From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN M. ABBOTT, attorney at law, was born in Shelby County, Ill.,
December 28, 1842. He came to Nebraska in March, 1873. He homesteaded eighty acres in
Denver Precinct, Adams County, and resided on the same for some five years, practicing law
at the same time, after which he removed into Hastings. Mr. Abbott opened a law office in
Hastings in June, 1873, and the following month was joined by R. A. Batty. They practiced law
together until the latter part of December, 1876. Since then he has practiced alone, with the
exception of six months in 1879, when he was associated with J. J. Lewis. Mr. Abbott visited
Salt Lake City, Utah, in June, 1877, and in June, 1879, he went to California, and made speeches
in Sonoma County, Cal., for the State Republican ticket, in behalf of George E. Perkins, who was
elected Governor of the State. Was prominent in moving the county seat from Juniata to Hastings
in 1877, and City Attorney of Hastings in 1881 and 1882. Leading speaker for Adams County Farmers'
Ticket, which was elected in 1881.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
SAMUEL ALEXANDER was born in Prospect, Butler Co., Penn., January 16, 1842, and thirteen years
later moved with his parents to Jackson County, Iowa, residing with them on a farm there until 1858,
subsequently in Harrison County Mo., until the spring of 1861, then in Clarinda, Page County, Iowa.
In October, 1861, he enlisted in the First Nebraska Infantry, at Sedalia, Mo., and served until discharged
at Overton Hospital, Memphis, Tenn., February 16, 1863, after which he returned to Clarinda, Iowa, and
worked on a farm. In August 1864, he re-enlisted in the First Nebraska Infantry, serving until July 1, 1866.
Returning to Clarinda, he remained there for about a year, when he entered the employ of the Union Pacific
Railway Company, being employed in contracting for grading, etc., in Nebraska. He remained in this capacity
for some months, when, having his team stolen by the Indians, he was obliged to quit; he then resided for a
short time in Brownville, Nemaha Co., Neb. In 1869, he located at Lincoln, Neb., and was engaged in excavating
for cellars and digging wells, etc., for about a year, after which he was appointed janitor of the State capitol building,
holding the position until the latter part if 1871, when he returned to his home in Clarinda, Iowa. Remaining
there a few months, he returned to Nebraska and located in Hastings, April 22, 1872, taking up 160 acres of
land under the Soldiers' Homestead Act. This he improved and farmed for some years, and is now farming
some forty acres of it. In July 1872, he engaged in mercantile business, and continued it about a year. He was
appointed Postmaster September 19, 1872, held the office until March 31, 1882. Mr. Alexander was Treasurer
of the city of Hastings in 1874-75 and 1876. He was married at Brownville, Neb., September 22, 1871, to
Hattie R. Phillips. They have three children--Agnes E., Rachel M. and Esther H.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ANSTROM & IDDIOLS, carriage factory and repair shop. This business was established in June, 1881,
by John J. Anstrom and John G. Iddiols, both practical men in this business. In connection with the
carriage-making business they also do a general repairing business, and conduct a painting establishment.
John J. Anstrom was born in Sweden in 1856, and emigrated to America in the early part of 1873, and came
to Nebraska in March of that year. Locating in Omaha, he entered the employ of A. J. Simpson, carriage-maker,
etc., with whom he learned the trade of carriage-painter, etc., remaining in his employ until he resigned to come
to Hastings, in June, 1881.
John G. Iddiols, his partner, was born in England in 1846, and emigrated to America in 1855. He learned the
trade of carriage blacksmith at Haverhill, Mass., serving an apprenticeship of thirteen years; was afterward
employed as a journeymen at Boston, Mass., until he came to Nebraska in 1869. Locating in Omaha, he was
for two years employed at his trade, afterward in St. John, New Brunswick, in same capacity, until he returned
to Omaha in 1875. He then entered the employ of A. J. Simpson, carriage maker, as a blacksmith, remaining
with him until he came to Hastings, in June, 1881. He had nineteen years' experience as a carriage blacksmith.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
R. D. BABCOCK, attorney at law, was born in Monroe City, Mich., in 1846, and resided with his parents
until March, 1863, when he enlisted in the Eleventh Michigan Cavalry, and was appointed Sergeant of Company D
two months later. He served until November, 1865, and when discharged held the rank of Second Lieutenant,
Company D, Sixth United States Colored Cavalry. He was then employed in the printing office of his father at
Hudson, Mich., until he came to Nebraska in March, 1871. Locating at Juniata, he took up 160 acres of land, and
was for some months engaged in improving the same. In December, 1871, he was elected Clerk of Adams County,
and held the office two years, during which period he also studied law. Was subsequently in the employ of
Bowen & Laird, attorneys and bankers, as book-keeper, etc., for some two years or more, and during that
time he had considerable practice in land law, etc. Mr. Babcock was admitted to the bar at Juniata in July, 1876,
he then practiced at that place for some months. In January, 1872, in connection with his other pursuits, he in
company with his brother, C. C. Babcock, organized the Adams County Gazette, publishing it a Juniata until the
fall of 1876, when they removed the office to Hastings, Neb., and continued it until November, 1880. Mr. Babcock,
on coming to Hastings, opened a law office, and resumed the practice of his profession at this place, making a
specialty of land law. He has had some nine years' experience in this special branch of the law.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN F. BALLINGER, attorney at law, was born in Jasper County, Iowa, December 9, 1857, residing there
on a farm with his parents until twenty-one years of age, after which he went to Newton, Iowa, and began the
study of law with Ryan Bros., attorneys at that place, remaining with them until admitted to practice at the bar,
May 7, 1879. He then came to Hastings, Neb., and was employed in various capacities, and for a short time in
the construction department of the Union Pacific Railroad. He was appointed Constable of Adams County,
April 8, 1880, and held the office until January 1, 1882, and was also appointed Deputy under Sheriff S. L. Martin
in the summer of 1880, holding office until January 1, 1882. In November, 1880, he, in connection with his other
business, established a collection office in company with J. A. Vanatta, remaining in partnership with him until
January 1, 1882, since which time he has conducted the business alone. On October 8, 1881, Mr. Ballinger was
elected Justice of Peace, and entered on the duties of the office January 1, 1882, and was appointed Police Judge
on the 23d of the same month. In connection with his offices, he also practices law.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
HARMON H. BALLOU, farmer, Denver Precinct, P. O. Juniata, was born in Chittenden County, Vt.,
June 24, 1830, and was raised on a farm. On September 10, 1862, he enlisted in the Thirteenth Vermont Infantry,
serving until March 1, 1863, when he was discharged on account of disability. He then returned to his home in
Vermont, and farmed "off and on" for about eight years. He then came to Nebraska in April, 1871, and homesteaded
160 acres in Denver Precinct. This he improved and sold in 1877, and moved on to a farm of eighty acres adjoining.
In connection with his farming pursuits, is engaged in the cultivation of strawberries. Mr. Ballou was elected Justice
of Peace December 12, 1871, one of the first to fill that office in the county, also a member of the first school board
in spring of 1872. Mr. Ballou was married in Chittenden County, Vt., November 8, 1859, to Emily M. Eddy, a native of
that State. They have three children--Lucius A., Etta V. and William A.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
SILAS M. BATES, a farmer and stock-raiser, West Blue Precinct, P. O. Hastings, was born at Oswego, N. Y.,
in 1833, removing to Onondaga County, N. Y., with his parents when quite young, and resided with them there on a
farm. At nineteen years of age, removed to La Salle County Ill., and was engaged farming in that county until he came
to Nebraska, in February, 1874. He purchased 320 acres of land, and took up his residence in the precinct of West
Blue, Adams County. Mr. Bates devotes his time to farming in an extensive way. He cultivates 400 acres, and has also
for some three years past been engaged in raising stock. He has on his place about one hundred head of cattle, and
nearly one hundred and fifty hogs of the Poland-China and Berkshire breeds. Mr. Bates was marred in La Salle County,
Ill, in 1858, to Margaret E. Greenlees, a native of Clinton County, N. Y. They have six children--Fred A., William E.,
Martin W., Walter S., Charles A. and Alfred L.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
HON. ROBERT A. BATTY, attorney at law, was born in Morgan County, Ill., March 6, 1843. He was a student
for some two years at Jacksonville College, Ill. On August 1, 1861, he enlisted in the Thirty-third Illinois Infantry, and
served three years, and subsequently he engaged in mercantile business in Morgan County, Ill., and continued in it
for some seven years, and during the last year of that period he also read law. Mr. Batty come to Nebraska in June,
1873, locating at Hastings. He at once began the practice of law in company with J. M. Abbott. He was admitted to
the bar at Hastings in May, 1874. The firm of Abbott & Batty dissolved in December, 1876. Mr. Batty then practiced
alone until April, 1878, when he associated with him J. F. Nelson, until October of that year, when he dissolved
partnership with Mr. Nelson, and joined J. M. Ragan, since which time the firm has been Batty & Ragan. Mr. Batty
was elected Mayor of the city of Hastings in the spring of 1878, and to represent Adams County in the State
Legislature in the fall of 1878, serving a term of two years.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
FRED J. BENNEDICT, wholesale and retail grocer, was born in Monroe County, N. Y., Nov. 5, 1849, and
resided with his parents on a farm until he came to Nebraska in June, 1872; located at Hastings, and at once
engaged in the lumber business in company with C. C. Ingalls. The firm also carried agricultural implements.
Mr. Benedict remained in this business about a year, after which he entered the employ of Messrs. Pratt &
Lawson, general merchandise, as a clerk. One year later, he purchased an interest in the business, and in the
following year, the entire business, at which time the firm disposed of the hardware and implement stock, and
he has since confined himself to dealing in groceries and provisions, etc. He has increased the business largely,
and within the past year has to a limited extent done a jobbing trade. He was elected Alderman of the Second
Ward about 1878, and re-elected April 4, 1882, and a Director of the First National Bank of Adams County at
its organization July 4, 1881. Mr. Benedict is the owner of 640 acres of cultivated land in Adams County. He
erected his fine brick business building in 1881, and is now erecting a handsome new building to be occupied
by the post office.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
A. W. BINDERUP, dealer in coffees, teas and spices, was born in Denmark in 1842. He served in
the army some three years; was Second Lieutenant, and was promoted to First Lieutenant for services in the
Danish was of 1864. In December of that year, he emigrated to America, residing in the city of New York. He
was for some eight years employed as a surveyor and draughtsman. Mr. Binderup came to Nebraska in April
1873, and located in Denver Precinct, Adams County, on land purchased at that time, on which he resided for
some six years. He was employed in the Land Department of the B. & M. R. R. Co., for a year, and afterward as
clerk in the mercantile business at Hastings until August, 1879, and, on the 16th of that month, established his
present business. He was burned out on July 16, 1881, but immediately resumed. Mr. Binderup built a house
in Hastings, and removed his family here in the spring of 1879.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
M. BIRNEY, locomotive engineer of the Burlington & Missouri Railroad, was born in Ohio October 14, 1854.
His parents moved from there to Le Roy, Ill. In 1869, he commenced his railroad life on the Chicago & Alton
Railroad, in Illinois. In 1881, he moved to Nebraska and located in Lincoln, and entered the service of the
Burlington & Missouri Railroad as locomotive engineer, and from that position to the position of foreman
of the shops at Hastings, Neb., for the same company. He was married at Urbana, Ill., December 23, 1877,
to Miss Sarah C. Busey, of that city. They have one child--Mae.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
FRED H. BLAKE, meat market and dealer in live stock, etc., was born in England in 1847, and learned the
trade of butcher there, serving as an apprentice some seven years. He followed this business in that country
until he came to America and located in Hastings, Neb. In December, 1873, Mr. Blake homesteaded eighty
acres of land three miles southeast of the city and resided on the same for about five years. In the fall of 1874,
he opened a meat market at this place in company with Stock Brothers, remaining in partnership with them
until the end of 1878, when the firm closed out the business, and Mr. Blake engaged in the same business in
company with John Oliver. Some months later, he sold out his interest and joined John J. Raymaker in June,
1880, under style of Raymaker & Blake, meat market, dealers in live stock, etc., and they also built a packing
house, which he conducted in connection with other branches of the business. This firm dissolved partnership
in April, 1882, each carrying on the meat market, etc. Mr. Blake was married in England in May, 1868, to
Emily F. Jones, a native of that country. They have seven children--Frederick, George, Ada, Thomas, Arthur,
Benjamin and Morris.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
HARRY BROOKES BORLEY, teaming, draying, etc., was born in England June 3, 1854. He conducted a
book store and news depot there, for W. H. Smith & Son, for some two years; emigrating to America in 1873,
he located in Adams County, Neb., near Hastings, having purchased 160 acres of railroad land, which he was
engaged in farming for about two years. In 1875, he moved into Hastings, and was for one year employed as
a clerk in the hardware business, then in the employ of the St. Joe & Western Railway Company as a baggage
man, clerk, etc., until March, 1881. Mr. B. established the draying and teaming business in March, 1879, and
has carried it on since. He still owns his original farm and rents the same.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
BURDICK BUTTON, proprietor sash, door and blind factory, was born in East Haven, Conn., Jan. 26, 1843,
and learned the trade of carpenter, etc., at New Haven, serving as an apprentice some four years, after which
he was employed as a journeyman for about nine years, and during three years of that period also carried
on a stair building establishment in company with Alex McWilliams. Mr. Button came to Nebraska in March,
1873. Locating in Hastings, he at once began business as a contractor and builder, which he has since continued,
conducting the business alone except for three years, from 1875 to 1878, when he was in company with
M. M. Moore. Mr. Button established the factory in the spring of 1881. It is the only one of its kind here.
He does principally custom work. He was married at Bradford, Conn., in 1865, to Mary Johnson. She died
in 1871, leaving Etta M. Mr. Button was married a second time at Hastings, Neb., in 1876, to Lettie C. Dudley,
a native of Michigan.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
AMBROSE S. CAMPBELL, of A. S. Campbell & Co., wholesale and retail grocers, was born in Washington
county, Penn., in 1855, resided there with his parents and attended school until he came to Nebraska, in
February, 1875, locating in Plattsmouth, where he remained until spring, when he went to South Bend,
Cass County, and was engaged in buying and shipping grain and live stock for the Chicago market. He
followed that business some two years, when he went to Tombstone, A. T., where he resided for eighteen
months, during which period he was engaged in prospecting, and also employed as a clerk in mercantile
business, subsequently returning to South Bend, and again followed the stock and grain business, until
January, 1881, when he came to Hastings and established his business in company with E. Hayden.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
CHARLES CAMERON, merchant, was born in Scotland, March 18, 1839. At the age of five years,
he immigrated to Canada with his parents. He began business life as a clerk in the mercantile line, being
employed in that capacity some years; and in 1865, he entered into business for himself at New Hamburg,
Ontario, carrying it on there until June, 1870, when he changed his base of operations to Lincoln, Neb. In
July 1873, he opened a branch store at Hastings, Neb., under the management of J. D. B. Smith. Mr. Cameron
continued to carry on business at both places, until May, 1878, when he discontinued at Lincoln and
removed with family to Hastings, since which time he has given his attention to his business at this place.
He carries a stock of some $12,000. Mr. Cameron has had an experience in mercantile business of some
twenty-five years. He was married at Goderich, Ontario, in April, 1871, to Louisa Seegmiller, a native of
Canada. They have one daughter--Wilhemenia, who was born at Lincoln, Neb.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
SAMUEL CHANCY, contractor and builder, was born in Bureau County, Ill., in 1834, and learned
the trade of carpenter there with his father. At the age of twenty years, he removed to Ogle County, Ill.,
and was employed at his trade, and also in farming for some nine years, after which he went to Kansas
and followed his trade in Atchison and Doniphan Counties for about two years, subsequently removing
to Taylor County, Iowa. He was for two years engaged in conducting a meat market, four years in the
saloon business, and then for a year in contracting for railroad work. Mr. Chancy then changed his base
of operations to Yankton, D. T., where he was for a few months employed as a carpenter. He came to
Nebraska in June, 1872, and worked at his trade in Fremont and Crete, until January, 1873, when he came
to Hastings, at which time he opened a saloon and conducted it for eighteen months. In October, 1875, he
engaged in business as a contractor and builder in company with George Sissney, remaining in partnership
with him until January 1, 1882, since which time Mr. Chancy has carried on business alone. Among the
prominent buildings which he erected are the Episcopal church, residences of L. H. Lorver, Hon James Laird,
A. B. Ideson, and Alexander brick business block. He has built in all over three hundred buildings in the city,
and many others in the country, and employs at times some fifteen men. He also farms some eighty acres
of land. Mr. Chancy was married at St. Joe, Mo., in July, 1866, to Mary Denton, a native of England. They have
two children--Jesse and Kate.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
DELAVAN S. COLE, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Allegany County, N. Y., April 21, 1833.
Removing with his parents to Livingston County, Mich., when very young, he resided with them on a farm
until 1856, and for several years taught school during the winter months. He then went to Saginaw County,
Mich., and farmed there for some fifteen years. He was Justice of the Peace for eight years, and also held
the office of School Inspector during thirteen years of that period. Mr. C. came to Nebraska in October,
1871, prospected in the western part of the State for some time, and July 13, 1872, he homesteaded eighty
acres of land adjoining Hastings, moving his family on the same in October, 1872, since which time he has
been engaged in farming. He owns 240 acres in Denver Precinct. In 1879, he also began the breeding of
blooded stock, making a specialty of Ayrshire cattle. He was one of the organizers of the District School
Board in 1872, was elected a Director of the same, and held the office three years; was elected Assessor
of the precinct in 1874. Mr. C. was married in Livingston County Mich., in June, 1856, to Laura Scott, a
native of Oswego County, N. Y. They have seven children--Elvin S., a farmer in Kansas; Elmer E., stock-raiser
in Colorado; Eugene, Jason H., Robert W., Ada E. and Arthur Bliss.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
GEORGE CRANE, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, Denver Precinct, was born in
Yates County, N. Y., in 1844, and at four years of age removed to Hillsdale County, Mich., with his parents.
In 1863, he went to California, but remained there only a little over a year, after which he farmed in
Hillsdale County, Mich. for some years, then engaged in a grist-mill in Lenawee County for four years.
He came to Nebraska in March, 1877, located in Denver Precinct, Adams County, and has been engaged
in farming and stock-raising since; cultivates 100 acres of his own land, and some 200 of his father's. Has
been School Director for three years. Mr. C. was married in Hillsdale County, Mich., in 1866, to Tammie
Morris, a native of New York; they have three children--Edwin W., Kate E. and Stanley E.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
GEORGE W. DADE, contractor and builder, was born in Rockport, Mass., in 1832, and learned
the trade of carpenter at Newburyport, serving as an apprentice some four years, following the same
as a journeyman and contractor there, and in the neighborhood until he came to Nebraska in August,
1872. He homesteaded near the city of Hastings, and at once entered into business as contractor and
builder, being the first one to follow that business here. He conducted his building operations alone
for some years, when the style changed to Dade & Grant, afterward Dade & Lee, each partner remaining
with him two years. Mr. Dade prefers to conduct his business affairs alone, and has done so for several
years past. Among the prominent buildings he has erected here are the Congregational church, Second
Ward School-house, and many prominent business and dwelling houses. He is also engaged in building
to considerable extent in the country, giving employment at times to fifteen men. He removed his family
to Hastings to reside in 1879. Mr. Dade was married in Rockport, Mass., on December 22, 1862, to
Mary J. Curtis, a native of Maine. They have five children--George C. (employed with his father), Charles A.
