Calhoun, Lawrence, (page 1296), lumberman, Wabasha, is a native of Ireland, born in Dublin, August 15, 1826. When he was a year old his parents, Thomas and Mary (Hackett) Calhoun, came to America, and soon settled at Shullsburg, Wisconsin, where the father engaged in mining. His youth was spent in the city of Galena, and in 1845 he came up the Mississippi and was employed during the summer on the Chippewa river survey. The following winter he was employed in lumbering by Allen & Boss at Chippewa Falls, and nearly all his life since has been spent in lumbering. In the early days he ran a keelboat on the Chippewa and Missippi, and often shared his supplies with the Indians, who, in turn, often shared their game with him and always remained friendly. In the winter of 1849-50 he carried the mail on his back between Chippewa Falls and Wabasha, making weekly trips. For the past twelve years he has been employed by the Mississippi Logging and Boon Co, and has dwelt in Wabasha, where he has a fine home on Second street. For nine years previously he lived at Read's Landing, and while here, one day, Mrs. Calhoun drove off a saucy Indian with her mop. Mr. Calhoun's marriage occurred in 1858, the bride being Mary, widow of Thomas Sullivan, who died in Highland in 1856. Mrs. Calhoun is a sister of Miles McDonough, elsewhere sketched in this book, and was born in the same place (Tiernay, County Galway, Ireland). She is the mother of ten living children, as follows: Anna (Mrs. M. A. Cummings), Minneapolis; Maria (born July 8, 1856, in Highland), Brainard, Minnesota; Mary E. (married John Gorman), Kellogg; the others are at home, viz: Sarah, Lydia, Minnie, Maggie, Katy, George, Aurelia and Clara. Rosella, the ninth child, is deceased.
Callohan, Michael (page 1266 ~ not listed in the index), telegraph operator, Weaver, was born at Sandy Creek, New York, in 1858. His parents, John and Mary Callohan, were natives of Ireland, and emigrated to America in 1837, settling where our subject was born. When a young man he tried living in several towns, among which were Rochester, in New York, and Niagara Falls, but finally concluded to visit St. Paul, which he did in 1880. Liking the west so well led him to locate in Winona for a year, and again he moved, this time to Weaver, where he now resides, being in the employ of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul railroad, as agent and operator. Mr. Callohan is a member of the Catholic church, and also of the Winona State Military Guards. He married Eliza Hitchcock, of Weaver. They have one child, Mary Agnes.
Campbell, S. L., (page 977), attorney-at-law; office corner of Main and Alleghaney streets, Post-office building. Mr. Campbell established business in this city in the spring of 1856, and is the oldest practicing attorney in the county. He is a native of Chenango county, New York, was brought up on the old home farm, and followed farming until his removal to this state (then territory), in 1855. During his intervals of leisure from farm labor he pursued his legal studies, making himself familiar with the principles of law, leaving a knowledge of its practice to be acquired in the courts. He was admitted to practice at Red Wing, in this state, by the then chief justice of the territory (Welch), in the fall of 1855. When Wabasha county became organized for judicial purposes in the following spring, Mr. Campbell was appointed clerk of the United States district court for the first district, and held that office until the state was admitted to the union in 1858. From the date of the establishment of his law-office here, more than twenty-seven years since, Mr. Campbell has continued steadily in the practice of his profession. During these years his only law partner was E. M. Birdsey, Esq., with whom he was associated in business from 1867 to 1872, when Mr. Birdsey's health compelled him to relinquish practice, and he soon afterward died. Mr. Campbell has served the bar of the county as clerk of court and county attorney, the city as mayor, the representative district as representative in 1862, and again from 1875 to 1879.
Campbell, W. H., (page 1074), is a native of Mississippi, and resided there until he was eight years of age, when he came north with his father's family. He first came to Wabasha in 1857, and before the war broke out had returned to the south to visit his mother's people. He was there impressed into the rebel service, and was in the army of the confederates nearly a year, when he succeeded in effecting his escape to the north, and returned to Wabasha in 1863. He subsequently went into trade here, and has conducted business as a general merchant four years. In 1872 he was elected auditor of the county, and held that office until 1881, having been four times elected and once appointed to fill a vacancy. He is a member of the firm of Z. C. Goss & Co., but takes no active part in the management of business. In connection with J. J. Stone, M. D., he is farming on a tract of sixteen hundred acres, on the line of the Northern Pacific railway, forty miles above Crookston. They have now eight hundred acres under cultivation-seven hundred in wheat, and one hundred in oats. Last year's wheat crop of three hundred and fifty acres averaged a yield of twenty bushels to acre. Mr. Campbell has also a valuable tract of sixty acres on what is known as West Wabasha. Mr. Campbell was married October 12, 1869, to Miss Alma A. Downer, of this city. They have but one child living, Susie D., born September, 1870. Mrs. Campbell and Mrs. J. H. Mullen were the daughters and only children of John B. Downer, for many years a prominent business man of this city. Mr. Downer was born in Stowe, Vermont, July 8, 1811, and was married April 8, 1834, to Miss Caroline H. Tinker, who was born at Morristown, Vermont, April 7, 1815. The daughters were both born at Jay, New York, Marion B., January 29, 1849, and Alma A., March 11, 1851. Mr. and Mrs. Downer were very happy in their married life of forty-eight years and a half, and in their deaths they were not divided, Mr. Downer dying October 19, 1882, her husband surviving her only a few hours.
Card, Edward M., (page 1174), attorney-at-law, Lake City, was born in Newport county, in the State of Rhode Island, June 2, 1828. His parents, John L. and Catharine B. (Mott) Card, moved to Otsego county, New York, in 1835. The most of his early years were spent in the schoolroom, his leisure-time on the farm with his parents. In October, 1849, he entered the law office of Judge Thomas McIntosh, at Hartwick, New York, where he pursued the study of law till his accession to the bar in July, 1852. In the fall of the same year he opened an office in Portlandsville, in the same county, and there practiced his profession till 1855. He then removed to Hartwick, where he formed a law partnership with his old preceptor, Judge McIntosh. In 1857 this partnership was dissolved, Judge Card continuing here in practice till 1863. In the fall of this year he was elected judge of the surrogate court of Otsego county, which then contained a population of some fifty thousand. This was a sharp and closely contested election, and he was returned with a small majority over his democratic competitor, Judge McIntosh, and was the youngest man ever elected to that honorable and important trust in the county. The same fall he removed to Cooperstown, the county seat, and on January 1, 1864, entered upon the discharge of his official duties. During the four years of Judge Card's official career he creditably acquitted himself as a jurist eminently fitted to sustain the high honor of the bench and bar. In the fall of 1867 he declined a renomination and resumed the legal practice without change of residence till 1871, when he came west, settling in Lake City, where he now resides. The seaon of 1872 was mostly spent by him looking after his farming interests in Wisconsin. In March 1873, he opened a law office in this city, and actively entered on his professp C which has since been extended over five of six counties surrounding Lake City, on both sides of the Mississippi. Much of his time during the past year has been spent away from home, engaged in important trials, involving life, liberty and property. The result of these trials has established for Judge Card the reputation of being one of the leading lawyers of the state, and as such has been prominently referred to by the local and city papers. In March, 1853, E. M. Card and Miss Eliza Halstead were united in marriage at Westville, New York. Mrs. Card is the daughter of Rev. Henry Halstead, of New York. They have one child, christened Jessie E., who graduated from St. Mary's Academy, at Faribault, in June, 1882.
Carlson, Oliver, (page 1165), carpenter, Lake City, is a native of Sweden, born in Blikinge county, in the southern part of that kingdom, October 16, 1845. His early life was passed on a farm, and he received the common-school education of his native tongue. When sixteen years old he was apprenticed to the carpenter's trade, and this has ever since occupied his attention. In 1869 he set out for America, and came direct to Lake City. He at once entered the employ of E. Alexander, a contracting builder, and served this till 1880, when he became the partner of his employer. In 1883 this firm built the county poorhouse, and the handsome brick schoolhouse in the second ward of this city. Mr. Carlson is a member of the A.O.U.W., and an independent republican. In January, 1872, he was married to Hannah Johnson, who was born three years previous to her husband, near the same place. Their offspring are christened and aged as here noted: Caroline, thirteen; Ethan Elmer, seven, and Julia, five years.
Carpenter, George W., (page 967), farmer and thresher, was next to the oldest of a family of four boys and four girls, born to T. P. and Emeline (Webster) Carpenter. He was born in Meadville, Pennsylvania, May 16, 1832. While a small child he was adopted into the family of his grandfather Webster, and lived with him on a farm near Warrentown, Pennsylvania, where he attended country school winters till 1846. In the spring of this year he accompanied his grandfather to McHenry county, Illinois, and soon found a home, a well-to-do farmer by the name of Pliny Hayward, attending school winters and working on the farm summers. January 1, 1855, he espoused Miss Lucy J. Judd, a native of Connecticut. In the spring of 1856 he came to Wabasha county, and located on a quarter-section in Plainview; this farm he cleared and improved, and sold in 1866. He did not engage in business again until September, 1870, when he purchased eighty acres on section 35 in Highland, where he now has a comfortable home. He is widely known among the farmers as a thresher, being the first man who ran a threshing-machine in Greenwood prairie. He is a member of the Methodist church, and also of the Plainview lodge of Odd-Fellows. Mr. Carpenter has been twice married. By his first wife he had three children: Oscar E., a farmer in Big Stone county, Minnesota; Clara A. and Willie H., both living at home. His second wife was the relict of the late George Clark, of Highland, to whom he was married January 27, 1878. Mrs. Clark had at the time of her second marriage two children, namely, Willie F. Clark and Lucy A. Clark.
