Bios transcribed by Kay R. & History by Jan Cortez
Biographies
Pages 1157, 1158, 1159 - Simon Bailey PAIGE, a native of Wentworth, Grafton Co., N.H., was born Aug. 26, 1824. His father, James K. PAIGE, a prosperous farmer, an honest, industrious Christian man, was born in the same town, and was of English descent; his ancestors coming to this country at an early day, settled in and about Newburyport, Northeastern Massachusetts, and in his early manhood was imbued with a military spirit, and for some years was Colonel of a Regiment of New Hampshire Militia. His mother, Ann Maria RAMSEY, was born in the adjoining town of Rumney, was of Scotch descent, and came from the distinguished "RAMSAY Clan," of Scotland; was a woman of marked ability, with sterling traits of character, possessing a memory which retained everything she saw or read, being able to quote verbatim passages of Scripture in any part of the Bible; so of history, poetry, hymn, etc.; she was a school teacher when in her "teens," before her marriage. Both of his parents were for many years, until their death, member of the Congregational Church of Wentworth; his father being first deacon of the same. Mr. PAIGE was brought up a thorough farmer and in all other ways in a manner strictly in accordance with the views held to by Christian parents of that period. Winters he attended the district school, receiving additional instructions in his lessons from his mother. After attending several terms at a private school he entered Plymouth Academy, closing his studies with the fall term of 1844; having taught a district school several winters, commencing at the age of seventeen. Of his class at the Academy in Latin, algebra, geometry, surveying, intellectual philosophy, etc., were a brother and two sisters of Hon. James E. JOY, the celebrated lawyer and railroad man of Detroit, Mich.; also, William and Alfred RUSSELL, the latter an able and distinguished lawyer of the same city. In December of 1834, soon after leaving the Academy, his father, giving him his freedom, being then past twenty, he started for Lowell, Mass., and in two days after reaching there was at work for Messrs. G. J. & D. BRANDT, extensive bakers, continuing with them and Isaac F. SCRIPTURE, another extensive baker, for three years, then forming a copartnership with Matt H. COCHRAN, now a manufacturer of boots and shoes at Montreal, and prominent breeder of blooded stock upon his extensive farm at Hillhurst, Canada; went into the grocery trade, continuing in it several years. In 1852, he received the appointment of Deputy Sheriff for the County of Middlesex, holding the office until the overthrow of the Whig party by the Know Nothings in the fall of 1865. In April, 1856, he left Lowell for the West, meeting in Chicago his brother John A. PAIGE. Coming through Milwaukee and Fond du Lac, parties desired them to locate at each of those places, but they continued on to Oshkosh. Arriving here the last day of April, were received at the dock, foot of Main, then Ferry street, as were all strangers of that early day, but almost the entire population of the town who were accustomed to go there daily at the arrival of a boat. Within one week they had bought out the extensive business of general merchandise and lumbering carried on by Messrs. COTTRILL, PEASLEE & JOHNSTON, in MARK's building, corner of Gerry and Ceape streets. They then formed the firm of S. B. & J. A. PAIGE, which has not changed since and is the oldest firm in this city, taking possession on the 10th day of May. In just three years they were burned out by the great fire of May, 1859, losing their entire stock, on which there was no insurance. This was almost disheartening, but in three days after the fire they leased, for a term of years, forty feet front through to Shonaon street of Mr. GRIFFEN, adjoining the MARKS property, erecting thereon a two-story building containing two stores, with offices above and a fire-proof warehouse for the storage of their heavy goods up in the back end of the lot. After turning over to their creditors all their lumber, logs, land and other property, it was found insufficient to pay in full by several hundred dollars, and they gave their notes bearing interest for the balance. With this load upon them, actually worse than nothing, they commenced a severe struggle for existence, and well did they, by industry, economy, sobriety, integrity and good management overcome all obstacles, such as the hard times then existing, want of capital to do business with, etc. Their integrity has been such that they never have been asked by any bank when wanting money to put up a dollar of collateral, or an indorser outside their firm. Mr. PAIGE has always taken a deep interest in the development and improvement of this city, having always been a firm believer in the benefits which ample and competing railroad facilities give to a place, has from the commencement of his settling here taken an active part in assisting in the bringing of all railroads now here to this place, and with a few others tried all that was possible to prevent the Oshkosh & Wausau Railroad - now the Wisconsin Central - from being permitted to change its initial point to Menasha. His firm has contributed several thousand dollars in taking stock (usually proving worthless, or nearly so) and in other ways to these enterprises, himself devoting a large amount of time and labor in accomplishing their entrance into this city. In 1866, a bill was passed, through the instrumentality of Hon. Gabriel BOUCK, Hon. Joseph STRINGHAM and himself, incorporating the Oshkosh and Mississippi River Railroad Comapny, they being the only corporation in this part of the State. At the first meeting of the organization, Mr. PAIGE was chosen a Director, which place he has occupied ever since, and at the first meeting of the board of directors was elected Treasurer of said company, holding the same until after the completion of the road from here to Ripon. Through his hands passed all the moneys and bonds used in its construction, collecting the subscriptions made by individuals, towns and cities to the capital stock, which with the bonded debt amounted to several hundred thousand dollars. For all this labor he never charged or received one cent, but gave a heavy bond with sureties for the faithful discharge of the duties of his office, and upon giving up his trust in 1874 to his successor, the committee appointed to examine the accounts, as was done yearly, found them correct to a cent. Many thousand dollars would not now tempt him to do the labor and talking given to the enterprise.