(engaged in the same capacity), Frank M., Jennie May and Fannie B.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JESSE H. DARNELL, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, Denver Precinct, was born in
Holmes County, Ohio, in 1838, and at the age of four years removed with his parents to Henderson
County, Ill.; here he learned the trade of carpenter, taught school and read law with Judge A. D. Duff,
of Benton, Franklin County, Ill., until 1861, when, in September of said year, he entered in the service
of the United States as private in company F, Forty-eighth Regiment Illinois Volunteers; was mustered
into the service, September 12, 1861; was in the battle of Fort Henry, Donelson, and Shiloh or Pittsburgh
Landing, in Tennessee. After the battle of Shiloh, April 6, 1862, was promoted to Commissary Sergeant
on the non-commissioned staff; in the spring of 1863, he was promoted to a captain's commission
and transferred to Company I, Fifty-ninth U. S. Infantry. Resigned his commission March 19, 1864,
when he returned to his former home in Illinois, thence to Mt. Vernon, Iowa, where he became
acquainted with Miss Sarah A. Cook, whom he married August 30, 1864, a native of Ohio. He moved
to Clinton, Iowa, where he received the appointment as special agent of the Home Insurance Company,
of Lyons, Iowa; he held said appointment two years. He resumed his law studies with Thomas H.
Garretson, of Victor, Iowa. He was admitted to the bar in Iowa County, Iowa, on the 6th of February, 1871.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
LAFAYETTE DOMINY, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hansen, West Blue Precinct, was born in
La Salle County, Ill., in January, 1846, and followed farming in that county until he came to Nebraska,
locating in West Blue Precinct, March 2, 1876. He is the owner of 320 acres of land, 235 of which are
under cultivation. Is also engaged in breeding hogs, making a specialty of the Poland-China breed.
Mr. Dominy was elected Treasurer of the District School Board in April, 1881. He was married in
La Salle County, Ill., in 1867, to Sarah A. Smith, a native of Pennsylvania. They have two children--
Charles M. and Eva May.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JACOB FISHER, bakery and confectionery, was born in Germany in 1839. Emigrating to America
in 1856, he learned the trade of baker, and was employed at it in various States for some four years.
In 1862, he entered the employment of the United States Government, in the Commissary Department,
remaining in that employment until April, 1865. He subsequently opened a bakery at Brookfield, Mo.,
and conducted the same for ten years, afterward engaged in same business at Leon, Iowa, for three
years. Mr. Fisher came to Hastings, Neb., in March, 1878, and at once established his present business.
He employs some four men in his establishment and consumes about forty barrels of flour per month
in the bakery, his trade extending to Harvard, Fairfield and Juniata, Neb. Mr. Fisher was married at
Brookfield, Linn Co., Mo., September 1, 1867, to Lucretia Long, a native of Pennsylvania. They have
five children--Frederick W., Frances F., Emma G., Bessie A. and George J.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOSEPH N. FOUNTAIN, undertaker and dealer in furniture, was born in Canada March 24, 1845,
and at twenty years of age removed to Assumption, Ill., where he learned the trade of carpenter,
serving as an apprentice for two years, after which he carried on business as a contractor for another
two years. Subsequently removing to Decatur, Macon County, Ill., he learned the trade of cabinet maker,
and worked at the same as a journeyman until he came to Hastings, Neb., in August, 1877, at which
time he opened a wagon repair shop, and was engaged in conducting the same for two years, then
employed as a cabinet maker, and in March, 1880, he, in company with George Miller, engaged in
the furniture business, and six months later purchased his partner's interest in the business, since
which time he has conducted it alone. The business was begun first with a small stock of some few
hundred dollars, and has increased until he now carries a stock of over $1,000, and does a business
of some $4,000 per year. The "undertaking" branch of the business has recently been added.
Mr. Fountain was married at Assumption, Ill., January 11, 1868, to Emily Vilmune, a native of Canada.
They have three children--Leonora, Frank Napoleon and an infant son.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
FOULKS & STINE, manufacturers of barbed wire. This business was established in April, 1880.
They manufacture what is known as the Acme Steel Barbed Wire, and make some 400 to 500
pounds per day, according to the demand. This is one of the industries of this place, and has
every prospect of becoming a manufactory of some magnitude in the near future. This business
has increased from 150 pounds per day to present amount. T. M. Foulks, the junior member of
the firm, is from Kentucky, where he was formerly engaged in the coal business. He came to
Hastings, Neb., in 1880, and was variously employed until this business was opened. N. V. Stine,
the senior member of the concern, was formerly a resident of Illinois, where he was engaged in
farming until he came to Nebraska in March, 1880.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
PETER FOWLIE, loan agent, etc., was born in Scotland, February 1, 1841. He began life
as a sailor "before the mast," and rose through the different grades to that of Master Mariner.
He was for some time in the employ of the W. I. & P. S. N. Co., and followed "the sea" in all some
twelve years. He emigrated to America in the early part of 1871, and in September of that year
came to Nebraska, pre-empted 160 acres of land in Denver Precinct, Adams County, and resided
on the same for about a year; was then appointed Superintendent of Adams County Poor
Farm, which he held until March, 1874, and during the year 1873 was also Deputy County
Treasurer. In the spring of 1874, he removed to Juniata, Adams County, and carried on a
hotel for one year. He was appointed Justice of the Peace in 1874, was elected to the office
in 1875. Resigning the same a year later, he entered the employ of the B. & M. R. R. Co.,
as Tax Agent, remaining in that employ some three and a half years. Mr. Fowlie came
to Hastings in March, 1880, and was employed in the office of the Treasurer of Adams
County for one year. He also, on his arrival here, began business as loan and collection
agent, general brokerage, etc. He is well versed in the law, and is one of the most
experienced men in this part of the county in his line.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
M. W. FREEMAN, proprietor Hastings City Mills, was born at Maston Locke, N. Y.,
in 1846, removing when one year of age, with his parents, to Jackson County, Mich. He
began business life with his father, A. A. Freeman, of that place, dealer in grain, produce
and lumber, and also proprietor of flour-mill, remaining with him as partner until he
came to Nebraska in November, 1880. Locating at Juniata, he was engaged in manufacturing
cultivators, etc., for some six months, when he closed up the business and came to
Hastings in the summer of 1881, at which time he built his present mill, and opened the
same for business January, 1882. Mr. F. was married at Hillsdale, Jackson Co., Mich., in
1869, to Ella Pendleton, a native of Ohio. They have one son--Charles A.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
FRANK M. FRINK, farmer, P. O. Hastings, West Blue Precinct, was born in the State of New York,
May 24, 1852, and, five years later, removed, with his father, to Brookfield, La Salle Co., Ill.,
and was engaged in farming there until he came to Nebraska in the spring of 1874, at which
time he located in West Blue Precinct, Adams County, and has been engaged in farming
since. He cultivates 160 acres of land. Mr. Frink was married, at Glenwood, Iowa, on
March 7, 1878, to Florence Mellinger, a native of Ohio. They have two children--Ray and Earl.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
GANT, HARRIS & MARQUIS, wholesale and retail dealers in agricultural implements,
harvesting machinery, etc. This firm purchased the old established implement business of
Stabler & Deisher, at this place, October 6, 1881. They carry the largest stock of implements
in Hastings, and handle a very large amount of harvesting machinery. The old firm had
the largest trade in their line in this place, and their successors are striving to maintain
the same with success. They are also agents for Croft's improved iron windmill and for
the principal manufacturers of reapers, mowers, threshing machines and wagons. They
have also branch houses at Doniphan, Blue Hill and Glenville, Neb. J. E. Gant, of this firm,
has had considerable experience in the implement business. He entered into this line of
business some five years ago at Des Moines, Iowa, as clerk and salesman, and was afterward
employed as a traveling salesman in that State. He then traveled in the State of Nebraska
for some three years, representing Messrs. Seymore, Sabin & Co., threshing machines, and
discontinued with them to form this firm. J. W. Harris, the second partner of the firm, came
to this State in 1873, and located in Republican Valley, Webster County, where he was engaged
in farming two years; afterward in butcher business at Bloomington, Neb., for a year or more.
He came to Hastings in June, 1877, and entered the employ of Messrs. Stabler & Deisher,
dealers in implements, etc., remaining with them as shipping clerk and salesman until the
formation of the present firm. James Marquis, the remaining partner, was formerly a resident
of Des Moines, Iowa. He learned the trade of carpenter there, and was engaged as journeyman
and contractor for some ten years. In 1877, he opened a coal yard at that place, in company
with J. F. N. Drake, under the style of Marquis & Co. This firm continued business for two years.
Afterward Mr. Hastings took the business and conducted it alone for two years. He came
to Hastings, Neb., August 19, 1881, and was employed as a carpenter until he entered into
his present business. He gives his attention to the mechanical part of the business and to
the receiving and shipping of goods.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
REV. JOHN W. GREENWOOD, A. B., M. A., rector of the Episcopal Church, was born in
Rochester, N. Y., in 1851. He took a classical course of four years at the University of Rochester,
graduating in June, 1873, after which he pursued his theological studies at Berkeley Divinity
School, Middletown, Conn., graduating there in June, 1876; immediately after which he was
ordained at St. Luke's Church, Rochester, N. Y., by Bishop Coxe, of Western New York.
Mr. Greenwood was in charge of Christ Church, Cuba, Allegany Co., N. Y., for twenty-two
months; after which he retired from active labors in the church on account of ill-health.
In the spring of 1879, on returning from Europe, he was appointed to St. John's Church,
Honeoye Falls, N. Y., remaining there one year. He was then transferred to Nebraska,
and came to Hastings in 1880. He at once organized and built St. Mark's Church, at this
place, and on September 1, 1881, he organized St. John's Parish, at Harvard, Clay Co., Neb.;
since which time he has been in charge of both parishes.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
L. J. HALSTED, farmer and breeder of blooded stock, P. O. Hastings, West Blue Precinct,
was born in Franklin County, Ind., August 8, 1827, and resided there, assisting his parents
in farming, etc., until twenty-seven years of age. He then went to La Salle County, Ill.,
where he conducted a farm for some thirteen years, after which he changed his base
of operations to Livingston, County, Ill. In 1871, he entered into stock breeding, carrying
it on in that county on quite an extensive scale for ten years. Mr. Halsted came to
Nebraska to reside in October, 1881, locating in the precinct of West Blue, Adams County.
He has some 320 acres of land in this neighborhood, and 400 more in another part of
the county. He brought with him here two car loads of blooded stock from Illinois, and
makes specialties of breeding Durham and Hereford cattle, Poland-China hogs, and
Normandy horses. Mr. Halsted has had a large experience in this business, and is ably
assisted by his sons.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
LEVI P. HAWLEY, grocer, was born in Hampshire County, Mass., and resided with his parents
on a farm until twenty-one years of age. He married at this time, and stayed in Massachusetts
three years, then removed to Winnebago County, Ill., where he was engaged in farming for
himself for some four years; afterward removed to Chickasaw County, Iowa, and engaged in
same capacity until August, 1862, when he enlisted in the Thirty-eighth Iowa Infantry, and was
shortly transferred to the Fourteenth Iowa Infantry, and served twenty-seven months. He was
wounded in the right side by a rifle bullet at Old Town Creek, Miss. In November, 1864, he
returned to his farm in Chickasaw County. He remained there two years, and then removed to
Calmar, Iowa, and started a store of general merchandise, and from there removed to Lawler,
Iowa, and engaged in merchandise trade, and, in the fall of 1872, removed to Nebraska, having
in the previous July taken up 160 acres of land under the soldiers' homestead act in West Blue
Precinct, Adams County. He resided on the same some six years, coming to Hastings in the fall o
f 1878, at which time he engaged in his present business. Mr. Hawley still owns his farm of 160
acres, which he rents, and also owns a free claim of 160 acres in Hall County, Neb.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JAMES B. HEARTWELL & CO., brokers and investing agents. James B. Heartwell, the senior
member of the firm, was born in Seneca County, N. Y., July 4, 1843. He began business life at the
age of twenty-two years as bookkeeper in the First National Bank at Geneva, N. Y., and remained
with them some five years, during which time he was assistant cashier, and also cashier. In 1870,
he went to Des Moines, Iowa, and entered into real estate business in the firm of Brown,
Heartwell & Co., which firm, after several changes, was merged into the Iowa Loan and Trust
Company, of which he was one of the Directors, and was elected Secretary at its organization
in February, 1872. Mr. Heartwell came to Nebraska in June, 1879, and located in Hastings. He
was still Secretary of the Company, and held the office until January, 1880, when the company
organized the Kansas and Nebraska Department, of which he was appointed general manager,
which position he resigned in the fall of that year, and on January 1, 1881, he joined E. C. Webster,
and established the present business. Mr. Heartwell was appointed Treasurer of the City of Hastings
to fill a vacancy, March, 1881, and was shortly afterward elected to that office. Edwin C. Webster,
the junior member, was born at Phelps, Ontario Co., N. Y., April 26, 1850. At eighteen years of age,
he began business life as clerk in general merchandise business at that place, and was employed
in that capacity three years, subsequently in the employ of the O. & M. R. R. Co., at Cincinnati, Ohio,
as office clerk for two years, then at Kansas City, Mo., as station agent of the St. L. & W. R. Co. for
one year, afterward bookkeeper for a short time for the R. R. Trans. Co. In the spring of 1875, he
went to Des Moines, Iowa, and entered the employ of the Iowa Loan & Trust company as clerk,
and was appointed Assistant Secretary, and held that position until he resigned to come to
Hastings, Neb., in January, 1881, and at once entered into this firm.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
REV. S. H. HENDERSON, pastor of the Methodist Episcopal Church; was born in Brownsville,
Haywood Co., Tenn., March 4, 1829; moving to Illinois with his parents when quite young, he
resided there with them until November, 1845, when he went to Iowa, and was employed in
Johnson County at farming, etc. In 1849, he was appointed Deputy United States Surveyor of
the State of Iowa, holding the office four years. In November, 1853, he entered the law office
of Pleasants & Henderson, at Rock Island, Ill., as a law student, and was admitted to practice
at the bar in June, 1855. He was then for a few months engaged in surveying in Wisconsin,
after which he was employed as a civil engineer and draftsman at Decorah, Iowa. Mr. Henderson
began the practice of law in Mitchell, Iowa, June, 1856, and in the following year he was converted
and joined the Methodist Episcopal Church in August, 1858, and was received into the traveling
connection in the Upper Iowa Conference, and stationed at Mitchell, Iowa. He labored in the
Methodist Episcopal Church up to August, 1862, when he took a commission as a recruiting
officer, and in that capacity raised a company for the Twenty-fourth Iowa Infantry, and was
elected and commissioned Captain of the same, and served until August 22, 1863, when he
resigned on account of ill-health. In May, 1864, he took an active part in recruiting the Forty-fourth
Iowa Infantry, and was elected Colonel by the officers of the line, and commissioned by Gov. Stone,
serving in that capacity 115 days. Mr. Henderson then labored in the Methodist Episcopal Church
in Iowa, and was appointed Presiding Elder of the Marshalltown District in 1868, holding the position
four years. In 1872, then of the Cedar Rapids District, holding it also four years. In 1876, he was
appointed to the pastorate of the Methodist Episcopal Church at Decorah, Iowa, remaining there
one year. He was transferred to Nebraska in October, 1877, and had charge of the Methodist
Episcopal Church at Lincoln for two years, then at Falls City until he came to Hastings, in September,
1881, when he entered upon his present duties. Mr. Henderson was elected Chaplain of the State
Senate in January, 1881, and has been Secretary of the Methodist Episcopal Conference of this
State for the past three years.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
DAVID H. HOLMES, well borer and florist, was born in Orleans County, N. Y., in 1844;
when ten years of age, removed with his father to Wisconsin, residing in Dodge and Washington
Counties for some four years, after which he went with him to Calhoun, Mich., and assisted in
farming until he enlisted August 24, 1861, in "Merrill's Horse." Serving three years, he subsequently
returned to Calhoun, and was employed in farming. In 1866, he removed to Chickasaw County,
Iowa, where he was engaged in same capacity for four years. Moving to Lawler, in that county,
he carried on a grain and live stock business, discontinuing them to come to Nebraska in October,
1872. He at once homesteaded 160 acres in West Blue Precinct, Adams County, and resided on
it for five years, during which period he farmed the same and was for six months also engaged
in "well boring." After this he changed his residence to Denver Precinct, and still continued his
business as well borer, and was also for a short time engaged in traveling for a nursery. He
removed to Hastings in September, 1879, and permanently established himself in business as
a well-borer, to which he has quite recently added that of florist, having built a fine green-house,
and cultivates flowers, etc., quite extensively. Mr. Holmes was married in Chickasaw County, Iowa,
September 19, 1869, to Mary J. Reed, a native of New York. They have two children--Edward J. and Frederick T.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
HIRAM E. HOUGHTALING, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, West Blue Precinct,
was born in Albany County, N. Y., in 1842, and at thirteen years of age removed with his parents
to Adams County, Wis., where he assisted his parents in farming until September 11, 1862, when
he enlisted in the Tenth Wisconsin Infantry, in which he served over three years. He was wounded
September 19, 1863, at battle of Chickamauga, in right leg. After the war, Mr. H. turned his attention
to farming, and followed it in Adams, Marquette and Walworth Counties, Wis., for three years, then in
Chickasaw County, Iowa, until he came to Nebraska, October, 1872. He homesteaded 160 acres in
West Blue Precinct, Adams County, and has been engaged in farming and stock-raising since. He
was married at Friendship, Adams County, Wis., August 12, 1866, to Sarah Buck.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
F. P. HOYT, market gardener and breeder of Poland-China hogs, one and one half miles
north of Hastings, Denver Precinct; came to Nebraska and located in Denver Precinct, Adams County,
March 4, 1880. He cultivates eighty acres of land, devoting ten acres to raising vegetables, greens, etc.
Has twenty-four hot beds for forcing the growth of plants, vegetables, etc., requiring the use of 1,400
feet of glass. Mr. H. is a native of the State of Vermont, and learned his present business at Cameron,
Clinton County, Mo. Has had experience in the same of over five years.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
O. C. HUBBELL, A. M., Principal of public schools, was born in Cuyahoga County, Ohio,
February 23, 1844. Was educated at Hiram College, Ohio, graduating in 1872, after which he was
Principal of the public schools of Bedford, Ohio, for five years. Subsequently, engaged in the same
capacity at Chagrin Falls, Ohio, for a year. He came to Nebraska in August, 1878, locating at Fairfield,
Clay County. He was appointed Principal of the public schools of that place, remaining there six months,
after which he went to Sutton, Neb., and was Principal of the public schools there for two years.
