among the coals with care For some remains of what had been. I saw a weeping mother, who. Surrounded by her children dear, Could not expose themselves to view, But hid as soon as we drew near. And men were walking to and fro, Conversing how they might contrive What they should do, and where to go, To keep their families alive. Others were sauntering along, — Some with a trifling little pack Like beggars in an idle throng, With scarce a shirt upon their back. Oh! such distressing scenes as these Should move the heart of any man ; And yet they are not half the woes That ail the poor of Michigan. The next jar tearful eyes beheld Was a poor man upon the way : His story he could hardly tell, For he was weeping bitterly. He had been twenty miles away When this blast of affliction came. And now to find his family He had tried all day long in vain. No track or tidings could be found To rid him of suspense so great. His building was burned to the ground, And this no doubt had been their fate. Hope and despair within his heart Were striving which should have the lead; Suspense came in to play her part. That neither of them should succeed. Ah! when affliction serves me so. Then I'll have reason to complain ; Then I can talk of grief and woe. And not lament for worldly gain. We rode along till we were shown What chilled the warm blood in my veins ; A female corpse ! for life had flown Forever from her sad remains. She, with some others, tried to flee For safety to a ditch near by. But fell ala". ! beside a tree, And there she was condemned to die ! What anguish then she must have felt To hear no answer to her cries. In bitter agony, for help Before she roasted here alive ^ «C 5>: (0 ^^^ ^^Mmw^^>^ — ^^^^^ ) ^ •A* S (J) :#- -^^K ^V<->ll n n M^>r6 :J^^^ -^*t? SANILAC COUNTY. 529 Her daughter came while we were there; Her age, I judge, about fifteen; Her dreadful anguish and despair So moved me that I left the scene. Oh ! Where's the heart that throbs witli life Within the breast of mortal man, That cannot in this dreadful plight Feel for the poor of Michigan? The misfortune was so widespread and so disas- trous that it became the subject for a special session of the State Legislature, and Governor Jerome's message contains a general summary of the fire. Senators and Genfkiiicn of the House of Representa- tives : The constitution of the State provides that " the Governor may convene the Legislature on extra- ordinary occasions." Such an occasion has been reached. An emergency of pressing character has caused me to exercise the power at an earlier day than would otherwise have been necessary. A district covering portions of Huron, Sanilac, Tus- cola, St. Clair, and Lapeer Counties was widely de- vastated in September last by forest fires, the property of 3,231 families destroyed, and 14,438 persons made dependent upon public aid. In this calamity 1,521 dwellings were consumed, together with 1,480 barns, hundreds of miles of fences, domestic animals in great numbers, and vast quantities of household furniture, clothing, and agricultural implements, vvfith accumu- lated stores of food. The losses of those who have asked and received aid, as shown by sworn apprais- als, amounted to $2,346,943, or an average of over $726 for each family. To add to the terrible aspects of these dreadful misfortunes, nearly 3C0 human beings perished in consequence by suffocation and by burning. No reference is made in this estimate to the losses of those who have neither asked nor re- quired assistance, which is known to have been of great magnitude; nor to those of a public nature, among which were 51 school-houses and a large num- ber of churches and highway bridges. The destruction thus wrought left men, women and children destitute of either clothing, food or shelter — all that was combustible has been swept away. It covered a territory of over 1,800 square miles, and in the jjrogress of its ravages swept the entire district within from two to four hours after it began. No time was given to save even household treasures. With a furious wind came smoke and intense darkness, fol- lowed quickly by a fervent heat that nothing could withstand. The wonder is not that so many perished, but that so many escaped. The urgent necessities created by this calamity demanded instant relief. Before tlie fires were ex- hausted food and clothing were being administered from neighboring communities. The people of this State and of other States responded to appeals to their humanity :vith a broad and kindly generosity that can never be forgotten. Seldom within the memory of this generation has the kinship of man- kind been demonstrated by more marked and tangi- ble manifestations. The thanks of the State are due to every individual who came to the help of our suf- fering fellow-citizens at this trying juncture, and they especially l)elong to the men and women of our sister commonwealths and the neighboring British prov- inces. In addition to large amounts contributed for this rehef by churches, societies, and individuals di- rectly to the suffeters, of which there is no attainable record, but which is known to aggregate many thou- sands of dollars, there has been received by the Stale Fire Relief Commission, the Detroit and Port Huron Committees, and committees of other localities, as reported to me, the sum of $623,436.89 in cash, to- gether with donations in kind which when added to the cash contribution would equal the sum of one million dollars. The country where the fires raged is purely agri- cultural, without other local industries to furnish employment ; consequently after the first distresses were relieved, the unfortunate people whose wants we are now considering, being left with nothing but bare land, were compelled to elect between seeking new homes elsewhere or to depend upon being sus- tained by other than their own resources until they could reach self support from the product of their own farms. They ciiose the latter course, with the most encouraging results thus far, and have devoted their energies and labor to rebuilding houses and fences and to sowing fall grain, the returns from which can only be realized at the coming harvest. In ordei to succeed in the course adopted and to continue in the occupancy of their lands as homes, these people must be sustained until their crops ma- ture. They must have food until harvest, and food for their animals until the grass grows. They also require seed for their spring crops. The contributed funds will soon be spent and the harvest is months in the future. The exigencies of the case demand action, and to afford relief is no longer a question of policy, — it is an imperative duty. The State cannot permit its people to want for food. In 1859, under similar cir- cumstances to a limited extent, citizens were aided from the treasury of the State, and the act was in harmony with the judgment and sentiment of the people. For more information you are respectfully referred to tljp report of the State Fire Relief Commission, which covers the transactions of committees at De- troit, East Saginaw, Bay City and Flint, and to the statement of the Port Huron Committee, both of which are hereto appended. I commend the wants of these unfortunate citizens to your generous con- sideration. \P) ^ -t (^ ■V®))«^#- jl;^ H.m % llIln>A;^ ^^^^^ I^k/^^))«^tf- -23^^ — ^v<^nn:^iiiir^ SANILAC COUNTY. ■^21^^' >^ f 3 ^ The tax rolls for the townships of Forester and 'P, Evergreen, in