During the several years previous to and during its construction, it is well remembered that the N.W. R.R., backed by many of our leading citizens, opposed the building of this road, and actually put it back several years. In the last enterprise - that of bringing the M., L.S. & W. R.R. into our city, he took an active part in favor of it, both in the meetings of the board of directors of the O. & M. R.R. Co. - which was mainly instrumental in making the connection - and by urging our citizens to vote in favor of the city lending its aid.
For many years previous to 1872, the firm of S.B. & J.A. PAIGE did a large wholesale trade in groceries, employing several traveling men, and their sales exceeded those of any other house in Northern Wisconsin. In addition to this, they continued to carry on their logging operations. Mr. PAIGE's health commenced to fail him in 1872, and, by the advice of his physicians, he closed out his merchandising concern, and, during the following six years he traveled continuously and extensively, visiting nearly every State in the Union. He passed a year on the Pacific Coast between Oregon and Mexico, and visited every place of interest in California. He next visited Europe, and traveled over the continent three times. Egypt and the Nile he visited twice, and made an extended trip though the Holy Land, Syria, Turkey, Greece, and the islands of the Mediterranean Sea, Cypris, Malta, Sicily, Corfu, etc. - his last travels he was accompanied by his estimable wife. This was the same trio recorded by Miss RISLEY, who accompanied the Hon, William H. SEWARD in his tour around the world.
Since his return two years ago, he has again applied himself to business. From November, 1879, his firm has sold over 100,000 worth of logs, taken from their lands on the Wolf River and its tributaries, and in the same time have purchased $237,000 worth of pine land, mill property and logs - the latter being for their extensive mill at Davenport, Iowa, which they purchased last February at a great bargain, from the administrator of the estate of John L. DAVIES, the former owner, who refused $100,000 for this property previous to his death. The firm of PAIGE, DIXON & Co., composed of S.B. PAIGE, J.A. PAIGE, E. W. DIXON and R. F. PAIGE, was formed, and are now actively operating this mill. The magnitude of their business is indicated by the trial balance from their books Nov. 30, being $226,845.48. Mr. PAIGE, with his brother, John A., own large tracts of pine lands in this State and Minnesota. A large tract in the vicinity of Pine Lake, head-waters of the Wolf River, is said to contain a body of the best quality of pine in the State, and is also owned by them. Mr. PAIGE is an owner in the store of J. M. ROLLINS & Co., having been a member of that firm since its establishment in 1865. He was instrumental in getting the stock of the Commercial National Bank subscribed in 1865, his firm taking one-fifth of the capital stock of $100,000, and at its organization he was elected a Director and Vice President, which office he held for several years. The bank always paid a semi-annual dividend of 5 per cent, and at its closing up the stock sold for 40 per cent above the par value. The firm of S.B. & J.A. PAIGE are large owners in the Wolf River Boom Co.; the latter is and has been its President and Treasurer for some years, since the company went into bankruptcy. He is looked upon by all as one of the best business men in the country, seldom making a mistake, possessing foresight, good judgment, honesty and integrity to a remarkable degree. His word is bond to any one who gets it. As one illustration of many, showing his business qualifications: In the season of 1869, the Wolf River Boom Co., through bad management, became bankrupt; in April, 1870, Judge MILLER, of the U.S. District Court, appointed him assignee of the bankrupt estate. On taking possession of the same, there was found to be no less than one dollar in its treasury. He conducted the operations of the company, paying, in sixteen months all the debts in full, with interest, all costs and fees, amounting to $53,563.22, leaving a balance besides, which sum he paid over to the old stockholders. On receiving his discharge as assignee in the court of bankruptcy, the Judge took occasion to compliment him as having made the best showing of any assignee ever in his court. His firm has been among the largest tax-payers in the city for many years, and with the taxes upon the many thousands of acres of pine lands which they own - paid in the several towns where located - make their yearly taxes very heavy. He is a member of the PAIGE-SEXMITH Lumber Co., of Superior, Douglas Co., Wis., a corporation with $200,000 capital.
Mr. PAIGE is strictly a temperate man in all things, using no intoxicating liquors of any kind, or tobacco in any form. His moral character is without taint. His extensive travels, with a clear perception of men and things, and with a retentive memory, make him one of the best-informed men in the State.