War of Rebellion (Civil War)
Carpenter, Russell W., (page 993), dealer in
farming implements, Plainview, and brother of George W. Carpenter, of Highland
township, was born in Crawford county, Pennsylvania, September 16, 1836.
From 1847 till he came to Minnesota was with his father and brothers in
McHenry county, Illinois. In 1855 the family came to Greenwood prairie,
where Russell was among the unfortunates who selected a claim on the Indian
reswhich he abandoned, the same now being known as the Pat Mahon farm. From
the fall of 1857 to 1874 he resided in Dubuque, Iowa; since which time he
has continued to reside in Wabasha county, engaging in agricultural pursuits
until 1881, where he became interested in the farming implement trade, and
has continued to follow it since. He enlisted in the 21st Iowa Vols., but
owing to physical unsoundness was rejected by the surgeon. He is a member
of Plainview Lodge, I.O.O.F. June 6, 1867, he espoused Susan, daughter of
Jacob Brant, of Epworth, Iowa, by whom he has had two children, viz: Edward
A. and Minnie E.
Carruth, O. P., (page 1062), farmer, was born in Jefferson county, New York, September 8, 1829. He was one of eight children born to William and Eleanor Patterson-Carruth, natives of Springfield, Massachusetts, and Fort Anne, New York, respectively. The subject of our sketch was raised in Jefferson county, and when twenty-one years of age he went to Auburn, New York, where he spent six years in a boot and shoe establishment. October 27, 1859, he was married to Mary Veeder, a native of that county, and a daughter to Dr. Veeder, one of the old residents of this township. Immediately after his marriage he located on his present farm in Mount Pleasant. His wife died March 19, 1879. She was the mother of four children, two of whom are living : Fred. H., who is running a flourishing newspaper at Estilline, Dakota, and Ellen B. January 3, 1880, he wedded Sarah L. Eastman-Gorton, of Athens, Vermont. Mr. Carruth is a member of Lake City lodge, No. 22, I.O.O.F. In politics he is republican, and since 1876 has been chairman of the board of supervisors.
Carroll, Arthur J., (page 1328), Assistant Postmaster of Plainview, was born in Mentor, Ohio, May 19, 1853. His father, Samuel D. Carroll, who was a cooper by trade, came to Mentor from New Jersey in 1830 and located on a farm there. He raised a family of twelve children, Arthur being the youngest. Four of this numerous family only survive, viz.: Miss Hattie E. Carroll, Postmistress at Plainview; Emily (Mrs. George W. Doeg) Huntley, Minnesota; Maronette (Mrs. S. F. Wicklow) of Owatonna, Minnesota; Lottie (Mrs. Wm. Lawton) of Plainview. At the age of eleven, Arthur came with the family to Wabasha county. His father's death occurred two years later. His education was obtained in the Plainview public school. He clerked in Oziah Wilcox's store for about eight months, and in 1873 was appointed assistant postmaster to Hon. H. H. Butts. Shortly thereafter Miss Hattie Carroll succeeded Mr. Butts as postmaster, and Mr. Carroll was retained as assistant, and has virtually had the entire management of the office since. He fitted up the postoffice at a cost of $700, and has one of the finest offices to be found in any western village. Mr. Carroll is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church, and is secretary of the Wabasha County Sunday School Association. During the existence of the village government he served as recorder. He has been twice married, the first wife being Ida E. Williams, daughter of M. M. Williams, one of the pioneers of Plainview. After her death which occurred three months after the marriage, he married Lottie Reifkagel, daughter of J. W. Riefkagel, of Plainview, the wedding taking place October 4, 1880. Two children have been born to them, viz.: Elsie and Willie.
Carroll, R. C.(page 1164), farmer, is a native of County Kilkenny, Ireland. His parents were Richard and Ellen Commerford-Carroll, to whom were born eight children. When sixteen years old he emigrated to St. Louis, where he passed two years in a wholesale grocery house. After spending one year in Memphis he located in Arkansas, and afterward returned to St. Louis. With the exception of the first two years, his attention while in the south was occupied in the nursery and green house business, and in landscape gardening, in all of which he was quite successful. The year 1864 found him at Fort Benton, Montana, and about four years were passed here in the mercantile business. In 1868 he located in Mount Pleasant, where he began the life of a farmer, and now owns two hundred and eighty acres of fine land. He was married December 2, 1871, to Mary A. Rahilly. They have five children: Richard M. (deceased), Ellen M., Winnifred C., Alice E., Margaret M. Mr. Carroll and wife belong to the Catholic church. In politics he is a democrat in priciple, though he generally votes for the best man regardless of party. He has held offices in the township, and is one of its prosperous farmers and substantial citizens.
War of Rebellion (Civil War)
Carson, Marcus, (page 1077), farmer, Lake City,
was born in Wyoming county, New York, in 1836, and is the son of Stephen
and Julina (Grover) Carson, natives of Otsego county, in the same state.
His paternal grandfather was born in England, and his grandmother on the
same side was a native of Germany, both having come to America in early
childhood with their parents, who settled in the Mohawk valley. His grandparents
on his mother's side were of New England stock, several generations back.
Mr. Carson, like his father and grandfather, was reared and educated on
a farm, and like his worthy progenitors, has made farming the business of
life. In 1858 he came to Minnesota and pre-empted a piece of land, which
he paid for, and the same season returned to his home in York State. This
land was some years later traded for eastern property, and Mr. Carson remained
east till 1872, when he came to Minnesota with his family, and permanently
located in Lake City, where he now resides, though still engaged in farming.
The care of his fine one hundred and sixty-acre farm in Gillford township
furnishes him employment during summer, and his forty acres of timber in
Wisconsin gives him ample employment through the winter months. He was married
in 1863, to Miss Laura C. Humphrey, of this city, and they have two children
living, Grace E. and Alice L. Mr. and Mrs. Carson are members of the Congregational
church. At the outbreak of the war of the rebellion in 1861, Mr. Carson
enlisted as a private in the 9th N. Y. Vol. Inf., and on organization was
elected first lieutenant, which commission he held when discharged on account
of disability.
Cassidy, Wilson W., (page 1237), lumberman, Read's Landing, is one of the self-made men of Wabasha county. John Cassidy, his father, was a native of Ireland, and his mother, Jane Blair, was born in Pennsylvania. Wilson W. Cassidy was born in March, 1832, at Bellfont, Center county, in his mother's native state. When he was ten years old his parents moved to Lee county, Iowa, where he was brought up on a farm, and received a common-school education. At eighteen he was apprenticed to a carpenter, and followed this trade two years. In the fall of 1854 he went to Menomonee, Wisconsin, and entered the employ of Knapp, Stout & Co., heavy lumber manufacturers of that state, and has ever since been engaged with them. His first two years were spent as a common hand in the woods and on the river, but his sterling character and executive ability were not long concealed from his employers. In the fall of 1857 he was placed in charge of their retail lumber-yard at Read's Landing, where his headquarters still remain. The lumber-yard was closed long ago, and Mr. Cassidy now has charge of the rafting on the Chippewa and Mississippi rivers of the immense lumber fleets of the "Knapp, Stout & Co. Company"; is also engaged in forwarding supplies up the rivers. By his industry and successful business management, Mr. Cassidy had made himself indispensable to the company's business, and has also secured for himself a fine home at Read's, beside one hundred and thirty acres of farming land in Pepin township. On December 8, 1857, he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Kyle, a native of New Brunswick, of Irish descent. All save the eldest of their four children are now at home. They were christened: George K., Mabel and William. Jennie (now Mrs. Edward Bivins) resides at Stephen, Minnesota. While he has taken no part in the administration of public affairs, Mr. Cassidy has always been a faithful and consistent republican.
Casper, Anthony, (page 1214), merchant, was born near Strasbourg, in Alsace, April 6, 1841, and came with his parents to Buffalo, New York, when eleven years old. Here he attended the English common schools about six months in all, his early years being mostly devoted to toil. After reaching maturity he earned one hundred and fifty dollars, which he invested in cows, and started his parents in the dairy business, still conducted by his mother there, his father having died. In 1865 he opened a grocery store in Buffalo, with a capital of three hundred dollars. A year later he took in a partner. In 1870 he bought out his partner, and continued the business six years alone. He became a resident of Chester in the spring of 1877, at that time purchasing one hundred acres of land on the northwest quarter of section 4. On this he erected the large hotel and store that he occupies, with barns and other outbuildings. He sells over fifteen thousand dollars' worth of goods per year, and his trade is steadily increasing. He has added forty acres to his landed domain, and now tills the whole with the assistance of his sons. Through his efforts a postoffice was secured at Belle Chester, and he was appointed to its charge, his commission dating April 30, 1879. Up to July 1, 1881, he carried the mail from Lake City, and after that the government supplied the office. He has also served as justice of the peace for four years, and is still incumbent of the office. Mr. Casper visited this state in 1870, and was so pleased with it that he determined to remove thither as soon as possible. He is an enthusiastic democrat. Himself and family are communicants of Belle Chester Catholic church. He was married in 1865, to Eva Reding, born in Sheldon, New York. Their children were christened respectively, Anthony M., Joseph H., Edward Louis, Mary O., John T., Martha M., Eva Antoinette. Two beside the above named died in infancy.