the county of Sanilac, were destroyed -^ in the general conflagration, and legislation is now ''■^ asked to legalize the action of their authorities in making subsequent provision for the collection of the taxes in those townships. I recommend that the nec- essary action be taken. David H. Jerome. Executive Office, Lansing, Feb. 2j, 1882. The detailed account of the losses from this fire would make volumes. Over 14,000 people were rendered destitute, and 300 lost their lives. The record of the death of each of these is a book within itself. The awe, the effort to escape, the struggle, the exhaustion, the suffering, the suffocation, the death agony, the burning of live bodies, the hopeless cry for help of those who perished must ever remain sealed! For those who survived there was little left to keep them from wishing that they too had per- ished ! House was gone, barn was gone, stock roasted alive, harvests consumed! There was not much to make life desirable. For miles and miles no mark of civilization could be seen, where but a few hours before all was green and flourishing, but now a a charred skeleton of the past, surrounded by ashes ^1^ blown far and wide, that told the sorry tale. ^ In Richmondville the entire village was destroyed s^ except R. W. Sherman's residence, which was the S only building for miles around, and was the only ) ^ t refuge for over a hundred people for several days. In Delaware but few people escaped loss, and whole families lost their lives together in the terrible ordeal. One illustration must suffice. Sylvester Richmond's house, four miles west of Forestville, caught fire. In an eight-foot well, nine rods from the house, there was about two feet of \Vater. Mr. Rich- mond placed his wife and six children in this, then fought the fire uiilil the heat could no longer be en- dured, when he himself took refuge in the well. The terrible force of the wind soon lifted the roof of the house, carrying it off toward the well, over which it was dropped. Suffocation followed, and in this con- dition they were found two days later! Eighty-seven families in this township lost everything they had, and every one lost much ! Minden was about the center of the burned dis- trict. Thirty-seven families were rendered destitute, many lives were lost and every one suffered. In Bridgehampton and Marion each, the entire property of from 25 to 30 families was consumed, and nearly everybody lost something. Washington Township was similarly affected. Twenty-seven families in Watertown saw their homes and all they possessed entirely burned. Every one suffered. In Austin every person was a subject for relief for several months, and what few houses were left standing were converted into hospitals for the sick andQthe burned. The dead bodies of people, cattle, horses, hogs, and every living thing, lay scattered over the township. Men were employed for several days in piling and burning the carcasses of the horses and cattle. Forty families in Greenleaf were rendered homeless and destitute, and Lamotte and Evergreen townships have similar records. In Elk 15 buildings between Robert Coffron's and J. McClure's, a distance of two miles, were burr.ed, and 45 families lost everything. In Argyle, Flynn, Marlette, Speaker, Fremont, Buel, Custer and Maple Valley Townships there was but a repetition of the same sad story. Huron County suffered fully as much as Sanilac. John Herrick was caught with his rig near Bad Axe and remained over night- in a field. Next morning between Bad Axe and Sand Beach, lie overtook two women, each with a child, with not a single stitch of clothing upon them 1 He had two grain sacks, which he tore up and gave to them. Martin Dumond, of Paris, was engaged the follow- ing day in picking up dead bodies. By noon he had carried seven to the Catholic cemetery! The general discouragement wrought by the fires is set forth in the case of Mr. Henry Rogers, of Wash- ington Township. A few weeks before the fire his farm was worth $3,000, but had a mortgage of $[,500 on it, and after the fire there was not a thing left except the land. There were 1 1 persons in the family, eight of v/hom were children, and the oldest was but 13 years of age. Mr. Rogers was then in poor health, and said, after looking over the destruc- tion : " If I were all alone I could laugh at it ! but I wouldn't go back and go through it again." Many people were entirely disheartened and left the coun- try, but the prompt measures of relief soon stopped the emigration, and those who left generally returned. Deeds of heroism were without number. Fathers and mothers stood in tlie breach battling for the lives of their little ones, and even children became ^ r i SI :< to) a nmif> .^v^- #t^5C(®>i I mm •tf«* -^^^^^ crTj<->llB^UU>^' (^ > t^ k) ^ m SANILAC COUNTY. 531 heroes in their efforts to save their younger brothers and sisters. An instance in Sanilac Township is typical. The family of John Armstrong consisted of husband, wife and five children, the oldest being a girl only 13 years of age, and the youngest a baby. The fire reached the house late in the afternoon, and great balls fell here and there, kindling everything at once. The parents sent the children, under the care of the oldest girl, to Mr. Cudney's.the nearest neigh- bor west, but when they reached there they found Cudney's barns burning. They supposed everything else would go, and started north, wandering about, driven here and there by the smoke, flame and darkness. The girl carried one child in her arms, wheeled another in the baby carriage, and the boy of ten carried one on his back. When driven from her home, the mother followed her children, but not being able to find them at the neighbors,' supposed them burned to death, and she fainted. After Mr. Armstrong found it impossible to save his property, he started to find his children. Learning that they went north he followed, but was driven back by the fire, and traveled around all night in search of them. Next morning he found them at James Farr's. They had traveled through four miles of smoke and dark- ness, lighted only by the fires ! A remarkable escape was that of Matthew Tyson and his family, who lived a little northwest of Cros- well. In the previous spring Mr. Tyson had pur- chased So acres of land in Buel, built him a house and cleared out a road. On all sides there where heavy slashings, interwoven with huge fallen trees, set with great stumps and the whole land covered with everything that would burn readily and lead the fire with the swiftness of the wind. About a month before the fire he had moved his family in, and there was just space enough cleared around his house to make a way for a team. On all sides was slashing, right up to the house. When the danger of the fire became certain, and it was seen that his house would be burned, he prepared to move his family at once. But before he was ready to start he left the team in charge of his boy and returned hastily to the house for something. Before he could reach the wagon again he heard the cries of his boy calling him to help put out the fire from the wagon, quench it also from the boy's own clothes. Before this could be done, their path was cut off by the huge flames. Prt'videntially he had cleared a path through the slashings a day or two previous, after some hay, and it was only by the most strenuous efforts that he escaped through this. Ira Humphrey was a mail-carrier during the au- tumn