Mr. PAIGE is quite a connoisseur of art, particularly of paintings and sculpture. In his several visits to Europe, he gave a good deal of time to a careful examination of these works, in the many galleries of art throughout that country, also visiting great numbers of studios where he saw hundreds of artists at their work with the brush and chisel. During his last visit to Europe, he collected about sixty paintings, many of them very fine ones; also several pieces of fine marble statuary and Florentine Mosaics, which are stored, remaining in the shipping cases unopened. Mr. PAIGE is a lover of good horses, and is the owner of a dozen or so, possessing the best strains of high-bred trotting blood in the country; among them the noble horse "Akbar," and the celebrated mare, "Lady Mac," the fastest five-miler in the world, are well known. In politics, he was in his early years a Henry CLAY and Daniel WEBSTER Whig. When that party passed out he became a Republican. During the war he was very active in assisting in putting down the rebellion, and filing the quota by a free use of his money and time. Since coming to this city he has never sought nor accepted a political office; is not, although thoroughly Republican in his views, a "machine" devotee, and, in local affairs, would rather see in places of trust, a good, honest Democrat, than a dishonest, bad Republican.
He was married to Leafy Cushing BEAN, in Lowell, Mass., in January, 1848. They never had any children born to them. She came, on her mother's side, from the distinguished CUSHING family, who were early settlers in Eastern Massachusetts. She was a most estimable woman; by her remarkable sweet disposition and Christian graces, she own the hearts of all her acquaintances, and was beloved by every one who knew her. They were never separated from each other but a few weeks at a time, during their long and happy married life of nearly thirty-three years, until her tragic death, which occurred on the 3d of December, 1880, from the burning of the BECKWITH House. This sad and awful loss to her kind and affectionate husband falls with a crushing force on him, carrying sorrow and mourning to thousands of hearts.
Since coming to this city, the fire-fiend has been unrelenting toward him, burning out the firms business, entire and in part, five different times, the firm of J. M. ROLLINS & Co., twice, and of R. ASH & Co., once, in which he was a partner. His residence was destroyed a few days after returning from Egypt and the Holy Land, with all its contents, and last, the awful and sad calamity of burning his wife alive, in the destruction of the BECKWITH House, thus closing an eventful and happy period of many years in his life.
He is a Mason of the thirty-second degree. Is kind to the poor and unfortunate, contributing liberally to their assistance. Mr. PAIGE, is, by force of his early training, a constant attendant upon church, although not a member of one, always giving freely toward their building and support, more especially the Episcopal, it being the church of his late lamented wife. Possessing no bigotry, he is pleased to see all denominations prosper, lending a helping hand to them when in need.
Page 1159 - Charles PAIGE, proprietor of foundry and machine shops; was born at Wentworth, Grafton Co., N.H., April 6, 1835. He learned machinist's trade at Manchester, N.H., in the Amoskeag locomotive works, where he was employed for four years; came to Oshkosh in 1856, clerked for his brothers until the spring of 1859, when he removed to Freeport, Ill., and ran a lumber-yard there four years; in the spring of 1863 he returned to Oshkosh, having purchased an interest in machine shops at this place in 1862; since October, 1872, he has carried on the business without a partner. He manufactures saw-mill and flour-mill machinery, steam engines, steam pumps, turbine water wheels, steamboat machinery and general jobbing work; he is one of the directors of the Wolf River Transportation Co.; he also owns a steamboat and is interested in other enterprises. He is a member of the A., F. & A.M., Blue Lodge, Chapter and Commandery, and of the A.O.U.W. Mr. PAIGE was married at Oshkosh in November, 1862, to Lizzie J. BRAYTON, a native of Turner, Oxford Co., Maine. They have three children - Annie M., Leafie C. and Lizzie B.
Page 1159 - J. A. PAIGE, lumberman; was born in Wentworth, Grafton Co., N.H., May 16, 1826. He and his brother, Simon B. PAIGE, are associated together in extensive lumbering operations, operators in pine lands and logs; they are also members of the firm of J. M. ROLLINS & Co., boot and shoe merchants, of Oshkosh, and of the PAIGE-SEXMITH Lumber Co., of Superior, Douglas Co., Wis., a corporation with $200,000 capital. J. A. PAIGE is President and Treasurer of the Wolf River Boom Co.; he is also a member of the firm PAIGE, DIXON & CO., lumber manufacturers, of Davenport, Iowa.
Page 1159 - Nathan PARKER, superintendent and manager of SHERRY's mill; was born in lower Canada, in 1825; parents originally from Vermont, U.S. In 1844, he came to the United States and located in Massachusetts; remained one year, and then removed to Michigan. In 1846, he came to Wisconsin and located at Hartford, Washington Co., where for twenty years he was engaged in mercantile business, and at the same time, running a saw and grist-mill; was then for five years on the Chippewa River, engaged in the logging business; moved to Fond du Lac, engaged in the lumber business; his health failing about 1875, Mr. PARKER moved to Nevada and engaged in silver mining, returning to Fond du Lac in 1879. In 1881, took present position. Mr. PARKER was married in Dodge Co., Wis., in 1852, to Miss Mary TAYLOR, of that county. They have two children - Edward H. (engaged in the practice of medicine, at Eau Claire) and Willard N.