Caswell, Cyrus L, (page 957 ~ listed as Saxwell in the index), farmer, is a brother of the above subject (Joseph Caswell). He was born April 4, 1831, while his parents dwelt in La Grange county, Indiana. His mother died when he was but seven years old, and he was brought up by Triplett, who was subsequently one of the pioneers of Chester. Messrs. Triplett and Caswell came here at the same time as those above mentioned, and made claims. Mr. Caswell's was partly on the Half-breed Tract. In 1861 he traded land for the eighty acres on section 27, where his home has been ever since. He still retains sixty acres on section 25, where he first settled. He was elected supervisor in 1868; he is a republican. In theological matters he agrees with the Methodists. He was married July 14, 1856, to Margaret Jenkins, a native of England. They have buried three daughters, and have one living, besides three sons. John married Carrie Lewis, and resides in the house with his parents. The others are William, Charles and Mary.
Caswell, Joseph, (page 956), carpenter, was the first postmaster at Bear Valley, having settled in the township, then known by that name (now Chester), in June, 1855. His father, who bore the same name, settled here at the same time. This family is of English descent. Mary Mabie, whom Joseph Caswell, Sr., married, was descended from the early Dutch settlers of New York. The elder Caswell died in Vernon county, Wisconsin, in 1868. The subject of this paragraph was born March 19, 1826, in Cayuga county, New York. By the time he was ten years old he had dwelt with his parents in four states besides his native one. All his early life was passed on a farm. On August 14, 1851, he married Mary Nicholson, a native of Wisconsin. In 1855 he made a claim on section 26, where he dwelt seven years. In 1864 he removed to Waukee, Iowa, where his home has ever since been. He is the father of nine children. Clarence, the eldest, is in Worth county, Missouri; Charles, in Otter Tail county, Minnesota. The rest are at Waukee. Their names are Belle, Jane, John, Herbert, Elsie, Lydia L. and Harriet. Mr. Caswell united successively, as circumstances made most convenient, with the Methodist Episcopal, Baptist and United Brethren churches. He has always been a democrat.
Chalmers, Gabriel, (page 1220), farmer, is a native of Dumfriesshire, Scotland, where he was born November 11, 1828. His parents were Gabriel and Margaret (Mundle) Chalmers, to whom were born twelve children, Gabriel being the eleventh. When he was ten years of age he accompanied his parents to Lanark county, Ontario, where he lived with his parents until twenty-one, when he went to Oswego county, New York. Here he learned the carpenter's trade, and followed it there eight years, returned to Canada and pursued his calling until his removal westward. In 1878 he located on the farm in West Albany, which he now occupies, being known since the early settlement of the township as the "Lone Tree" quarter-section. He was married July 4, 1853 to Mary Morris, of Somersetshire. Seven children have been the fruit of this union, four of whom are living: Edward J., John M., Charles H., William H. Mr. and Mrs. Chalmers are Presbyterians. In politics he is republican. He is a prosperous farmer and an intelligent citizen.
War of Rebellion (Civil War)
Chapman, Rhinaldo W., (page 1305), a Plainview
farmer, was born in Lima, Jefferson county, New York, June 5, 1835. He was
the youngest son of Asa Chapman, a farmer. His education was obtained in
the district school. He continued to reside at home until he had nearly
attained to his majority. In the meantime he had learned the carpenter trade,
and being also of a speculative turn of mind, had profitably handled his
small earnings, and was now enabled to purchase a fifty-acre farm in the
southern part of his native county. Good luck attended him, and he engaged
in buying stock and poultry for the New York market. He was drafted in 1863,
but paid for a substitute and the following year volunteered his services
to fight the Union battles, and was mustered into the 186th N. Y. Inf.,
and was in active service in the army of the Potomac until the close of
the war, his regiment participating in all those hard-fought battles in
which that army engaged immediately preceding the fall of Petersburgh. In
consequence of impaired health, the result of exposure while in the service,
he has been placed on Uncle Sam's pension rolls. He resumed business in
Oswego, New York, where he ran a grocery store for a few months, and for
the two years following he was in the stock and poultry business. In 1869
he came to Minnesota and bought from John Allen, of Elgin, a farm on section
21 in that township. This place he greatly improved, and erected thereon
fine buildings. In 1882, ill health induced him to go to Elgin village to
reside. At the time the cyclone visited that unfortunate town he was living
with his family, consisting of a wife and two step-daughters, Edith and
Hattie Dillon, in the second of one of the ill-fated houses. The family
were at dinner when the tornado approached, and were all buried beneath
the ruins of their home. They escaped, however, with only bruises, and esteem
their good luck in this to providential interposition. Mrs. Helen Dillon
nee Goodenough, of St. Lawrence, New York, the relict of Albert Dioon (a
comrade in arms of Mr. Chapman), became Mrs. Chapman, November 23, 1868.
Since the destruction of his Elgin home, Mr. Chapman has resided in Plainview
village, where he has purchased several village lots in Thompson's addition,
and on which he is erecting a fine house. Mr. Chapman and his family are
members of the Methodist Episcopal church; has been steward and trustee.
Dear Ms. Timm,
I am writing in regard to Rhinaldo W. Chapman (born
June 5, 1835 in Lyme, Jefferson County, New York) who relocated to Wabasha
County, Minnesota in 1869.
He was attached to Co E of the 186th NYSV Infantry
during the Civil War. I have been researching the 186th and one soldier
in particular...Corporal Albert Dillin (also known as Dillon). Rhinaldo's
wife Helen, was the widow of Albert Dillin. Out of complete curiosity I
would like to learn more about Helen's fate and that of her 2 daughters
Edith & Hattie (Hettie) Dillin. I am also looking for any ancestral descendants
of soldiers of the 186th, that may be in possession of letters, pictures,
or diaries from soldiers of the 186th. I know my chances are slim, but if
there are local descendants of Helen and Albert Dillin, perhaps they have
some family history to share?
The Dillin family was a renowned pioneer family
of Jefferson County, New York. Albert was the only son of Samuel & Rhoda
Dillin. He died at Petersburg, Va on April 2, 1865, without a surviving
male child. Another daughter, Jenyvieve, pre-deceased him at the age of
2 months. My curiosity arose when my children and I discovered a monument
erected to his memory in an old cemetary near the home of my parents. Further
research strongly indicates that my parents' home now stands where Albert
and Helen had lived after their marriage. An old stone foundation still
remains. I love history and I love mysteries. This has turned out to be
the best of both. I recently received Albert Dillin's military pension records.
That was how I was able to discover what had become of his widow Helen.
A document informing the pension record dept. of her remarriage and relocation
has led me to Minnesota.
If there is any information you can share, or if
you know of a direction in which to point me, please let me know. It would
be greatly appreciated. Thank You ~ Karen S. Doney E-mail
me!
Charley, Augustus, (page 1054), was born in Sweden, April 15, 1825. On October 5, 1853, he landed in Chicago. When on the sea between Liverpool and New York, the vessel in which he had taken passage was overtaken by a terrific storm, and all three of the masts were swept away, and was for several days without any propelling motive on board the vessel. The captain finally succeeded in rigging out a small sail by using some loose poles which happened to be on board the vessel for masts. They were four weeks and three days on the sea, and many suffered with hunger. As many as nineteen children died for want of something to eat. Mr. Charley staid in Chicago over three years, working asAbout one year of this time his wife was sick and in bed. He then worked in a sawmill for three years in Read's Landing; and from there he came to Glasgow township, where he now lives, in the fall of 1859. He homesteaded one hundred and sixty acres of land, and since then has bought eighty acres more. He and his daughter built the first house in which they lived, a small log house which was replaced by another log house and that by his present house, which he built in 1874. When Mr. Charley first came to his place, he found everything wild, and he has done all the improving on his place himself. He had no money when he came, and was without a team of any description for over two years. By working for his neighbors he finally managed to buy himself a team (a couple of two-year-old steers). Mr. Charley now has his second wife; he was married first time in Sweden, and his wife died before he came to this country. His second wife, Christine Erikson, he also married in Sweden. Of the nine children born to them, but four of them are now living. Matilda, the eldest, is the wife of John Peterson, and now lives in Wisconsin. John, Alfred, and Ida are the names of the other three. Mr. Charley enlisted in Co. D, of the 5th Minn. Inf., and was mustered in at Memphis, Tennessee. He was in the battles of Nashville, Spanish Fort, Mobile, Vicksburg and Columbia. He was mustered out at Montgomery, Alabama. Mr. Charley lost his health while in the army, and has not be able to work a day since. He now draws a pension.
Chinberg, Ole, (page 1193), blacksmith and wagonmaker, Lake City, was born in Sweden in 1848, and was reared to the trade of blacksmith by his father, who was a skilled worker in iron. In 1871 he left his native home an sailed for America, having in view the bettering his condition in life and a better remuneration for his labor. His first work in this country was on a farm, where he readily learned the customs and language of the American people. Later he worked with a construction company on a Minnesota railroad. In 1874 he went to California, and worked at his trade nearly two years in the Sierra Nevada mountains, after which he returned to Minnesota and permanently located in Lake City, and opened up business for himself. In 1876, in this city, he was married to Miss Anna Coleman, also a native of Sweden. They have two children, Alfrida Axelin and Harry Sigfrid, living, and one deceased. Mr. Chinberg is a reliable, trustworthy businessman, and a credit to Lake City.