Coming to Hastings in the spring of 1881, he entered upon his present duties. Mr. H. was married
in Hiram, Portage Co., Ohio, in 1869, to Frinda Newcomb, a native of Freedom, Ohio. They have
three children--L. Marie, Abraham T. and Tod Vernon.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
WILLIAM HUDSON, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, Denver Precinct, was born
in Orange County, N. Y., March 9, 1816, residing there on a farm until twenty-two years of age, then
farming, milling, etc., in Monroe County, N. Y., until he came to Nebraska, March 30, 1872, at which
time he homesteaded eighty acres in Denver Precinct, Adams County, and resided on it for some
eight years or more. In July, 1881, he purchased a forty-acre farm in the same precinct, and is now
engaged in conducting the same. He was married in Monroe County, N. Y., in 1836, to Maria Irish, a
native of New York. They have one son--Orlando.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JACOB HUF, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hansen, West Blue Precinct, was born in
Bavaria in 1838. He learned the trade of blacksmith in that country, and was for some years employed
as a journeyman. He emigrated to America in 1866, locating at Freeport, Ill.; was for three years
engaged in conducting a blacksmith shop, afterward engaged in same capacity in Benton County,
Iowa, until he came to Nebraska in 1874. He homesteaded eighty acres in West Blue Precinct, on
which he has since resided. He now owns 160 acres of land, all of which is under cultivation. Mr. H.
was married in Bavaria in 1864, to Elizabeth Shenaberry, a native of that country. They have three
children--Phillipenia, Ludwig and Jacob.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JACOB R. HURSH, watchmaker and jeweler, was born in Cumberland County, Penn.,
in 1845, residing on a farm with his parents until he enlisted July 18, 1864, in the One Hundred and
Ninety-fifth Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry, serving about a year, subsequently returning home.
He was for some time employed as clerk in the mercantile business, and also in teaching school. In
1870, he removed to Iowa City, Iowa, and one year later, to Indianola, Iowa, where he engaged in the
grocery business in company with J. E. Pritchard. This firm dissolved in the fall of 1871, after which
he was employed as clerk in the boot and shoe business, and in May of 1873, he opened a jewelry
and watchmaking establishment; which he carried on for some six years. Mr. Hursh first came to
Nebraska in August, 1872, and homesteaded 160 acres of land in Denver Precinct, Adams County,
returning shortly afterward to his home in Indianola. He remained until July, 1879, when he closed
out his business there, removing his stock to Hastings, since which time he has been engaged in the
same business at this place. This is the oldest exclusive jewelry and watchmaking establishment in
Hastings. Mr. Hursh carries a well-assorted stock of some $3,500. His store is very handsomely
furnished, the fixtures costing about $1,200, and in the watchmaking department he employs a
skillful and experienced workman.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
GEORGE T. HUTCHINSON, Sheriff of Adams County, was born near Luray, Page Co., Va.,
in 1835, removing to Ohio in 1842 with his parents, and resided with them in Licking and Knox
Counties for fourteen years, assisting in farming, etc., excepting during the years 1852-53, when
he was employed as brakeman on the Central Ohio Railroad. In 1856, he went to Coles County, Ill.,
and was engaged in farming for several months, subsequently taught school in Shelby County for
some four years, after which he rented a farm in the county, and cultivated the same until he
enlisted in September, 1862, in the Fourteenth Illinois Cavalry, serving until May, 1865, returning
to his home in Coles County, Ill. He was engaged in farming, and also teaching school during the
winter until he came to Nebraska, in March, 1873, at which time he homesteaded 160 acres of
land in Cottonwood Precinct, Adams, County, and was engaged in farming until January 1, 1882,
when he came to Hastings, and entered upon his duties as Sheriff, having been elected in November,
1881. He is the owner of 400 acres of farming land, and a forty-acre tree claim, which he set out
in 1874. Mr. Hutchinson was married in Shelby County, Ill., in 1858, to Nancy J. Marts, a native of
Indiana. They have six children--William H. (Deputy Sheriff), Lucy E., Theodosia, Joseph C.,
George C. and Stephen.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
A. B. IDESON, manager of Badger Lumber Yard, was born in New York City in 1851,
and, when quite young, removed with his parents to Geneva, Ontario Co., N. Y. Mr. Ideson began
business life in 1869, in the city of New York, entering the employ of Dannat Bros., lumber dealers,
as inspector, after which he was salesman and subsequently foreman, remaining in their employ
some five years. He then went to Geneva, New York, and opened a lumber-yard in company with
A. A. Halsey. Eighteen months later, he sold out and removed to Oshkosh, Wis., where he entered
the employ of C. N. Paine & Co., proprietors of the Badger Lumber Yards, as salesman, buyer, etc.,
and was engaged in that capacity until transferred to Hastings, Neb., in September, 1877, to take
charge of the company's business in Nebraska, having established a yard at Hastings in 1874. The
company also opened branch lumber-yards at Hansom, Doniphan and other points in Nebraska,
which are also under Mr. Ideson's management. Mr. Ideson removed his family to Hastings in 1878.
He has since February, 1879, been connected with his brother, John C. Ideson, in the stationery
business, under the style of J. C. Ideson & Co. He was elected Secretary of the Hastings Fair Ground
Association in 1880, was re-elected in 1881, and Secretary of the Adams County Agricultural Society
in 1880-81. The Badger Company also do an extensive coal business at these places, handling some
5,000 tons per annum. They carry a stock of lumber in this State of about 3,000,000 feet.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN C. IDESON, of the firm of J. C. Ideson & Co., books, stationery, etc., was born in New
York City in 1848, removing with his parents when quite young to Geneva, Ontario Co., N. Y., residing
there with them until eighteen years of age. He was then employed as traveling salesman for a nursery
for some six years. In 1872, he went to Houston, Tex., where he engaged in the stationery and book
business in company with G. W. Baldwin. They carried on business together for five years, after which
Mr. Ideson returned to his home in New York State. He came to Nebraska in 1878, and located in
Hastings. He purchased 600 acres of land in Hamilton Co., Neb., and was engaged in improving the
same until February, 1879, when he engaged in his present business in company with his brother,
A. B. Ideson. He confines himself to the management of this business, farming his land by proxy,
the same being used for stock-breeding principally, he being interested.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN JACKSON, farmer, P .O. Hastings, West Blue Precinct, was born in Scotland, in March, 1844.
He was reared on a farm, and assisted his father in conducting the same until he emigrated to
America in August, 1872. He at once came to Nebraska, and homesteaded eighty acres in West
Blue Precinct, and has been engaged in farming since. He now owns 160 acres, 135 of which are
under cultivation.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
SVEND JOHNSON, of the firm of McElhinney & Johnson, contractors, builders and manufacturers
of brick, was born in Denmark, May 6, 1851, and came to America in 1868, residing in Racine, Wis.;
was employed as a brickmaker until he came to Nebraska in May, 1870. Locating at Nebraska City,
Otoe County, he was employed in a brickyard until the spring of 1876, when he joined D. M. McElhinney
in his present business and came to Hastings in the following year, when the firm moved its base of
operations to this point.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
BARTHOLOMEW KERNAN, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, West Blue Precinct, was born
in Ireland in 1853, emigrating to America in 1867. He settled in Dodge County, Wis., where he was
employed in farming for about nine years. He came to Nebraska in March, 1876, purchased 160
acres in West Blue Precinct, and has been engaged in farming the same since; also does considerable
in raising Poland-China hogs, and Short-Horn cattle. Mr. Kernan was married in Adams County, Neb.,
November 28, 1879, to Ellen Scott. They have two children--Mary E. and Margaret.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
HON. JAMES LAIRD, attorney at law, was born in Fowlerville, Livingston County, N. Y., June 10, 1849,
and several years later accompanied his parents to Michigan, residing in Washtenaw and Lenawee
Counties. He enlisted July 24,1861, in Gen. Stockton's Independent Infantry, which a year later was
changed to the Sixteenth Michigan Infantry. Mr. Laird enlisted as a private, but he was promoted to
Second Lieutenant of Company G, for gallant and meritorious conduct, and less than a year later to
Captain of the company, serving until mustered out, August 26,1865. During the service in the war,
he received four musket-shot wounds and a saber cut, the latter at Laurel Hill, Va., May 8, 1864. At
the battle of Gaines Hill he was shot through the body and left for dead on the field; was picked up
by the Confederates and made prisoner, but thirty days later made his escape. After the war, Mr. L.
turned his attention to the study of law, for which he prepared at Wesleyan College, Adrian, Mich.
In 1868, he went to Ann Arbor University, Mich.; continued his studies there. He graduated in the law
college with the close of the term of 1871, and in June of that year was admitted, at Lansing, to the
Michigan State bar, after which he practiced law for a short time. He came to Nebraska on July 10, 1872,
located in Juniata and at once began the practice of law, and in 1877, he associated himself with
Benjamin F. Smith, since which time they have practiced in partnership. In 1879, the firm moved
their law office to Hastings. Mr. Laird makes a specialty of trial cases. He has always taken a large
interest in State politics; was a member of the State Constitutional Convention of 1875, and, in 1880,
was one of the Republican Presidential Electors of Nebraska. Mr. L. is a member of the American Bar
Association, and also of the State Bar Association.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
HERMAN LEPIN, proprietor of the Lepin Hotel, was born in Germany in 1832, and emigrated to
America in 1852, locating at Lowell, Lake County, Ind. He was engaged in mercantile business at that
place for some nineteen years; also in conducting grist, saw and woolen mills for eight years of that
period. In 1871, he removed to Chicago, Ill., and was engaged as a traveling salesman in the hat and
cap business, until the fall of 1873, when he came to Hastings, Neb., as general agent for McCormick's
harvesting machines, which position he filled for one year, subsequently engaging in hotel business;
was burned out September 16, 1879; he then built his present hotel building, and opened the same
under the style of "Lepin Hotel," January 1, 1880. His house is quite popular, and he has the best
accommodations for forty persons.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
MILES K. LEWIS was born in Genesee County, N. Y., August 22, 1825. When he was ten years of age,
his father emigrated to the West with his family, and settled in Marion County, Ohio, where he was
engaged in farming; remained here for about six years. He made a second removal, locating in Knox
County, Ill., again resuming the avocation of farming. During all these changes, Miles was employed
with his father, and with him he remained until near twenty years of age. Full of the spirit and enterprise
which has since characterized his career, young Lewis, at this early age, launched out upon his own
account without a penny, since working out a busy and eventful life marked by numerous changes,
and crowned with remarkable success. After leaving the paternal roof, he made his way into the
State of Iowa, and entered a forty-acre tract of land, with money made by splitting rails, and, finally,
about the year 1851, returned to Johnson County, where he purchased 240 acres of land. For about
eight years he was engaged in the cultivation of his farm, from which, by shrewd and judicious
management, he realized handsomely; but the occupation of a small farmer was too cramping to
his towering ambition, and he grew restless for wider and more lucrative fields. Disposing of his farm,
he went to Poweshiek County, Iowa, and purchased a section of land, and began the business of
sheep raising on an extensive scale, in which he continued for nearly twelve years; neither were
all the bright prospects by which he was now surrounded sufficient to satisfy the activity of his
mind and body. Ever progressive, he looked for something higher--something to equal in its
attentions the capacity of his own mind. Pursuant to this end, he sold out his property in Iowa,
coming to Nebraska in 1873, procured and purchased 400 acres of land near Hastings, and
engaged in the editorial field, publishing a newspaper, the Journal, at that place, in company
with A. L. Wigton. During the following year, the firm, besides their journalistic work, were also
engaged in buying and selling real estate. This partnership, however, was short lived, and prior
to the ending of the year 1874, was dissolved, Lewis having disposed of his interest in the
business. In the spring of the next year, he moved on his farm and began its improvement,
and also engaged in the breeding of blooded stock, making a specialty of fine hogs, continuing
in this business for only three years. It was given up to be superseded by the enterprise of
manufacture. The genius and restless spirit of the man led him into the speculative field of
invention, resulting in the perfection of a patent grain header. Leaving his farm in the fall of
1878, he entered upon the manufacture of his machine, and by July of the following year
turned out thirty machines. The points of excellence of this, with the improvements that have
since been added, render it superior to any heading machine in use. The leading improvements
made and that characterizing its superiority mainly, is that of the chain drive and the adjustable
sprocket wheels, by means of which the cog wheel gearing is in great part dispensed with, only
two cog wheels being used. Another leading feature is the chain apron. The canvas, instead of
being propelled by friction rollers, is run by a chain apron on sprocket wheels, and thus all
friction and binding upon the journals are avoided and the draft of the machine greatly lessened.
In 1880, Mr. Lewis took in his son Frank as partner, the style of the firm being M. K. Lewis & Son,
and in the following year, another change was effected in the addition to the firm of his son,
E. L. Lewis, and W. B. Everett, the firm name being M. K. Lewis, Sons & Co. The prosperity of
this enterprise has continued to advance steadily from the first, and it is numbered among
the leading manufacturing establishments in the State. The works at present employ thirty
men, and during the present year will turn out 150 machines, which find a ready market in
Nebraska, Kansas and Dakota, and are highly esteemed on account of the excellency of their
work. At the age of twenty-four, Mr. Lewis was married in Johnson County, Iowa, to Corinthia
Parks, a native of Indiana. Their family consists of six children. Mr. L. was elected in the first
Board of Trustees when the town of Hastings was incorporated as a village, and was chosen
by the board to act as its Chairman. Subsequently he was elected Mayor of the city, which
position he occupied for one year. Thus, from a farmer boy, Mr. L. has risen to the position
of a wealthy manufacturer, and his name must stand with that of the leading inventors of the age.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
DAVIS LOWMAN & SON, real estate agents. Davis Lowman, the senior member of this firm,
was born in Highland County, Ohio, in 1827, and ten years later removed, with his parents, to
Knox County, Ill., and some thirteen years later to Stark County, Ill. In 1851, he engaged in
mercantile business at Toulon, that county, and continued it until 1863. He was elected Treasurer
of the county in 1853, and held the office for six years. In 1858, he also engaged in the real estate
business, in company with the Hon. M. A. Fuller, remaining in partnership with him for some ten
years, after which he conducted the business alone for some twelve years longer, from 1856 to 1878.
Mr. L. also carries on a farm, and made a specialty of breeding short-horn cattle. He was one of
the largest stock breeders in Stark County, Ill. He came to Hastings Neb., in the summer of 1878;
in the following October removed his family, and in the fall of the same year established this
business. He has had a practical experience in real estate business of over twenty-five years.
William L., his son and the junior partner of the firm, is a graduate of Eastman's Commercial
School, Poughkeepsie, N. Y. This is his first experience in business.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
W. H. LYNN, physician and surgeon, was born in Lockport, Ill. He was, for several years,
employed in the boot and shoe business with his father at that place, subsequently going
to Schuylkill County, Penn., where he was employed for about a year as shipping clerk, and
during that period, he also studied medicine with Dr. Halbauer, a graduate of Jefferson
Medical College, of Philadelphia. Returning to Lockport, he studied with Dr. Hanley, a graduate
of Manchester, England, for eight months, after which he attended Rush Medical College,
Chicago, Ill., during the winter of 1875-76; subsequently a student at Cook County Hospital,
where he remained for three months, under the supervision of Dr. Kauffman. He returned to
Rush College in the fall of 1876, and graduated in 1877. The doctor then practiced medicine
at Snoddy's Mills, Fountain Co., Ind., for five months; afterward at Wilmington, Will Co., Ill.,
where he practiced until 1879, when he came to Hastings, Neb., and opened an office for
the practice of his profession in the following April. He was elected Coroner of Adams County
in November, 1879, holding the office for two years; was appointed County Physician in May,
1879, and is the present incumbent.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ROBERT McCLELLAN, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, Denver Precinct, was born
in Butler County, Ohio, in 1830. He assisted his parents in farming until about twenty-five
years of age, when he engaged in farming on his own account, conducting a farm of over
one hundred acres in that county until he sold out to come to Nebraska. He located in
Denver Precinct, Adams County, in April, 1874, purchasing 320 acres of land; has since
been engaged in farming, and is also engaged in raising stock, making a specialty of Poland-
China hogs.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
WILLIAM R. McCULLY, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Washington County, Ind., in 1834,
and at four years of age removed, with his parents, to Washington County, Iowa, and in
1855 to Newton, Jasper County, Iowa, where he farmed until he enlisted, in August, 1862,
in the Fifth Iowa Infantry, serving two years and two months. He received a gunshot in
the head at the battle of Champion Hills, Miss., on May 16,1863. After his service in the
war, he returned to his farming in Newton, and about a year or so later entered into
mercantile business, as clerk in a grocery; was employed in that capacity two years.
In 1868, Mr. McCully was elected Clerk of the District Court of Jasper County, Iowa;
re-elected in 1870, 1872 and 1874, making a term of office of eight years. He came
to Nebraska in the fall of 1876, and prospected in the neighborhood of Hastings, and
in the spring of 1877, he purchased ninety acres of land adjoining the city, and moved
his family here in September of the same year, since which time he has been engaged
in farming and stock-raising, making a specialty of Poland-China hogs and Holstein cattle.
