J. VAN A. CARTER.
It is a saying as true as it is old that Death loves a shining mark, and the force of it is seldom more fully exemplified than it was in the case of the late J. Van A. Carter of Uinta county Wyoming, who was ever a positive force for good in the state and an inspiration to others in the wide variety and masterful character of his usefulness and his influence. Whether viewed as a public official or a private citizen, as the friend of the Indian or the advisor of the white man. as the agent of each in matters of business or the arbiter of both in the settlement of disputes, as the trusted employee or the manager of his own business, he presents a pleasing aspect of high integrity, unbiased fairness, excellent judgment, lofty courage and all around accomplishments. He was born, reared and educated in the state of Missouri, and there also pursued a course of studies as a preparation for the practice of medicine and surgery, but never chose to engage actively in the profession. He came to Wyoming in 1866 with one of the overland caravans that was hauling freight from the Missouri River to Fort Bridger, and soon after his arrival he secured employment as bookkeeper for the extensive mercantile establishment of the late Judge Carter, who was then the post trader at this point. Here fortune seems to have sought him with a double benefaction, giving him desired occupation and making him acquainted with the Judges daughter. Miss Anna Carter, a most estimable lady with whom he was, a few years later, united in marriage. The domestic shrine which was thus set up was sanctified by the birth of one child. Nelson Carter, who, inheriting many of the inestimable qualities of both parents, is now prominently engaged in business, in which his success is as pronounced as his efforts are diligent and skillful and his worth is well known. When Mr. Carter came into the territory there were but few white men living here and the conditions of life were hard and exacting. Its conveniences were few and very costly, its ordinary adornments were altogether unattainable, its comforts and even its necessaries were difficult to get, and naught but the resolute and determined spirit of the people made it tolerable. Under such circumstances a man who had the vision to see and the power to do what was required for any emergency, who knew men and methods, and was masterful in dealing with both, who had the accomplishments of cultivated life and the skill to make them subservient to the needs of a new community in the wilderness, was in all respects a very useful personage, and such was Mr. Carter. His services were in continual demand in many ways. He could write records in the county clerks office, draw legal papers, make surveys and maps, conduct negotiations of magnitude and drive bargains in small trade, keep books and traffic in merchandise, converse in several languages, civilized and savage, and do almost everything else that occasion might require of a ready and resourceful man. In 1868 he was employed by the famous Indian chief Washakie as his interpreter in making the treaty between the U. S. government on the one hand and the Shoshone and Bannock Indians on the other, and his services in this work and the high character and lofty manliness he displayed throughout the transactions won him the unwavering regard and confidence of the Indians, as he had that of the whites in every relation throughout his whole life in this country. In 1878,or about that time, he moved into Evanston and engaged in the drug business. Here also he became a builder and developer of the town, erecting a row of brick buildings opposite the office of the Herald and adding to the progress and advancement of the community in many other ways. He was chosen for a number of terms in succession to serve the people in the important office of probate judge and county treasurer, and was frequently and urgently solicited to accept offices of greater prominence and more extended power. But he was averse to public life and preferred the peace and personal comfort of a private station. During the last few years preceding his early and lamented death, he was employed as the head accountant in the large mercantile house of the Blyth & Fargo Company at Evanston, where he died in his fifty-eighth year after a severe illness of about ten days. His remains were laid to rest at Fort Bridger in the western land he loved with a constant devotion, under the shadows of the Uinta range whose lofty peaks had often been spoken of by him as among the inspirations and delights of his early manhood, and amid the scenes which tinged and beautified the early years of his domestic joys. All who knew him lamented his departure and still remember him as one who was faithful to every charge, diligent in every duty, a friend to all mankind and worthy of every encomium upon proven and established merit. (Source Progresive Men of Wyo) Biographie Index
JUDGE WILLIAM ALEXANDER CARTER
Judge William A. Carter was born on April 15, 1818, at Pittsylvania, Prince William County, Virginia, a son of Wormley and Lucinda (Washington) Carter, and the plantation of his birth had been for generations an ancestral heritage. The Carter family is one of the oldest and proudest on the roll of Virginias earliest settlers, the first American ancestor, John Carter, the emigrant, coming to the colony in 1649 and acquiring landed possessions and making his residence at Corotoman in Lancaster County. He soon became a man of importance and wealth, and in that troublous period of the Old Dominions history his record is that of loyalty, good judgment and conservative influence.. His son, Col. Robert Carter, attained a higher position than his father and his wealth was far in excess of his fathers for wealth was far in excess of his fathers fortune. In 1730 Lord Fairfax conveyed to him 63.000 acres of the great northern neck of Virginia, and a historian writes that on this tract, around the present village of