Clark, William,(page 1280), farmer, of Plainview township, was born in the Allegheny mountains, Hardy county, in the State of Virginia, April 23, 1825. His father, Hendricks Clark, owned a mill and distillery. In 1835 the family removed to Canton, Ohio, and engaged in agricultural pursuits. In 1844, when in his twentieth year, our subject went to Indiana, where for eight years he did farm work summers and taught school winters near Goshen. In 1852 Mr. Clarke crossed the plains to California, performing the entire journey from Omaha to Sacramento on foot. He tarried in the mining-camps of Downieville, on the Yuba river, for one year, and spent another year farming near Benicia before returning to the states. On May 12, 1856, he located his claim on section 18 in Plainview. To his original quarter-section he has made additions and now owns four hundred acres of fine land just west of Plainview village. Mr. Clark's father was a Quaker, and sought to bring up his children in the way they should go, but his son William was not always the most tractable boy, and when ten or twelve years old used to devote more time to hunting, fishing and nutting than to Sunday schools; but notwithstanding his wildness there was no innate wickedness in his heart, while his mind was endowed with those literary tastes which rendered him a fine student.
Clear, Justin H.,(page 1207), shoemaker, son of Bavarian parents, Henry and Margaret Clear, was born in Buffalo, New York, on the last day of July, 1854. When he was three months old his parents moved to Jefferson, Wisconsin, where he was brought up. He attended the schools of that city till fifteen years old, when he began to learn the trade he has followed ever since. He was employed four years in a shoe factory at Jefferson. In November, 1875, he became a resident of Minnesota, working six months in Rochester. In May, 1876, he bought the business of J. S. Huntley and settled down in Mazeppa. Next year he moved into the building he now occupies as shop and residence, corner of First and Maple streets, and a year later purchased the property. On February 4, 1878, he was married to Mary Trout, born of German parents at Rio, Wisconsin. They have one child, born July 27, 1882, and christened Fannie. Mr. Clear was reared in the Roman Catholic church, to which he still adheres. He is a republican, and often has a voice in the councils of that party.
Cleaveland, William Lord,(page 967), was born in Royalton, Windsor county, Vermont, December 17, 1814. His father, Jedediah Cleaveland, was of English descent, and his mother, Harriet (Randall) Cleaveland, of Scotch parentage. He acquired a fair common-school education in Vermont by working for his board and attending school winters. He then taught a term or two of school in his native state; in 1837 came to Ohio and did carpenter work for a year, then went to Clinton, Michigan, where he continued to reside for sixteen years, working at his trade, that of a millwright, and teaching school. From 1854 to 1856 he followed his trade in Pittsburgh, Indiana. In the fall of 1856 came to Wabasha county, and the following spring pre-empted one hundred and sixty acres on section 17, in Highland, which land he still owns. He married Lucinda Hooper at Tecumseh, Michigan, in 1843; her death occurred November, 1877. Mr. Cleaveland now has a home with his eldest son, John D., of Highland. The following are his children now living, namely: John D., born in Michigan, June 22, 1875; Jennette C. (Mrs. W. H. Phillips), of Winona, September 1, 1847; William E., of Highland, a grocer, November 28, 1849. Mr. Cleaveland professes to be a Spiritualist. He has been a justice of the peace in Highland township continuously, with the exception of three years, since its organization. He was chairman of the first board of supervisors and held that place for three years. He is a charter member of Plainview Lodge, No. 16, I.O.O.F.
Clemens, Peter (page 1084 ~ deceased) was a veteran of the German army, having served eight years in the war against Napoleon. He was also a pioneer of the Roman Catholic church in Mazeppa, having thrown open his house for services some years before the erection of a church here. He practically built the first edifice, paying nearly all its cost from his own pocket. Mr. Clemens was born in Haster, Gruebenmacher, Germany, December 11, 1808, and died here July 3, 1871. At twenty-seven years of age he learned the mason's trade, and followed it nearly all the rest of his life. He was married November 18, 1854, to Mary Reuland. He landed in New York on January 1, 1855, and took up his residence in Westchester. Thence he removed to Minnesota, and bought a quarter-section of land in Pine Island township, near Mazeppa. Here he lived till 1865, when he moved to this village. He was the father of twelve children, four by his first marriage. All are living in this vicinity. Here are their names: Matthew, Nicholas, Peter, John, Mary (Mrs. George Hertzig), Matthew D., Catharine (Mrs. Nic. Hoffman), William, Anna (Mrs. J. B. Gregoire), Elizabeth; Barney, the youngest, is dead.
Cliff, Addin Johnson,(page 1035), farmer, resides on section 14, Chester, where he made claim in 1857. Mr. Cliff was born in Lancashire, England, February 9, 1834. His parents, James and Mary Cliff, were born there. In 1851 Mr. Cliff crossed the Atlantic, and dwelt six years in Connecticut, being employed in a bit and auger factory. His mother came here at the same time as himself, taking land in the south part of the town, where she died. After her death, Mr. Cliff built a house on his land (1879) and has lived there since. When he arrived here his pocket contained his whole capital of seventy-five cents, and he now owns a fine farm with comfortable and commodious buildings. He was married on the first day of the year 1867 to Huldah Converse, a native of Allegheny county, Pennsylvania. Her father, Samuel Converse, was for a time resident, and died, here. His wife Emeline, nee Taylor, is still living. Mrs. Cliff is a member of the Wesleyan church. Her husband has always supported the republican party, but never took any active part in politics. Their children were born as here noted: Carrie A., October 5, 1867; Minnie M., July 14, 1869; Samuel C., March 11, 1871; William Addin, February 2, 1873.
Note From Fellow Genealogist: I am researching the family of Samuel & Emeline (Taylor) Converse who lived in Wabasha county ~ at least Samuel died there, in 1880, and is buried in Bear Creek Cemetery, Chester Twp. I am very interested in finding an obituary, death notice of any kind, living descendants (a daughter, Huldah, married Addin Johnson Cliff) who might have some family information ~ anything that will help me trace who Samuel's parents were and where he might have lived before coming to Minnesota. His sister, Elizabeth, is my ancestor and I have no information about their parents. I will be happy to share anything I have with anyone interested in this line. Donna
Cliff, Joseph J.,(page 1036), farmer, is a nephew of the above (Addin Johnson Cliff), and was born in the same locality May 7, 1844 (Lancashire, England.) His parents were John and Mary Cliff. He was but seven years old when he came with the above uncle to the United States, and was reared by the latter. He has been a resident of Chester since thirteen years of age. His is now the owner of two hundred and eighty acres of land, and has resided since 1875 on section 23. Here was his first purchase of forty acres. By industry and perseverance he has been enabled to gradually increase his domain. In 1873 he married Melissa Merrill, who died May 7, 1881. He has one child, born May 12, 1876, and named after the month of her birth. In June, 1882, he married Mary, daughter of C. C. Robinson, of this town. He is a liberal in religion, and a republican in politics. In 1883 he was elected town supervisor.
Clifford Rev. Robert (page 988 ~ deceased) delivered the first sermon in Lake City in the fall of 1850. Born at Spoondon, Derbyshire, England, in 1801. He was early apprenticed to a dyer in the city of Derby. He soon became imbued with religious zeal, and began to preach the doctrine of the Disciples. He came to America in 1838, and settled at Philadelphia. For sixteen years he continued to preach in that neighborhood and in New York, and came to the site of this city in 1855. After coming to this country he joined the Wesleyan Methodist church. He died here in 1862, and his widow, nee Rebecka Wayne, passed away two years later. Of five children, but three are now alive. The eldest, a son, died in Philadelphia. The second, Robert, resides in Lake City, and also the youngest, Mrs. Jane W. Helt, a widow. The third, Mrs. John A. Jackson, dwells in Mount Pleasant. Mrs. John R. Graham died here.
Clifford, Robert (page 988), engineer, Lake City, son of above (Rev. Robert Clifford), was born in Winster, England, September 16, 1823, and came with his parents to the United States when fifteen years of age. He received but little schooling, and was apprenticed when seventeen to a blacksmith. On reaching his majority he came west and settled in the town of Porter, Rock county, Wisconsin. Here he built a smithy, and therein worked for ten years. He came to Minnesota in 1864, and bought a farm in Mount Pleasant, this county. His winters were spent in the wagon and carriage works, where he is now employed, and in 1867 he sold the farm and bought a home in the city, and has dwelt here steadily since. For the last five years he has had charge of the engine. Mr. Clifford is a full degree member of the I.O.O.F. He is a thorough republican, and in religious faith is found with the Methodists. In February, 1845, he was married at Philadelphia, the bride being Miss Margaret Helt, who died in July, 1875, leaving seven children. The eldest, Robert Wayne, served three years in the Union army before he was twenty years old, and is now in business in St. Paul. The others are resident as follows: Joseph D., Detroit, Michigan; Nettie (Mrs. Frank Devor), Minneapolis; Mary A. (married James Cliff, now deceased), Mazeppa; Maggie (Hiram Johnson), Minneapolis; Fannie (Jefferson Rosle), Mazeppa; Naomi T. (Frank Young), Sparta, Wisconsin. Mr. Clifford was married for the second time, to Miss Susan Mills, a native of Virginia, to whom a son was born six years ago.