of the fire, and his is a sad record of devotion to duty. Along the route for several miles before reaching the spot where he met his fate, Mr. Humphrey was warned by tlie people not to proceed further, as his road would lead liim through terrible danger. But to every one he made the same reply — he must go; he was carrying the U. S. mail, and must make connections. When within a short dis- tance of the fatal spot, he was halted by Mrs. Snell, who told him that the fire had blockaded the road just ahead, and that it would be impossible to pro- ceed. He only repeated his former declaration that he must go. Yielding to her earnest importunities, however, he turned about and drove back a few rods, where a number of people were gathered, hitched his horse and went forward to examine the road. Returning, he said he thought he could get through, and started, against the protests of all. For a few rods two or three persons accompanied him, but an awful wave of flame rolled toward them, and the men separated. Mr. Humphrey ran forward a few rods, turned one side into a field, and fell. When he started to run his clothes were on fire. He pulled off his vest, containing his watch, and threw it on the ground. When found, the crystal of the watch had melted. His horse was found by Mr. S. Moore, who could not leave home on account of the fire, but fixed a note to the horse's neck and started him home to carry the sad news to the family. Moore Township was also the scene of many a tragic occurrence, and one will be remembered as long as they live by at least 28 persons. About 5 o'clock on Monday afternoon the 5th, they began to realize their danger and started for Cass River; distajice, eighty rods. Among the rest, was a lady by the name of Hall, who had a son, Willie, r i years old, sick with typhoid fever. Mrs. Hall secured the services of another lady, and the two carried the sick boy until they were exhausted, when the flames were so nearly upon them that they were obliged to aban- don him. Mrs. Hall says her son was dead when they laid him down. Mr. Wells then carried the corpse a few rods farther; but at this time his wife became crazed by the intense excitement, and started for the fire ! Mr. Wells dropped the body of the boy, and # ^ •4 'Spi 1 SDII-'> fm i^yt-vetj ^:!lla^Ilil^^V -ee^ 532 us / ^ ^^^ # >§ k) SANILAC COUNTY. #@^f(gV« 533 band builds fence; but I didn't like to ask for it, we've had so much." Upon a close examination it appeared that she and her husband had asked and received very little. She was bareheaded. Her bonnet had burned, and she had not even asked for one, thinking siie could get along some how. Producing a very nice hood, the gentleman said: " There, my good woman, is a fine hood which a lady in Detroit gave me to give to some deserving woman, and I think I have found one;" and with it he gave her an order for the buck-saw. The Irishman thought it " moighty quare" that some people got everything asked for, and he had asked for everything and got nothing!" Every class of relief was received from all parts of the world, and from every class of people. The fol- lowing sums of money were sent from tlie respective Grand Lodges, immediately following the fires, to Arthur M. Clark, at that time Grand Lecturer of Masons, of Michigan, to be distributed among some 200 Masons, who lost their homes and were left des- titute by the fire: Michigan S4.S00 Maine .1,100 Connecticut 1,200 Delaware 50 Illinois 1,200 California 1,100 West Virginia. ... 100 Mississippi 800 Iowa 500 Indiana 137 Pennsylvania 4>4oo Louisiana 1,600 Wisconsin 500 Tennessee 1,200 .South Carolina... ^^o Texas 1,400 Arkansas 900 Alabama 50 Missouri 250 Maryland 600 Kentucky 100 Kansas Ohio New Jersey New York Michigan Knights Templars 1,000 300 65 5° 125 Total $23,877 In addition to the above there was also sent a large amount of clothing and provisions, which was distributed among these suffering Masons. The general relief, together with something of the losses, can be seen from the rei)ort of the .State Fire Relief Commission, which is appended : REPORT IN REGARD TO FIRE RELIEF. His Excellency, D.wid H. Jerome, Governor of Michigan : The Fire Relief Commission of Michigan ap- pointed by you to supervise the work of relief to the sufferers by the disaslrous fires in this State on the fifth of September last, in compliance with a joint request from the several committees already engaged in the work, has the honor to submit the following report of its labors to the present date: The work of relieving the sufferers being still in progress, and a portion of the funds entrusted to our charge for that purpose yet une.xpended, the report of your Commission is necessarily incomplete. The Commission has, from the date of its organiza- tion on the tenth of October last to the present time, held regular meetings upon everv lawful day, and have devoted much time and careful thought to the discharge of the important and onerous duties assigned to it. While maintaining a watchful super- vision over the contributions entrusted to it by the generous people throughout the land, and using its best judgment to secure a faitlitul, impartial, and ju- dicious distribution of the same to those who were reported to it by proper authority as entitled to receive aid, — not a single individual appeal has been made (and the number of these has been very large), but has received careful consideration and investi- gation by the Commission, so that the relief asked for should, if practicable, be promptly given if the applicant was found entitled to it. Immediately upon the organization of your Com- mission, the Detroit Relief Committee turned over to it the books and records of every kind belonging to that committee, together with a condensed report of the receipts and disbursements, and the remaining cash and merchandise in the hands of the commit- tee, as shown by the report. Shortly thereafter the relief committees of East Saginaw, Flint and Bay City made similar reports to your Commission, that of the first two being accom- Danied by the remaining funds in their hands. Bay City, by mutual agreen.ent, continued its work of re- lief in the Bad Axe district, reporting on the same from time to time to the Commission. On the 27th of January a final report was sent by the Bay City Committee, accompanied by a check for the remain- ing funds in their hands. Upon careful consideration of the general condi- tion of the sufferers, and of the system adopted and in operation for their relief as shown by the reports of the committees, your Commission, being pledged, according to arrangement at the meeting requesting its appointment, to carry out all existing contracts made by the previous relief committees, resolved, as the most judicious course under existing circum- stances, to carry out in its general features the sys- tem adopted by the Detroit Relief Committee, which appeared to have been most admirably planned, and to have been carried out hitherto with great energy and success. The limits of such a report as the present will not permit the Commission to present other than a gene- *^R« V^ ■^ (■ ^C^ll!15^ntlr> "Zj^fecS"^ 534 SANILAC COUNTY. -'^\¥^,^(^»)\'\ S^-. I T ) iS I ral and somewhat condensed review of the work of relief. The section of country burned over was promptly arranged into districts of from one to five townships each, as was found to be most convenient; one-half of some townships being in one