Millwood, settled numerous friends and relatives of the proprietor, bringing with them the traits of the lowlands. In this attractive country (one American writer called it the New Arcady,) the Lowlanders located their families and servants; erected the Old Chapel church which still nestles under the lofty sycamores and here their descendants remain to this day. Before 1727 Col. Robert Carter, who had filled various important offices with dignity and capability, was advanced from the high position of president of the council to the highest office in the colony, that of governor, in which office he was succeeded by William Gooch. His name is perpetuated by numerous descendants, identified in a marked manner with various places of the state, as it has been conferred on mountains, rivers and other localities. At the time of .his death he was considered the wealthiest man of the state. Judge Carter was a direct descendant in the fifth generation from Col. Robert Carter, but was early left an orphan, his father dying when his son was but seven years of age and leaving a widow and five children. William remained near his birthplace until he was seventeen, waxing strong and vigorous amid the pleasant rural surroundings and in the beautiful country air, receiving the educational advantages of the country schools. While yet a lad his heart was filled with thoughts of the future and the ambition to be a leader among men. and it was no wonder that his adventurous spirit caused him to enlist in the U. S. army for services against the Seminole Indians at the above mentioned age. His manly bearing and strong personality impressed themselves upon his superiors and he was soon appointed sergeant in Co. A of the Second U. S. Dragoons. His term of service was faithfully served, and after his muster-out he had no difficulty in obtaining the appointment of sutler or post trader at a number of the U. S. military posts in Florida. The official roster of the commissioned officers serving in the Seminole War continued some later prominent names, and during Mr. Carters residence in that locality he formed strong friendships with the young officers who, later, in the Civil War, acquired distinction as Generals Harney, Ord and Sherman. The privations and sufferings they endured together in the Everglades tended to bind more closely the bonds of unity, it being particularly so in the case of Harney, and it is pleasing to note that that celebrated Indian fighter passed one of the last summers of his life at Judge Carters home at Fort Bridger. In 1842, after recovering from a severe attack of yellow fever, he returned to Virginia and, in 1845, with his brothers, John and Richard, William A. Carter emigrated to Missouri, where he purchased a farm seven miles from Columbia in Boone county, and engaged in agriculture. Here he married on November 2, 1848, Miss Mary E. Hamilton, who had just come to Boone County from Virginia with her mothers family. Their acquaintance had existed since childhood and had ripened into love. The young couple resided on the homestead near Columbia for over two years. Mrs. Carter was a daughter of Robert and Ann F. (Carter) Hamilton, natives of Virginia and descendants of early English, and Scotch emigrants of the Colonial days, while members of both branches of the ancestral line participated in the Revolution as ardent patriots. Her father was a son of John and Susannah (Beale) Hamilton. Judge and Mrs. Carter were parents of six children, of whom we here enter brief record. Ada, wife of Joseph K. Corson, a surgeon in the U. S. A.; Anne F., married J. Van A. Carter (now deceased); Lulie L. married Maurice Groshon; William A., married Miss Kate Chase of Omaha, Neb., and lives in Denver, Colo.; Roberta H., wife of W. H. Camp of Alameda, Cal.; Edgar N., superintendent of the U. S. fish commission, who married Miss Boydie Faulkner, daughter of Senator Faulkner of West Virginia, and maintains his home in St. Johnsbury, Vt. The glittering reports brought from California, contrasted too strongly with the quiet pastoral life of Missouri and again the adventurous spirit was awakened in Mr. Carter. In April, 1850, leaving his wife to the care of relatives he started on the long and dangerous overland journey across the plains and mountains for the bewitching land of gold. and with him went his brother Richard and brotherinlaw Richard Hamilton. A severe illness resulted in partial loss of sight caused his early return to Missouri. Wild and dangerous as was the trip to California, the return was far more difficult. The constant exposure to pestilential miasmas and the sleepless vigilance required to circumvent the savage men and dangerous animals to be contended with in the intricate swamps of Nicaragua soon sapped the constitution of the returning miners, hundreds of whom there found their last resting place. His strong mind dominating all physicaldiscomfort, Mr. Carter reached Cuba in August, 1851, immediately after the capture of the filibuster Lopez by the Spanish government. All arrivals in the island, especially of Americans, were considered those, of filibuster tendencies, and Mr. Carter narrowly escaped confinement and death, but finally reached his home in Missouri, where for some years he conducted agricultural operations. When the military expedition against the Mormons in Utah was decided upon, General Harney offered Mr. Carter the post trader ship of one of the posts he, as commander of the department, was about to establish. Harney was soon succeeded by Gen. Albert S. Johnston, and under his administration Mr. Carter became post trader at Fort Bridger, Wyoming, his operations commencing in the winter of 1857-8 in the camp established two miles above the place where the fort was to be erected. In 1858 the site of the fort was located and work begun on the buildings. The post store and traders residence occupied a square adjoining the officers, and here was Judge Carters home, which in time became known throughout a wide area