Clifford, Vilroy E., (page 1326), for many years a grain dealer at Maiden Rock, is a native of Rutland county, Vermont, and was born in 1833. He passed his early youth on the farm and at school in the Green Mountain State. At about the age of twenty years he removed with his parents to the State of Michigan, where they purchased a large farm. Here he remained till about 1864, when he removed to Wisconsin and soon after engaged in the grain trade at Maiden Rock, on the shores of lovely Lake Pepin. Here he did a large and successful business for many years, not only in grain but in merchandising. In May, 1880, he removed to his pleasant and substantial home on East Oak street, in Lake City. Though he still continues to deal in wheat, he is giving more attention to real estate. His parents, Nathan D. and Daphne (Smith) Clifford, who were also natives of Vermont, now reside at Maiden Rock, Wisconsin. Mr. Clifford was married in 1866 to Miss Zoe A. Huestis, a daughter of Benjamin W. and Mary E. (Blackman) Huestis. She was born in Jackson county, Michigan, in 1846, where her parents settled in the heavy timber at an early day. They have three children, whose names are George W., Burt and Emer (sic) V. Mr. Clifford is Mason and holds his membership at Maiden Rock.
Note from fellow genealogist: I would like to thank you for putting the article from "History of Wasbasha County" concerning Vilroy E Clifford on the Wasbasha message board on Rootsweb. I have done research on Benjamin W Huestis and found only 2 references to Zoe A Huestis (wife of Vilroy E Clifford) as a young child. No living descendant had ever heard her mentioned in any family documents or conversation so I believed she must have died young (last reference I have she was 7). I was delighted to see she married and left Jackson County, MI where there are descendants of her brother's still living today on the old family homestead they have lived on for 156 years. Marie
Colby, Charles M. (page 1078), Lake City, is a son of Ford Colby, one of the pioneers of this state. This subject was born in Eaton, Compton county, Province of Quebec, June 29, 1844, and was therefore about fourteen years old when he came with his parents to this state. His youth was spent on a farm there and here, and his intellect trained in the common schools. Notwithstanding his limited educational opportunities, Mr. Colby is a gentleman of more than ordinary acquirements. For many years he owned and tilled a farm in the town of Lake, which he sold in 1883. For some time his winters were spent in mercantile pursuits in the city, and in 1881 he removed thither. For six years he was employed as drygoods salesman by C. F. Rogers, and subsequently by C. F. Young. He was two years clerk in the Merchant's Hotel. He has always been a republican, and is a member of the Odd-Fellows lodge and encampment here. January 19, 1881, he was united in marriage to Miss Alice, daughter of John Disney, one of the pioneers of Gillford township, this county. To this union has been given a daughter, now (March, 1884) one and one-half years of age.
For more information see web site for Colby Family and Others. E-mail the List Administrator at: COLBY- [email protected] or UTSEVIER- [email protected]
Colby, Loyal D. (page 1080), farmer, of Plainview, and son of Jonathan Colby, also a Plainview farmer, was born in Orange county, Vermont, on April 20, 1836. In 1855 he accompanied his father to California. They went thither via the isthmus of Panama, and spent two years in the mines known as Garrotte No. 2, near Big Oak Flats. In the spring of 1858 they started from Vermont with eight horses, which they drove nearly the entire distance to Wabasha county. In 1863 he bought eighty acres on section 16, in Plainview, but did not take up his residence thereon until after his marriage, which occurred January 1, 1867, the lady being the daughter of Smith P. Avery, a wealthy farmer of Orange county, Vermont; the ceremony took place at her Vermont home. The children of this marriage are: Lula B., Gardner A., Carl W., Esther J. and Rolla W. P. Mr. Colby is a member of the Plainview Methodist Episcopal church, the masonic fraternity and the grange, and is independent in politics. His home is still on section 16, just east of the village, where he has one hundred and sixty acres of fine land.
For more information see web site for Colby Family and Others. E-mail the List Administrator at: COLBY- [email protected] or UTSEVIER- [email protected]
Collier, F. J., (page 964), superintendent of the county poorhouse, is a native of New York. At six years of age he came into Lorain county, Ohio, with his father's family, and thirteen years later into Kane county, Illinois. He learned his trade as a cooper, and worked at it in Ohio, Illinois and Indiana, until 1855, when he came to Wabasha, and opened a hardware store here, which he carried on for two years. He then purchased a farm of one hundred and sixty acres in Cook's Valley, and farmed it there until 1865, when his health rendering farm work impossible, he returned to this city, was elected justice of the peace and city recorder, which latter office he held until 1878, when he was appointed superintendent of the county poorfarm. His office as justice of the peace he retained until the expiration of his term in 1879. Was nominated and elected to the state legislature in 1870, and was judge of probate for the term ending December 31, 1881. May 9, 1852, Mr. F. J. Collier married Miss Nancy Purcelle, a native of Prescott, Canada. They have five children. W. D. Collier, born July 28, 1854; Oliver F., born August 6, 1858; George O., born April 8, 1860; Elmer, born February 2, 1862; Charles H., born December 2, 1865. The boys are residents of the city, unmarried, and with the exception of the two eldest, at home. O. F., the second son, is proprietor of the Wabasha "Herald."
Collier, O. F., (page 965), senior member of the firm of O. H. Collier & Co., editors and proprietors of the Wabasha "Herald," is a native of Wabasha county, born on his father's farm in Cook's Valley, August 6, 1858. Young Collier received his education in the public schools of this city until he entered the printing-office of W. S. Walton in 1872, with whom he remained until 1866 (?), with the exception of a year at school. He then went to Lake City and for five years was foreman in the office of the Wabasha county "Sentinel," until 1881, when he purchased the Wabasha "Herald" from Messrs. Matteson and Lewark, which he conducted two years and sold a third interest to one of the old proprietors, W. Lewark, and by them the paper is now published. Mr. Collier is unmarried and quite an enthusiastic sportsman with rod and gun.
Conrad, Frank, (page 1167), Chester, farmer, was born near Arlow, Belgium, April 3, 1842. When he was fourteen years old his father, William Conrad, came to the United States and settled on a farm at Port Washington, Wisconsin. His mother, Barbara, died when he was five years old, and his father now resides with him. Mr. Conrad never attended an English school. In 1867 he came to this town and bought eighty acres of land on section 3, and he now has two hundred acres of beautiful farming land, and is independent. In 1883 on one hundred and fifty acres he produced thirteen hundred bushels of wheat, five hundred and fifty of barley, six hundred of oats and one hundred and fifty of potatoes. The corn crop of the whole region was a failure. Mr. Conrad was married in February, 1870, to Mary Gregoire, born in the same locality as he. Their children were given them and christened as below: July 19, 1871, Mary Josephine; November 5, 1872, John B.; November 20, 1874, Michael; April 20, 1877, Paul; April 11, 1880, Joseph. All the family are communicants in Belle Chester Catholic church.
Conrad, Paul, (page 1167), farmer, was born in the same place as his brother above (Frank Conrad), in April 1848. He was but eight years old when his father brought him to the United States, and his training has been the same as that of his brother, described above. In 1872 he bought a farm near Lake City, in Goodhue county, where he lived six years. He then sold out and purchased one-fourth of section 20, Chester, where he now resides. He began in this state with nothing but his hands, and is now independent. He was married in February, 1872, to Catharine Poncelet, a native of Luxemburg. Their children were born as follows, William, April 27, 1873; Frank, March 22, 1875; Mary, February 14, 1877; Annie, March 31, 1879; Rosa, December 13, 1880; Susie, January 21, 1882. All are baptized in the Roman Catholic church.
Cook, Elnathan, (page 1188), Chester, was born in the town of Maria, Essex county, New York, October 1, 1844. His father, Chester K., was born in New York, and married Harriet Dutton, of Vermont birth. Young Cook was taken at nine years of age to St. Lawrence county, where he was reared on a farm and received a common-school education. At twenty-two he settled in Minnesota, being employed three years to manage a stock-farm near Dodge Center. He subsequently rented land in that vicinity, and engaged in general farming. Mr. Cook is a good judge of horseflesh, and has raised some good horses. In 1878 he bought on hundred acres of land on section 31, about a mile from Mazeppa, and took up his residence thereon, in 1880. March 16, 1872, he was wedded to Miss Lovina Arnold, daughter of Charles and Lovina Arnold, all of New York. Mrs. Cook is a member of the Methodist Episcopal church, while her husband's sympathies are with the faith of his parents, Baptist. He is an enthusiastic republican. Their children were given them at following dates: William, December 12, 1879; Maude, September 5, 1877; Mary, July 30, 1882.
Cook, Garret A. (page 998), postmaster at Cook's Valley, is a grandson of Garret Albertson, a continental soldier during the American revolution. In the town of Hardwick, Warren county, New Jersey, January 2, 1818, the subject of this sketch was born to Abram H. and Ann Galicia (Albertson) Cook, themselves natives of the same commonwealth. Until fifteen years old Garret A. Cook remained on his father's farm, receiving the limited benefits of the common school of the time. He was apprenticed to a saddler and harness-maker, and pursued such occupation for twelve years. He went to Virginia in 1852, and thence came to Minnesota in 1855, locating on section 30, Greenfield. His home has ever since remained there. By his thrift he has acquired three hundred and forty acres of real estate, and is passing his old age in peace and plenty. He was elected clerk of the first school district organized here, in November, 1857, and still fills the same position; has been postmaster for the past twenty-two years; was justice of the peace four years here, and eight years in New Jersey; affiliates with the republican party. Himself and wife are communicants in the Methodist Episcopal church, and were instrumental in the building of Cook's Valley church for that society. Mr. Cook was made a mason in Virginia and served as secretary of the same lodge in which George Washington was initiated. In 1841 Mr. Cook was united in marriage to Miss Mary, daughter of Jeremy and Lana Mackey, all of New Jersey. They have since become the parents of six children. Abram and Elizabeth (Mrs. Herman Graff) are resident at Hancock, Minnesota. Lytle O., Anneta, Irwin and Viola still dwell with their parents. Abram entered the United States army, and served till the close of the civil war in the 3d Minn. Regt. Lytle is now conducting the village school at Kellogg. While resident at Alexandria, Virginia, Mr. Cook fell into an unguarded railway cut, which caused a permanent injury of his left limb.