Page 1159 - Reuben PARKINSON, dealer in real estate, residence, 88 Algoma street. He located in Oshkosh in September, 1850; he first engaged in the grocery business with another party; followed the same two or three years, then sold out; he also practiced law with his son, D. J. PARKINSON, who was an attorney; he has made the real estate his principal business since. There were not over 300 inhabitants in Oshkosh when he settled here, and only two or three small variety stores. He was born in Schoharie Co., N.Y., in 1808; he was married in Erie Co., N.Y. in 1833, to Miss Esther A. WOODARD; she was born in Erie Co., N.Y. They have one son and one daughter - Hannah J., now married to Mr. Samuel G. NORTON, and living in Jasper Co., Mo.; Joseph PARKINSON died in January, 1881, in Missouri. Mrs. PARKINSON died in Erie Co., N.Y. in 1833; he was again married in 1840, in Erie Co., N.Y., his wife's maiden name was Chloe L. PRATT; she was born in New York, near Waterloo. They had four children - D. J. PARKINSON, who practiced law in Oshkosh, Wis., about eight years, who died Dec. 22, 1878; Morris B., now living in Brooklyn, N.Y., practicing music; Clara, married to Walter R. BARNS, a lawyer and living in Stevens' Point, Wis.; Nellie married Mr. James CAVHNAGH, living in Kenosha, Wis., also a lawyer. Mrs. PARKINSON died in Oshkosh, in April, 1873.
Page 1159 - John G. PARSONS, carriage manufacturer; was born at Halbeach, Lincolnshire, England, March 16, 1841; removed to Canada in 1851; lived there eight years, then located at Chicago. He commenced working in a carriage shop when he was twelve years of age, and has since been connected with that branch of business, carriage building. He was first married at Ann Arbor, Mich., in August, 1866, to Elsie STARKS; she died in February, 1877, leaving one child - Charles JOHNSON PARSONS. Present wife was Isabella NICOL, a native of the city of New York; they were married at Chicago in June, 1871. Mr. PARSONS came to Oshkosh, Jan. 1, 1870; he is a member of A., F.. & A.M., and K. of P.
Page 1159 - William PAUL, yard foreman. Mr. PAUL was born in Germany, in 1843, and came to the United States in 1856, coming to Wisconsin; located in Wausau; came to Oshkosh in 1867 and engaged in lumbering; has been foreman of the yards some six years. He was married in Wausau, Dec. 22, 1865, to Caroline SCHWEIGHUSEN; they have had eight children, of whom survive - Mary , Liddie, Lizzie, William, Emma and Ida.
Page 1159 - Worthie H. PATTON, Assistant Postmaster; was born at Deansville, Oneida Co., N.Y., Jan. 26, 1841; came to Appleton, Wis., in 1855, with his parents, Henry F. and Eliza J. (SERGEANT) PATTON. In June, 1861, he enlisted in Co. E, 6th W.V.I.; he was mustered out of the service July 15, 1864, being Orderly Sergeant of his company at that time. He came to Oshkosh in October, 1864, and for two years was employed in the mercantile establishment of BIGGER & HILL, then was at Appleton about six months. In the spring of 1867, he returned to Oshkosh, and has held his present position since that time. For the last two years, he has been Captain of the Oshkosh Guards; he is prominently connected with the A., F. & A.M. Mr. PATTON was married at Oshkosh, in October, 1869, to Susie M. HEATH, who was born here; they have one child - Sadie A.
Pages 1159 & 1160 - Oscar D. PECK, lumber manufacturer and proprietor of planing-mill and sash, door and blind factory; was born at Lima, Livingston Co., N.Y., Jan. 3, 1827; he was reared at North Norwich, Chenango Co., N.Y.; and lived there until he came to West Troy, Wis., in 1849; lived there two years, then removed to Palmyra, Jefferson Co., Wis., and was connected with the Milwaukee & Prairie du Chien Railroad for eighteen years; came to Oshkosh in July, 1867, and engaged in the manufacture of lumber, which business he has since continued; after coming here he built the Portage & Madison Railroad. Mr. PECK was married at Palmyra, Wis., in May, 1852, to Mary STARRETT, a native of Vermont; she died in 1854, leaving one son - Merrick J., now a lumber merchant and farmer, at New Hampton, Iowa. Mr. PECK's wife was Lucinda W. WHITNEY, a native of the State of New York. They have four children living - Harry L., now associated with his father in business, Charles W., Lulu M. and Helen G. Their first child, Nellie, died at the age of seven years. Mr. PECK is a son of Joel M. and Amanda PECK; his father is a resident of Palmyra. Wis., but his mother is dead. Mrs. PECK's parents, Isaac and Laura WHITNEY, were among the earliest settlers of West Troy, Wis. Neither of them is living.
Page 1160 - Daniel McPECK, proprietor saloon, Waugoo street, began in spring of 1881; he was born in Holton, Aroostook Co., Me., April 19, 1833; lived there until 1865 and went to Chicago; clerked in a store one year; came to Oshkosh in 1866, and worked in saw-mills, lumbering, etc., in Wisconsin and Michigan until spring of 1881. He was married in Oshkosh, Wis., Oct. 5, 1875, to Miss Lizzie CRUMMY; she was born in Oshkosh, Wis. They have two children named John and Annie.