as the center of a bounteous hospitality. This title of judge came to him from his appointment as U. S. commissioner, in which judicial capacity he had frequently to examine and often commit for trial by the Federal court at Salt Lake City, the lawless and dangerous men then frequenting this wild section. He was a firm and fearless official, never swerved from duty by threats or attempted intimidation. In August, 1861, the exigencies of the Civil War took away the garrison at Fort Bridger. Captain Clark of the quartermasters department with one private was left in charge of the government property until the spring of 1862, when he too was ordered east. At his urgent request Judge Carter assumed the transportation of the government property to Denver. This undertaking required forty wagons and besides each driver a guard of twenty selected men accompanied the train. From Denver Judge Carter hastily returned to Fort Bridger where departure of the troops had left no security for the safety of life or property. Hands of Indians were committing outrages and there was nothing to check their ravages. Millersville. the station east of Fort Bridger, was burned, herds of horses were stolen and fears were entertained for the safety of the Fort. To meet this emergency Judge Carter organized a company of sixty men from the settlers and employees of the Overland Stage Co. . and purchasing arms for the outfit at his own expense he converted a portion of his tore building into an armory and drill room and daily drills were initiated. Although having no governmental authority, the installation of this company maintained order and pace and safely protected both private and public property until the arrival of a company of California volunteers in December, 1862, necessity of its existence. General Conner commander of this military department, under an erroneous impression reported to the War Department that Judge Carter was actuated by selfish and mercenary ends in this matter, but on visiting the field was convinced that the action was a patriotic and praiseworthy one, became one of the warmest friends of the Judge, and becoming convinced that the stories of Indian depredations sent him by Judge Carter did not magnify the danger, in spring of 1863 organized an expedition to punish and conquer the savages. At this time, and through the whole of the Civil War period, Judge Carter was in constant and dangerous activity. He was then a special agent of the U. S. P. O. department for the inspection of the handling of the mails, his duties calling him frequently over the wild route of the Overland Stage Co. and sometimes to the Pacific coast. :As the Stages were not infrequently attacked by Indians he had his share of excitement and numerous escapes from death. But his cool and undaunted courage never faltered and not a duty was neglected and his entire course was heartily approved by his supporters. Foreseeing the departure of the troops Judge Carter had disposed of nearly all of his goods prior to that event, realizing that in such an emergency as then confronted him an intelligent business man should so arrange his property as to make it come under adequate protection, and had invested in other fields and enterprises. As early as March, 1867, he had begun to locate mining claims and was successful in obtaining valuable properties in the rich mineral region of South Pass, still keeping Fort Bridger as his home and base of operations. When peace was declared, immigration again commenced into the west, the various branches of industrial activity took on new life and in this progress and development, especially in the region around about Fort Bridger, Judge Carter was a forceful agent. On the discovery of gold at South Pass, he fitted out and equipped a number of prospecting parties; when oil was discovered in a spring in Uinta county not far from Fort Bridger he utilized this product, with a small still producing and refining enough oil for illuminating purposes at the fort before the advent of the Union Pacific Railroad. He was the first person to engage in the manufacture of lumber in Western Wyoming. He engaged extensively as a pioneer in cattle raising and was one of the earliest to note and take advantage of its wondrous possibilities. In many other and widely varying fields of commercial activity he demonstrated his faith in the capabilities and productiveness of his part of the western territory and success crowned his efforts in a high degree. His plans were far reaching, wise and sagacious. Although cool, careful and conservative, whenever his judgment approved a business venture he gave to it the whole force of his energetic nature and persistently carried it to a successful completion. He took a prominent part in the efforts made to organize the territory of Wyoming, and, from his opportunities and the character of his extensive acquaintance, was largely responsible for its establishment. At that trifle his winters were passed in New York and Washington and his personal connection with prominent public men and statesmen stood in good stead in the carrying out of this wise design, which meant so much in advancing the progress of civilization in this land of his adoption. During the winter of 1867-8 he devoted his time and means freely to acquainting members of Congress with the true conditions of the land, and the rights of the people of Wyoming to a representation in the councils of the nation. His labor was successful and when the boundaries of the territory were established his efforts located its western line. He was so prominently connected with the formation of the territory that President Grant offered to commission him as its first governor, an exalted honor, which he declined, as the duties would deprive him too much of that domestic life that was to him the highest charm of existence. Although his successful business operations were extensive and multitudinous, they were so systematically arranged that during his later