He now cultivates about one hundred and seventy-five acres. Mr. McCully was elected a
member of Hastings School Board in April, 1879, term of office one year, and again
elected in April, 1881, and April, 1882. He was married at Newton, Iowa, June 13, 1861,
to Mary E. Vanatta, a native of Pennsylvania. They have five children--Mary, Thomas J.,
Clarence W., Carrie Bell and Grace Blanche.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
DAVID M. McELHINNEY, of the firm of McElHinney & Johnson, manufacturers of brick
and builders, was born January 9, 1834, in Washington County, Ohio, his early life being
spent on a farm. At the age of eighteen years, he commenced to learn the trade of brick-
mason at Marietta, Ohio. He followed his trade as a journeyman until 1861, teaching
school during the winters of 1859-60. He then engaged in photographing at Pittsburgh,
Penn. In 1862, he formed a partnership with his brother, A. M. ElHinney, in general
merchandise and photographing along the Ohio River, by boat, for some years. He
moved to Wellsburg, W. Va., in 1867, and opened a photograph gallery. He removed
to Nebraska in April, 1869, and located at Nebraska City, Otoe County, where he
formed a partnership with C. H. Roselius and engaged in the manufacture of brick
and building. The firm dissolved in 1876, when he associated with him Mr. S. Johnson,
and continued the same business. In the following year, they changed their base of
operations to Hastings, where they have been financially successful. Mr. McElHinney
was elected Grand Master of the I. O. O. F. of Nebraska in 1873, and was Representative
to the Sovereign Grand Lodge I. O. O. F. in 1875 and 1876; was elected Mayor of the
city of Hastings in 1881. He was married, in June, 1862, to Miss Harriet Barnes, of
Pittsburgh, Penn., and has two children.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
MISS LUCY A. McFADDEN, County Superintendent of Public Instruction, was born at
Ogdensburg, N. Y., and educated at the State University, in that city, and University
College, Canton, N. Y. She taught her first school at Lisbon, St. Lawrence Co., N. Y., in
1868, and was employed as teacher in various schools in that city for five years. Miss
McFadden came to Nebraska in June, 1872; was for three years employed as Principal
of graded school at Harvard, Clay County. Then at Juniata, Neb., in same capacity in
graded school of that place, resigning that position to enter upon the duties of County
Superintendent January 1, 1880, having been elected in November previous, and was
re-elected to the office for a term of two years in November, 1881.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
M. M. McGREW & BROTHER, dealers in wind-mills, sewing machines, pumps, etc.
This business was established by Mr. Cassell in 1875, and in 1878 purchased by
R. T. McGrew. In March, 1880, M. M. McGrew purchased a half interest in the business,
and January 1, 1882, R. T. sold out to his brother, J. T. McGrew, so that the above firm
is composed of M. M. and J. T. McGrew. This firm are Western agents for the Eclipse
Wind-Mill; also represent the Domestic and White Sewing Machine Companies,
Fairbanks' scales, etc., and do an annual business of $l5,000. M. M. McGrew, senior
member of this firm, was born in Sullivan County, Ind., in 1844, and began business
life at twenty-five years of age, at Assumption, Ill., entering the mercantile business
as a clerk. In 1866, he began drug business on his own account at Assumption, and
several years later removed to Oconee, Shelby Co., Ill., remaining in business there
until he sold out to come to Hastings, Neb., in March, 1880.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
REV. JOHN H. MIZE, pastor of the Baptist Church, was born in North Carolina in 1828,
removing, with his parents, to Edwardsville, Ill., when quite young. He was educated at
Shurtleff College, being a student there for five years, and was ordained at Troy,
Madison Co., Ill., in 1860, and labored in the Baptist Church there for some eight years;
afterward at Pinckneyville, Perry Co., Ill., for four years. Mr. M. was also a Trustee of
Elmira College, Greenville, Bond Co., Ill., for some twelve years, and during the last year
of that period was also Financial Secretary, traveling in the interest of that institution
for some twelve months. He was also G. D. W. Patriarch of the Sons of Temperance for
Southern Illinois for six years, during which time he was principally engaged in traveling
and establishing lodges. Mr. Mize came to Nebraska in February, 1881, locating in Hastings,
and at once entering upon his duties as pastor of the Baptist Church. He came here to
build a church edifice for this denomination, and work was begun on the same
September 22, 1881, and it was dedicated January 29,1882. He has been Second
Vice President of the Nebraska Board of Home Missions since October, 1881.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN G. MOORE, dealer in wind-mills, pumps, pipes, etc., was born in England,
December 14, 1842. He went to sea at the age of ten years. Passing through all grades,
he reached the rank of captain of sailing vessel in 1865. He was then employed as chief
officer on the steamers of the Maltese Cross Line for some years. Mr. Moore emigrated
to America in 1871, and located at Hastings, Neb., in April of that year, homesteading
eighty acres of land. In the following May, he opened a small store and carried it on for
a few months; after which he was engaged in farming until the fall of 1872, when he
opened the Continental Hotel at this place, and conducted the same until the spring of
1873, when he built the Burlington Hotel, which he leased. He then opened a real estate
office, continuing in that business until the spring of 1874; after which he purchased
eighty acres of land in Denver Precinct and farmed the same for about two years. Selling
his land in 1876, he removed into Hastings, and began draying and also supplying the
city with water, selling the same by the barrel. He discontinued the draying business in
1878, but still continues the selling of water. In 1878, he built the Denver sale and feed
stables, and carried them on until May, 1880, after which he entered into his present
business. He is the proprietor of the Hastings Wind-Mill Company. Mr. Moore was
married in Hastings, November 24, 1874, to Jane Wallace, a native of Scotland. They
have three children--William, Mary G. and Joseph Garfield.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
R. R. MORLEDGE, of Morledge & McWade, dealers in general merchandise,
was born in Jefferson County, Ind., in 1840, residing there with his father, who was
engaged in mercantile business. At seventeen years of age, he went to Bethany, Mo.,
and was for eighteen months employed in the office of the County Recorder. Subsequently
removing to Clarinda, Iowa, he farmed until August, 1861, when he enlisted in the
Fourth Iowa Infantry. After serving in the ranks for eighteen months, he was appointed
clerk in the commissary department, which position he held until the close of the war.
Returning to Clarinda, he engaged in the grocery business, remaining in that business
for some seven years, selling out on account of ill-health. Two years later, he came to
Nebraska, locating in Hastings in August, 1874, and at once engaged in general
merchandise business, in company with J. S. McIntyre. Nine months later, Mr. McIntyre
sold out his interest to James McWade, and the style has since been as above. The firm
began business with a stock of some $3,000, which has, owing to increase in business,
been enlarged until they now carry $12,000 to $15,000, and do an annual business of
some $40,000. They have also, for the past five years, been engaged in dealing in grain,
etc., this branch being under the management of James McWade, the store being
managed by Mr. Morledge. The subject of our sketch represented the Second Ward
in the City Council during the years 1876, 1877 and 1878. He was married at Clarinda,
Iowa, in 1863, to Jennie McMullen, a native of Ohio. They have four children--Bertie,
Edgar M., Lula and Ina E.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
EDWIN N. NOYES, proprietor of New England House, was born in Caledonia County, Vt.,
in 1827. He learned the trade of stone-mason, and was employed at his trade in that
neighborhood until 1851, when he moved to Beloit, Wis., and followed his trade there
for seven years. He then removed to Poweshiek County, Iowa, where he still followed
his trade, adding also the trade of bricklaying and plastering, was also City Marshal for
three years and until he came to Adams County, Neb., in the fall of 1872, at which time
he took a homestead and timber claim, and resided on the same for three years; he then
conducted the Lecleed House, of Red Cloud, in connection with the farm for a year; he
then came to Hastings and kept a boarding-house for two years; he then rented his farm
and built the New England House, which he is still conducting; has accommodations for
thirty guests, with satisfaction to them and profit to himself.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ISAAC M. NORTON, dealer in grain and live stock, was born in Litchfield, Conn., August 21, 1802,
and at fifteen years of age removed to Ontario County, N. Y., where he was engaged in
general merchandising business, and also in dealing in grain and produce until 1846,
when he changed his base of operations to Janesville, Wis., where he was engaged in
same business for about twenty-six years. He came to Nebraska in 1872, locating at
Humboldt, Richardson County, and engaged in dealing in grain and live stock, which
business he carried on at that place until 1875, when he gave it to his son John T. Norton,
who still conducts it. Mr. Norton, Sr., then came to Hastings and engaged in the same
business at this point. He has had an experience in this business of over sixty years, and
is the oldest grain-buyer in this place. He ships about 180,000 bushels of grain per annum,
carloads of live stock, besides considerable wool, hides and pelts.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
OSWALD OLIVER, proprietor of Chicago Lumber Yard, was born in Ireland in 1849, and
educated there and in England. He emigrated to America in 1869, and resided in Chicago, Ill.,
where he was employed as clerk in the lumber business until he came to Nebraska, locating
at Hastings, April 1, 1874. He at once established this business, and has conducted it since.
In 1878, he opened a branch yard at Glenville, Neb., and another one at Central City, Neb.,
in 1879. Mr. Oliver was elected Alderman of the First Ward in 1876, and of the Second Ward
in 1881.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
F. L. PADE, wagon, scroll work, etc., was born in Germany in 1836. He learned the trade
of wood turner there, serving as an apprentice some two years. Emigrating to America in
1852, he located in Fond du Lac, Wis., and learned the trade of wagon-maker, serving some
four years; after which he was employed as a journeyman wagon-maker for two years. He
then worked as a wood turner until 1864, when he opened a wood-turning establishment
and conducted it for four years. Subsequently he entered the employ of C. J. L. Myer, sash,
door and blind factory, as foreman of wood-turning department, and in 1876 he took charge
of Mr. Myers' planing mills, and was engaged in that capacity until he resigned to come to
Hastings, Neb., in January, 1878, at which time he opened a wagon repair shop. In the spring
of 1880, he added machinery run by horsepower, and since then has done considerable in
plain and fancy scroll work; also makes patterns for castings. He was married, at Fond du Lac, Wis.,
in 1858, to Anna Tonner, a native of Germany. They have five children--Dora, Lena, Louis,
Annie and Alfred.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
L. B. PALMER, undertaker and dealer in furniture, was born at Iowa City, Iowa, May 17, 1845,
and when five years of age removed, with his parents, to Sabula, Iowa; three years later, to
Knox County, Ill.; and some time afterward to Monmouth, Ill. On February 1, 1862, he enlisted
in the Sixty-second Illinois Infantry, and served four years and two months. Subsequently he
was employed as a clerk in mercantile business at Kewanee, Ill., for three and a half years.
Afterward farmed in Poweshiek County, Iowa, until he came to Nebraska in October, 1872.
Locating in West Blue Precinct, Adams County, he engaged in farming 160 acres of land which
he had homesteaded. In the spring of 1877, he came to Hastings, and engaged, in company
with A. L. Wigton, in publishing the Hastings, Journal for one year, and also conducted a real
estate office. He was appointed, about that time, Land Agent for the U. P. R. R. Co., which
position he still holds. On February 26, 1881, he purchased his present business from A. Veith.
Mr. Palmer is also a Notary Public, having been appointed in 1878. He was married, at Malcolm,
Iowa, in 1870, to Lucinda M. Spooner, a native of Delaware County, Ohio. They have two living
children (Elsie and Grove) and two deceased.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
C. H. PAUL, Postmaster, was born at Sanford, York County, Maine, April 11, 1847. At eight
years of age, he moved, with his parents, to Manchester, N. H.; resided there until he enlisted,
October 21,1862, in Company A, Seventh Regiment New Hampshire Infantry, being, at that time
only fourteen years of age, serving until the close of the war. He was mustered out of service at
Goldsboro, N. C., August 5, 1865. At that time, he was Sergeant of Company A. He returned to
Manchester, N. H., and entered the post office as clerk; remained there about two and one half
years, then removed to Great Falls, N. H., where he was engaged, with his father, in the manufacture
of boots and shoes. He remained there about one and one half years; then went to Lynn, Mass.,
in the same business. In August, 1872, he homesteaded 160 acres of land in Denver Precinct,
Adams County, Neb. In the following spring, he commenced the erection of a store building in
Hastings, and in May, 1873, opened an exclusive boot and shoe store; continued in that business
until 1880, from which time until his appointment as Postmaster, he was variously engaged until
he entered upon his duties as Postmaster.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
PHILLIPS BROTHERS, livery, feed and sale stables. This business was originally established
by Alexander Brothers in the fall of 1872. The business was purchased by the Phillips Brothers
in April, 1880. They do a fine livery business and deal quite extensively in buying and selling
horses. Frank Phillips, the senior partner of this firm, was born in Fond du Lac County, Wis., in
October, 1853, and removed, with his parents, to Nemaha County, Neb., in 1865; resided on a
farm with them for some six years, when he went to Peru, Neb., and attended the State Normal
School for a year. He came to Hastings, May 18, 1872, and was, for some five years, employed
as a clerk in mercantile business. In 1877, he engaged in grocery business, in company with
Carson Harnot, remaining in partnership with him some two and a half years; after which he
engaged in his present business, in company with his brother, Clark W. Phillips. The junior
member of the firm, Clark W. Phillips, came, with his parents to Nebraska in 1865, and
resided with them on a farm in Nemaha County until he entered into the present firm.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
GUSTAVUS D. PIERCE, attorney at law, was born in Orleans County, N. Y., in 1841.
He enlisted, in May, 1861, in the First Michigan Infantry, served three months, and shortly
afterward re-enlisted in the Twentieth Michigan Infantry, serving until mustered out,
September 30, 1865, at which time he held the rank of First Lieutenant of Company A.
Mr. Pierce took an academic course of three years at Ypsilanti, Mich., and a literary course
at Albion College, Mich., of nearly two years. Subsequently he studied law at Ann Arbor
University, Mich., graduating there March 29, 1871, and on April 4 following was admitted
to the bar at Detroit, Mich., after which he practiced law at Howell, Mich., until he came to
Nebraska, in the fall of 1872. He taught school for six months at La Platte, Sarpy Co., and
came to Hastings in the spring of 1873, and at once opened a law office in company with
A. T. Ash. This firm dissolved about a year later. Since then Mr. Pierce has practiced his
profession alone, making a specialty of commercial law, collections, etc.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN PLANK, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Windom County, Conn., February 18, 1820,
and twelve years later, moved to Monroe County, Mich.; was engaged in farming and also in
mercantile business at Dundee, that county, for eight years, and for three years conducted a
saw-mill. On June 9, 1862, he enlisted in the Eighteenth Michigan Infantry, and served until
discharged on account of disability, December 21, 1862. Returning to Dundee, was engaged
in farming there until he came to Nebraska, in the fall of 1871, homesteading 160 acres in
Denver Precinct. He resided on the same until the fall of 1880, when he sold out and purchased
his present farm of eighty acres, in the same precinct. In connection with his farming pursuits,
Mr. Plank intends to raise stock and hogs. He was married in Dundee, Mich., July 4, 1844, to
Nancy Miller, a native of New York. They have four children--Jasper N., George W., Francis C.
and Florence A. Mr. Plank has held the office of Township Clerk, in Dundee, Monroe Co., Mich.,
and has been School Director and Treasurer, also a prominent worker in the Sabbath school
and church. He has been a teacher of the Bible class and of smaller scholars. He has also held
the office of Trustee to church property and also a Deacon in the First Congregational Church,
in Dundee, Mich. Since he came to Nebraska, he has held the office of School Director and
Treasurer. In connection with farming, is also engaged in breeding cattle, sheep, hogs, etc.
Mr. P. was married, in Dundee, Mich., July 4, 1844, to Nancy Miller, a native of New York. They
have four children--Jasper N., George W., Frances C., Florence A.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
CHARLES R. POWERS, farmer and stock raiser, P. O. Hastings, West Blue Precinct,
was born in La Salle County, Ill., in 1837. He resided with his father, and assisted him in farming
until he reached the age of twenty-four years. About this time his father died, and Charles took
the land and farmed it until he sold out to come to Nebraska in June, 1874. He purchased 290
acres of land, and took up his residence in the precinct of West Blue, Adams County. Mr. Powers
ranks among the largest farmers in the county; has some 320 acres under cultivation, and is also
extensively engaged in breeding stock. He makes a specialty of the Durham Short-Horn cattle, of
which he has about 140 head, and the Poland-China hog. Mr. P. was married, in La Salle County, Ill.,
in 1860, to Phoebe R. Greenlees, a native of Clinton County, N. Y. They have five children--Clara R.,
Mary A., Luella R., Robert N. and Arthur H.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
GEORGE H. PRATT, Cashier of the First National Bank of Adams County, was born in Collinsville,
Lewis Co., N. Y., in December, 1849. He removed some years later with his parents to Oneida,
Knox Co., Ill., and was for several years engaged as clerk in mercantile business. In 1867, he
purchased the business in company with Charles K. Lawson. They carried on the business at
that place until July, 1872, when they came to Hastings, Neb., and opened out in the same line,
and continued together in business, off and on, until the fall of 1877. In November, 1877, Mr. Pratt,
in company with A. L. Clarke, purchased the Adams County Bank. They conducted the same as
a private concern until July, 1881, when it was incorporated into the First National Bank of Adams
County. Mr. P. being elected cashier, he owns considerable land in this county, and has at times
devoted his attention to farming.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
RICHARD RAINFORTH, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, was born in Yorkshire, England,
July 4, 1847, and was brought up on a farm, emigrating to America in May, 1872. He came to
Nebraska in the following June, locating in Denver Precinct, Adams County, where he homesteaded
eighty acres, on which he has since resided. He now owns 160 acres, and is connected with his
farm pursuits. Is also engaged in raising stock, making a specialty of Berkshire hogs. He was
married, in England, April, 1872, to Elizabeth Rainforth, a native of that county. They have six
children--Miles C., Thomas R., William H., John E., Albert P. and Arthur H.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN J. RAYMAKER, meat market, and dealer in live stock, etc.; was born at Keokuk, Iowa, in 1848,
and learned the butcher business with his father. He then went to Chicago, Ill., where he was for
three years employed as a butcher, and carried on business for himself for about one year. After
which he came to Nebraska, locating in Lincoln in 1868. He entered the employ of W. H. Boyer,
butcher, remaining with him some four years, part of which time he was a partner in the concern.
In 1872, he joined George Gerrans, and they conducted a meat market, in partnership, until 1875,
when Mr. Raymaker disposed of his interest in the firm, and removed to Marshalltown, Iowa,
where he established a meat market in company with George Doyen. This firm, in September,
1878, moved their base of operations to Hastings, Neb., and carried on business together until
, 1879, when Mr. Raymaker sold out to his partner, and in the following June established himself
in the present business. In January, 1880, he admitted John F. Montgomery as partner. This firm
lasted only a short time, Montgomery selling out his interest in June following to F. H. Blake.
Messrs. Raymaker & Blake built a packing house, and, in connection with this, a meat market.
Also carried on business as dealers in live stock, poultry, hides and steam sausage manufacturers.
In April, 1882, they dissolved partnership in the live stock and meat market business; but continue
to jointly conduct the packing house. Mr. Raymaker retained the market and business stand of
the firm, and conducts business as above.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
C. B. RIGGS, dentist, was born in Knightstown, Ind., in 1855. He began the study of dentistry
in the summer of 1870, at Rushville, Ind., with Webb Hays, remaining with him, as a student,
until 1875, when he went to Manilla, Ind., and practiced his profession for one year. Subsequently
returning to Rushville, in 1876, he managed an office for his former employer about one year,
afterward remaining with him as a partner for a year longer. He then went to Indianapolis, Ind.,
and practiced as an assistant to Merritt Wells, of that place, for a short time. He came to Hastings,
Neb., in October, 1879, at which time he opened an office and began the practice of his profession,
remaining here until the following June, when he again went to Indianapolis, and practiced in the
office of Dr. Ball, of that place. In January, 1881, he returned to Hastings, and in the following April,
again began practicing at this place. He also has a branch office at Howard, Neb.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
CHARLES C. RITTENHOUSE, architect and builder, was born in Van Wert, August 16, 1852.
