Clay Co., KS AHGP-Portrait and Biographical Album of Washington, Clay and Riley Counties-Oliver Harbaugh
Portrait and Biographical Album of Washington, Clay and Riley Counties Chapman Brothers, Chicago, 1890
OLIVER P. HARBAUGH. The homestead
which was build up by the subject of this
notice stands as an enduring monument to
his patience and industry. Mr. Harbaugh came to
Clay County, Kan., at a time when wild animals
were plentiful and when Indians were often seen
running over the country. He was a man of vigorous
constitution and great perseverance, and
after reaching the wild frontier made up his mind
to stay, and prepared himself for every emergency.
With his hardihood and courage there was blended
that kind and benevolent spirit which endeared
him to all who knew him. The homestead which
he built up will stand as an enduring monument to
his thrift and industry, while his name is held in
kindly remembrance by all who knew him.
The subject of this notice was born in Allegheny
County, Pa., and departed this life at his homestead
in Sherman Township, Clay County, Kan.,
June 5, 1889. He spent his early years in his native
county and learned the trade of a carpenter, at
which he worked for a short time prior to his marriage.
This important and interesting event of
his life occurred at the bride's home, the maiden
of his choice being Miss Narcissus Wilson. They
removed to St. Louis, Mo., in 1844, where Mr.
Harbaugh followed his trade a number of years.
and where his wife died leaving one daughter.
This daughter, Hannah, is now the wife of Thomas
Toffley, and they reside in Clifton, this county.
Afterward, in 1848. Mr. Harbaugh was married to
Mrs. Olive (Wood) Toffley, widow of Thomas
Toffley, Sr., and the mother of two children�Olive,
who married Charles Fairchild of Sherman Township,
and Thomas J. already spoken of.
Mr. Harbaugh. in 1870 came to Clay County,
and homesteaded eighty acres of land, upon which
he labored until his decease. Of his second marriage
there were born eight children, viz: Mary,
the wife of F. O. Andrews, who is represented elsewhere
in this Album; Leonard, Charles, Joseph;
Alice, the wife of N. M. Graves; John who operated
the home farm; Edward and Ida, deceased;
John married Miss Luella, daughter of Asbery and
Clarinda Cook, a native of Indiana.
Mr. and Mrs. Harbaugh several years ago united
with the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which the
latter is still an active member. Mr. Harbaugh died
firm in the faith. He had been prominent in church
affairs, officiating as Steward, and doing whatever
lay in his power to promote the cause of religion.
To what good purpose he labored in behalf of his
family, is noted in the comforts by which they are
surrounded. The dwelling is a tasteful, frame
structure, around which have been planted fruit
and forest trees, while the barn and other outbuildings
are all that is necessary for the shelter of
stock and storage of grain. Mrs. Harbaugh,
with the assistance of her son, is managing the
estate in an admirable manner, keeping up its oldtime
reputation.