years he devoted himself largely to the enjoyment of the wealth his ability had produced. His greatest pleasure lay in lavishly entertaining the numerous friends with whom he was united as with bands of steel, and in his hospitable residence at Fort Bridger many of Americas most prominent people have enjoyed the pleasant society of the Judge and of his excellent wife, who ably seconded and aided her husband in his undertakings, dispensing a hospitality as bountiful as that of royalty. Among their friends and visitors were the distinguished scientists, Professors Leidy, Marsh and Cope, Generals Harney, Sherman, Ord and Cook, and the great railroad magnates and financiers, John W. and Robert Garrett of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, Jay Gould and Sidney Dillon. With such friends and companions life passed pleasantly and usefully until November 7, 1881, when, in his sixty third year, Judge Carter was called from earth to those activities that have no weariness and mourning rested upon all the people. Of southern birth Judge Carter deeply sympathized with the South in the troubles antedating and accompanying the War of Secession, but his hatred of negro slavery and love of country united him with the most ardent supporters of the Union. Always in politics a strong supporter of the Republican party and deeply interested in public matters, yet his ardent love of domestic life caused him to decline all nominations to office or elective public trusts. His moral courage, tried in many occasions, was never found wanting. Neutrality was impossible to him, for he never shirked a duty or an issue. . His latent resources under the stimuli of difficulty and opposition were always equal to the demands made upon him in meeting weighty responsibilities and bearing the heavy burdens involved. He possessed the fine feelings so characteristic of Virginia birth and breeding and was intensely loyal to his friends. As there is an inspiration to others in the achievements of such men, we gather this review of the salient points of the life of Judge Carter and lay it as an honorable record where its influence may descend with helpful strength to other generations. His memory will long be cherished and his life is a part of the history of the state. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
WILLIAM J. CASHIN
One of the most enterprising and successful merchants of Evanston, Wyoming. William J. Cashin. is a native of New York state, where he was born on Long Island in 1849, his parents being Michael and Margaret (Doheny) Cashin. The former was born in Wexford, Ireland, and came to America the year that William J. was born. He engaged in the business of nurseryman, having been foreman of a nursery in Oxford, England, and he conducted it with success at Flushing, L. I., until his retirement about twenty years before his death, which occurred in March, five years ago, at the age of seventy-six. He was a man of broad views, refined tastes and courageous bearing. His politics were Democratic, but though often urged to stand for public office, he always refused. His wife, whom he married in Ireland in 1846 and brought to America in 1849, survived only until 1852, dying at the age of twenty-five. She was a very affectionate woman, wholly devoted to her home and family. Husband and wife were both devoted Catholics. William J. is the only survivor of their union, their other child, John B., having died young. William J. Cashin received his early education in Whitestone, L. L, and he later attended the academy at Flushing. After graduating he went into the wholesale house of John D. Lock & Co. and remained in it for fourteen years, and until the firm ceased to operate. Being then possessed of the highest testimonials, the result of untiring devotion to duty, he went to Portland, Conn., and was given charge of a department of a wholesale house there. He remained in this employment for six years and then went to Middletown, Conn., and bought a nickel electroplating business, which he conducted with complete success for twelve years until, at the urgent request of the late J. E. Cashin of Evanston, Wyo., he came here on May 30, 1886, to become a partner in the business then conducted in two rooms. Under his able management this establishment has grown into a mammoth department store, carrying also a large line of agricultural implements. The firm is now Beeman & Cashin, the present Mr. Cashins original partner having passed away. Mr. Cashin is a remarkably successful man of affairs, having varied interests. He is secretary of the Uinta County Natural Gas. Oil and Pipe Co., is interested in valuable oil properties in Wyoming, was one of the original stockholders of the old flouring mill, now abandoned because no grain was raised for it, has stock in several Utah mines and is one of the directors of the Ohio and Wyoming Oil Co., organized in Cincinnati, Ohio. In politics he is a Democrat. He held the office of coroner for two terms and he has several times been asked to stand for other offices; but his business affairs are too engrossing to permit his holding public office. He is a member of the fraternal order of the Maccabees, of the Safety Fund and Insurance Co., of New York and of the Bankers Alliance of Des Moines, Iowa. Mr. Cashins family consists of his wife and these eight children: Edward J., assistant bookkeeper for his fathers firm; William J., a telegrapher for the Union Pacific Railroad; Joseph; Frank; Alice; Leo; Norvall; Roella. Mrs. Cashin was formerly Ellen McAuliffe, a native of Portland, Conn., where she was married in May, 1889. She was born in 1859, daughter of John and Abigail (Grandon) McAuliffe, both still living in Portland, where Mr. McAuliffe is now retired. They were natives of Ireland and came to the United States in 1845 and settled in Portland. Mrs. McAuliffe is a loving motherly woman, who has given untiring devotion to her family (Source Progresive Men of Wyo) Biographie Index
WILLIAM C. CASTO.