district and the other half placed in another, tiie better to ac- commodate the sufferers. These districts were placed in charge of a responsible and prominent citizen re- siding therein, through wliom, as their relief agent, assisted by voluntary local committees in the district, the general relief committees and the Commission have dispensed every form of relief, except in cash, which has been distributed, with their assistance, by special agents. Through these district agencies as originally or- ganized, with the exception of a few changes shown to be necessary as the work developed, relief has been dispensed to the sufferers under the following general classification: Provisions and groceries; clothing and bedding; medicines and medical aid ; seed wheat and grass; plows, wagons, harness, and agricultural implements and tools of all kinds; lum- ber and shingles; doors, windows, nails, etc., for houses and barns; furniture, including stoves, bed- steads, chairs, tables, crockery, tin and wooden waie ; hay and other feed for such number of cattle as they were advised to retain; donations and loans in money to aid in rebuilding saw-mills, etc., destroyed; cash distributions by special agents directly to the suffer- ers on as liberal a scale proportioned to the size and wants of each family as the Commission deemed it wise, with the means at its command, to allow. On the progress and results obtained in the distri- bution of the foregoing means of relief, the Commis- sion reports as follows : Provisions and groceries have been liberally sup- plied sufficient to subsist the sufferers upon an aver- age to nearly the first of January, a cash distribution being made i» the latter part of November and be- ginning of December, as a substitute from that date. Clothing and bedding have been supplied to the suf- ferers in abundance, the former, as well as large quanties of the latter, being furnished through tlie generous contributions of the public in these articles. Many districts were supplied with more clothing of certain kinds than was required, the greatest demand being for warm bedding, ticking, new boots and shoes, and woolen wear for winter use. These the Commission purchased and distributed wherever re- quired. The stocks of clothing now on liand we believe to be sufficient for the requirements of the sufferers. Seed wheat for fall sowing was furnished by this Commission and other committees to all who were reported as entitled to it, and ready to sow. Through the energy of the committees and their agents in the district, aided by the favorable season a large area was sown in good time with the promise of a favorable result. A quantity of grass seed was also furnished and sown. Plows, wagons, harness, and other farming imple- ments were sent forward in liberal quantities as rapidly as practicable. The distribution of the most expensive of these articles was intrusted to the judg- ment of the agents, to be loaned or donated, as they might deem advisable, it being impossible to siqiply all who applied. By the aid, however, of a liberal expenditure for the repair of those only partially de- stroyed, most of the sufferers are now enabled to prosecute the work on their lands. The work of furnishing lumber and shingles to replace, after a sort, the houses and barns destroyed, was entered upon immediately after the fires, but so large were tlie quantities required beyond the avail- able stocks within reach, that some time was un- avoidably consumed before all the sufferers could be furnished with sufficient for shelter. In order to hasten and increase the supply, advances and dona- tions were made to owners of saw-mills destroyed in the district, to be repaid in lumber or sawing for the benefit of the sufferers. The Detroit Relief Com- mittee, by whom such loans and donations were chiefly made, was guided 'in its action by the recom- mendation of the district agents, that such aid would not only increase the quantity of lumber for the use of the sufferers, but by sawing logs for those who re- quired, be of general benefit to the district. Some of these loans have already been repaid in full or in part in lumber and sawing. The sufferers are now all under shelter, and temporary shelter for the stock is also nearly furnished. As fast as places of shelter could be got ready, and doors and windows sent forward to close them in, the Commission, who had meanwhile been forwarding stoves as fast as they could be furnished by the manufacturers, purchased and sent forward a moder- ate quantity of furniture, consisting of bedsteads, chairs, tables, tin and wooden ware, and crockery, useful and substantial in kind and character; and although the supply to each family was necessarily limited, the requisitions of the district agents having been filled, it is believed that sufficient has been dis- tributed to supply the necessities of the sufferers, and enable them to resume housekeeping. The abundant rains during October, falling upon the soil burned over and enriched by the fires, pro- duced an abundant crop of grass, which, with the continued mild weather until late in the season, proved of incalculable benefit and saved the lives of a large number of cattle. At the proper time a cir- cular letter was sent to the several agents, request- ing them to notify the sufferers that hay would be furnished to each family so entitled at the rate of one ton for each head of cattle, at the maximum number of one team and one cow, three head in all, to those requiring so many, and to advise those who ffki ^ I V % l-\®)>^^l^ ■^C^Dfl^DDv^ ■^^v<^tiii>^nii^i>^ ry mi a. ^ i^ >:> V 4) (5n t SANILAC COUNTY. 535 possess-id more without having otherwise the means to subsist them, to dispose of the surplus wliile in a fit condition for sale. The advice was generally fol- lowed, and one'ton of hay issued. In this connec- tion it should be understood that the amount of hay so furnished by this Commission and other com- mittees was not considered sufficient to winter the cattle so supplied, but rather as the maximum quan- tity which the funds then on hand would warrant. The remarkably mild winter, however, while it has prevented much valuable out-door work with teams, has at the same time enabled the sufferers to practice the closest economy in feeding, so that the allowance has lasted for a longer time than was anticipated. The Commission is of the opinion that an addi- tional iialf ton per head, which it is now engaged in distributing, will, siiould the spring prove to be favorable in proportion as the vvinter has hitherto been, not only subsist the cattle until the first of April as contemiilated, but, with the aid of some coarse grain to feed the teams during seeding time, carry them through fill grass. Upon a careful review of the position of the suffer- ers, and of the repoits from the agents in response to a request for information thereon, it was resolved early in November, to substitute, instead of supplying provisions, payments in money to the sufferers, upon a scale as nearly adequate and proportionate to the size and wants of each family as practicable. The first payment was made by special agents sent for that purpose, in the latter part of November and beginning of December, being for the months of December and January. The change from supplies to money payments appeared to give general satis- faction. In January a second payment was made for the month of February and part of March, 25 per cent being added to the amount allowed in the previous payment. It is believed that when the hay now being pur- chased and distributed is paid for, also outstanding contracts for lumber, freights and other expenditures, that a sufficient amount will remain on hand to make one more cash distribution, sufficient at least to sub- sist the sufferers until April first. The following statement of cash receipts and dis- bursements under the different classifications of aid given, including those of the Detroit Relief Com- mittee, is respectfully submitted. Proper vouchers for all disbursements will be found on file in the office of the Commission. The receipts and disburse- ments, in condensed form, of the East Saginaw and Bay City Relief ("ommittees follow in the order named. A statement of the actual receipts in cash has not yet been received from the relief committee of Flint; their total expenditures and balance re- mitted to your Commission is therefore given ; RECEIPTS OF CASH. By Detroit Relief Committee $207,274 89 By Fire Relief Commission 198,284 56 From East Saginaw Relief Committee. 