At eighteen years of age, he learned the trade of carpenter, serving as an apprentice some three
years, after which he was, for two years, engaged as a journeyman and contractor. Mr. Rittenhouse
then went to Fort Wayne, Ind., and for two years studied architectural drawing, etc., with
T. J. Tolin & Son, of that place. He came to Hastings, Neb., August 20, 1877, since which time
he has been engaged at his present occupation. Among the principal buildings of which he
has drawn the plans, etc., are the First National Bank and Farrell's block, at this place, and
public schools at Edgar, Fairfield and Friendville, Neb.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
L. A. ROYCE, general real estate and loan agent, was born in Delaware County, Ohio,
in 1835, and resided with his parents, on a farm, until twenty years of age. He then went to
De Kalb County, Ind., and engaged in mercantile business, remaining there until he changed
his base of operations, in 1868, to Victor County, Iowa, where he carried on business for
four years. He was subsequently employed, for some years, as cashier of the Iowa County
Bank at Victor. During that period, he was elected Justice of the Peace, and held the office
four years. Mr. R. then went to Brooklyn, Iowa, and was engaged as cashier of Poweshiek
County Bank until he came to Nebraska, August, 1878, locating at Hastings. He became
associated with the Wigton Brothers, publishers of the Hastings Journal, remaining in
partnership with them until May 1, 1879. He then joined L. B. Palmer in real estate business.
They dissolved September 1,1880, since which time Mr. Royce has conducted the business
alone. He has also been local agent for Hartwell & Co., of this place, since January 1, 1881,
and is now local agent for the Nebraska Loan and Trust Company, successors to Hartwell & Co.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JAMES K. SAMPLE, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, was born in Clinton
County, Ind., in 1837. At seven years of age, removed to Franklin County, Ind. He was
employed at farming there until he enlisted, August 6, 1862, in the Fiftieth Ohio Infantry,
serving until mustered out, July 1, 1865, after which he farmed in Butler County for about
a year, then in Shelby County, Ohio, until he came to Nebraska, in March, 1873. He homesteaded
160 acres of land in Silver Lake Precinct, Adams County, and resided on the same until
1878, when he moved on to his present farm, in Denver Precinct, consisting of 320 acres;
is now the owner of 480 acres of land. In connection with his farming pursuits, is also
engaged in raising stock, cattle, and Poland and Berkshire hogs. Mr. Sample was married,
in Shelby County, Ohio, in January, 1867, to Abby B. Wright, a native of that county. They
have four children--Alva C., Harry W., Ethel M. and an infant son not named.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
SCALES & CLARK, contractors and builders. This firm was established in the spring of 1881,
and is composed of Joseph H. Scales and Benjamin Clark, and, although in business together
but a year, have done considerable work, in erecting some of the leading business houses
and residences at this place. Joseph Scales, of this firm, was born in Ireland in 1837. Emigrating
to America in 1854, he located in Stroudsberg, Penn.; was for some years employed in livery
business, staging, etc. In the year 1856 and part of 1857 he was in the employ of Jay Gould, in
Luzerne County, Penn., where Gould was in the tannery business under firm name of Pratt &
Gould. In 1857, he turned his attention to carpentering, and served some four years at that
trade as an apprentice; was then, for a year, engaged in business as a contractor, etc. He
entered the U. S. service in 1861. In the fall of 1862, he entered the employ of the United
States Government as a carpenter, etc., and was employed in that capacity in New Mexico,
Tennessee, etc., until the close of the war. In May, 1865, he went to Brookfield, Mo., and was
engaged in business, as a contractor and builder, for some two years; subsequently, in the
same capacity, at Chicago, Ill., until he came to Hastings, Neb., April 3, 1878; was employed
as a journeyman carpenter for two years, and in the spring of 1880 began business as a
contractor, etc., and in the spring of 1881 admitted his present partner, under above style.
Benjamin Clark, partner in this business, was born in Plattsburg, N. Y., in 1847. He learned
the trade of carpenter with his father at Waterford, Saratoga Co., N. Y., and was employed
at the same and engaged in contracting, etc., until he came to Hastings, February 19, 1878,
when he followed his trade as a journeyman for about two years, then as a contractor for
a year, and joined Mr. Scales in the spring of 1881; has had thirteen years' practical experience
as a carpenter, etc.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOSEPH R. SIMS, contractor and builder; removed when a child with his parents
from New Jersey to Scranton, Penn., where he resided until the death of his parents in 1861.
After which time he lived in the township of Abington, same county as above, for three years,
when he enlisted in the United States Army, Two Hundred and Third Pennsylvania Volunteers,
for the period of one year, being discharged June 26, 1865; returned to Scranton, Penn.;
began the trade of a carpenter, serving three years as an apprentice; spent several years at
his trade in and about the Wyoming Valley, removing, in 1872, to Chicago, Ill., where he was
employed as a stair builder; left Chicago in the summer of 1873 for Grand Rapids, Mich.,
where he opened up as a contractor and stair builder, leaving Michigan, in 1874, for Pittston,
Penn., where he married Miss Marion E. Hart, of Pittston, removing with her to Wyoming
County, Penn., and started in the fruit-growing business, remaining there for three years;
from there to Blairstown, Benton Co., Iowa, where he spent a season at fruit growing; from
there to Hastings, Neb., in 1879, where he opened up as a contractor and builder; being
foremost in his line, among the principal buildings that he has erected may be named the
First and Second Ward School buildings, also the town hall and Baptist Church, besides
numerous residences in the city and county, employing a large force of men throughout the
building season. They have two children, named respectfully Ira Thomas and Maud L. Sims.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
REV. JAMES SIMEON, Pastor of St. Cecelias Catholic Church; was born in Switzerland
in 1823. He came to America in 1848, and studied philosophy at the University of St. Louis,
after which he was engaged as a teacher for two years at St. Joseph College, Bardstown, Mo.
Returning to Europe, he pursued his studies in Switzerland and in Germany, and was
ordained priest at Louvain, Belgium, in 1855. Father Simeon then labored in the Catholic
Church in the Rhine Provinces in Germany for some thirteen years, subsequently returning
to America in 1868. He was for four years in charge of St. Joseph's German Catholic Church
at Washington, D. C. He then went to Boston, Mass., and remained there nearly eight years,
and, during that period, built the new German Catholic Church of the holy trinity, which cost
$200,000, and had charge of the same. From there he went to Philadelphia, Penn., remaining
there about one year; was then in the city of New York, at St. Joseph German Catholic Church,
and also Chaplain of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd until he came to Nebraska, in August,
1881, when he located at Hastings, and entered upon his present duties.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
HENRY W. SKINNER, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, was born in London, England,
in 1850. He was employed with his father in mercantile business for two years, and afterward
learned the trade of carpenter, serving as an apprentice five years. Mr. Skinner emigrated to
Nebraska in August, 1871, and shortly afterward pre-empted 160 acres of land in Denver Precinct,
and has since been engaged in farming, with the exception of two years--1879-80--when he
resided in Hastings, and was employed as a carpenter. He is also engaged in stock-raising,
making a specialty of sheep, of which he has 110 head, and Berkshire hogs. The subject of
our sketch was married in England, on June 6,1872, to Maria Boyes, a native of that country.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
BENJAMIN F. SMITH, attorney at law, was born at Burbank, Wayne Co., Ohio, in 1847.
His parents died when he was nine years of age, at which time he started out in the world
to gain his own livelihood, and he was for some seven years employed in various capacities.
In October, 1863, he enlisted at Coldwater, Mich., in the First Michigan Sharp Shooters,
attached to the ninth corp. At the battle of the Mine Run, Va., in November following, was
wounded in the right leg, and, in June 17,1864, at the attack on Petersburg, he lost his right
arm by the explosion of a shell, and was discharged in the following December. Mr. Smith
was not actively engaged for several months. He then entered the employ of the United
States Express Company, acting as messenger between St. Louis and Cincinnati for a year.
In the fall of 1866, be attended a school at Angola, Ind., and taught school five years in the
vicinity, during which time he studied law, and was admitted at that place to the bar in 1869.
Mr. S. came to Nebraska in 1872. He took up 160 acres of land in Adams County, under the
soldier's homestead act, and resided on it for some two years, during which time he practiced
law at Juniata. He then removed his residence to that place, and continued to practice alone
until 1877, when he associated himself with James S. Laird, and, in 1879, the firm of Laird &
Smith removed their law office to Hastings. Mr. S. was Justice of the Peace from the fall of
1872 to 1873. He was the first attorney located in the county. He was elected Probate Judge
of Adams County in the fall of 1873, and re-elected in 1875-77-79. Mr. Smith was married at
Angola, Ind., in 1868, to Sarah Bigsby, a native of that State. They have two children--
Benjamin F., Jr., and Phillip Sheridan.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ADAM H. SOWERS, physician and surgeon, was born in Lascaster County, Penn.,
August 30, 1832. He emigrated to Fulton, Ohio, in 1853, and four years later he began the
study of medicine with Dr. Abraham Hontz, of that place, remaining with him as a student
off and on for three years, and as a partner some two years. In connection with this, he also,
October 1, 1859, entered Starling College at Columbus, Ohio, as a student, remaining until
March 1, 1860. On April 21, 1861, he enlisted in the Nineteenth Ohio Infantry, and served
three months. November 1, 1861, he returned to the college and graduated March 1, 1862,
after which he practiced at Fulton, Ohio. He was appointed Assistant Surgeon of the Nineteenth
Ohio Infantry May 12, 1862, and early in 1865 was promoted to Surgeon, serving until the
regiment was mustered out December 8, 1865. He then resumed his practice at Fulton.
Removing to Massillon, Ohio, April 1, 1873, he followed his profession there until in 1875,
afterward at Newton, Iowa. The Doctor came to Nebraska in August, 1876, and purchased
a farm of 160 acres in the precinct of Ayr, Adams County, remaining only ten days, subsequently
returning in the spring of 1877, he located in Hastings, and at once entered upon the practice
of his profession. The Doctor was elected to represent the Third Ward in the City Council in
the spring of 1879, and President of the Hastings City School Board. In April, 1881, was appointed
Surgeon of the B. & M. Railway. At this place, in August, 1879, and local surgeon of the
St. Johns & Western Railway Company, in 1880. The Doctor has been a member of the
State Medical Society since June, 1879, and was elected First Vice President in the spring
of 1881.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
C. B. SPERRY, farmer, etc., was born in Oneida County, N. Y., in June, 1825, and resided on
farm with his parents until eighteen years of age, after which he served an apprenticeship
of two years to the carpenter's trade, and followed the same as a journeyman in various
Eastern States until the spring of 1849. Carried on the carpenter business until the spring
of 1857, then moved to Allen's Grove, Walworth Co., Wis., carried on the wagon business
until September, 1861, when he enlisted at Beloit, Wis., in the Fourth Wisconsin Light Artillery,
serving three years. He returned to Allen's Grove, Walworth County, Wis., and opened a
carriage factory, which he conducted until 1872, and in July of that year he came to Nebraska,
in West Blue Precinct, Adams County, homesteaded 160 acres and moved on to the same in
the following October. He resided on his farm seven years, and was engaged in the cultivation
of the same, and also for three years, off and on, carried on a carriage repairing establishment
at Hastings. Discontinued the latter business in December, 1881. Mr. Sperry removed his family
to Hastings to reside permanently in December, 1879, and at present leases his farm. He was
married in Oneida County, N. Y., in 1849, to Helen J. Pearce, a native of that State. They have
three children--Andrew, Mary and Harriet.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
REV. JEREMIAH D. STEWART, Pastor of the Congregational Church, was born in Saratoga
County, N. Y., July 25, 1837. Removing with his parents to Warren County, Penn., when quite young,
he resided with them on a farm, attended the common school and the Academy at Jamestown,
N. Y. When about eighteen years of age he engaged in teaching school, and followed it off and
on for several years. Mr. S. was also engaged in farming, stock-raising and dairy business in that
county for some ten years. He began his study for the ministry in 1870 under the Rev. William A.
Halleck, who was then his Pastor. He was licensed to preach June 11, 1871, by the Western New
York Congregational Association, at the annual meeting held at Randolph, N. Y., and was immediately
called to the Congregational Church of Sinclairville, Chautauqua Co., N. Y. He was ordained by
the Council June 12, 1872, and remained in charge of that church three years. In 1874, he was
called to Little Valley, Cattaraugus Co., N. Y., and installed pastor of the Congregational Church,
where he remained until he came to Nebraska March 28, 1879. Locating in Hastings, he at once
entered upon the duties of acting pastor of the Congregational Church in this place, and was
installed pastor one year later. Mr. S. has attended the Chautauqua Sunday-School Assembly
every year but one since its organization in 1874, and graduated in the Normal department in
1875, since which time he has given much attention to special Sunday-school work. He now holds
the office of Congregational Sunday-school Secretary for Nebraska. He was made an honorary
member of the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions November 30, 1872.
Mr. Stewart was married at Farmington, Warren Co., Penn., April 25, 1860, to Miss Flora A. Hill.
She died April 25, 1872. One son, aged six years, died April 17, 1872. The only remaining child,
Henry A. Stewart, is at present a student at Doane College, Neb. Mr. S. was married a second
time at Truxton, Cortland Co., N. Y., November 28, 1872, to Mrs. Sarah D. Crain, a widow, and
a native of that place. A young lady, Miss May K. Stewart, has been with the family since June,
1877, when she was fourteen years of age.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
HORACE C. THATCHER, book-keeper for J. W. Marks & Co., dealers in grain, etc., was
born in Aurora, Kane County, Ill., April 13, 1849. He began business life at eighteen years of
age, engaging in the grain trade. He followed this business in Iowa, for several years, and also
at Chicago, Ill., for two and a half years. Mr. Thatcher came to Nebraska in 1875, and located
at Hastings, at which time he entered into partnership with his brother, N. L. Thatcher, for
the purpose of conducting a grain business at this place. They remained in partnership, and
did a large business at this place until the death of N. L. Thatcher on January 11, 1882. The
business was shortly afterward sold to Marks & Co., since which time he has been employed
as their book-keeper. Mr. Thatcher has had fifteen years' experience in the grain business.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JACOB THOMAS & CO., merchant tailors. This firm began business at Lincoln, Neb., in
March, 1878, and removed to Hastings May 17 following. It is composed of Jacob Thomas and
Christian Paulick. They carry a stock of $3,000 to $4,000, and do an annual business of about
$8,000. Jacob Thomas, of this firm, was born in Germany, July 29,1881. He learned the trade of
tailor there and emigrated to America in 1868, locating in Milwaukee, Wis. He was employed as
a journeyman tailor there until he came to Nebraska in the fall of 1870. He was then employed
in the same capacity at Nebraska City for some three years. In 1873, he went to Lincoln, Neb.,
following his trade there as a journeyman until May 1, 1876, when he joined Charles Aaron, and
opened a merchant tailoring establishment at that place. Nine months later, Mr. Aaron retired
from the firm, and Mr. Thomas conducted the business alone until March, 1878, when he was
joined by Christian Paulick, and removed to Hastings the following May. Mr. Thomas was
married at Hastings on March 30, 1880, to Mary Schlupman, a native of Illinois. They have one
infant son. Christian Paulick, partner in this business, was born in Germany August 15, 1847.
He learned the trade of tailor there, serving as an apprentice three years, and was employed
as a journeyman until he emigrated to America in 1873. Locating at Lincoln, Neb., he was
employed at his trade as a journeyman until he joined Mr. Thomas, in March, 1878, removing
to Hastings in the following May. Mr. Paulick was married in Germany, on June 18, 1870, to
Elizabeth Nowka, a native of that country. They have five children--Mary, Fritz, Frank, Annie
and Bertha.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
L. H. TOWER, real estate and loan office, was born in Orleans County, N. Y., in July, 1846.
Three years later, he removed, with his parents, to Oswego County, N. Y., residing there until
sixteen years of age, when he went to Ottawa, Ill.; and at the age of twenty-three years, he
entered the employ of J. A. McCall & Co., bankers, at Wenona, Ill., remaining with them some
seven years. In 1869, in connection with his position in the bank, he also established a real
estate and loan business, and conducted the same there until he changed the base of his
operations to Nebraska, coming to Hastings in August, 1879, and opening a real estate and
loan office in the following October. He was elected President of the City Bank of Hastings
at its organization in August, 1881, and has been President of the Hastings Telephone
Exchange since it was organized, in January, 1881.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ROBERT B. TUSSEY, Clerk of Adams County, and ex officio Recorder of Deeds, was born in
Huntingdon County, Penn., in 1852. He was engaged for several years in teaching school,
subsequently entering the employ of the Pennsylvania Central Railroad, in the "car record"
office, as book-keeper, etc., which position he resigned, to come to Nebraska, in 1875, locating
in Lincoln; was appointed Deputy Clerk of Lancaster County and of the District Court, which
position he held two years. He then entered the employ of Messrs. Cobb & Marquette,
attorneys, as abstract clerk, remaining in their employ until September, 1878, when he
came to Hastings and entered the employ of the Clerk of Adams County, to make out
the county tax lists, and in February, 1879, he was appointed Deputy Clerk of the County.
In November of 1879, he was elected Clerk of Adams County, and entered upon his duties
January 1, 1880, and was re-elected in November, 1881--term of office, two years.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
J. H. VAN DeMARK, dealer in coal, was born in Seneca County, N. Y., in 1832,
residing there some forty years. He was engaged in farming, and during the last eight
years of that period was also engaged in carrying on a livery business at Clifton Springs,
Ontario County, and at Waterloo, Seneca Co., N. Y. He came to Nebraska May 2, 1872, at
which time he took up 160 acres in Denver Precinct, and was engaged in farming and
improving the same until he came to Hastings in 1878, when he engaged in coal business.
He has quite an extensive trade, handling some five thousand tons per annum; is the sole
agent at this place for "U. P." Coal Company.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
MYRON VANFLEET, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, was born in Clinton County,
Mich., in 1848, and assisted his mother in conducting a farm until he enlisted, December 19, 1864,
in the Thirtieth Volunteer Infantry, serving until discharged, June 17, 1865, after which he
returned home. In 1868, he engaged in the flour and feed business at Laingsburg, Mich.,
remaining there in that capacity until 1870. He was then not actively engaged until he came
to Nebraska, early in 1872, at which time he homesteaded 160 acres of land in West Blue
Precinct. This he farmed for about seven years, removing into Hastings in 1880, and resided
there for a year engaged in loaning money, etc. In the spring of 1881, he purchased his present
farm, consisting of 120 acres, in West Blue, and has resided on it since. Mr. Vanfleet was married
in Laingsburg, Shiawassee Co., Mich., in 1870, to Alice Treal, a native of Clinton County, Mich.
They have one son--Le Roy Myrtin.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ANDREW VEITH, of Veith & Paxson, hardware merchants, was born in Baden, Germany,
in 1844. He learned the trade of cabinetmaker, serving an apprenticeship of two and one-
half years, after which he was employed at it as a journeyman until he emigrated to America,
in 1870. He was employed at his trade in Menasha and Neenah, Wis., until he came to Nebraska,
in 1872, locating at Lincoln. He worked at his trade there for some time, subsequently at
Lowell and Crete, Neb., coming to Hastings in May, 1873. He engaged in furniture business
and continued in it up to February 6, 1881, when he sold out, and on the 2d of June, following,
in company with V. Q. Paxon, purchased the hardware business of H. Forcht & Co. They also
do a general tinning and repairing business. Mr. Veith was married in Crete, Neb., in January,
1873, to Margaret Meinerts, a native of Germany. They have two children--George F. and Charles A.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
N. B. VINEYARD, real estate, insurance, and agent of the Pacific Express Company, was
born in St. Clair County, Ill., February 10, 1836, and nine years later removed with his parents
to Henry County, Iowa, residing there until 1855, when he went to Iowa County, and in the fall
of 1856 began business life as a school teacher, following that profession there some two years.