Cornwell, Elijah Roscoe, (page 1159), junior member of the Plainview hardware firm of C. C. Cornwell & Son, was born in Willoughby, Lake county, Ohio, September 17, 1847. His youth was chiefly spent on a farm in Lowell, Dodge county, Wisconsin, whither his father removed when E. R. was about six years old. He acquired the rudiments of an education in a district school, and in his seventeenth year, spring of 1864, he enlisted as a volunteer in the 39th Wis., and served about six months under Gen. C. C. Washburn at Memphis, being there at the time Forrest made his raid. From the spring of 1865 to the spring of 1867 he worked as a mill-hand in the Winnebago City Mills. He then came to Plainview, where his father was living, and the next year became a partner with Henry Horton in a wagon-shop. This copartnership was dissolved in 1873, when he found employment as a clerk in his father's hardware store, where he became a partner in 1876. In 1869, November 29, he married Emily Adell Burchard, daughter of the late R. Burchard, a prominent business man and pioneer of Plainview. To this worthy couple the following children have been born, namely: Florine, April 13, 1871; Charles, December 25, 1872; Nellie (deceased), October 16, 1876; Florence, July 17, 1878; Frankie, August 18, 1880; and Baby, April 27, 1883. Mr. Cornwell is a worthy member of Illustrious Lodge, No. 63, A.F.A.M., and Chapter, No. 36; also a Sir Knight, and bears a sword in Home Commandery, No. 5, of Rochester.
War of 1812
Cornwell, Chauncey C., (page 1129), senior
member of the hardware firm of C. C. Cornwell & Son, Plainview, was born
in Erie county, New York, April 13, 1812. His father, Elihu Cornwell, was
a farmer. His youth was chiefly passed in Middletown, Connecticut, to which
place his parents removed while he was but an infant. His education was
received at the common school. He learned the trade of shoemaker, and soon
after formed a copartnership with his brother, under the firm name of H.
D. Cornwell & Co., and engaged in the manufacture of boots and shoes. Two
years later they dissolved this copartnership, and C. C. went to Willoughby,
Ohio, and opened a similar factory there. Here he continued in the business
until 1849, when, owing to ill health, which demanded a changed of climate,
he disposed of his valuable property in Willoughby, and removed to Lovell
township, Dodge county, Wisconsin, where he engaged in agricultural pursuits.
Here his health improved, and he spent the next sixteen years of his life.
He came to Plainview in 1865, and engaged in the hardware business with
E. B. Eddy, afterward with E. Dodge, and finally with his son, E. R. Cornwell.
Mr. Cornwell is living with his second wife (nee Elizabeth Welch, of Ohio).
His first wife was a Mrs. Young, of Haddam, Connecticut, by whom he had
four children, all living, as follows: Harvey, of Pine Island, Minnesota;
Elizabeth (Mrs. Poole), of Winnebago; Alfred, in Castleton, and E. R., his
present partner.
Cornwell, F. J., (page 1172), a leading drygoods and general merchant of Plainview, was born in Savannah, Georgia, in 1836, where he remained until thirteen years of age, during which time he had the misfortune to lose both his parents. Nothing daunted, young Cornwell struck out for Burk county, in his native state, and five years clerked for his brother-in-law, when he returned to the scenes of his childhood, and continued to clerk in the place of his birth until 1856. Then, at the age of twenty, he moved northwest into Dodge county, Minnesota, and in a similar position in general merchandise served Porter & Lock, and others, until at the end of two years and a half he hired to L. E. Casey, at Cordova, Illinois. In 1861, still in Mr. Casey's employ, he removed with him to Winona, and continued until 1863. At this time he went to St. Charles, and engaged in business with J. Himsted & Co., still clerking, and for two and a half years longer, at which time he removed to Plainview, where he commenced operations as partner of the St. Charles firm. At the end of the next year Himsted sold his interest to one John Taylor, and the business continued as J. Taylor & Co. In 1872 Mr. Cornwell sold out to J. Taylor, and for two years and a half next succeeding acted in the capacity of bookkeeper for Ozias Wilcox, until the summer of 1875, when he went south. In December of the same year a telegram announcing the low condition of his late employer summoned him to return and take charge of the business. Wilcox died January 1, following, and January 12 Mr. Cornwell reopened the business, and ran it in the interest of the family of deceased until June of the same year, when he became sole proprietor. In 1876 he removed to and became the first occupant of the spacious brick building, the finest business building in the town, and built by A. Y. Felton, of creamery notoriety. In 1881- a self-made man- Mr. Cornwell purchased the building, this becoming the sole proprietor of both building and business. He is the owner of other real estate in Fargo. The subject of this sketch is reputed to be the most prosperous merchant in this vicinity, and generally liked for his business tact, impartial dealing and careful self-respect.
Corp, Sidney, (page 1166), farmer, is located on section 29, Zumbro, where he settled in 1860, and now has three hundred and eighty acres. He is a native of England, born February 15, 1832, in Wanstrow, Somersetshire. His early years were passed on a farm and in attendance at a rate school. In 1850 he crossed the Atlantic and settled at Brecksville, Ohio, where he learned the carpenter's trade, and continued at that occupation till he came here. In 1854 he went to Melrose, Illinois, from whence he removed to Minnesota. As soon as he was settled here he set about improving his land and setting out trees. He is now one of our model farmers, and was the first to ship fruit from this section. September 25, 1853, he married Elizabeth, sister of James Arnold, parentage elsewhere given. Both are among the earliest admitted to the Wesleyan Methodist church here. In politics Mr. Corp is independent of parties. Their only child, Annie, born June 4, 1854, is now the wife of Harry L. Rolph and resides near her parents. Mr. and Mrs. Rolph have two daughters.
Corwin, Daniel C., (page 1094), Lake City, is the eldest of ten brothers who never disagreed, is a native of Long Island, New York, and was born March 10, 1828. His father, Capt. Henry Corwin, was a seafaring man, and his son started on the water when but nine years old. He followed boating till the age of fifteen, when he left the sea to take a position in a wholesale store in Norwich, Connecticut. He held this position four years, when he turned his attention to art study, at the same time serving his teacher as clerk in his store. After pursuing his studies two years, he returned to Brooklyn, and continued this line of business in and about Long Island and New York till 1859. His time was principally employed in sign and display painting, though he produced some very fine specimens of landscapes and oil portraits. The action of chemicals used in his work had by this time so impaired his health that he was compelled to abandon a well-established business, and seek a more health-invigorating climate. The same year he came to Minnesota, and purchased a farm in Goodhue county, where, after two years' rural life, a portion of his former strength was regained. He then sold the farm and removed to Lake City, where he started in business, which he continued till 1879, when he met with a total loss by fire. He soon after started in a small way on Main street, where he keeps a restaurant and dining hall. Mr. Corwin was married in 1848 to Mary C. Smith, who died in 1862, leaving one child that has also passed away. His second marriage was in 1862 (Errata page reads "1861") to Diantha L. Rundle, by whom he has two children, Louis (Errata page reads "Lewis") A. and Mary E.
Note from Fellow Genealogist: I am second great granddaughter to Louis A Corwin, Daniel's son. I would be interested in sharing information with others who are researching this line. Thanks! Sue
Crane, Charles Elwood, (page 1133), was born February 22, 1850, and was, therefore, but fifteen years old when he came to Lake City. At eighteen he was apprenticed to George K. Saylor, jeweler, and served three years. In the spring of 1873 he opened a jewelry establishment, and soon found business growing so fast that he could not attend to it alone. Before the close of the year he took in his elder brother as a partner, and the business has steadily increased on their hands. In the fire of 1882 their store was destroyed by fire, but most of the stock was saved. They immediately proceeded to build the store now occupied by them, on the west side of Center street. It is a handsome brick structure, and contains a capacious fire-proof vault. The store and stock represent a capital of about fifteen thousand dollars. Mr. Crane is a member of the Jewelers' League, of New York city. Politically, he agrees with his father. December 26, 1878, he married Miss Cora, daughter of H. D. Wickham, one of the earliest business men of Lake City, and now a prominent resident.
Crane, Ira, (page 1132), Lake City, is one of the sixth generation of that name born in New Jersey, and first saw light at New Providence, in 1808, being a son of Joseph Crane. The family is of English origin, and dwelt for several generations at West Haven, Connecticut. The subject of this brief sketch was reared on a farm, and went to New York city to learn the tailor's trade when sixteen years old. Somewhere about 1830 he went to Crawfordsville, Indiana, where he pursued his occupation till his removal to Lake City in the spring of 1865. Here he kept a merchant tailor's shop eleven years, retiring from active life in 1876. His religion has always been the golden rule. Politically, has ever been a straightforward republican. At Crawfordsville he married Frances Matilda A. Wilhite, who was born in Kentucky, July 19, 1814, and died in 1861. There were eight children, of whom six are now living. The youngest son, Edward, is at Granite Falls, Minnesota, in jewelry business. Ann Elizabeth (Mrs. A. P. Watson) lives at Crawfordsville. Salena H. died here, aged thirty. Mary Isabel (Crawford), Crawfordsville. Sarah C. (Mrs. M. R. Merrill), home here. Julia (Mrs. F. H. Kellogg), San Francisco. The firstborn, a son, died in infancy.