1,680 15 Flint Relief Committee 1 63 44 Bay City Relief Committee 5 40 Total receipts $407,408 44 DISBURSEMENTS. Provisions and groceries $52,702 50 Seed wheat and grass seed 26,5 17 60 Furniture, stoves, etc., etc., 34,704 94 Agricultural implements, tools, etc.,. . . 10,497 ^5 Blankets, boots and shoes, eic, 171272 52 Lumber and shingles, doors, etc., 21,144 °2 Hay and feed for cattle 66,845 44 Hospital stores and physicians 2,803 '9 Freights and teaming, etc., 14,484 88 Distribution agencies, office, etc , 9,664 06 Advances to rebuild saw-mills, etc.,. . . 7,823 00 Distributed to the sufferers 69,583 66 Total disbursements 334,042 40 Balance on hand $73,366 04 Contracts have been n ade for the full amount of hay required to complete the allowance of one-half ton per head additional, which is now being distrib- uted, on which there is unpaid about. . $35,000 00 Estimated amount required to pay freight, also amount still due for lumber to complete shelter for stock, and for mis- cellaneous expenditures, about t8,ooo 00 Making total estimated liabilities about. 53,000 00 Leaving a balance on hand with which to make one more cash distribution of about 20,000 00 Which will probably be distributed in March. It will be seen therefore, that on payment of the above liabilities, and one more cash distribution, the entire fmid in the hands of the Commission will be exhausted. REPORT OF EAST SAGINAW RELIEF^COMMITTEE. Cash receipts $5,251 34 Distributions in money and supplies. . . . 3,571 19 Balance remitted to the Fire Relief Com- mission, as per its report $r,68o 15 HAY CITY RELIEF COMMITTEE. Cash receipts and donations of mdse. . . $23,063 &i Cash distributions in money and supplies 23,058 41 Balance on hand remitted to the Fire Re- lief Commission as per its report. m-- <^. C^, ^ i< () ^:' »?;'•■' $5 40 T^ 536 SANILAC COUNTY. ^^^^\^ -es^@ A :>o V CcS FLINT RELIEF COMMITTEE. Cash receipts (no report) t Distributions in money and supplies. . . . Cash remitted to the Fire Relief Commis- (^. sion as per its report .457 91 S163 44 In the foregoing are presented only the receipts from contributions in cash and in merchandise sold for cash, which, from its nature and the circumstances of the sufferers, it was deemed more advantageous to sell than to distribute in kmd. In addition to the above, large quantities of cloth- ing, bedding, articles for domestic use, and other supplies, have been received from all parts of the United States and Canada, which were forwarded to the agents as rapidly as practicable, to be distributed to the best of their judgment. The widely varied character and quality, and the quantity of these donations, their rapid accumulation, and the neces- sity of sending them forward without delay for the use of the sufferers, precluded the possibility of either the Detroit Relief ("ommittee or this Com- mission appraising them at any satisfactory valuation, and therefore no attempt to value them was made. In presenting a statement of the number of pack ages of all kinds received, we beg to add that pro])- erly prepared books were placed in the hands of the agents on which to record the amounts distributed of these, as well as of all other supplies, against the name of each family receiving aid. Donations of mercliandise received by the Detroit Relief Committee and the Fire Relief Commission, part being sold and credited in cash donations, the remainder distributed or now in store: Clothing, bedding, and mixed merchandise, packages 4i48o Hardware, tinware, crockery, packages 161 Grain, flour, potatoes, and seeds, bags 3A'^i Grain, flour, potatoes, and seeds, barrels 221 Furniture, stoves, and stove furniture, pieces. 678 Farming implements and harness, pieces. . . . 428 Provisions, groceries, dried fruit, packages. . . 164 Sashes, doors, and blinds, packages 190 Books, boxes 10 Total number of packages and pieces . . . 9,755 Upon the basis of the relief which has been already afforded by the different committees, it is believed that the funds now on hand will be suffi- cient to subsist the suffererers until April first. It would have been very gratifying to have been able to state that the sufferers would from that date be able to support themselves, or that the funds so generously donated would prove sufficient to accom- plish that end. The fact remains, however, that much yet is re- quired to be done for our unfortunate fellow citizens, and the Commission deems it its duty to submit for consideration, without any specific recommendation as to the amount which may be required, a few of the principal wants of the people for which aid is yet necessary, and for which no means are yet provided to supply. It will be seen that only such needs are referred to as have already either formed a part of the work of relief or have become connected therewith, as in tlie case of taxes, for the payment of which money donated for the subsistence of the sufferers has been in many cases used. The following comprise the principal heads under which aid will be required after April first, to supply part of which it is essential that operations should be commenced as early as practicable. 1. Provisions for teams during seeding time. 2. Seed for spring sowing. 3. Money to pay taxes. 4. Subsistence for the people until they can real- ize from their lands and labors. Other losses occurred to a very considerable amount, in school-houses, fences, bridges, culverts and public edifices. For these the Commission did not feel warranted in making appropriation from the funds at its disposal. It will be obvious from the character of the work itself, and the possibility of contingencies arising in the future, which may to some exient increase or diminish the necessity for aid to the sufferers, that the Commission cannot assume the responsibility of naming a specific sum for that purpose, but instead thereof respectfully submits some statistics in connection therewith, which it trusts may be of service in determining the amount yet necessary, and which will be found attached to this report. In accepting the trust placed in our hand, we have so endeavored to dis- charge the duties incumbent upon us in furnishing aid to our suffering fellow citizens as to enable them to build up their homes again, and to become self- supporting. In closing this report we may be permitted to say that we, as a people, are under the deepest obliga- tions to our fellow citizens of other States for so gen- erous a resDonse to the appeal for aid to our suffering people, and that we have endeavored to administer their bounty for the best interests of those for whose benefit it has been so freely bestowed. All of which is respectfully submitted. H. P. Baldwin, Chairman A. H. Dev, D. C. Whitwooi), Geo. C. Codd, F. W. Swift, C. T. GORHAM. Detroit, Feb. 22, 1882. V^ () $^: (0 A4>ii!i§ini>^ — ^>^^ ^>s# (^ 1 .0 SANILAC COUNTY. #^^ m 537 STATISTICS OF LOSSES. The following statistics of the losses by the fires are prepared from reports made lo the Fire ReUef Commission : No. of townships more or less banied over 70 " of houses destroyed 1 6 2 1 " of barns destroyed I1480 " of families burned out and reported for aid. 3,231 " of persons burned out and reported for aid . 