Page 1160 - William PERRIN, FOWLER House, which was recently improved and made one of the most commodious hotels in the city. Mr. P. was born in England, Aug. 1, 1821, and emigrated to America in 1850, and located in Oshkosh, and then followed steamboating eleven years; after which he went to SEYMOUR House and kept the hotel two or three years; then went to Green Bay alone and took charge of the BEAUMONT House on year; returned to Oshkosh and kept the GRANT House at railroad two or three years; then went into the ADAMS House and kept that two years; then retired about two years; then went into the FOWLER House June 15, 1876. He was married in England; came to America with two children, whose names were Annie and Martha. Annie is now deceased and Martha is living with her father. He has also two sons living, born in America, named - Joseph, living; Charles, living; and William, deceased; John, deceased. Mrs. PERRIN's maiden name was Kate DOBSON; she was born in England. They were married in Norton, England, in Shropshire.
Page 1160 - H. W. PERRY, veterinary surgeon, was born in Winnebago Co., Wis., April 26, 1852; his father is a veterinary surgeon and Mr. P. studied under him for years; in 1879 he went to Milwaukee and entered the classes of Dr. TAYLOR, graduating in 1880, when he returned to Oshkosh and commenced the practice of his profession He was married in Winnebago County June 15, 1880, to Miss Annie ROBERTS of Winnebago County.
Page 1160 - James PETERSON, foreman, HUME, was born in Copenhagen, Denmark, Nov. 1, 1842; came to United States and settled in Racine, Wis., for a few months; after spending a short time in Michigan, finally located in Oshkosh the same year; was employed as carpenter and joiner some three or four years, and then engaged with FOSTER & JONES where he remained eight years, and was then engaged by HUME & WASHBURN; was married in Oshkosh June 27, 1867, to Emma REY. They have four children - Gertrude, Lillie, Maud, Harvey. Is a member of Royal Arcanum.
Page 1160 - Charles E. PIKE, was born in Calais, Maine, graduated at Bowdoin College, and studied law at Cambridge Law School, Massachusetts; was afterward admitted to the bar in Maine, In 1847, was a member of the Maine Legislature; removed to Massachusetts in 1849, and practiced law in Boston. Was married in 1853, and a member of the Massachusetts Legislature in 1856. Removed to Oshkosh in 1859, and engaged partially in professional practice. In 1860, helped to establish the Northwestern newspaper, of which he was editor-in-chief and part owner for four years. Returned to Boston in 1865; admitted to bar of Supreme Court, Washington, same year, and appointed Solicitor of Internal Revenue, which office he resigned in fall of 1866, and resumed the practice of law in Boston. In 1878, again came to Oshkosh, and is now a partner in the law firm of PIKE & VAN KEUREN.
Page 1160 - Sylvester D. PITCHER, proprietor meat market, No. 7, High street, established in 1869; does $30,000 business per annum; employs five men in winter and three in summer, and deals in all kinds of fresh, salt and smoked meats. He was born in Martinsburg, Lewis Co., N.Y., Sept. 6, 1838, where he lived until 1852; then moved to Fond du Lac, Wis., with his parents (They yet live there). He lived at home until 1858; then went to Iowa and spent one year; thence to Oshkosh; enlisted in Co. E, 2d W.V.I., April 18, 1861; was wounded at first battle of Bull Run, taken prisoner and confined to Libby Prison five months and twenty days, and was exchanged January 3; returned to Oshkosh and remained until April; returned to the army; served until July, 1864; engaged in the battle of Fredericksburg and all the principal battles including Antietam and Second Bull Run, and was mustered out at Madison, July 18, 1864. He then lived in Green Bay, Wis., and worked as an engineer five years; then he went to Oshkosh, Wis., where he has since lived. He began his market in fall of 1869. He was married in Oconto, Wis., in fall 1869, to Miss Pluma SIMONS, who was born in Sardinia, N.Y. They have five children - Edith, Herbert, Willie, Jennie and Lulu. Mr. P. was previously married in Fond du Lac, Wis., in 1866, to Miss Sarah WHITEMORE, who died in fall of 1867. They had one son, Clayton, who lives with his grand-parents in Fond du Lac.
Page 1160 - William POOL, Superintendent WEBB's saw-mill, was born in Oldtown, Penobscot Co., Maine, Jan. 24, 1850; came West with parents in 1865, and located at Stevens' Point, Wis.; engaged in milling there for a time and followed it up to 1879, when he took charge of WEBB's Mill. He was married in Oshkosh, April 3, 1873, to Miss Mary GODEY, of Harrison, Ontagamie (sic), Wis. They have two children - Edith A. and Fred W.