Every man who earnestly works into practical form the expression of great thoughts and of inspiring and lofty ideals is a benefactor to mankind. His operations for success in his particular field of labor help to educate each successive generation, and such records of life, work and success supply the most inspiring and disinterested motives to the highest exertion in the present and in the future. We are led to these reflections in contemplating the life and activities of William C. Casto. now of Fort Bridger, Wyoming, who is a native son of the west, born at Montpelier, Idaho, on April 14, 1869, a son of James and Sarah (Odekirk) Casto. His mother was born in Missouri and his father in Indiana when he long conducted the saddle business. He was of French origin, while his wife, a daughter of Isaac and Eliza (Dutcher) Odekirk, was of German descent, although her parents were natives of Ohio. James Casto early became identified with the church of Latter Day Saints and crossed the plains in the second pilgrimage of Mormons in 1850. settling in Provo Canyon. Utah. They removed to Idaho some time in the early sixties where James Casto was a trapper and hunter until his death which occurred in 1870, at the age of fiftyfive years. Of their union nine children were born, and after the demise of her husband. Mrs. Casto married William Hendrick and they have two living children. In crossing the plains in 1850 Mrs. Casto drove an ox team the entire distance from the Missouri River to Fort Bridger. Her death occurred at Fort Bridger in July 1897, at the age of sixty-four years. Mr. Casto was early left an orphan by his fathers death and was brought to Wyoming by his mother at the age of two years. Here his educational discipline was acquired in the common schools and after his school days were over he became a rider on the range, following this vocation for many years and he was daring, intrepid and successful. In 1895 he made his home at Fort Bridger, where he has since been connected with various branches of business, and is now engaged in merchandising. He is a man of great activity, energy and practicality. He combines fine taste with his practical qualities and as an evidence of this has the finest residence in Fort Bridger. He is identified to a certain extent with cattle raising and is generally interested in anything that adds to the value or welfare of the community. Fraternally he is identified with the Benevolent Protective Order of Elks, holding membership with the lodge at Rock Springs. In political relations he is strongly pronounced in favor of the Democratic Party, and does earnest work for its candidates, although desiring no position elective or appointive. The secret of his successful life can be comprised in the statement that he has ever been a man of well directed, steady and persistent energy, always sincere and honest, and intensely loyal to his friends. He has ever been kindhearted, hospitable, generous to the needy and diligent and faithful to all his trusts and friendship. As a business man he stands in a high rank. The marriage of Mr. Casto occurred on October 27, 1898, when he was married at Fort Bridger, Wyo., to Miss Rosanna Pearce, a daughter of William and Mary M, (Clucas) Pearce. natives of New Jersey and Missouri. They also are Mormons. Taking the long and wearisome journey across the plains to the promised land in 1860, with a handcart train, they are still enjoying life in their home in the west. The home of Mr. and Mrs. Casto is brightened by two children, William Charles and Pearl N. **note from the county administrator of this site there was another girl born named Adlaide. These people were first cousins of my grandfather Elmer Arthur. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
GEORGE F. CHAPMAN
George F. Chapman, one of the leaders of the enterprising citizens of Evanston, Wyoming, comes of sturdy Yankee stock, for his parents and grandparents were all natives of Massachusetts, where he himself was born in Canton, in 1860, his father being Oliver S. Chapman, born at Belchertown, Mass., in 1811, and during his mature life he was always interested in railroads and railroad building, aiding in the construction of the first railroad in Massachusetts and being a member of the first board of directors of the Union Pacific Railroad. Politically he was a Republican, and his life ended in 1879, his remains being buried at Canton, Mass. His wife, the mother of George F. Chapman, was Elizabeth Everett, born in 1817 at Canton, Mass.. where she was married and lived until two years ago, when she also passed away. Her remains rest beside those of her husband. Her father, Leonard Everett, and her mother also were natives of Massachusetts and their remains also rest in the attractive cemetery at Canton. George F. Chapman was educated at Canton and in the Massachusetts Mechanical University of Technology. Graduating from the latter in 1878, he came to Omaha, Neb., engaged in railroading, and at the time he closed his connection with this road he was the master mechanic of the Union Pacific Railroad, with headquarters at Evanston. Having become largely interested in ranching property in company with his brother, J. E. Chapman, he ably engaged in the active management of its affairs and also with a meat business in Evanston, which was started fifteen years ago, and at the present writing the brothers own 56,000 acres of land in Rich county, Utah, which they devote principally to sheepraising. In politics Mr. Chapman is a Republican, and he was elected a member of the legislature of Wyoming in 1892 and served with credit to himself and benefit to his constituents, manifesting legislative qualities of a high character. Mr. Chapman was first married in 1882 to Eliza Copen, who. like himself, was a native of Canton, and descended from Colonial families of Massachusetts. Her parents were George and Clara (Boyton) Copen, whose mortal remains were buried in their native place. Massachusetts. Mrs. Chapman died about four years ago. leaving her husband with four children: Ruth, George H., Elizabeth L. and Frederick. About two years ago Mr. Chapman again entered matrimony with a member of the distinguished old Ames family, which has furnished so many notable people of the state and nation, being prominent in every generation from Colonial days. She was Alice Ames, a daughter of Frank and Catherine (Copeland) Ames, of whom the father is dead and the mother a resident of Boston. Biographie Index
CHARLES F. CLARK.