War of 1812
War of Rebellion (Civil War)
Crary, Dr. Charles W., (page 1208), is a native
of northern New York, and is descended from a line of Scotch-English ancestors,
who settled in the Empire State early in the present century. The doctor's
paternal grandfather, Nathan Crary, was born in Scotland, came to America
in 1779, being then fifteen (Errata page reads "twenty") years of age, and
settled in Connecticut, where he remained for more than a quarter of a century.
A few years before the war of 1812-14, Mr. Nathan Crary removed to St. Lawrence
county, New York, locating in Pierpoint, where he died in 1851, at the advanced
age of ninety-two years. Nathan Crary married Lydia Arnold, aunt of the
late Stephen A. Douglas. She was a native of Brandon, Vermont, and survived
her husband about five years. To them were born a large family of children.
Of these, John Wesley Crary, father of Dr. Crary, was one. He was bred a
millwright, settled in Potsdam, New York, and carried on a very extensive
business along the borders, building the first mills ever erected at Ottawa,
then By-town, the capital of the Dominion of Canada. Dr. Crary's lineage
on his mother's side was purely English. The family had long been residents
of the Empire State, when John Wesley Crary married into it. His wife's
name was Mindwell P., daughter of Judge Lemuel Holmes, of Franklin county,
New York, and a captain in the war of 1812-14. Mr. J. W. Crary is still
living at St. Paul, Minnesota, with his youngest son, Dr. W. H. Crary, of
that city, and is in the enjoyment of perfect health. His wife died in Redwing,
this state, February 24, 1877, at sixty-six years of age, leaving to her
husband and children the memory of a life than which no nobler or more unselfish
has been lived among women. To J. W. Crary and his wife were born three
sons and one daughter. The eldest of these children was Charles Wesley Crary,
the subject of this sketch, who was born at Potsdam, New York, May 6, 1835,
and shortly afterward removed with his parents to the old farm on which
he was raised, one and half miles southeast of town. Charles W. Crary received
a thorough academic training in the old St. Lawrence Academy, in his native
town, from which he graduated in 1855. That same year he entered upon the
study of medicine in the office of Carrol C. Bates, M.D., one of the most
celebrated surgeons of northern New York. In the fall of 1858, young Crary,
having completed his studies at the Albany Medical College, graduated M.
D., and receiving his parchments from that institution, located for practice
at Fort Covington, New York. The following year, May 4, 1859, Dr. C. W.
Crary married Miss Mary P. Porter, also a native of Potsdam, New York, born
January 4, 1837, and a graduate of the academy, class of 1856. Miss Porter's
father, Orlin Porter, was a prominent clergyman of the Methodist Episcopal
church; her mother, Pamelia Porter (nee Allen), was a direct descendant
of the old Ethan Allen stock of Vermont. The doctor and his wife number
a long line of clergymen among their ancestors on both sides of the house.
Dr. Crary having married, continued in practice at Fort Covington, until
the call came for additional troops in the fall of 1861, when within twenty-four
hours' time he enlisted a full company of one hundred men, and tendered
his services to the government. These enlistments were upon the express
condition that Dr. Crary would remain with the company during its term of
service. The company was accepted by the governor of the state, Dr. Crary
was commissioned captain, and his command became Co. H, 98 regt. N. Y. Vols.
The regiment was ordered to Washington, and in the following spring took
the field under McClellan. Capt. Crary was with his regiment until May 31,
1862, when he was wounded at the battle of Fair Oaks, and sent to Annapolis,
Maryland. Was in hospital there thirty days and then sent north on sick
leave. Returned to his regiment at the expiration of sixty days, and being
incapacitated for marching by the injury he had received, was released from
his promise to remain with his company, and tendered his resignation as
captain of Co. H, to accept the assistant-surgeoncy of the 114th regt. N.
Y. Vols. He was soon afterward ordered to the department of the Gulf, under
Banks, and reported at Port Hudson. He was in all the engagements fought
by that command, ten in number, and served as medical purveyer of the corps
(the 19th) until it was ordered to the Shenandoah valley in the summer of
1864. That same fall he was promoted surgeon, and assigned to duty with
the 185th regt. N. Y. Vols., then before Petersburg. The doctor was subsequently
breveted lieutenant-colonel in the medical department, for honorable and
meritorious services in the field, and during the last six months of his
service was acting brigade-surgeon of the 1st brigade, 1st division, 5th
Army Corps. The war having closed, Dr. Crary was mustered out of the service
at Syracuse, New York, July, 1865, after having been on active duty for
nearly four years. During this time he was present in seventeen hotly-contested
general engagements, besides numerous skirmishes. The chief of these actions
were the battles of Fair Oaks, Port Hudson, Pleasant Hill, both of the Winchester
fights, Hatcher's Run, Gravely Run and Southside Railroad. The same year
that he left the army, Dr. Crary settled in Malone, New York, where he was
enjoying a very considerable practice, which he relinquished to accept the
post of contract-surgeon U. S. A., at Fort Gibson, Indian Territory, his
brother-in-law, Maj. A. S. Kimball, being quartermaster of that department.
He had been in Fort Gibson about eighteen months, when, in the spring of
1868, the smallpox broke out among the Indians at Cabin creek, some sixty
miles up the Grand river from Fort Gibson. Having been recommended for that
work by the agents of the Creek, Cherokee and Seminole Indians, Dr. Crary
threw up his contract at Fort Gibson, and made special terms with Gen. Parker,
commissioner for Indian affairs, to vaccinate all the Indians in the Creek,
Cherokee and Seminole nations. Receiving due authority from Washington,
and having made all arrangements with the medical department to forward
him a fresh supply of non-humanized vaccine- virus every seven days, Dr.
Crary entered upon his work. All the details of this service were thoroughly
mastered and reduced to a system before it was commenced, and once entered
upon it was not relinquished until under his own hand thirty thousand Indians
had been vaccinated. The doctor was accompanied for weeks together while
upon this duty with Mrs. Crary, camping out as they journeyed from station
to station, at which the Indian runners had assembled detachments of the
tribes in readiness for the doctor's coming. During the five months spent
upon this service, the doctor and his wife only received the kindest and
most hospitable treatment at the hands of the tribes among whom they sojourned.
In 1869 Dr. Crary removed with his family to Philadelphia, remained thirteen
months attending clinical lectures at the Blocksley and Pennsylvania hospitals,
received his parchments from Jefferson Medical College in the spring of
1871, and shortly afterward located for practice in the city of St. Louis.
The five years spent in this city were very prosperous ones, and during
their continuance the doctor built up a lucrative practice, and enjoyed
the confidence of the profession, as was evidenced by his being made a permanent
member of the American Medical Association, at its session in St. Louis,
in 1873. Having become a pronounced homoeopathist in 1875, the doctor formerly
relinquished his relations to the old school of practice, and entered upon
the newer and more progressive one, in which he has been signally successful.
Owing to pecuniary reverses, the result of unsuccessful political aspirations,
Dr. Crary resolved to remove from St. Louis, and being charmed with the
scenery of this lake region, located here in 1876. During the eight years
of his eminently successful practice in this city, Dr. Crary has won for
himself hosts of friends, and four years since (1880) received the compliment
of an election to the presidency of the Minnesota State Homoeopathic Institute,
which position he filled with acceptability. A perfect gentleman in manners,
genial in nature, generous to a fault, a fine horseman, a true friend, and
a man among men, Dr. Crary-with his smiling face, and his two hundred and
thirty pounds avoirdupois-is justly considered the heavyweight of the medical
fraternity of Lake City. To Dr. Crary and wife have been born four children,
of whom only one survives, the eldest, Minnie P., born at Potsdam, New York,
May 21, 1860.
Cratte, David, (page 937), city marshal since 1878. David Cratte is the son of Oliver Cratte and the grandson of Duncan Graham, both of whom were residents in this part of the northwest during the first quarter of the present century, and of whom frequent mention will be found in the earlier chapters of this history. David Cratte was born near Minnehaha Falls, in this state, March 15, 1837, and came with his father to Cratte's Landing (now Wabasha) when he was between two and three years of age, and this place has been virtually his home for the past forty-four years. He was frequently absent from Wabasha when a child, there being no opportunities for instruction here, and spent some of his childhood years with the Prescotts at Fort Snelling, and also with Alex. Faribault, an uncle by marriage, at Mendota. He was also with James Wells, another uncle, at what is now Frontenac. During these years until 1845, he was sent to school as opportunity offered. In 1846 he returned to Wabasha, and the same fall was sent to Knox College, at Galesburg, Illinois, where he remained four years, and then came home. In 1853 Mr. Cratte went upon the river as a raft pilot, which occupation he followed for twenty-six years: until 1870 as pilot of floating rafts, from 1870 to 1877 piloting raftboats, his first steamer down the Mississippi being the L. W. Bardin. He retired from the river in the fall of 1877, and the following spring was made marshal of the city, and so continues. Mr. Cratte's prowess in all athletic sports, and his unusual fleetness of foot and great powers of physical endurance, were frequently evidenced in the early days of Wabasha, and mention of them will be found elsewhere. David Cratte married Eliza J. Harrell, February 5, 1858, at Hannibal, Missouri. Their children are: Ed. D., born January 29, 1859; Alfred H., born February 28, 1861; Oliver P., born February 17, 1863; Wm. T., March 29, 1865; Elizabeth F., born August 29, 1868; Nancy J., born September 30, 1873; Harry D., born March 7, 1877.