14,438 Total value of property reported destroyed. $2, 346,943 Average loss of each family $726 40 Average loss per capita 162 55 The estimate made above of property destroyed does not include that of individuals not requiring and who did not apply for aid. STATISTICS AND ESTIMATES IN RELATION TO FURTHER AID FOR THE SUFFERING. FEED FOR STOCK. Total number of cattle at the maximum al- lowed of one team and one cow to each family, that are receiving one and a half tons of hay each, in round numbers, about. 5,000 Proportion of teams in the above requiring additional feed during seeding time 1,700 SEED. Total amount asked for per returns collected as follows : Kiishels. Oats 31,663 Peas 23,361 Wheat 11,665 Corn 8,332 Bushels. Barley 6,814 Potatoes 1 1,665 Timothy seed. .. . 2,074 Clover seed 2,166 The above report from individual requests, in- cludes returns and estimates from all the sufferers of every class. Deducting from this quantity the proportion of those whose losses were slight, and who should be able to supply themselves (about one-fourth), and also the quantity believed, on a comparison of the statistical returns of losses with the amount asked for, to be in excess of the ability to use for seeding purposes, will show that about 60 per cent of the quantity asked for will be suffi- cient to supply all that can be properly used by those entitled to seed. lAXES. The taxes reported by the township treasurers as assessed to the sufferers amount to $26,276. The above amount includes the assessment against every sufferer of all classes, one-fourth of whom at least should be able to pay without aid. SUBSISTENCE FOR THE PEOPLE. The number of families reported who will probably require aid for subsistence after April 1 2,000 Number of persons included in these families who will probably require more or less sub- sistence from April i until harvesf, say about five months 9,000 (5 STATEMENT FROM PORT HURON. Port Huron, Mich., Feb. 10, 1882. His Excellency^ David H. Jerome, Governor, Sa^'l- naw Ci/v, Mich. : Dear Sir: — In reply to your telegram of yester- day we would respectfully report that the total amount of money received by our committee up to dale is $192,831.44, of which amount $175,008.62 has been expended and appropriated, leaving an available balance of $17,822.82 in our hands. We have received and distributed donated goods valued at $255,960.26. Respectfully submitted. Yours very respectfully, M. H. Allardt, Secretary. V) ^^^ ■^mm^^^>^ o. K ""1M 9 > 538 SANILAC COUNTY. -2i>^i#iis: 1=3 > (S>-$«^'<2)@^V®)g(®>^^,g^, MiOCtLLI (S)'>$^(2)(S)N^@)S$fe ""o^So" OR this department of the fft Album, we reserve several shorter sections of the his- tory of Sanilac County, al- though they concern matters of equal importance vi^ith the foregoing. Such are those re- lating to the dependent poor of the county, a murder, the great insurance company case, the rail- \\^ road, etc. Many smaller items could he given, had we space, which some might think should he incorporated into a volume of this character, but lack of room compels us to draw the line somewhere between accepted and rejected matter, at the risk of criticism. -ra= Poor Farm. ; HE Board of Supervisors in 1867 appointed 1,^' a committee, consisting of Phillip L. Wix- X^rijyo ""^ son, Alonzo Goodrich and George Mcln- '^fed' tyre, to provide a farm and home for the poor. td After careful examination of several pieces of I land, they found an acceptable spot in the present farm of 120 acres, five miles northwest of Lexington. Previous to this the poor were hired out to differ- ent families, at the expense of the county, but increasing numbers demanded a general place of refuge. Captain Israel Huckins was the first Chairman of the Board of Superintendents of the Poor. He held the office for a short time, when R. J. Arnot was ap- pointed, and has held the office ever since, with the exception of the year 1S75. when Captain Huckins again had it. The long term of service by Mr. Arnot, is the best statement of the satisfactory manner in which the farm has been managed. The building of the home was committed to his care. It was finished in 1868, costing S3i3°°) ^'^d the first inmate was admitted Nov. 24, of that year. Her name was Mrs. Green, a woman partially insane, a.id who had fits. George Kerslake kept the home for the first four years ; John Harris then took it for the same length of time, at the expiration of which Mr. Kerslake was reinstated, and has kept the farm since. The keeper at first received !ii3°° P'^'' yeafi with board for him- self and family; but his salary was gradually raised, until he now receives $400 per year. Mrs. Kerslake is a most estimable woman for her ])osition, and the outside work is carried on quite economically. In addition to the grain and produce raised on the farm, it requires about $1.50 per week from the County Treasury, to sustain each inmate, though in good crop years a portion of this money is returned. The value of the farm at present, including build- ings, live stock, farming implements, and all other property, has been carefully estimated at $7,995. The average number of inmates is 12 to 14, the (5 ^ '.) mf\®^m^ ^^»- u^ ^m?^M^ A Tafl^^ v<^^im^.uu^-; SANILAC COUNTY. lowest number at any one time being 7, and the highest 20. In order to become an inmate, an application must be made to the Supervisor of any township, or to the /^. Superintendent of the Poor, who has power to ex- amine and admit worthy candidates. A great deal of temporary relief is afforded to persons outside of the home. The number thus assisted in 1S83 was 2S4, involving a total expenditure of $3,407.08. The total expenses for maintaining the Poor House and Farm for 1884, ending Sept. 30, was $1,475.41, exclu- sive of interest on capital invested, and value of pauper's labor. Ajaee;©^^ W^ — «/^^J- ■t^ ^mM^^>^ — ^^^^ ■-^4^^C@ @>J^tf^^ -^ 540 (h ^' 53^ s t SANILAC COUNTY, A Mutual Insurance Company. COMPANY of this nature was attempted to be organized in Sanilac, Tuscola and Huron Counties. Their business office was located at Minden, in Sanilac County. They did a considerable business in Sanilac, Huron and Tuscola Counties. There was a clause in the insurance contract that purported to limit the liability of the insured to the amount of the " premium note," so-called, which was, on the ordi- nary risk, about 1^4 per cent, for a period of three years. The great forest fires of 1881 caused a great loss to this company, being about$8o,ooo, which was very greatly in excess of the " premium note," so-called. The company became insolvent and went into the hands