Viewed in the light of what he has accomplished, Charles F. Clark, of Spring Valley, Uinta County, Wyoming, well deserves a place on the honor roll of successful and self made men. By the dint of his native abilities, energy, perseverance and thrift he has achieved a success of which he may justly be proud and attained to a position commanding the respect of all who know him. He was born in Manchester, Iowa, on July 15, 1871, a son of Dealton A. and Mary A. (Baker) Clark, who were natives of Illinois. Dealton A. Clark was a son of O. D. Clark, both parents being natives of Iowa and of English descent, and he is a brother of U. S. Senator Clarence D. Clark of Wyoming. The family however has been domiciled on American soil since the early Colonial days of New England, an ancestor being a veteran of the Revolutionary War and other members of the family have been participants in every war in which this country has been engaged. Dealton A. Clark and his brother, Dyer O., distinguished themselves by patriotic service in the Union army of the Civil War and Dealton was for some years in charge of the commissary department of his military division. Dyer O. Clark was seriously wounded in the service, and an uncle of Charles F. Clark, James Tisdale, was also a soldier of the Civil War, holding the commission of lieutenant. Mr. Clark was a bookkeeper and removed with his family to Wyoming in 1870, where he was manager of the Union Pacific Coal Co.s store at Rock Springs for a period of time and then was the head clerk of the establishment until his death, which occurred on May 15, 1890, at the age of forty-six years. Mary A. (Baker) Clark, is a lady of. fine intellectual tastes and education, capably and efficiently filling the office of county superintendent of schools of Sweetwater county, Wyo. She is now residing at Rock Springs, Wyo., at the age of fifty four years. Dealton A. Clark and his estimable wife were parents of five children, two sons and three daughters whose names we here produce in order of their birth, Charles F. to whom this review is particularly devoted; Florence, now Mrs. Arthur M. Gildcrsleevc of Rock Springs; an infant that died unnamed; Harry D, of whom an individual sketch appears on another page of this volume; Mabel. Charles F. Clark received the educational advantages of the public schools of Rock Springs, Wyo., and early was engaged in the adventurous life and occupation of riding the range on the Wyoming plains near Rock Springs for Nelson Morris, of Chicago, Ill., and in his employ he was satisfactorily engaged for five years. At the end of that time and service he became connected with Tim Kinney & Co., as clerk, continuing in this employ until 1896. when he went to Almy, Wyo., in the capacity of mine clerk for the Union Pacific Railroad and in 1901 he was transferred to Spring Valley, where he was engaged in the same capacity. Retaining this position, giving good and valuable service, identifying himself thoroughly with the interests of his employers and becoming conversant with the needs and requirements of the people of this section of the state, he established a business for himself in a line of merchandising, conducting a news, tobacco and confectionery stand, which he opened in February, 1902. He has shown wise and discriminating care in the establishment of this business and is enjoying a marked degree of success. He is a popular citizen and has a large circle of friends, being an active member of the Red Cloud Tribe No. 8. of Red Men, of Spring Valley. Mr. Clark was united in matrimony at St. Joseph. Mich., on July 24, 1891, with Miss Ivy Henderson, a daughter of Porter A. Henderson. Her father was a native of Pennsylvania and her mother of Virginia, and after the death of the father the mother made her home in Norfolk in the Old Dominion. Mr. Clark is prominently identified with the Republican Party and while actively interested in its campaigns, policies and elections, has steadfastly refrained from accepting any public or political office or trust, finding in his legitimate sphere of business ample scope for the exercise of his abilities. He is a man of a genial and social temperament, strongly attached to his friends, and in all his relations bears himself as a large hearted, conscientious individual. He is progressive in his views on all subjects, and in whatever he engages works with a determination and a will which never fails to bring success. He has a strong, well developed physique and with his cordial greeting, friendly demeanor and manly character commands universal respect. In dealing with his fellowmen his motto is invariably that expressed in the Golden Rule. (Source Progressive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
FRANK K. COLLETT.