From the historical notes: David Cratte has been a man of great activity and swiftness of foot, figuring largely in the early annals of Wabasha. In 1854 he was sent by H. S. Allen's agent at this place with dispatches to Chippewa Falls, where Mr. Allen resided. Young Cratte carried them on foot, and upon his return, just after leaving Eau Claire, he noticed a party of Chippewas lurking around in ambush for a party of Sioux, who were on their way to St. Paul. The Chippewas, knowing the surroundings far better than the Sioux, waited for and surrounded them, capturing and killing every one of them. Cratte, learning what was going on, and fearing for his own life, took to his heels and ran all the way to Wabasha, arriving at nine o'clock in the evening, a distance of fifty miles in nine hours.
Cratte, Oliver, (biography gathered from pages 593 & 937), was one of the original proprietors of the town of Wabasha. He was the first white man to build on the present site of Wabasha. He came here from Fort Snelling in 1838. Mr. Cratte was sent to this place by the government and located as blacksmith for the Wapashaw band. He was born in Liverpool, England in 1801. He was early left an orphan, and he and his sister came to Canada when he was a mere boy. He learned the blacksmith's trade at Montreal, and after completing it he came west as far as Mackinaw, where he remained about a year. He then went to Prairie du Chien in company with some traders, and was there employed by the United States government. In 1828 he was sent to Fort Snelling, where he remained until he came to Wabasha in 1838. Mr. Cratte has been married three times. His first wife was a daughter of Alexander Graham, by whom he had five children, and his present wife is a daughter of Scott Campbell, who acted as interpreter for the chiefs and braves who visited Washington in 1837 for the purpose of ceding their lands east of the Mississippi to the United States. Mr. Cratte is still living and is the oldest living white man of his time. He is entirely blind, yet his memory is good, and it is like reading history to hear him recount the scenes of this long and varied experience. The old man is poor, which renders his blindness still more pitiable. He has, in his day, been far beyond want; but loaning gold and, in his own honesty of purpose and heart, trusting the word of those who came to him in need, taking no proper security, he has thus, in his old age, become reduced to poverty and sorrow. Coming here in the fall of 1838, he built a shop of logs on the levee, chinking it with mud and sand, and occupying it that winter for shop and dwelling. In the spring following he added a "lean- to" and sent for his family, they having remained at Fort Snelling during the winter. This dwelling was the first ever built by white man at this place.
Notes from fellow genealogist: I would like
to submit you a correction about Oliver Cratte's birthplace. Oliver Cratte
was born Olivier Crete, in Pointe-du-Lac, a little village near the city
of Three Rivers, in the province of Quebec. I have 1801-11-19 as his birthdate,
but it could be the date of his baptism. His father was Etienne Crete, and
his mother was Brigitte Labbe. His mother died 1805-11-22; with his sister
Brigitte, Olivier was brought up by an uncle, one of his mother's brothers.
He was trained in Montreal as a blacksmith. He left the province of Quebec
at the age of 23, heading to the West.
My sources:
1. In 1871, a traveler named Meinier met him in his farm outside Wabashaw;
Meinier was introduced by Rev. Trobec. Meinier wrote notes about his meetings
with Oliver Cratte, and those notes were published in a Montreal newspaper
in 1872. It is a kind of Cratte's biography. Written in French, these notes
fill three 8� x 11 pages in Times New Roman 10.
2. Parish registers of Pointe-du-Lac.
Yvon Cr�te
Crawford Joseph, (page 1337 ~ not listed in the index), third child of O. P. Crawford, resides on section 21, Elgin, where he settled in 1864. He was born in Putnam county, Indiana, February 10, 1842, and was therefore fifteen years old when he came here. He received only about twelve months schooling in all, but being of studious mind acquired a fair education. He is now the owner of the quarter-section on which he lives, and which he broke up and improved, besides half a section near Brookings, Dakota. Is now recovering from a stroke of paralysis, which destroyed his memory for two years. He has been connected with the M. E. church twenty-nine years, and is a member of the society at Elgin. In politics is a Republican. On the 17th of March, 1881, he married Orrel D., daughter of Robert Tuttle, of Linn county, Iowa. They have a son, born May 17, 1882, and named Joseph Lloyd.
Crawford, Rev. Oliver Perry, (page 1336), one of Elgin's pioneers, was born in Indiana, December 17, 1818. He is a son of Joseph Crawford, who ran a flatboat on the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. O. P. Crawford was reared in Indiana, and married Mary Ann Gibson, February 27, 1838. Mrs. Crawford was born in Brandywine Hundred, Delaware, January 29, 1817, and her parents, Joseph and Nancy Gibson, were also natives of that state. Mr. Crawford was the owner of a farm in Indiana, built and operated a mill, and practiced medicine. He arrived in Elgin on the 30th of June, 1857, and settled on section 8. At this time he was a local preacher of the M. E. faith, and often conducted religious services at his house and at various points in the vicinity. Besides giving his own services gratuitously he was a liberal supporter of the itinerancy. He was an Abolition Republican, and served several years as town supervisor, and also as county commissioner. He enlisted in the third Minnesota regiment, but was rejected from service on account of physical disability. His present home is in Iowa, where he is an itinerant preacher of the Free Methodist church. Of his thirteen children, all but four are living, as follows: Russell Martin, Brookings, Dakota; Andrew G., Atlantic, Iowa; Sarah J. (Mrs. William Quigley), Big Lake, Wisconsin; Nancy T. (Morrison), Monroe, Iowa; Henry B., New Sharon, Iowa; Oliver P., Kansas; Mary A., with parents; Francis Edward, New Sharon, Iowa.
Crawshaw, Charles, (page 1332), farmer, was born in Iowa in 1855. His parents, Thomas and Hannah Crawshaw, were natives of England. They came to this country in 1856, settling in West Albany township, where our subject was reared, spending his time on the farm and at the district school. He is now the possessor of 150 acres of choice land in Lake township, where he took up his abode in 1878. In 1883 Mr. Crawshaw was united in the bonds of matrimony to Lucy Watson, daughter of George and Margaret Watson, of Mt. Pleasant township. Mrs. C. is a member of the Presbyterian Church.
Indian Wars
Cronin, David (page 1006 ~ deceased), was
one of the early settlers of Lake City, having come here about 1856. He
was born in Ireland, and there married Miss Margaret Walsh in 1843. In 1846
they emigrated to the United States, and for the following ten years was
engaged in railroading in various states both east and west. By this time
they had succeeded in saving a little money, and a small family had come
to be cared for, hence their removal so far northwest. Here he purchased
a small farm of one hundred and twenty acres in the town of Lake. Soon after
he had got started at farming came the outbreak of the late war, in which
a spirit of patriotism and love of his adopted country caused him to enlist.
He became a member of the 8th Minn. Vol. Inf., and was engaged in border
warfare with the Indians, when he died at Fort Abercrombie, where his remains
now rest. Mrs. Cronin, though aged and feeble, still resides in this city
with her four children, whose names in the order of their birth are: Daniel,
Mary, Margaret and David. One son, Michael, a promising young man, died
(it is supposed) from injuries received by being struck violently on the
breast with a plow handle. The mother and children are faithful members
of the Catholic church.
War of Rebellion (Civil War)
Cutter, Isaac J., (page 966), was born in Pennsylvania,
November 2, 1829. His parents were both natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Cutter
is a butcher by trade. He moved to Glasgow township in July, 1856, and settled
where he now lives. He has a farm of two hundred acres, well improved. A
fine wind-engine furnishes him power enough to pump all water for his stock,
besides running a small feedmill. Mr. Cutter also has a steam thresher.
He was married, in 1853, to Mary Stowman. Mrs. Cutter has quite an extensive
creamery. She sells about three hundred and fifty dollars' worth of butter
per annum, besides what they use on the table. Mr. Cutter enlisted in the
2d Minn. Sharpshooters, and was mustered in at St. Paul, in February, 1862.
From St. Paul he went first to Washington City, and then down the Potomac
river. He was in the battles of Williamsburg, second Bull Run and Antietam;
was in the battles in front of Richmond, and was in the seven days' retreat.
In the battle of second Bull Run a ball passed through the sleeve of his
blouse, and in the battle of Antietam his gun was struck by a ball and broken
in two, but he never received a scratch. He was discharged March 5, 1865,
at Petersburgh, Virginia. He belongs to the Wapahasa Lodge, No. 14, A.F.A.M.,
of Wabasha City, of which lodge he has been a member for twelve years. Mr.
Cutter has been county commissioner three years.
Note From Fellow Genealogist: I read the
bio you have on Isaac Cutter and that is not the same Isaac Cutter who is
related to me. The Isaac I'm related to was born at Elmwood, Peoria Co.,
Ill on Jan. 24,1854. His parents were Vachel Metcalf and Elizabeth (McRill)
Cutter. His family is descended from the Crusaders and from ancestors who
landed at Plymouth Rock with the Pilgrim Fathers. My great-grandfather,
William Arthur Cutter was born in Camp Point, Ill. Dec. 10, 1885. He was
the only son of William Arthur Cutter, Sr. birth date unknown. I was told
that one of my ggrandfather's brother�s name was Isaac. I'll be happy to
correspond with anyone who has information on my particular line. Linda