Page 1160 - Philo F. PROSSER, body-maker of carriages in PARSON's & GOODFELLOW's Carriage Works. Mr. P. was born in Orleans Co., N.Y., Feb. 10, 1836; he lived in New York until 1870, then emigrated to Oshkosh, Wis., October, 1869. He worked at carpenter and joiner work about nine years, also taught school three terms during the winters and in summer season; engaged at his trade in 1880, since which time he has been engaged as above noted. He was married in Kendall, Orleans Co., N.Y., Nov. 17, 1859, to Miss Charlotte D. RIPSOM, who was born in Clarkson, Monroe Co., N.Y., July 24, 1839. They have three children - Mary E., Charles H. and Frank H.
Pages 1160 & 1161 - William RADFORD, a native of Needingworth, Huntingdonshire, England, was born Aug. 31, 1828, and is the son of Richard and Olive RADFORD, both of whom were natives of England. His father was a tavern-keeper, of limited means, and William was early drilled in work. From the early age of nine years until he was sixteen he worked on a farm. Commencing thus early to rely on his own exertions, he made an effort in a different direction and tried railroading, receiving a place as a section boss. He continued at this until he was nineteen years old, when he again returned to farming. In 1852, he emigrated to America and located at West Canada Creek, N.Y., where he found employment in a saw-mill. He removed to Oshkosh, Oct. 1, 1855. CHASE & LIBBEY's saw-mill then stood on the site the RADFORD mill now occupies, and with this firm he found work during the two following years; was next in the employ of BRAY & CHOATE, and then with TOLMAN & Co. until 1870. In that year he, in company with his brother Stephen, engaged in business on their own account, under the firm name of S. RADFORD & Bro. Mr. D. L. LIBBEY was a silent partner and owned a half interest during the first three years of the firm's existence. At the end of that time he retired. Their saw-mill at first was of very limited capacity; but this grew rapidly, and the firm worked to the front, until to-day they occupy a place second to none. In the winter of 1879 they commenced the erection of their sash, door and blind factory. Mr. William RADFORD was married in October, 1851, to Miss Elizabeth ROBERTSON, in the county of Huntingdon, and has nine children. Mr. R.'s mental characteristics are those of a practical common sense, a clear discriminating judgment and indomitable perseverance in accomplishment of the objects of his pursuits. His son, Charles W. RADFORD, is general superintendent of the sash, door and blind department, and is a valuable assistant to the firm. The other children are Lucy J., Lizzie, Stella, George, Willie, Stephen S., Dolly and Dick.
Page 1161 - Stephen RADFORD, of S. RADFORD & Bro.; was born in June, 1832, in Needingworth, Huntingdonshire, England. In May, 1851, he emigrated to this country and located in Oneida Co., New York State, where he found employment for two years and a half; he then removed to Oshkosh in 1854, and found work in KNAPP's mill, where the gang mill now stands, but remained there only six months; the next two years and a half he was in John BUTLER's mill at Fond du Lac. At this time he conceived the idea of returning to England; having accumulated some money, he made a trip to his native place, and prolonged his stay nearly three years, during which time he was engaged in buying and selling cattle. Returning to America, he again returned to Oshkosh, which has since been his home. He worked for BRAY & CHOATE a few weeks; at PORTER's mill he worked two seasons, and then with CHAPMAN & DANFORTH seven years. In company with W. D. HARSHAW, he rented CHAPMAN & DANFORTH's mill and ran it one season. At the expiration of this time he formed a copartnership with his brother, William RADFORD, and together they purchased John and Webb LIBBEY's interest in the LIBBEY Bros. mill, the firm name being changed to S. RADFORD & Bro. D. L. LIBBEY, however, retained a half interest, which was eventually purchased under a contract to saw a certain amount of timber. In the winter of 1879, they commenced the erection of their sash, door and blind factory. Stephen RADFORD was first married in England, to Anna HEPPINSTALL; she died in Oshkosh, leaving two children - Walter James and Florence Olive. Mr. S. was married in Oshkosh to his present wife, Mary E. RUBY; they have eight children - Jennie, Nellie, David, Ida, Anna, Charles and Ruby.
Page 1161 - Charles W. RADFORD, superintendent of sash, door and blind factory of S. RADFORD & Bro.; was born in Prospect, Seneca Co., N.Y., June 1, 1853; came to Oshkosh with his parents, William A. and Elizabeth ROBINSON RADFORD, in 1854. He has been engaged in lumber business since he was ten years of age, first with TOLMAN & HARRIS, afterward with CHAPMAN & DANFORTH. Since 1871, he has been connected with S. RADFORD & Bro., until 1877 as book-keeper, since then as financial manager and superintendent of the sash, door and blind department of the firm's business.