He was subsequently elected Sheriff of the county, and served in that capacity about two and
one-half years; was engaged in teaching school until 1864, when he was appointed Deputy,
under O. Dillin, Treasurer of Iowa County, serving in that capacity some two years. In the fall of
1866, he was elected Treasurer of the county, term of office two years. He was a delegate to the
Republican National Convention at Chicago, in May, 1868, after which he was engaged in the
real estate business until the end of 1874, and was also agent for the United States Express
Company at Marengo, Iowa. Mr. Vineyard then entered the employ of the United States
Government as special agent for the pension bureau, which position he resigned in June, 1879,
and in the following November came to Hastings, Neb., and at once entered into real estate
and insurance business. He was appointed agent for the Pacific Express Company January 1, 1882.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JAMES WALLING, proprietor of the Commercial Hotel, was born in Holland in 1843,
emigrating to America when quite young. He resided for some years in the city of Albany
and Fayetteville and Syracuse, N. Y. In 1871, he went to Atchison, Kan., and was employed
in the Atlantic Hotel there for some months, and then in the Fifth Avenue Hotel, at Topeka,
Kan., until he came to Nebraska in September, 1874, at which time he located at Lincoln,
and was for five years employed in the Commercial Hotel, principally as steward. He came
to Hastings in 1879, and conducted the Lepin House for some three months, when the
building, etc., was destroyed by fire. Mr. Walling then entered the present building and
opened the Commercial Hotel in January, 1880. This hotel is substantial, being built of
brick; has forty rooms, and a genial landlord who is popular among commercial men.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
S. J. WEIGEL, architect and superintendent, was born in Bergen, N. Y., on October 17, 1852.
At twenty-one years of age began the study of this profession with Marine Bros., of
New York, remaining three years with them, after which he engaged in business at
Rochester, N. Y., then as a contractor and builder at East Saginaw, Mich., until 1876,
when he removed to Red Oak, Iowa, where he was engaged as a contractor and
draughtsman, afterward in the same capacity at Hastings, Iowa, until he came to
Hastings, Neb., in February, 1880, since which time he has been engaged as architect
and superintendent. Among the prominent buildings which he has been identified
in erecting are the Alexander business blocks, Cramer & Bostwick Bank, Episcopal
Church, Post Office Block and many fine dwellings, schoolhouses, banks and other
business houses.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
MARTIN F. WALLACE, farmer, P. O. Hastings, was born in Brown County, Ohio, on
December 21, 1838, residing on a farm there until twenty years of age, when he
removed with his parents to Marshall County, Ind. He then turned his attention to
mining, and was for seven years employed in iron mines in Fulton County, Ind. In
1865, he engaged in farming in Marshall County, Ind., remaining employed in that
capacity until he changed his base of operations to Nebraska, in April, 1873. He
homesteaded in May, following, eighty acres in Denver Precinct, on which he has
since resided. He now owns 240 acres of land. Mr. Wallace has been for some
years actively interested in the educational matters of his district, and was a
member of the school board several years. He was married in La Porte, Ind.,
in 1860, to Nellie Gaddis, a native of Indiana. They have seven children--Frank,
Ettie, William, Edward, John, Julius and Frederick.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JACOB WOOSTER, general blacksmith, was born in Pennsylvania September 14, 1841.
When quite young, removed with his parents to Washington County, Ohio, and
resided on the farm until fifteen years of age. He then learned the trade of
blacksmith at Marietta, Ohio, serving as an apprentice nearly four years, after
which he became foreman of a shop at the same place for three months, after
which he opened a shop on his mother's farm, conducting the same until July, 1861,
when he enlisted in Company A, Thirty-sixth Ohio Infantry, serving just four years,
during which time he was principally employed at his trade, and after leaving the
army in 1865, he opened a blacksmith shop at Lower Salem, Washington Co., Ohio.
After about two years he sold out and moved to Pinchtown, same county, and
started in the same business as above, then two years later he sold out and
bought a small farm near Lower Salem, which he ran with his shop for two
years, and then removed to Lower Salem, and there he again conducted a
blacksmith shop until April, 1873, when he sold out and emigrated to Dawson
County, Neb., where he homesteaded 160 acres of land, also at once engaged
in the mercantile business at Overton, in that county, and after three years of
hard struggling, on account of grasshoppers, closed out his business, a very
poor man with a large family to support, in July, 1876, and, in September,
removed to Hastings, Adams County; also in November he opened a very small
blacksmith shop, and he has been so attentive to his business that it has
increased until he has now the largest trade in this line at that place; his principal
business is horse-shoeing and plow-work. In connection with his shop, he also
arms 160 acres of land in this county by proxy. During his residence at Overton,
Mr. Wooster held the office of Justice of the Peace for three years, and in April,
1880, he was elected a member of the Board of Education of Hastings Public
School, and, in 1881, re-elected. Mr. Wooster was married in Washington County,
Ohio, in April, 1864, to Mary J. Wolford, a native of that county. They have seven
children living--Lillie F., William G. C., Mary E., Lizzie B., Jacob C., Nellie M.,
Frederick J. and three children dead.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN J. WEMPLE, manager of the Central Lumber Yard, was born in Chautauqua
County, N. Y., in 1849, and resided with his parents on a farm until he was about
twenty years of age. He went to Centralia, Kansas and taught school for two years,
afterward engaged for three months in the same capacity at Wetmore, Kan. He was
then agent for Wells Fargo's Express Company, and the Central Branch of the Union
Pacific Railway Company at that place for one year, subsequently in the same capacity
at Netawaka, Kan., for eight months, and then at Sabetha, Kan., in the same employ
until he came to Hastings, Neb., in May, 1875, as agent for the St. Joe & Denver Railway
Company, which position he held until March, 1879. He was also during that period
agent for the American Express Company and Western Union Telegraph Company.
Mr. Wemple opened the Central Lumber Yard at this place immediately on leaving
the railroad company employ, and from that time up to the fall of 1881 he also
acted as agent for H. J. Sype & Co., coal, of St. Joe, Mo. He has been connected
with the lumber business, and also represented several fire insurance companies;
also Notary Public. He has been Secretary of the Hastings Telephone Exchange since
its organization in January, 1881, and one-fifth owner. Mr. Wemple is an active member
of the Masonic Lodge of this place. Is Past Master Hastings Lodge, No. 50, A., F. & A. M.,
First High Priest of Hastings Chapter, No. 21, R. A. M., and First Eminent Commander of
Mt. Nebo Commandery, No. 21, K. T., and Grand Junior Warden of the Grand Commandery.
of Nebraska, K. T., and was elected Junior Warden of the Grand Lodge of the State of
Nebraska in June, 1881.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
GEORGE F. WILKIN, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, was born in England in 1851.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ALFRED WOOLMAN, dealer in boots and shoes, was born in England in 1842. He
learned the trade of shoemaker there, and was employed at it as journeyman until 1864,
when he commenced to manufacture and sell boots and shoes at retail, which business
he carried on until he emigrated to America in 1871. Coming to Nebraska in that year, he
homesteaded eighty acres of land in Clay County, and was engaged in farming the same
until he came to Hastings in August, 1881. He at once purchased his present business,
and has been engaged since in conducting the same. Mr. Woolman was married in England
in 1861, to Emma Smith, a native of that country. They have six children--Clara, Bertha, Ida E.,
George H., Frank, and one infant daughter named Blanche May.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ABRAHAM YEAZEL, of Raymond Bros. & Yeazel, bankers. He was born in Champaign
County, Ill., December 28, 1851, and resided with his parents on a farm. Was educated
at the Champaign Industrial University. Mr. Yeazel came to Nebraska in August, 1874,
locating in Lincoln, was employed for three years and some months in the office of Messrs.
Cobb & Moore, principally engaged in looking after the investments of moneys for the
firm. He came to Hastings in October, 1877, and opened a bank on the 15th of the month.
His partners are I. M. and A. S. Raymond, of Lincoln, Neb. This firm have a paid-up capital
invested of $10,000, and a reserve fund of $40,000. Average deposits, $80,000. Mr. Y. is
the resident partner, and devotes his time exclusively to the management of the bank.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
WINFIELD ACKLEY, physician and surgeon, was born in Fulton County. Ohio, in 1850.
He was educated at the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Keokuk, Iowa, graduating
there in June, 1876. Afterward he practiced for a year at Lost Nation, Clinton Co., Iowa.
The Doctor came to Juniata, Neb., July 21, 1877, and at once began the practice of his
profession at this place. He left here in December, 1879, to attend lectures at Rush
Medical College, Chicago, Ill., and graduated there February 24, 1880, after which he
resumed his practice at this place. Dr. Ackley was elected Coroner of Adams County in
1877, holding it one term; has been a member of the Nebraska State Medical Society
since May, 1880, and was appointed Examining Surgeon for United States pensions in
March, 1882. He was married, in Jackson, Mich., to Florence A. Thorne, a native of that
place. They have one son--Guy.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN F. ADAMS, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Holmes County, Ohio, June 29, 1842;
one year later, removed, with his parents, to Elkhart County, Ind. On September 24, 1861,
he enlisted in the Thirtieth Indiana Infantry, and served until September, 1864, after which
he was engaged in draying, etc., at Goshen, Ind., for three years, then at Decatur for two
years or more. He came to Nebraska March 14, 1873, homesteading 160 acres in Juniata
Precinct ; has farmed the same since; was for six years a member of the District School
Board. He was married at Goshen, Ind., in 1865, to Eliza Blue, a native of that place. They
have four children--Hattie, Florence, Grace and Earnest.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
E. M. ALLEN, dealer in lumber, lime, etc., was born in Grafton County, Vt., in 1835.
At seventeen years of age, he removed to Kalamazoo, Mich., where he learned the trade
of carpenter, and was employed at it and also in contracting for building work some ten
years. In 1863, he went to Otsego, Mich., and was engaged in mercantile business some
five years, and during the year 1864 also served the Government, being engaged in
"recruiting," etc. Mr. Allen was also, for several years, a member of Allegan County, Mich.,
Board of Supervisors. He came to Nebraska in 1869, locating in Lincoln; he at once
began business as a contractor and builder. In the spring of 1871, he changed his base
of operations to Juniata, and carried on a contracting and building business, in company
with I. G. Dillon, for some eighteen months, subsequently entering the employ of
C. R. Jones & Co., general merchants at this place, as clerk, and remaining with them
until June, 1876, when he engaged in dealing in lumber, etc., having purchased the stock
of W. L. Van Alstyne. Mr. Allen was one of the first Commissioners of Adams County,
having been elected in 1871, when the county was organized. He held the office two
years; was elected a member of .the Board of Trustees of Juniata in 1880 and re-elected
in 1881.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
PETER ANDERSON, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Sweden, May 26, 1832.
Followed farming in that country. He emigrated to America in 1864, and shortly
after his arrival in New York enlisted in the Second New York Artillery, serving three
years. Returning to Sweden, he farmed there; coming to Nebraska in March, 1872,
homesteaded 160 acres in Juniata Precinct, residing on the same since; he has
now 240 acres. He was married early in 1872, in Sweden, to Hannah Hans. His
family consists of three children--Ina, Mary and Edward.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ROBERT ASH, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Bedford County, Penn., in March, 1833.
He followed farming in that county until the close of the war, when he changed his
base of operations to Washington County, Iowa, where he carried on a farm for six
years; then he came to Nebraska in 1872, homesteading eighty acres in Juniata
Precinct; has resided on the same since. He now cultivates 200 acres, and is quite
extensively engaged in breeding Short-horn cattle, etc.; is the owner of 240 acres.
Mr. A. has held the offices of Road Supervisor, School Director, and is now Assessor
of the precinct. He was married, in Alleghany County, Md., February 15, 1855, to
Mazy E. Lashley, a native of that State. They have four children living--Almira V.,
Mershall I., Henry E. and E. Gertrude.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ANSON S. AUSTIN, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Seneca County N. Y., in 1819.
He followed farming as an occupation, residing in Seneca, Orleans and Monroe
Counties, N. Y., until 1861, when he went to Wayne County, Ind., where he lived
for seven years, four or five of which he was engaged in hotel business. He then
returned to Monroe County, N. Y., and farmed until he came to Nebraska, in May,
1880. He purchased eighty acres of land in Juniata Precinct, and has resided on it
since. In connection with farming, he is also largely engaged in breeding cattle, hogs,
etc. Mr. A. was married in Monroe County, N. Y., in 1839, to Caroline Brown, a native
of that county. They have two children--Lucy and Otis.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
A. H. BROWN of Brass & Brown, real estate and insurance agents, was born in
Harrison County, Ohio, in 1841, and several years later removed, with his parents, to
Vinton, Iowa, and learned the trade of printer at that place. In September, 1861, he
enlisted in the Thirteenth Iowa Infantry. On July 20, 1864, he lost his left arm by a
gun-shot wound at the battle of Atlanta, Ga., and was mustered out April, 1865, after
which he returned home to Vinton, but did not actively engage in business for some
time. On December 17, 1868, he established the People's Journal at Vinton, Iowa, and
conducted the same, in company with his brother, George T. Brown, for nearly four
years. Mr. B. came to Nebraska August 16, 1872, locating in Juniata Precinct, Adams
County, homesteading 160 acres; he farmed for a year. In the fall of 1873, was elected
Superintendent of the Public Schools of Adams County, holding the office for two years,
and from 1873 to 1876, had charge of the editorial department of the Adams County
Gazette, and, in the latter part of 1876, the Juniata Herald was established by the citizens
of the place, Mr. B. being placed in charge of the same; retained the position for a year;
subsequently did not actively engage in business until he joined Samuel L. Brass, in the
spring of 1881, and established this business.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JUDSON BURWELL, farmer and stock-raiser, was born at Burlington, Fulton Co., Ohio,
October 18, 1843; was raised on a farm, and, on April 21, 1861, enlisted in Fourteenth Ohio
Infantry; served three months, re-enlisting on October 18, 1861, in Sixty-eighth Ohio Infantry,
serving three years; was variously employed for some three years. He took first homestead in
Juniata Precinct. Then farmed in Wabash and Kosciusko Counties, Ind., until he came to
Nebraska in May, 1871, at which time he homesteaded 160 acres in Juniata Precinct, on
September 20, 1871. He moved his family to the same, and has resided on it since. Mr. B.
has held the office of Assessor of precinct, and member of Board of Election. He was married
in Kosciusko County, Ind., in 1867, to Mary A. Robinson, a native of Indiana. They have one
daughter--Ella May.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
SPENCER W. CLARK, proprietor Juniata Flour Mills, was born in Auburn City, N. Y., in 1831,
removing to Ontario County, N. Y. When very young resided there with his parents until he
reached the age of fifteen years, when he came west to Salem, Wis., where he learned the
trade of miller, serving as an apprentice some three years. Was then engaged in Empire Mills,
at Milwaukee, Wis., for eight years, off and on, and in building and conducting mills in various
parts of that State. In 1858, he erected stone flouring mills at Fond du Lac, and followed milling
there for many years, subsequently in same capacity in Lincoln, Ill., for four and one half years.
He then went to Chicago, Ill., where he erected a large mill in company with T. F. Ladue and
William Horton, but only conducted it some six months. Returning to Lincoln, he carried on
the Logan Mills for some time. Mr. Clark came to Nebraska in June, 1879, locating in Juniata,
and, on the 1st of July following, he engaged in present business. His mill stands well in the
community. It has all the modern improvements for preparing flour, and has a capacity of
100 barrels per day. There are five men employed in the mill, which is under the direct
supervision of Mr. Clark, who has had thirty years' experience in practical milling. He is
also engaged in breeding blooded hogs, making a specialty of Berkshire and Poland-China
breeds.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ALBERT V. COLE, dealer in general merchandise, was born in Huron County, Ohio,
January 14, 1842. His father died March, 1842, when Albert was two months old. At six years
of age removed with his mother to Canada but remained there only three years, when his
mother died; returning to Huron County, and a year later removed to Wayne County, N. Y.
and resided on a farm. At seventeen years of age, he went to Lenawee Co., Mich., and farmed
until he enlisted on September 12, 1861, in Fourth Michigan Infantry. Was discharged April, 1863,
and shortly after re-enlisted in Gen. Custer's brigade, Sixth Michigan Cavalry. He was wounded
at Cold Harbor, Va., by pistol shot in left arm, which incapacitated him, but he was not discharged
until January 6, 1865. During the winter of 1865-66, he attended Eastman's College at Poughkeepsie,
N. Y., and, in the spring of 1867, entered into mercantile business at Addison, Mich. One year later,
he joined Ezra B. Strong, and they conducted the business there until Mr. Cole sold out to come
to Nebraska in October, 1871. He homesteaded 160 acres in West Blue Precinct, Adams County,
residing on the same for over a year. In 1873, he came to Juniata, and engaged in the grocery
business, carrying it on alone until he consolidated his business with that of Ira G. Dillon in 1875,
and the firm then added general merchandise. On January 1, 1879, Mr. C. purchased his partner's
interest, and has since carried the business on alone. He carries a stock of some $10,000, and does
an annual business of $20,000 to $25,000. Mr. C. owns some 600 acres of land in the county, which
is farmed by renters. He was elected a Commissioner of Adams County in the fall of 1879; term of
office three years. He is Captain of Company F, First Regiment Nebraska National Guards, having
been commissioned by Gov. Nance in June, 1880. Was elected a member of the Board of Trustees
of Juniata in April, 1880, and re-elected in 1881. Mr. C. was married in Lenawee County, Mich.,
September 6, 1869, to Susan P. Crane, a native of Hillsdale County, Mich. They have three living
children--Lucy J., Ely and Mabel, and one deceased.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
WILLIAM B. CUSHING, dealer in groceries, etc., was born in Livingston County, Mich.,
in 1838. Was for seven years employed as a clerk in general mercantile business at Brighton, in
Livingston County, and there engaged in same business in firm of W. R. Cobb & Co. for three years,
selling out his interest to come to Nebraska in June, 1872. He homesteaded eighty acres of land in
Denver Precinct, Adams County, and resided on the same for five years, during which time he was
employed as clerk in mercantile business at Juniata, and continued in that capacity until he
established the business in October, 1879. He carries a good stock of some $1,600, and does an
annual business of some $12,000.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
IRA G. DILLON, dealer in grain, etc., was born in Hudson, Lenawee County, Mich., in 1836;
resided on farm with parents until twenty-four years of age, after which he farmed on his own
account for two years, subsequently removing to St. Louis, Gratiot County, Mich. Was employed
as a carpenter, and worked in saw-mills for six years or more. He then engaged in furniture
business, remaining in the same two years. He came to Nebraska in November, 1871, homesteading
eighty acres in Denver Precinct, Adams County. He resided in the same for five years. Mr. Dillon,
on his arrival in this State, entered into the business as a contractor and builder in company with
E. M. Allen, remaining with him some eighteen months. In August 1873, he engaged in mercantile
business at Juniata, and conducted this business alone until 1875, when he consolidated his stock
with that of A. V. Cole. They remained in partnership until January 1, 1879, when Mr. Dillon sold
out his interest to his partner. In connection with mercantile business, Mr. Dillon, in August, 1878,
built the Dillon Elevator at this place, and entered into the grain trade, in which he is still engaged.