There is, perhaps, no stockman of the immediate locality of his home who is more extensively known or stands higher among his acquaintances than Mr. Collett. and it is but simple justice to incorporate a brief review of his life and activities in this volume, as one of the wide awake and representative citizens of Uinta county. He was born in October, 1865, at Logan, Utah, a son of Sylvanus and Lydia (Karens) Collett, of whom individual and collective sketches appear elsewhere in this volume, to which the reader is referred for the details of the ancestral history of Mr. Frank K. Collett. .After availing himself of the advantages of school education that were within the reach of his youthful years, Mr. Collett, at the age of fourteen, became a range rider, acquiring, in the course of the years which he devoted to the caring for cattle, a skill and proficiency, a health of body and powers of endurance which have been of admirable service to him in his life of intense activity, and given him distinction among the cattlemen with whom he was associated. Having become thoroughly familiar with each and every department of the cattle industry, Mr. Collett established a home and business of his own. by securing a homestead of located at Cokesdale, Wyo., and here he, with his customary activity and earnestness, engaged in general fanning and in the stock business, from the first obtaining satisfactory results, as his operations have been conducted with care and discrimination. He usually runs a large and valuable herd of high-grade cattle, mostly of the Hereford breed. In December, 1893, occurred his marriage with Miss Catharine Sims, born in Utah, in 1870, a daughter of Alexander and Elizabeth (McDcrmott) Sims, natives of Scotland and of Africa. Her father, a miller, came to the United States from his native land in company with a Mormon colony and settled in Utah, where he resided the greater part of his subsequent life, dying, however, at the age of fifty-one years in 1894, at Fish Haven, in Idaho, where had been his home for a short period of time. His wife survives him, having her home at Swan Creek, Utah. Mr. Sims was a thoughtful, intelligent person, keeping himself fully abreast of the worlds latest movements, by his extensive and carefully selected reading of the best literature, becoming extremely well informed. Mr. and Mrs. Colletts household is rounded out by the presence of two winsome daughters, Imogene and I.ucile. Mr. Collett is an active and earnest observer of all public matters of local and general interest, and is heartily connected with the success of the Republican party of Uinta County, supporting its candidates and promulgating its principles in even campaign. Fraternally, he is a valued member of the Woodmen of the World.. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
It is not an easy task to follow in detail the career of a man who has led an eminently active and busy life and attained to a position of high distinction in the more important and exacting fields of human endeavor. But biography finds its justification in the tracing and recording of just such lives, and it is with a full appreciation of all that is demanded as well as with a feeling of satisfaction, that the writer essays the task of now touching briefly upon the salient facts in the career of the distinguished public servant whose name furnishes the caption of this review. Whatever may be said of the legal fraternity, it cannot be denied that members of the bar have been more prominent in public affairs than those of any other profession or vocation. The ability and learning which qualify a man for this most exacting of all callings also qualify him in many respects for duties which lie outside the strict path of his profession and which touch the general interests of society and the business world. Holding marked precedence among the distinguished jurists of the West, with a reputation extending beyond the confines of his state, Hon. Samuel T. Corn, an associate justice of the Supreme Court of Wyoming, has long been accorded an honorable place in the judicial history of various states of the American commonwealth. A man who "stands foursquare to every wind that blows," and whose strength and service are as the number of his days, much might be written upon his life and yet much more touching his active, useful and eminently honorable career still be omitted. In view of this fact it is intended that the following lines shall contain but a brief epitome of the life, professional record and public services of this typical American, who has so deeply impressed his personality upon the state in which he now holds such high official station. Samuel T. Corn was born in Jessamine county, Ky., on October 8, 1840, and is a descendant of one of the early settlers of that part of the state. His paternal grandfather, Solomon Corn, was a pioneer of Kentucky, settling in Mercer county when the country was new and bearing his full share of the hardships and privations peculiar to the period in which he lived. Ellis Corn, father of the Judge, was born in Kentucky and spent all of his life there, dying in Jessamine county in 1854. His wife, who bore the maiden name of Emily Thompson, was also a native of the Blue Grass state and a representative of one of the oldest families of the county, in which she was born and reared; she survived her husband several years, departing this life in 1863. Of the children born to Ellis and Emily Corn, five are living at the present time, two sons and three daughters, the Judge being the only one residing in Wyoming. Judge Corn was reared in his native state and into his mind were early instilled the lessons of integrity, honor and industry, which have borne fruit throughout all the years of his active life. His preliminary educational discipline, acquired in the home schools, aroused in his mind an ardent desire for knowledge and a laudable ambition for the means of its gratification. Desirous of furnishing him the best advantages obtainable, his mother in 1858 sent him to Princeton College, in which institution he prosecuted his studies until completing the prescribed course, receiving his degree two years later. With his mind well fructified by intellectual discipline, Mr. Corn on leaving college began the study of law at Nicholasville, Ky., under the direction of W. R. Welch, a prominent attorney of that place, and in 1863 he was formally admitted to the bar. He opened an office in Lancaster, where he soon took rank as an able and judicious lawyer, building up a lucrative practice in the courts of Garrard and neighboring counties and winning recognition at a bar long noted for the high order