of a receiver, under the statute authorizing the formation of such companies. The receiver claimed that under the law'the company had no au- thority to limit liabilities of its members, and conse- quently made an assessment of an amount sufficient to pay the total loss of the company, which was about six times as much as the so-called premium note, and insisted on payment. A meetmg of the policy-holders was held at Min- den in the fall of 1883, and a committee was ap- pointed to contest the validity of the assessment Suits were begun by the receiver, and steps were taken by the authorities to test the legality of the organization of the company. An information in tlie nature of a quo luarranto was filed in the Circuit Court for the County of Sanilac, and a bill in chan- cery was also filed to enjoin the receiver from collect- ing any amount beyond the so-called premium note. The receiver was successful in both suits in the Circuit Court, and both suits are now in the Supreme Court. These cases attract more attention than any other cases of a civil nature ever begun in Sanilac County. The reason for this is, that there are between two or three thousand men interested in the result, resid- ing in Sanilac, Huron and Tuscola Counties. E. F. Bacon, of Sand Beach, Huron County, Mich., is the receiver. Divine & Babcock, of Sanilac, and R. Winsor, of Hurqn, are the attorneys in the (juo war- ranto case, and Beach & Macklem are the attorneys in the chancery case against the receiver. The re- ceiver has Col. John Atkinson, of Detroit, as his at- torney, and the cases promise a vast deal of interest for some time to come. ^ss^ K^ Railroads. THE PORT HURON & NORTHWESTERN, .: HIS is the only road at present that trav- erses Sanilac County, and the building of 'i^m^t^ ^ ^i^^M'Mh^ j^ z^^^^sr *^^^^^vii ^ e- i (^' ^^(?4^|i|, I (|^ ?#»- ■^^Dn:^iin;i>A ^^^M^l ■yiy -^\imm> V .VC Acheson, Robert 231 Adams, Mrs- Irene 402 Adams, John 23 Adams, John Quincy 39 Anderson, James 183 Arnot, Alexander 261 Arnot, Robert J 301 Arthur, Chester A gg Attridge, Robert 246 Avery, Arthur 308 B V Babcock, Amos 290 Babcock, Edward C 319 Babcock, Henry A 370 Babcock, Henry O 247 Babcock, J. W 398 Badeau, W. A 407 Bagley, John J 157 Bagley, John S 257 Baker, Lewis 371 Baker, Seneca 365 Baldwin, Henry P JS3 Banks, George H 259 Banks, Peter 190 Barns, Dan 289 Barr, Thomas 396 Barrett, E. B 404 Barry, John S 113 Beach, Watson 33c Beal,Wm. H 352 Beals, Albert 211 Beckett, Edward W 217 Beckett, John H 206 Beckton, John 189 Bedford, Dr. S. W 276 Beech, Mills 400 Begole, Josiah W i6g Ben away, John C 378 Benedict, Andrew B 377 Benedict, Wm. L 364 Benedict, Peter H 329 Eettis, Joshua 301 Bigger, Mahlon 331 Bingham, Kinsley S 137 Binks, John J 236 Bisbee, Julius 404 Blair, Austin 145 Bleake, Calvin H 372 Blower, John 369 Bond,Eenj.E 328 Bostwick, Edwin 413 Boughner, A. P 201 Boyne, George - 250 Boyne, Robert 264 Bradley, Nathan N 320 Briggs, Myron 252 Brooks, D. A 210 Brooks, W. B 194 Brown, John M 214 Brown, Joseph .432 Brown, Joseph H 417 Brown, Lewis W 360 Brown, R. G 222 Bryce, Robert 205 Buchanan, James 75 Bullock, Ira 278 Burnsi Moses 366 Cady, Loren 222 Cameron, John 243 Cameron, William 276 Carson , A rth u r 199 Cash, Edward 368 Charlton, John A 426 Chipman, Wm. F 363 Churchill, Delos 390 Churchill, Irving D 406 Chute, Andrew 420 Chute, John W 419 Clapsaddle, Alexander 246 Clark, Arthur M 341 Clark, Daniel 366 Clarke, E. B 317 Clarke, Dr. Tra M 393 Cleland, Robert M 439 Cline, Jacob 317 Cody, M. B 347 Coe, George 235 Collins. Alvaro 260 Collins, Benj 230 Collins, John 375 Cook, James i 2io Cook, JohnW 189 Cooper, H 370 Coppernoll, S : 365 Corbishley, Charles 333 Councilor, John W 228 Cowan, Edward 397 Cowan, William 403 Cragg, Isaac 2J2 Craig, William 229 Crapo, Henry H. 140 Crorey, David 363 Crorey, Wm. J 314 Croswell, Charles M 161 Cudney, Hiram... : 390 Gumming, Jacob 334 D Dale, Hugh 210 Davis, Augustus 217 Davis, Calvin 221 Davis, R. E 376 Dawson, John 245 Dawson, William 313 Deadman, Jacob I 403 Decker, Martin 381 Denissen, Rev. C 332 Denton, James S.. 196 Denton, E. M 261 Derby, Amasa 369 Derges, C 393 Devlin, Henry 244 Dickinson, S. B 378 Diem, Joseph 379 Doane, Demster 209 Dodge, W. T.,M. D 224 Donald John 214 Donaldson, Ale.\ 257 Dorward, James 323 Duff, William 273 E Eastman, A 249 Elliott, Thomas, Jr ^127 Ellsworth, E. W 249 Emery, H. J 315 Englehart, W. A 187 English , Adam 234 .2^ <^tiD^tin^> JL..^^ Ennest, Wm. H 349 Erbe, Sebastian 375 Erskine, John 258 Ervin, George 336 Etherington, George 229 F Fancher, N. S 223 Felch, Alpheus 117 Fenton. Calvin 353 Fields, Marcus 307 Fillmore, Millard 67 Fitch, John L igi Fitch, Robert W 241 Fitch, Thomas 215 Fitzgerald, John 278 Fletcher, Charles 260 Foster, Moses 306 Fotheringham, John 425 Fox, John H 302 Franklin, Henry D 235 Eraser, G. C 366 French, Charles J 201 French, David 238 French, Joseph W 309 French, Matthew 265 Gaige, J. M 285 Galbraith, John 3x8 Galbraith, Joseph 186 Galbraith, J. W 337 Gamble, Benj 195 Gardner, J. K 265 Garfield, James A 95 Getty, John 4^9 Gillis, Alex 435 Goodrich, Alanson 388 Graham, Andrew , 307 Grant, Ulysses S 87 Grant, William 333 Graves, Harlcton 377 Gray, Alfonzo 2/9 Gray, Mark 355 Green, Wm. F 360 Greenly, William L 121 Grice, John 316 '5 ( f^ ^■: m^rm 544 INDEX. TTT Zi^^i^ (0 /7s >i '^'P Grice, Wm. M 353 Grimes, Jacob 274 H Hacking, Wm. H 408 Hall, Homer 24S Hamilton, John G ... .256 Hands, James. 237 Harrison, Wm. H 51 Hartshorn, J. H 387 Haviland, James M 426 Hayes, Rutherford E gi Hayward, Daniel 185 Hayward, Hiram 359 Heberly, Christian 241 Henry, George 290 Herbert, Robert 216 Herbert, Samuel E 215 Hicks, Geo. W 256 Hilborn, Edward 221 Hill, William 433 Hills, Edgar 423 Hinkson, Geo., Jr 349 HoUister, Norton 335 Hosmer, J. A 188 House, Finley 313 Huckins, Israel 408 Hurley, Geo. L 377 Hui ley, Joel 331 Hyde, Almond 318 Hyslop, Walter 218 Ireland, John 334 Isles, John 206 Jackson, Andrew 43 Jackson, Andrew : 247 Jacobs, O. B 263 James, Amos 344 James, Wm. D 305 Jefferson, Thomas, 27 Jerome, David H 165 Jeuhl, J. C 2ig Johnson, Andrew 83 Jones, M.V. K 292 K Kasdorf, John 396 Kay, Allen M., M. D 438 Kelly, Wm 372 Kerr, Joseph 266 Kerr, Wm. W 191 Keys, James 205 Kirkbnde. Thos 228 Kivel, Edward 441 Knight, James, 2S0 Kyes, F. A 228 Laidlaw, Wm. E 343 Lane, Oliver 309 Langan, D. M.,M. D 262 Lawson, Daniel 304 Lawson, Graham J 338 Lazenby, Edward 441 Learn, P. H 203 Legear, Robert 200 Leins, Anthony 403 Leiich, Hon. John 428 Lewis, O. W 392 Lincoln, Abraham 79 London, John H 386 Loop, Joseph M., M. D 364 Lynd, James 211 M Macklem, Andrew 303 Madison. James 31 Mahaffy, Hugh 213 Mahaffy, Thomas. H 196 Maher, Richard 361 Mahoon, Geo 407 Makelim, John 213 Markham, David 295 Marr, E. F 437 Massman, John 364 Mason, J. M 3^6 Mason, Stevens T 105 M ater, George 392 Mavis, Chas. F 296 McAfee, Thos 386 Mc Alpine, Ales 296 McAIpine, Archibald. ...'. ...440 McCardle, Andrew J 331 McCarroll, Peter 245 McClelland, Robert... izg McClure D. S 224 McClure, James 328 McClure Nathan 310 McClure, Robert 252 McCrea, Henry, M. D 322 McCree, W. A 245 McDonald, Alex 427 McDonald, George 374 McEachin, Neil 434 McGill, John rgo McGill, Wm. B 213 McGregor, John 405 Mclntyre, George 343 McIntyrcWm. V 301 McKay, George 321 McKellar, John 295 McKenzie, Hugh 255 McLaughlin, Wm 425 McLeod, Rory 391 McLeod, Wm 211 McLeod, WilUiam 263 McMahon, John .A. 218 McMahon, J. W 395 McNinch, Geo. R 332 McPhail, Archibald 435 McPhail, John 425 McPhee, H. J 272 McRae, Alex 442 Merckel, Wm.