He is also a partner in firm of J. M. Sewell & Co., implement dealers at Juniata. The subject of this
sketch was appointed Treasurer of Adams County in 1872, to fill a vacancy, and held the office for
a few months. Was appointed one of the Trustees of Juniata in December, 1879, elected in April,
1880, and re-elected in 1881-82, each term being elected Chairman of the Board. Mr. Dillon was
married at Moscow, Hillsdale County, Mich., in January 1,1861, to Cornelia Davis. She died
July 27, 1865, leaving one daughter--Ina M. Mr. D. was married again at St. Louis, Mich., in 1867,
to Laura P. Brundige, a native of Akron, Ohio. They have four children--Lorena, Margaret, Grace
and Herbert.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
DAVID H. FREEMAN, of W. D. Sewell & Co., dealers in general merchandise, was born
in Rochester, N. Y., August 27, 1845, removing at the age of seven years with his parents to
Barry County, Mich., and, at fifteen years of age, began business life as a clerk in mercantile
business, in which capacity he remained for some eighteen months. He then went to Fort
Wayne, Ind., where he entered the employ of the Banner Insurance Company as traveling
solicitor, and six months later was appointed Assistant Secretary of the company, occupying
that position for a year. Subsequently removing to Morenci, Mich., was employed as clerk in
mercantile business until spring of 1864, when he enlisted in Thirteenth Michigan Infantry,
serving until the close of the war, after which he went to the oil regions of Pennsylvania, and
was for a year engaged in conducting a hotel at Shaffer Farm. Returning to Michigan, was for
four years employed as head clerk by J. K. Boies & Co., dealers in general merchandise at
Hudson, Lenawee County. Mr. Freeman came to Nebraska in spring of 1869, locating in
Omaha. Was employed as clerk in dry goods business for a year. He then opened a laundry
at Lincoln, carrying it on for three years. In February, 1874, he came to Juniata, and conducted
a lumber yard for A. W. Cox. of Hastings. In the fall of 1875, in company with R. S. Langley,
built and ran the Juniata Grist Mill for eighteen months, then sold out and went to Lincoln,
where he was for over two years in the employ of David May, wholesale and retail clothing, etc.
He returned to Juniata in July, 1879, and joined W. D. Sewell in present business. This concern
is one of the prominent firms of this place. Mr. Freeman was elected Clerk of the Board of
Trustees of Juniata in April, 1881. In April, 1882, he was elected Village Trustee. The subject
of this sketch was married at Juniata on January 1, 1877, to Emma Miller, a native of
Coldwater, Mich. She died September 10,1880, leaving two children--Erva and William H.
He was married a second time at Juniata September 15, 1881, to Julia Anderson, a native
of Chicago, Ill.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
M. K. HUTCHINSON, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Licking County, Ohio,
August 19, 1844, and nine years later accompanied his parents to Knox County, Ohio,
where he was employed in farming. On January 16, 1862, he enlisted in the Forty-seventh
Ohio Infantry; served only six weeks, being discharged on account of his youth. In December,
1864, he re-enlisted in the One Hundred and Forty-ninth Illinois Infantry, and was mustered
out in March, 1866. After farming for a few months in Coles County, Ill., he went to Chicago,
where he learned telegraphy, and was employed as an operator at Mattoon, Ill. In September,
1867, he came to Nebraska in the employ of the Union Pacific Railroad Company, and worked
for a short time as operator at Plum Creek, Dawson County. Returning East, he was employed
by the Western Union Telegraph Company building lines in Iowa for a few months. He then
went to Coles County, Ill.; was employed as clerk in mercantile business and also in farming
there and in Humboldt for three years. Mr. Hutchinson then engaged in the lightning rod
business, following it in Coles and Champaign Counties, Ill. Returning to Nebraska in that
capacity in September, 1878, has followed it since, and since March, 1879, has also been
engaged in farming in Juniata Precinct. Mr. Hutchinson was married in Humboldt, Coles
Co., Ill., April 7, 1870, to Ada Wells, of Ohio. They have four children--Horace K., Charles L.,
Ada J. and Robert G.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
WILLIAM L. KILBURN, dealer in coal, was born in Lunenburg, Worcester Co., Mass.,
November 10, 1816, and resided with his parents on the farm until 1860, when he went to
Boston and for a year was employed as clerk in the grocery business; then farmed again with
his parents. In 1865, he went to North Carolina, and was for two years engaged in superintending
a cotton gin; then for a year was employed as a clerk in the post office at New Berne, N. C.
Returning home in 1868, he again farmed, and in the spring of 1869 removed to Cambridge,
Mass., where he was employed as a teamster. Two years later, he went to Detroit, Mich.;
clerked for a produce and commission house for a short time; then visited Duluth and
St. Paul, Minn.; was then for over three years employed as clerk in the grocery business
at South Acton, Mass. Subsequently engaging in the grocery business at Worcester, Mass.,
he carried it on until he sold out to come to Nebraska, in February, 1880. In March, he
purchased a temperance billiard hall in Juniata, and conducted it for two months, and
in May purchased the coal business of J. S. Chandler. He does a large, increasing business.
Last season he handled some 1,350 tons of coal. Mr. Kilburn was married at Brookline, N. H.,
in November, 1875, to Kate A. Litchfield, a native Pepperell, Mass. They have two children--
Adelbert and Josephine.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
COLUMBUS A. LANE, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Kennebec County, Me.,
in 1845, and resided there on a farm until about 1863; was then for two years employed
by the United States Government as a carpenter; afterward he removed to Grand Rapids,
Mich., and was employed farming, working in lumber woods and teaming, until he came
to Nebraska in April, 1872. He pre-empted eighty acres of land in Juniata Precinct, and
also took up a tree claim adjoining; he has now 327 acres in all, and is quite extensively
engaged in stock-raising.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
J. W. LIVERINGHOUSE, dealer in live stock, game, fish, etc., was born in Elkhart
County, Ind., February 6, 1844, residing on a farm with his parents until he enlisted, in
September, 1861, in the Thirtieth Indiana Infantry, serving in that regiment three years;
re-enlisting in February, 1865, in the One Hundred and Fifty-second Indiana Infantry,
was elected First Lieutenant of Company E; in the following March promoted Captain,
and was shortly afterward appointed Provost Marshal of the District of Kanawha, Va.;
was mustered out of service September 1, 1865. During his service in the war, Mr.
Liveringhouse was not always fortunate. For instance, at the battle of Chickamauga,
in September, 1863, he was taken prisoner by the Confederates and held for five
months, when he made his escape to Danville, Va., and, after suffering severe privations
and hardships for thirteen days and nights, reached the Union lines at Suffolk, Va.
After leaving the army, he returned to Elkhart County, Ind., where he learned the
trade of shoemaker, and was employed at it as a cutter for two years. After this
he went to Alabama and carried on a green-house for two years. Returning to
Indiana, he opened a factory at Goshen for the manufacture of barrel staves
and heads; this he carried on for two years; subsequently was for five years in
the employ of the Noble School Furniture Company as shipping clerk; was appointed
Census Enumerator in the spring of 1880, and held it until July of that year, after
which he came to Juniata, Neb., and was engaged in dealing in agricultural
implements in company with James Newell until January 1, 1802, when he sold
out and purchased his present business of B. W. Hammond. This is the oldest
established business in this line in Juniata, and Mr. Liveringhouse has a large trade.
He was elected Justice of the Peace in November, 1881, and entered upon the duties
of his office January 1, 1882.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
WILSON D. MURRAY, undertaker, and dealer in furniture, wagon repairing. etc.,
was born in Hamilton, Ont., January 12, 1849. He learned the trade of carpenter there,
serving as an apprentice some three years, after which he was employed some two years
as foreman in carpenter shop, etc.; then employed as a journeyman carpenter in Goderich,
Ont., for two years. In August, 1871, he went to Chicago, Ill., where he remained four years
employed at his trade, and subsequently made a trip to California; remaining there only a
few months, he returned to Iowa, and was employed at his trade in Marengo and Iowa City
until he came to Nebraska. In March, 1878, locating at Hastings, he was for three months
engaged as a carpenter and builder; subsequently engaged as a contractor, which he
followed for six months. He came to Juniata July 4, 1879, and opened a wagon repair
shop and also did cabinet work; in the fall of 1881, he added the line of undertaker
and furniture. When Mr. Murray came here, he was somewhat in debt, but by
perseverance and economy has lifted clear, and is now doing a good business on a
capital of $1,000.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JAMES NEWELL, of the firm of Newell Brothers, dealers in agricultural implements,
clothes wringers, carpet sweepers, etc., was born in Elkhart County, Ind. in 1841, and
resided with his parents on a farm until he enlisted in September, 1861, in the Thirtieth
Indiana Infantry, and served three years and five months. He was taken prisoner at the
battle of Chickamauga, on September 19, 1863, and held fifteen months, during which
time he was incarcerated in the prisons of Belle Isle, Libby, Danville, Charleston, S. C.,
Andersonville, Ga., and Florence. After his service in the army, he returned to Elkhart
County, Ind., and farmed for some fifteen years; he came to Nebraska in June, 1881,
locating in Juniata; he at once entered into partnership with J. W. Liveringhouse in the
agricultural implement business. On January 1, 1882, Mr. Liveringhouse went out of
the firm, Joseph H. Newell taking his place, and the style is now Newell Brothers.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
LORENZO F. PICARD, dealer in hardware, stoves, tinware, etc., was born in
Stephenson County, Ill., in 1848. He learned the trade of tinner at Lena, in that county,
remaining in the employ of Z. Stoner & Co. for six years; he then followed his trade at
Marshall, Minn., for two years, subsequently returning to his home in Illinois to settle
the estate of his father. He was employed at his trade with J. M. Smith, of Mt. Morris, for
a few months; afterward he purchased an interest in the business. The firm dissolved in
the spring of 1878, dividing the stock Mr. Pickard brought his share of the stock to
Juniata, Neb., in May of that year, and at once established himself in his present business.
He carries a nice stock of some $4,000, and does an annul business of about $10,000.
He was appointed one of the Trustees of Juniata in 1880, holding office for several months.
The subject of our sketch was married at Lena, Ill., in 1872, to Mary Scoville, a native of
Wisconsin. They have three children--Charles F., Frederick and Earl.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
SAMUEL J. SHIRLEY, Postmaster, news depot, etc., was born in Cedar County, Iowa,
February 21, 1843. At six years of age, he removed with his parents to Le Claire, Scott County,
Iowa, and resided with them until fifteen years of age, when he went to Warren County, Ill.,
and resided with his brother. On July 31, 1862, he enlisted in the Eighty-third Illinois Infantry,
Company C, serving three years. He was wounded in the left wrist at Fort Donelson
February 3, 1863, and again at Budd's Creek, Tenn., October 28, 1863, by a rifle bullet
passing through both cheeks. When discharged he held the rank of First Duty Sergeant.
After the war, he went to Benton County, Iowa, whence he was engaged in farming until
he came to Juniata in September, 1871, at which time he homesteaded 160 acres in the
precinct, and was engaged in cultivating the same for two years. In November, 1873, he
moved into the town of Juniata, and was for a year engaged in conducting a restaurant.
In the fall of 1874, was elected Justice of the Peace, and held the office for about four years,
and during that period also carried on business as Collection Agent, Notary Public, etc.
Subsequently, was employed as clerk in the mercantile business for three years, and during
the last two years of that period also resided on and attended to his farm. He now owns some
240 acres in the county. Mr. Shirley was appointed Postmaster at this place in October, 1881,
and entered upon his duties November 1; also opened news depot at that time. He was one
of the organizers of Company F, First Regiment Nebraska National Guards, and was appointed
Regimental Quartermaster on staff of Col. L. W. Colby in June, 1881. Mr. Shirley was married
in Benton County, Iowa, June 20, 1877, to Abby C. Carr, a native of Providence, R. I. They have
five children--Lena, Louie, Lily, Burt and Edith.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
PROF. GURDON G. SILL, Principal of Juniata graded school, was born in Warren
County, Penn., February 8, 1847; was educated at Union School there, afterward at Union
School and Collegiate Institute of Jamestown, N. Y., and also at Oswego Normal and Training
School at Oswego, N. Y. Previous to and during intervals of acquiring his finishing education,
Prof. Sill taught school at Blockville, N. Y., Soldiers' Orphan School at Titusville and at private
school in Brooklyn, N. Y., being engaged in all some six years, after which, having left the
Normal School, he was appointed Principal of graded school at Kennedy, Chautauqua County,
N. Y., filling that position for a year, after which he was Principal of school at Pittsfield, Penn.,
for one term. The Professor came to Nebraska in July, 1878, and taught a district school in
Cass County for about seven months; was then appointed teacher in grammar department
of Ashland High School, and filled that position for two years. He came to Juniata in August,
1881, and entered upon his present duties. He has had a practical experience as a teacher
of twelve years, and is highly esteemed in Juniata and the neighborhood.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JACOB SWIFT, farmer, was born in Plymouth County, Mass., April 20, 1833, and
some years later, accompanied his parents to Oneida County. Here he was engaged in farming,
and also learned the trade of wagon-maker at Taburg, and followed it as a journeyman for
seven years. On September 5, 1862, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Seventeenth New
York Infantry, serving three years. Returning to Oneida County, was engaged in farming, and
for some years had charge of the Blossvale cheese Factory. He came to Nebraska in February,
1872, pre-empted 160 acres of land in Juniata Precinct, and has been engaged in farming since.
Is also engaged in the cultivation of fruit trees. In 1874, Mr. S. opened a wagon-shop at Juniata,
and, in company with others, conducted it for some six years. He was married in Oneida County,
N. Y., on December 23, 1861, to Frances Guyott, a native of Lewis County, N. Y. They have two
children--Rufus G., Theresa.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
LE GRAND B. THORNE, dealer in hardware, stoves, tinware, etc., was born in Barry County,
Mich., in 1843; four years later he moved to Jackson County, Mich., residing with and assisting
his parents in farming until twenty-one years of age, after which he farmed 170 acres for himself
off and on for ten years. In December, 1871, in connection with his farming pursuits, he built a
store at Baldwin, Jackson Co., Mich., and engaged in general merchandise business, carrying it
on until May, 1874, when he came to Nebraska and located on 160 acres of land which he
purchased in Webster County, residing on the same for two and a half years; he then returned
to Jackson County, Mich., moving there in November, 1876, for the purpose of disposing of his
land there, returning to Nebraska. In September, 1880, he located in Juniata, and assisted his
father, W. B. Thorne, who was at that time Treasurer of Adams County. In March, 1881, he
purchased the hardware business of George H. Hartsough, and has conducted the same since;
he carries a stock of some $4,000, and does an annual business of $10,000. Mr. Thorne owns
320 acres of land in Webster County, which he rents; he was elected a member of the State
Constitutional Convention of 1875. He was married in Jackson County, Mich., March 4, 1866,
to Ella J. Tripp; she died November 8, 1880, in Juniata, leaving two children--Mable E. and Mattie T.
Mr. Thorne was married a second time at Juniata, on December 25, 1881, to Mary A. Boulton, a
native of Houghton County, Mich.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
FRANK E. WILSON, manufacturer of harnesses, was born in Monroe County, Mich.,
in 1849; he learned the trade of harness-making there, and was employed at it as journeyman
for a year, after which he purchased his employer's stock and business and conducted it for
some three and a half years; he came to Juniata in October, 1876, was employed at his trade
with W. H. Burr until he purchased the business in October, 1878. Is the only one in his line
here, and does an annual business of $8,000 to $10,000.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
WALKER & WATKINS, livery, feed and sale stables. These stables were built in August,
1879, by the present proprietors; they carry twelve livery horses, and do a large business in
the sales department. George Walker, the senior partner, was born in England, in July, 1830;
he learned the trade of baker and miller in that country, serving as an apprentice some five
years, and was employed at that trade there until he immigrated to America in 1853, locating
in Kankakee, Ill.; was for a year employed in a stone-quarry; then in Cook County, building
railroads, etc., for four years; afterward at Grand Rapids, Mich., for four years, employed in
saw-mills, subsequently in the oil regions of Pennsylvania, employed as teamster for two
years; buying horses for the United States Army in and about Detroit, Mich., for some years,
afterward teaming in the lumber woods of Michigan, and in same capacity in Miami County,
Ohio. He came to Nebraska in October, 1872, homesteading eighty acres in Juniata Precinct,
Adams County; resided on the same off and on for five years, coming to the town of Juniata
during the winter months; was employed as cook, etc., and moved into Juniata to reside in
1877, at which time he engaged in the livery business; two years later, was joined by
John Van Houghton, and eight months after sold out, joining his nephew, George Watkins,
in present business, in August, 1879. George Watkins, the junior partner of this firm, was
born in Michigan in 1857; removing with his parents when quite young to Washington County,
Iowa, he resided there until he came to Nebraska in 1872, residing on a farm in Juniata Precinct
until he joined his uncle in this business.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
SAMUEL A. BOOKWALTER, physician and surgeon, was born in Lancaster City,
in 1851, removing to Illinois some years later. He studied medicine under Dr. McMann, of G
ardner, Grundy County, for five years, and during 1869 and 1870 took a course of lectures at
Cleveland Medical College, after which he attended Louisville Medical College, Kentucky,
graduating in February, 1873. Subsequently practiced at his profession for five years at
Melvin, Ford County, Ill. The Doctor then entered the contract service of the United States
Army, at Washington, D. C., as Assistant Surgeon, and held the position for six months. He
came to Nebraska in May, 1879, and practiced at Juniata until February, 1880, when he came
to Ayr, and at once began the practice of medicine here.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JAMES E. BOVARD, Postmaster and Notary Public, was born in Philadelphia, Penn.,
in 1850, and six years later removed with his parents to Rock Island County, Ill. He assisted
his parents in farming for some years, after which he was for several years employed as
clerk in the mercantile business. He came to Nebraska in March, 1871, locating in Ayr, Adams
County, homesteading 160 acres on which he resided, and was generally employed in
carpenter work. In 1874, he returned to Rock Island County, Ill., and was employed for two
years in the post office at Port Barnes. Returning to Ayr in 1876, he farmed for three years.
Mr. Bovard was appointed Postmaster in the spring of 1881, and Notary Public in March of
that year. He was Treasurer of the District School Board during 1878, 1879 and 1880.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ELI M. BURTON, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Lawrence County, Ind.,
in 1841, and resided with his parents on a farm until he enlisted, in August, 1862, in the
Sixty-seventh Indiana Infantry, at which time he was appointed Sergeant of Company H.