Page 1161 - Charles RAHR, firm of RAHR Bros., proprietors of a large brewery; manufacture about one thousand barrels per annum; employ five men; erected in 1865. He was born in Prussia, Germany, in 1836, Nov. 27; he learned his trade in Germany, and emigrated to America in 1855; settled in Manitowoc, Wis., and worked in a brewery six months; then went to Davenport, Iowa, and worked in a brewery eighteen months; then returned to Green Bay, Wis., and worked in a brewery for his brother and brother-in-law one year. Then enlisted in Co. H, 9th W.V.I., and was employed fighting the Indians and bushwhackers in Kansas, Indian Territory, Arkansas and Missouri; he was mustered out in Milwaukee, December, 1864. Returned to Green Bay a short time and went to Oshkosh, Wis., and, in company with his brother, erected their brewery as above noted. Married in Green Bay, Wis., Jan. 1, 1864 and 1865, just on the hour of 12 o'clock, midnight, to Miss Caroline HOCHGRAVE, who was born in Hanover, Germany; they have one son and six daughters - Charles, Carolina, Clara, Anna, Ella, Mary and Olga.
Page 1161 - Charles D. RAND, foreman in the paint department of THOMPSON & HAYWARD's carriage works. Mr. R. was born in Portland, Me., July 8, 1849, where he lived until he was twenty-six years of age; he also learned his trade of his father Joseph M. RAND, in the latter city, who was a general painter, including ship painting, etc. Mr. C.D. RAND has a thorough knowledge of all branches of the business. He went from Maine to Omro, Wis., arriving in March, 1875, and immediately engaged with his present employers, who were there doing business. Mr. R. does his work by contract; has thirty-five men under his supervision. He was married in Omro, Wis., March 4, 1876, to Miss Allie E. REED, who was born in Omro; they have one son, named George C. RAND.
Page 1161 - Richard RAWLEY, foreman PAYNE's planing-mill; was born in Kent Co., New Brunswick, May 10, 1848; was engaged in mills there for a time; came to the United States in 1867, and located in Oshkosh, Wis.; worked in mills in summer, and spent two winters in the woods. Had charge of sash department of GOULD, HUME & Cos'. mill about 1869-70, and, after this, moved to Oconto, Wis., and took charge of planing-mill; remained about three years; removed from Oconto to West DePere, Wis., where he was foreman in planing-mill; after this he was in Merrillon with PAYNE for a few months, then finally moved to Oshkosh and engaged with PAYNE, where he has remained. He was married in Oconto, Wis., September, 1873, to Miss Elizabeth KEEFER, of Oconto; they have two children - Maggie and Lizzie.
Page 1161 - J. J. REAM, head miller at FOOTE Bros.' Mill; was born in Saxeville, Waushara Co., Wis., Feb. 20, 1852. Has been engaged in milling about nine years; was in Eureka, Winnebago Co., some five years of this time; came to Oshkosh in 1877 and engaged with FOOTE Bros., where he has remained since. He was married, in Eureka, Nov. 12, 1874, to Miss Maggie ROUNDS, of Winnebago Co. They have one child - Edward. Mr. R. is a member of the I.O.O.F.
Page 1161 - Thomas T. REEVE, President of the Commercial Bank of Oshkosh, has been engaged in banking business in Wisconsin since 1857, first in Milwaukee, and since November, 1858, in Oshkosh. At that time he, in partnership with Gilbert W. ROE, purchased the Oshkosh Commercial Bank, and they have been associated together in banking business continuously ever since. Prior to coming to Wisconsin, Mr. REEVE had been Cashier of the Bank of Goshen, Orange Co., N.Y., for thirteen years.
Page 1161 - Sylvanus RIPLEY, lumber manufacturer; was born in the town of Barry, Vt., March 3, 1818; reared in that vicinity, and came from Montpelier to Illinois in 1843; engaged in threshing in Illinois for four years. In June, 1848, he came to Oshkosh, brought the first threshing machine west of Fox River, in Wisconsin, and he introduced the first reaper which was operated near Rock River. He was engaged in threshing in Wisconsin for sixteen winters; engaged in farming the year he came to this State, logging in winter, and, in the fall of 1848, commenced threshing; commenced the manufacture of lumber in partnership with his present partner, Mr. MEED, in 1850, and they have continued that business since that time. Mr. RIPLEY was married, at Appleton, Wis., June, 1861, to Phoebe BOWEN, she a native of the State of New York. They have three children - Alton, Montague and Mary.
Page 1161 - William M. RIPSOM, engaged in the manufacture of shafts for carriages in PARSON's & GOODFELLOW's carriage works. Mr. R. was born in Monroe Co., N.Y., Sept. 26, 1833; served his apprenticeship in his native State, where he lived until 1861, and settled in Dane Co., at Marshall, Wis., and followed his trade until 1871, and moved to Clarksville, Butler Co., Iowa, and engaged in carriage business; remained until 1873, and moved to Oshkosh, Wis.; worked at his trade for different parties until February, 1878; then began as above stated. He was married in Orleans Co., N.Y., April 3, 1861, to Miss Charlotte C. NICHOLS; she was born in the latter county Dec. 25, 1842. They have one son and a daughter - Francis H. and Gertrude L.