^ 421 Messmore, Chas. L 416 Miller, Ale.x 405 Mills, Clark M 361 Mills, L. D 272 Mills, M. D 195 Mills, Wildman 179 Minard, James P27 Mitchell, David 202 Monro, Andrew W 304 Monroe, James 35 Moore, Andrew 305 Moore, Chas. H 273 Moore, M. W 215 Moore, Samuel 189 Morse, D. P 418 -Moss, Truman 299 Mugau, M. N 396 MuUoy, Wm 430 Munn, O. A 186 Murdaugh, John H... 367 Murdock, David 434 Murphy, Christopher 431 Murray, Frank 405 Murray, Wm., Speaker Tp.. . .259 Murray, Wm., Sanilac TP...379 Murray, Wm., Forester Tp. .402 N Nash, James 244 Neumann, Joseph 258 Nichol, Thomas T .402 Nicol, Ale.\ 440 Nicol, Thomas 436 Nicolson John 261 Nims, Capt. H. H 414 Nims, Wm. R 338 Noble, Archibald 250 Norman, Thomas 275 Notley, George 202 Nye, Richard J 418 o O'Connell, John 397 O'Keefe, A. W 385 Oldfield, C. M 380 Oldfield, Henry 406 Olmstead, Richard ■•324 Oughton, David 421 Pack, George 185 Papst, Rudolph 294 Parker, Geo. A 394 Parker, Wellington 192 Parkinson, Joseph 419 Parsons, Andrew 133 Pearson, Richard 196 Phillips, Peter C 227 Phillips, William 382 Philo. Franklin P 349 Pierce, Franklin 71 Pitcher, Alansing D 193 Planz, Henry 265 Polk, J. K 59 Pratt, H 517 Purkis, T. F 362 Putney, Elmore 289 R Ransom, Epaphroditus 125 Rass', A. P 399 Rass. W. D 238 Read, James G 440 Read, Lotan C 269 Read, Thomas 380 Rector, N . E 347 Reid, James 387 Reinelt, Charles 4CX) Reinelt, Wesley R 391 Reynolds, J 350 Robb, John S 306 Robinson, Levi B 274 Robinson, John J 223 Rockwell, Morris 394 Ronald, James 275 Rudd, Geo. G 232 Rudd, William 236 Runnels, S. D 379 Rutherford, James 280 Sawtell, Levi 262 Scholtz, R 266 Schubel, Gotlieb 423 Scott, Charles 310 Scott, John 212 Scribner, Francis A igi Scribner, Wm. E 295 Seder, Jacob 430 Sharp, James, Sr 303 Sheldon, John -251 Sherrick, R. D 354 Shell, Geo. A 354 Shell, Lafayette 355 Shell, Nathan 345 Sherman, Wm. C Shier, William 293 Shirley, Wm. K 399 Shrier, Wm. H 235 Shults, James H 432 Shults, James L 371 Simmons, David 186 Simmons, M iles 187 Sloat, Silas J 200 Sly, C. C. L 324 A Si/ % 348 /^ '^\m^i¥ 7^,^^. := INDEX. 545 Smack art, Henry 224 Smafield, William 273 Smith t F T 327 Smith , George 356 Smith, H. W., M. D 188 Smith, M. W 251 Smith, William 321 Sommerville, Daniel 438 Soule, Alex 435 South worth, John 411 Stephens, Alex., M . D 414 Stevens, Chas. E 277 Stewart, Bryant 322 ,Straffon, Alfred 247 Stuart, David 385 Sullivan, John.. . 238 Sumner, A. B 204 Sweet, Wm- A 389 Tallmadge, F. E 271 Taylor. S. C 266 Taylor, Zachary 63 Teeple,'Owen F 433 Tenniswood, John 270 Tcnniswood, Robert 288 Thomas, William 239 Thomson, John S 372 Thompson, Geo 416 Thompson, Wm 350 Thornton, John J .337 Tice, S. M 232 Tobin, John 242 Todd, Samuel 316 Tomlinson, Wm. M 344 Turner, Mark 219 Tuschingham, Samuel 314 Tyler, John 55 u. Udell, Hiram 241 Umphrey, Matthew 230 Umphrey, Samuel 345 Uren, T. B — 243 Utley, John 361 V Vail, A. E 279 Van Buren, Martin 47 Van Camp 280 Viets, F. S 382 Vincent, G. C, M. D., 436 Vliet, Nathan 233 w Walker James 291 Walker, John 288 Walker, Thomas 220 Walker, Wm 270 Wallace, Wm. P 291 Walther, F. L 315 Ward, T. L 420 Warner, D. J 231 Warner, Spencer H 233 Waterman, J. T 293 Watson, Dr. James A 193 Webb, W. P..., 220 Welch, John H 204 Welch, S. J 264 Welch, Thomas 195 West, Alfred A., M. D., 270 West, D. A., M. D.., 421 West, Samuel J 242 West, Stephen H 234 West, Wakefield 323 Westmore, Oscar 394 Weston, Alex .335 Weston, Geo. W 184 Wethy, O. J 216 Wever, Dr Geo 329 Whitaker, Charles 184 UO. Whitehouse, Geo 413 Wickware, Albert 424 Wil lard , Geo - A 288 Williams, Alfred 389 Willits, A. W 184 Wilson, Andrew .429 Wilson, Ira P 427 Wilson, H. W 217 Wilson, Wm. T 352 Wilson, James F 429 Wilton, P. A 400 Winterstein, W 248 Wisner, Moses 141 Wixson, John J 271 Wixson, Joshua 302 Wixson, Phillip L 351 Wolfel, N icholas 187 Woodard, Marshal 275 Woodbridge, Wm ioq Wooley, Hiram C 259 Wright, Austin 367 Wright, James 43^ Wright, Wm 437 Yates, Oliver 362 Q ^ Zavitz, John N . c^: €Ewi.-m.^^^m (m Y^^Q^^ """^^ ^vC) ^^ (V I Adams, John 22 Adams, John Quincy 38 Arthur, Chester A 98 Bagley, John J 156 Baldwin, Henry P 152 Barry, John S 112 Begole, Josiah W 168 Bingham, Kinsley S 136 Blair, Austin 144 Buchanan, James 74 Clark, Arthur M 340 Carson, Arthur 198 Crapo, Henry H 148 Croswell, Charles M 160 Dawson, William 312 Doan, Demster co8 Felch, Alpheus 116 Fillmore, Millard 66 Fitch, Robert W 240 C.aige, J. M 283 Gaige.Mrs. J. W 282 Garfield, James A 94 Grant, Ulysses S 86 Greenly, William L 120 Harrison, Wm- H 50 Hayes, Rutherford B 9Q Hayward, Hiram 358 Jackson, Andrew 42 Jefferson, Thos 26 Jerome, David H 164 Johnson, Andrew 82 Lincoln, Abraham 78 Madison James 30 Mason, Stevens T 104 McClelland, Robert 128 McKenzie, Hugh 254 Mills, Wildman 178 Minard, James 226 Monroe, James 34 Moss, Truman 298 O'Keefe, A. W 384 Parsons, Andrew 132 Pierce, Franklin 70 Polk, James K 58 Ransom, Epaphroditus 124 Read, Lotan C, M. D 268 Smith, F. T 326 Southworth, John 410 Taylor, Zachary 62 Tyler, John 54 VanBuren, Martin 46 Washington, George xS Wisner, Moses 140 < Woodbridge, William 108 WS^ -I^^C^ys,^ INDEX. %^^ INTRODUCTORY 445 Value of Local History 445 INDIAN HISTORY 447 Origin of the name "Chip- pewa" 447 Origin of the name " Hu- ron " 448 Sauks, Pottawatomies, etc. 448 Early Catholic Missions 449 449 45° The Great Spirit Indian Customs What Civilization Done for Them Has 45' 452 452 453 ^) PIONEERS First Settlers First Things Frontier Life and Events 453 POLITICAL 459 First County Officers 459 First Board of Super- visors 460 Political Parties 460 Population and Vote 461 Valuation of Property 461 County Officers to Date 461 Removal of the County Seat 462 MILITARY 465 First Company from San- ilac 466 Its History through the Wnr 466 Other Companies 468 The Draft, etc. 469 The Polander Excitement 469 MATERIAL INTERESTS 470 Lumbering 470 Land Speculators 470 Physical Features 471 Huron Peninsula 472 Soil 473 Climate 473 Crops 474 Fruit 475 Salt 477 County Agricultural Society 47 6 TOWNSHIPS 478 Argyle 501 Austin 487 Bridgehampton 503 Buel 490 Custer 502 Delaware 496 Elk 491 Elmer 493 Evergreen 499 Flynn 491 Forester 495 Fremont 488 Greenleaf 498 Lamotie 500 Lexington 478 Maple Valley 490 Marion 504 Marlette 493 Minden 497 Moore 501 Sanilac 484 Speaker 489 Washington 492 Watertown 492 Wheatland 504 Worth 484 VILLAGES Amadore 484 Anderson Station 492 Argyle Village 502 Carsonville 503 Croswell 481 Cumber 488 Downington 504 Forester Village 496 Forestville 497 Lexington Village 478 Marlette Village 494 Melvin 489 Minden City 497 Peck 491 Richmondville 496 Sandusky 502 Tyre 487 5°5 507 508 5°8 512 513 512 513 EDUCATIONAL Anecdotal CHURCH HISTORY Catholic Christian Congregational Episcopal Methodist THE PRESS 515 Croswell Democrat 516 Marlette Leader 518 Minden Post 518 Sanilac County Reporter 518 Sanilac Jeffersonian 515 FOREST FIRES 519 The Fire of 1871 519 Forestville 519 White Rock 520 Marion Township 521 Minden Township 521 Buel, Elk and Lamotte 521 J. W.Bartlett's Account 521 Lexington 523 W. B. Thompson's Ex- perience 525 Principal Buildings De- stroyed in the County 526 527 527 527 528 529 53° 53° 53° 530 532 Reflections The Fire of 1881 The Hurricane Fire Poem Governor's Message Richmondville Other Townshijis Huron County Some Direful Events Relief, and Incidents Report of Commission 533 MISCELLANEOUS A Crooked Case Great Murder Insurance Company Poor Farm Railroads Mi -t^ ■^um^i>^^r^ ,'.^/'