He served three years, after which he returned to his home in Indiana and followed
farming. He came to Nebraska in October, 1874, and resided in Burt County for a few
months, during which time he was engaged in various capacities. In March, 1875, he
homesteaded eighty acres of land in Ayr Precinct, Adams County, and resided on the
same until October, 1881. when he moved to his present residence in same precinct,
which he rents. He now farms, in all, 240 acres of land, and is also engaged in breeding
and raising P land-China hogs. Mr. Burton was married in Clay County, Ill., in March,
1867, to Susan M. Monroe, a native of Illinois. They have seven children--Caswell, Homer,
Ida, Nellie, Edwin, George W. and Annie.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
DYER BROTHERS, proprietors of Dyers' Mills. The firm is composed of A. True Dyer
and Elbridge G. Dyer. They built their present mills at a cost of $10,000, in 1875, and
have gradually increased their trade until they now do a business of some $60,000 to
$70,000 per annum. A. True Dyer was born in Raymond, Me., in 1843. He learned the
tinner trade, and was employed at it in the State of Maine for some fourteen years.
He came to Nebraska in June, 1872, homesteading eighty acres in Denver Precinct,
Adams County, and resided on the same until he engaged in milling business in 1875.
Elbridge G. Dyer, of this firm, was born in Raymond, Me., in 1848. When quite young,
he removed with his parents to Bowdoin, Sagadahoc Co., Me., residing on the farm
with his parents until he enlisted, in January, 1865, in the Fifteenth Maine Infantry.
He served for a year. Shortly afterward he was employed in a woolen factory at
Lisbon Falls, Me., having charge of a hydraulic press for two years. Subsequently
he learned the trade of tailor, and was employed at it for two years. Mr. Dyer
came to Nebraska in June, 1872, homesteaded 160 acres in Denver Precinct, Adams
County, and farmed until he engaged in the present business.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
GORDON H. EDGERTON, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, was born in
Essex County, N. Y., May 10, 1842. At four years of age, removed with his parents to
Knox County, Ill., and resided on a farm until he enlisted, in January, 1865, in the
One Hundred and Twelfth Illinois Infantry. Served until mustered out in the following
June. He then went to Colorado, where he was employed in mining, etc. In 1867,
he went to Omaha, Neb., and was for two years employed as a teamster following
the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad, afterward teaming in Boonesboro, Iowa;
Emporia, Kan., and other places for several years. In April, 1871, he returned to Nebraska
and homesteaded 160 acres of land in Little Blue Precinct, on which he since resided.
He now owns 320 acres, and in connection with his farming pursuits is largely engaged
in breeding Durham cattle and Poland-China hogs. Mr. Edgerton has been a member
of the District School Board since 1875, and was elected a Commissioner of Adams
County, for a term of three years, in the fall of 1881. He was married at his present
residence in March, 1876, to Elva Bird, a native of Iowa. They have two children--Arthur
and Goldie.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
EDGINGTON BROS., dealers in hardware and furniture. The firm is composed of
Thomas J. and Marion S. Edgington. They established this business here in November, 1879;
carry a nice stock of $1,200; do an annual business of some $3,000, and have good
prospects for increasing their trade. Thomas J. Edgington, the resident partner, was
born in Richland County, Ohio, in 1840. At the age of five years, removed to Ogle
County, Ill., residing with his father on the farm for ten years, afterward in Delaware
County, Iowa. Here he learned the trade of printer and followed it until 1862, when
he enlisted in the Ninth Iowa Infantry, and six months later was discharged on
account of ill health. He, however, re-enlisted in 1864 in the Thirty-fourth Iowa
Infantry, serving one hundred days. Mr. Edgington was then employed as clerk
in the mercantile business at Morseville, Jo Daviess County, and Lena, Stephenson
County, Ill., until he came to Nebraska in September, 1878. Locating in Nelson,
Nuckolls County, at once engaged in the hardware business in company with
his brother, Marion S., who is practicing law at Edgar, Neb. In November, they
moved their stock to this point. Mr. Edgington was married in Morseville, Ill.,
in 1865, to Maria Le Barron, a native of Illinois. They have two children--Edith N.
and Essie D.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
MELVILLE B. FOOTE, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Ayr, was born in Fulton
County, N. Y., in 1840. Learned the trade of carpenter at Jonesville, Saratoga
County, N. Y., serving as an apprentice some two years, and was engaged in
business as a contractor and builder at Saratoga Springs, N. Y., for about a year.
August 6, 1862, he enlisted in the One Hundred and Fifteenth New York Infantry;
was appointed Sergeant of Company E, and served three years. Returning to
Northville, N. Y., was for a year employed as a foreman in the cabinet factory.
Mr. F. came to Nebraska in March, 1867, locating in Otoe County; was for a year
employed as a carpenter, and for four years in farming and contracting. He
removed to Ayr Precinct on May 23, 1872, having homesteaded 160 acres on
which he has since resided. In connection with his farming and stock-raising
pursuits, Mr. F. is also engaged in carrying on a dairy, and in growing fruit,
having an orchard of three acres. He was a Director of the district school for
some seven years, and was appointed Road Supervisor for the year 1882.
Mr. Foote was married at Edinburg, Saratoga County, N. Y., June 17, 1866, to
Betsy M. Trowbridge, a native of Fulton County, Ohio. They have four children--
Hattie B., Charles W., Eugene and one infant daughter.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
ALBERT N. HALL, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Ontario May 6, 1835,
removing with his parents to Kane County, Ill., where he resided for sixteen
years, after which he returned to Ontario, and was for a few months engaged
as a traveling salesman in the marble business. He came to Nebraska in 1858,
located near Nebraska City, where he resided for about a year, after which he
returned to Kane County, Ill., and farmed there until he enlisted, September 10, 1861,
in the Fifty-second Illinois Infantry. He was wounded by rifle ball at the battle
of Corinth October 3, 1862, and was transferred to the Fifth Veteran Reserve
Corp, in July, 1863, in which he served until mustered out in November, 1864,
after which he farmed in Kane County. Mr. Hall returned to Nebraska in 1870,
and was engaged in farming in the neighborhood of Nebraska City for about
four years. He homesteaded 160 acres in Ayr Precinct, Adams County, Neb.,
March 26, 1873, and moved on to the same in June following, since which time
he has devoted himself to farming and stock-raising in this locality. He was
elected President to Adams County Agricultural Society in 1878, re-elected in
1879, and Vice President in 1881; was member of State Board of Agriculture
during 1878 and 1879, and elected Vice President of District Agricultural Society
in the fall of 1881, and Justice of the Peace in 1878, and re-elected in 1879.
Mr. H. was married at Nebraska City in 1858, to Sarah Adelia Foote, a native
of New York. They have three children living--Winfield S., Hervey N., Nettie S.
and Lattie A., who died April 23, 1876.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
CHRISTIAN KOEHLER, of Henry Gund & Co., dealers in grain, etc., was born in
Galena, Ill., in 1856. At eighteen years of age, he removed to Freeport, Ill., and
was employed as clerk in the lumber business for a year, after which he went
to Marcus, Iowa, where he was for three years employed as book-keeper in
the grain and coal business. He came to Ayr, Neb., in July, 1879, and entered
the employ of Henry Gund, dealer in grain, as manager, and in the summer
of 1880 purchased an interest in the concern, and the business is now conducted
under style of H. Gund & Co., Mr. K. being the junior partner. In August, 1880,
he also, in company with Dr. W. W. Phar, purchased the drug business of
R. C. Greig at this place, and remained in partnership with him in that business
until he sold out his interest to the Doctor in January, 1882. Henry Gund & Co.
have elevators here and at Blue Hill, Neb., both being in charge of Mr. K. Their
elevator at this point has a capacity of 15,000 bushels, and they ship some
60,000 bushels of grain during the season, the capacity of elevator at Blue Hill
is 10,000 bushels, and they ship from that point about 40,000 bushels. The firm
also ship considerable live stock. Henry Gund, the senior member of the firm, is
engaged in banking and grain business at Wilbur, Saline County, Neb.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
W. W. PHAR, physician and surgeon, and dealer in drugs, etc., was born in
Booneville, Ind., in 1854. Was educated at Whittier College, Salem, Henry County,
Iowa, then at Keokuk Medical School, graduating there in 1878. Previous to this
he practiced medicine with Dr. Farr, of Salem, for four years. After his graduation,
practiced his profession at Primrose, Iowa, for about a year. He came to Ayr, Neb.,
in August, 1879, and at once began practicing medicine. In August, 1880, in company
with C. Koehler, purchased the drug business of R. C. Greig, and in January, 1882,
Dr. Phar bought his partner's interest in the concern, and now devotes his time
principally to the drug business. He carries a nice stock of about $1,000, and does
an annual business of $3,000 to $4,000.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JAMES RITCHESON, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Hastings, was born in
Holmes County, Ohio, in 1837, and resided there on a farm until twenty-two years
of age, when he went to Henry County, Iowa, and farmed there until he enlisted
in September, 1861, in the Fourth Iowa Infantry, serving three years and ten
months, after which he returned to Henry County and conducted a farm of
seventy-five acres for some nine years. He came to Nebraska February 3, 1874,
homesteading 160 acres in Little Blue Precinct, on which he has since resided.
In connection with his farming pursuits, is quite extensively engaged in breeding
horses, cattle and hogs. He has been Treasurer of the District School since April,
1876. Mr. R. was married in Henry County, Iowa, April 3, 1864, to Mary A. Olinger,
a native of Iowa. They have nine children--George W., Samuel L., Rosetta , Viola,
Mary B., Martha, Frank, Leon and Guy.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
OLIVER C. ROGERS, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Litchfield County, Conn.,
in 1838, removing to the State of New York when very young, and some years
later to Winnebago County, Ill., where he followed farming as an occupation
until he enlisted, in July, 1861, in the Northwestern Rifle Corps, which was afterward
changed into the Forty-fourth Illinois . He sered four years and four months, and
during the period received several slight wounds. After the war, Mr. R. returned
to Winnebago County and engaged in farming. He came to Nebraska in the spring
of 1871, homesteading, in Gilson, Ayr Precinct, 160 acres of land, and resided on
the same for two years. In 1873, he removed to his present farm in the same precinct.
He owns 320 acres of land, and, in connection with his farming pursuits, is engaged
in breeding Durham and Jersey cattle and Poland-China hogs. He has been engaged
in farming for the past twenty-four years.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JACOB S. WAY, farmer and stock-raiser, P .O. Hastings, was born in Lancaster County,
Penn., in 1842. At nine years of age, removed, with his parents, to Knox County, Ohio;
resided there on a farm till twenty-two years of age; afterward in Illinois and Iowa for
two years; then farmed in Scotland County, Mo., for seven years. He came to Nebraska
in the fall of 1872, homesteaded eighty acres in Ayr Precinct, and has since bought two
eighties more, making 240 acres in all. He has resided on this farm since; besides farming
and stock-raising, is quite extensively engaged in fruit growing, has 150 peach trees and
200 apple trees, besides numerous other varieties of fruit. Mr. Way was married, in Van
Buren County, Iowa, in 1865, to Rachel Logsdon, a native of Ohio. They have eight children--
John, William, George W., Mary A., Eva L., Charles H., Ida B. and Harvey.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
M. WEINBERG & CO., dealers in general merchandise. This firm is composed of
M. Weinberg and S. Mandelbaum. They established this business August 20, 1881,
and carry a stock of $5,000 to $6,000. They have also a branch house at Blue Hill, Neb.,
their main house being in Chicago, Ill. J. K. Moore, their agent at this place, was born in
St. Joseph County, Mich., in 1855, removing to Streator, Ill., with his parents, when quite
young. He was in the employ of M. Stiefel & Co., clothing dealers of that place, for
over seven years. Mr. Moore came to Nebraska in March, 1878, and was employed
by Messrs. M. Weinberg & Co. at Hastings until he came to Ayr to take charge of this
business. He was married at Hastings, March 29, 1880, to Mary G. Smith, a native of
Missouri.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
A. L. WEST, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O. Ayr, was born in Gilmore County, Va.,
in 1852. At two years of age, removed, with his parents, to Sullivan County, Mo.,
and came with them to Nebraska in July, 1871. His parents located in Ayr Precinct,
and he assisted his father in farming for some seven years. In December, he
engaged in general merchandise business at the village of Ayr, in company with
T. C. Fleming. This firm dissolved in August, 1879, and Mr. W. conducted the
business alone until he sold out, in October, 1880. He then conducted a farm
in the precinct of Little Blue for six months, after which he purchased his father's
farm in Ayr Precinct, and has resided there since. He is the owner of 825 acres of
land, 600 of which are under cultivation, and is also largely engaged in breeding
horses and cattle and hogs. He was married at Ayr, Neb., July 27, 1879, and has
one daughter--Edna.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
H. D. EINSPAHR, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Germany, in 1845. At about
fourteen years of age, he began life as a sailor, and followed it on the ocean
for some four years. He came to America in 1863, locating in Cook County, Ill.,
and was for a year employed in farming. In 1864, he enlisted in the United States
Navy, serving on the Monitor Osage for thirteen months, after which he farmed
for a year in Whiteside County, Ill., and for four years in Cook County; subsequently
moving to Chicago, and was for four years engaged in the tallow business.
Mr. Einspahr came to Nebraska in February, 1876, and located in Kenesaw
Precinct, Adams County. Homesteading 160 acres of land, he has since been
engaged in farming, raising stock, etc., making a specialty of breeding horses,
and using in all, 520 acres of land. He was appointed assessor of the precinct
in March, 1882. Mr. Einspahr was married in Cook County, Ill., in 1866, to Annie
Einspahr, a native of Germany. They have seven children--Charles, Henry, John,
George, Elizabeth, Herman and Annie.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN G. HAYZLETT, dealer in groceries, hardware, queensware, etc., was born
in Western Virginia, in 1830, and when quite young, moved to Hancock County, Ind.,
residing with his parents there until 1851, when he was married to the only daughter
of Judge Hatfield, and, in 1854, removed to Linn County, Iowa, and engaged in the
mercantile business in Mt. Vernon. In 1862, he was commissioned as First Lieutenant
in Company F, Twenty-fourth Iowa Infantry Volunteers; in 1863, resigned, and in 1867
was elected Sheriff of Linn County, Iowa, and had the office for three terms by election.
In the fall of 1872, Eleanor K., his wife, died, leaving him with seven children--Mary E.,
Alice E., Emory, Rasey, Jessie, Eddie and Nettie, and in the spring of 1876 he was
married again to Mrs. Jennie L. Platner, of Independence, Iowa, and in the fall of
1877 moved to Kenesaw, Neb., and engaged in the business above referred to, and
has held the office of Justice of the Peace for three years, and is still the incumbent
of the office.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
W. L. BAKER, manager for H. M. Oliver, dealer in grain, etc., was born in Tioga
County, N. Y., in 1850, residing there until eighteen years of age, when he went to
Hannibal, Mo., where he was employed in farming for eighteen months, then in
same capacity for five years in Barton County, Mo. In 1876, he went to Texas, and
was for two years employed in cattle driving, etc.; he came to Nebraska in July, 1878,
locating at Glenville, Clay County; entered the employ of H. M. Oliver, dealer in grain,
and in August, 1880, came to Hansen to take charge of Mr. Oliver's business at this
place. Mr. Baker has charge of two elevators here, having an aggregate capacity of
23,000 bushels; he also carries on a coal business on his own account, and in March,
1882, erected a stone building at this place, and in connection with other business
pursuits engaged in hardware business; he carries a stock from $7,000 to $10,000.
Mr. Baker was married in Clay County, Neb., December 15, 1880, to Ida Lamb; they
have one daughter--Cecil May.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JOHN G. HONEYWELL, proprietor of Hansen House, was born in Summit County,
Ohio, in 1844, removing four years later with his parents to Eaton County, Mich., and
three years later to Lawn Ridge, Marshall Co., Ill., residing with his parents until he
enlisted in August, 1861, in the Forty-seventh Illinois Infantry, and served two months;
on August 27, 1862, he re-enlisted in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, serving in that
regiment until June, 1865. After the war, Mr. Honeywell attended the Northern University
at Henry, Ill., for a year, and subsequently engaged in farming in Marshall County, Ill.,
for some eight years; he came to Nebraska in January, 1876, homesteading 160 acres in
Hall County; was engaged in farming the same until October, 1881, when he came to
Hansen and purchased his present hotel building, etc., from Samuel Louks. He has a
good barn and livery attached to the hotel, and accommodation for thirty guests.
Mr. Honeywell was married in La Salle County, Ill., March 25, 1868, to Frances B. Parker,
a native of Washington County, Ill.; they have three children--Athaliah, Fannie B. and
La Roy Garfield.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JAMES McGREGOR, agent for C. N. Paine & Co., lumber, etc., was born in Mifflin
County, Penn., in 1828, and began business life as a clerk in mercantile business at fifteen
years of age; was employed in that capacity in the towns of Reedsville and Lewistown in
Mifflin County until 1860, when he removed to Earlsville, La Salle County, Ill.; was engaged
in the grain business there for about a year, afterward at Altona, Knox Co., Ill., in grain
and live stock business until 1868; afterward he removed to Iowa and followed farming
in Johnson and Washington Counties for about eight years. Mr. McGregor came to
Nebraska in the spring of 1876, and entered the employ of C. N. Paine & Co., at Fairmont,
where he was employed as general salesman for two years, then as bookkeeper for the
same firm at Hastings, remaining there until he came to Hansen in November, 1879, and
opened a branch yard for the firm at this place, since which time he had charge of the
business at this point. The firm of C. N. Paine & Co. carry a stock from $12,000 to $15,000
at this place.
From Andreas' History of the State of Nebraska: Adams County
JACOB SMITH, dealer in general merchandise, was born in Germany July 11, 1845,
and emigrated to America with his parents when two years of age. He resided in
St. Louis, Mo., and in June, 1861, enlisted in the Seventh Missouri Volunteer Infantry;
in December, 1864, this regiment was consolidated with the Eleventh Missouri Infantry,
and Mr. Smith served in that regiment until mustered out in January, 1866; his
service was in the band and he held the rank of Drum Major for three years; after
leaving the army, he went to Sangamon County, Ill., where he was engaged in
farming for about seven years. Mr. Smith came to Nebraska in March, 1873,
homesteading 160 acres in Hamilton County; he resided there and was engaged in
farming until October, 1881, when he came to Hansen, purchased the general
merchandise business of James Evans, and has conducted it since. Mr. Smith was
appointed Postmaster at this place in October, 1881. He carries a stock in his
store of some $2,500. The subject of our sketch was married in Sangamon County,
Ill., in April, 1866, to Mary Crame; she died in 1868, leaving one daughter--Hattie.
Mr. Smith was married a second time in Sangamon County, in December, 1869,
to Hattie Gould, a native of that county; they have four children--Jay, Carrie, Cora
and Annie.