Pages 1161 & 1162 - Joseph B. RIPSOM, carriage maker in PARSONS & GOODFELLOW's Carriage Works; was born in Clarkson, Monroe Co., N.Y., Dec. 1, 1835; he lived in New York until 1863, following his trade; then went to Marshall, Dane Co., Wis., and followed his present business on his own account about three years; he then returned to New York in 1870 and lived there until April, 1880, engaged in teaching. He then came to Oshkosh, Wis., and engaged as above stated. Mr. RIPSOM was married in Rochester, N.Y., Oct. 10, 1861, to Miss Abigail LAWTON, who was born in Rochester, N.Y. They had four children by this union - Frank H. (now in Nebraska), Lydia P., William L. and Josephine C. Mrs. RIPSOM died in the fall of 1876, in Chenango Co., N.Y. Mr. RIPSOM again married Nov. 10, 1878, to Miss Mollie A. DEAN, who was born in Niagara Co., N.Y. They have one son - Harry R. Mr. RIPSOM was engaged in teaching prior to 1862, and studied law in the law office of NORTON & BOWMAN, of Brockport, N.Y., and was admitted to the bar in 1877, during the time between 1862 and 1877, he spent his time in Dane Co., Wis., and was admitted to the bar of the legal profession in Oshkosh in November, 1880.
Page 1162 - Griffith ROBERTS, filer, MORGAN Bros.; was born in Wales in 1841, and came to the United States with his parents in 1842. They settled in Ohio, where they died. Griffith was adopted by D. BOWEN and wife and came with them to Waukesha, Wis., about 1851. Came to Oshkosh about 1861, and for a time was in the bakery business. In 1871, he engaged in the lumber business with the firm C. L. CHAPMAN & Co.; they ran a saw-mill up to 1874, when the mill burned out; the firm then dissolved. Mr. ROBERTS has been with the present firm since that time, the first seven or eight years engaged in sawing. Mr. ROBERTS was married in Oshkosh in November, 1864, to Miss Jane M. DAVID, of Winnebago Co., formerly of Cattaraugus Co., N.Y. She died in 1876, leaving two children - Arthur Eieu and John Wallace. Mr. ROBERTS is a member of the I.O.O.F.
Page 1162 - Gilbert W. ROE, Vice President of the Commercial Bank of Oshkosh; was born in Warwick, Orange Co., N.Y. He was engaged in the banking business at Chester, Orange Co., N.Y., being cashier of the Bank of Chester for several years prior to coming to Wisconsin in 1857. At that time he commenced a private banking business in Milwaukee, in partnership with Thos. T. REEVE. In November, 1858, they purchased the Oshkosh Commercial Bank. Mr. ROE has been continuously in the banking business since coming here. He is also extensively interested in pine lands and has recently erected an elegant building now occupied by the Commercial Bank of Oshkosh. Prior to September, 1880, he had been Cashier of the various banks which succeeded the original institution which he first became interested in here.
Page 1162 - Henry ROENITZ, firm of JAENICKE & ROENITZ, dealers and manufacturers of leather in all grades, consisting of harness and shoe leather, etc.; established in 1861, 42 Main St. Mr. ROENITZ was born in Sheboygan, Wis. July 1, 1856. He spent his school days there until 1870. Then went to Oshkosh and attended the Business College. He returned to Sheboygan and served his time as tanner and learned the leather trade, and in 1876 he visited Europe and inspected tanneries in different portions of that country with a view of gaining a better knowledge of the business. He returned in October, 1876; came to Oshkosh, Wis., and began business in July, 1877, and the firm is now doing a large and increasing business.
Page 1162 - D. W. ROWLAND, veterinary surgeon; was born in Racine Co., Wis., Nov. 13, 1852. Received schooling in his native county. In 1871 he went to Chicago and attended medical lectures; went to Milwaukee in 1872 and remained to 1876, under instruction from Dr. TAYLOR, with whom he practiced for a time. In June, 1877, he located in Oshkosh and commenced the practice of his profession, Mr. ROWLAND was married in Menasha, August 3, 1881, to Miss Emma S. JONES, of Menasha.
Page 1162 - R. C. RUSSELL, Cashier of the Union National Bank; has been cashier of this institution since it commenced business, March 21, 1871. He had previously been proprietor of the Farmers' Bank of Oshkosh, which he started in 1868.
Page 1162 - R. P. RUSSELL, physician and surgeon; was born at Bethel, Windsor Co., Vt., April 19, 1827; in 1843, he commenced the study of medicine in his native town with Dr. Harry PALMER, and attended a course of lectures at the Vermont Medical College the same year; Later he continued his studies with Prof. W. CARPENTER at Randolph, Orange Co., Vt., and, in 1850 and 1851, he resumed his studies at the Vermont Medical College, and graduated from that institution in the latter year, practiced for two years at Weston, Windsor Co., Vt., and, in 1854, came to Oshkosh, where he has since continued in practice, except a period of two years during the war of the rebellion; he was one year in active service as Surgeon of the 1st Wis. V.C., and, for nearly a year, he was incapacitated from duty by reason of sickness. He was married at Oshkosh Jan. 8, 1856, to Sophia EDGARTON, a native of Madison, Madison Co., N.Y.; they have one living child - Thomas C.; lost two children. The Doctor is a member of the Society of Surgeons of the United States, American Medical Association, and Wisconsin State Medical Association.