of its talent. After spending about three years in the above place Mr. Corn in 1866 went to Carlinville, Ill., where he practiced his profession continuously until 1886. These twenty years of laborious, conscientious work brought with them not only increase of practice and reputation, but also that growth in legal knowledge and that wide and accurate judgment, the possession of which constitutes the more marked excellence of the really great lawyer.' Probably there was no attorney in the district where he resided whose opinions were more largely sought, or were more widely respected than his own, and his reputation, as well as his clientele, increased in magnitude and importance with each recurring year. In 1872 he was elected state's attorney and served in that capacity two terms, retiring from the office in 1880. In 1886 Mr. Corn was appointed by President Cleveland an associate justice of the Supreme Court of Wyoming and served in that high position with distinguished ability until 1890, when he retired and resumed the active practice of his profession at Evanston, Wyo. He remained at the latter place until 1896, when he was again elevated to a place on the supreme bench and has sewed in that capacity ever since, with credit to himself and with satisfaction to the state. While engaged in the practice of law Judge Corn was regarded as one of the foremost representatives of the legal profession of the different places where his talents were exercised. Thoroughly versed in the science of jurisprudence, with a profound knowledge of every branch of the law, he became an able councilor and a shrewd but judicious practitioner, and easily stood among the most scholarly and erudite members of the bar. In the trial of causes he was uniformly courteous to the court, his opponent and witnesses. He cared little for display and never, lost a point for the sake of creating a favorable impression, but sought to impress the jury rather by weight of facts in his favor and solid argument than by appeals to prejudice. In discussing principles of law he was remarkable for frank clearness of statement and candor, sought faithfully for firm ground on which to stand and, when once he found it, nothing could drive him from his position. His zeal for his client never led him to urge an argument which in his judgment was not in harmony with the law. His conceptions of legal principles were clearcut and he preserved intact that perfect balance of judgment which characterizes the master of the profession. Judge Corn's career on the supreme bench has been eminently satisfactory and, as already stated, it has won him distinction as one of the eminent jurists of the W est. His written rulings are incisive, entirely incapable of misrepresentation. His written opinions, couched in forcible English of the purest diction, are models of legal literature. With a full appreciation of the majesty of the law, he exemplifies that justice which is the inherent right of every individual, and fearlessly discharges his duty with a loyalty to principle that knows no wavering. He has the sincere respect of the bar throughout the state and enjoys the unlimited confidence of the public. Not only as an eminent lawyer and distinguished public servant is Judge Corn known to the people of his adopted state, but in the domain of private citizenship his record has been open and kept free from blotted pages. -He is a gentleman of dignified but pleasing address, easily approachable and, being a man of the people, he has ever had their interests at heart. In many ways he has contributed to the industrial advancement of the state, ready and willing at all times to lend his influence in behalf of whatever tends to promote the moral and intellectual condition of the people. Politically, he has been a lifelong Democrat. Believing thoroughly in the principles and doctrines of his party and the dignity of its mission, he has rendered valuable service to its nominees, both state and national, as an eloquent and effective campaigner. He made thorough canvasses of Wyoming in 1890, 1892, 1894 and 1896, addressing large assemblages at the leading cities and towns, winning votes wherever he went, besides adding to his own reputation as an orator. In business the Judge has met with encouraging financial success, being the possessor of a competence of sufficient amplitude to place him in independent circumstances. He belongs to the Masonic fraternity and, like all true members of the mystic tie, squares his life in accordance with its principles and teachings. Judge Corn was married in 1876 with Miss Emma Blackburn, and is the father of four living children, namely, Thompson, Margaret, Annie and William A. Com. Biographie Index
THE CROMPTON BROTHERS.
The Crompton Brothers, merchants, of Evanston. Wyoming, are the sons of Mr. William Crompton, deceased. William Crompton was born in Lancastershire, England, in 1837. He was a miner both in England and in the United States. He came to America about 1870, crossing the continent by ox team, and coming direct to Salt Lake City. He first worked in construction on the Union Pacific Railroad until it was completed from Salt Lake City to Evanston, and there he became engaged in mining. He worked for some time in the coal mines at Almy, Wyo., and then went into farming and stock raising. He built a handsome brick residence about four miles from Evanston and lived in it until about three years before his death, which occurred at his Ogden home in October, 1900, at the age of sixty-three years. His remains are buried at Evanston. He was devoted to his home; home life being his chief delight. Seldom could he be found away from his own fireside. He was a man greatly respected by all who knew him. He was married in England to Hannah Hobson, who survives him. She is a native of England, born in 1835, and lives at the Ogden home, at 3161 Adams street. Mr. and Mrs. Crompton were the parents of the following children: Jane; John, died at the age of thirty-three years; Rachel ; Joseph; William; Mary; Walter; Squire; Anna, died when sixteen; Lillian; Carrie. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
CHARLES DANIELSON.
One of the most popular as well as prosperous farmers and stockmen of Uinta County. Wyoming, Mr. Charles Danielson, has his homestead on Bear River, about twenty miles south of Evanston. He was born in Sweden in December, 1851, and is the tenth child in the prolific family of Daniel Oleson, who was a son of Ole Watson. Charles Danielson was educated in the excellent schools of his native land, which the law compelled hint to attend until he was fourteen years of age, after which he was engaged in mining until 1887. when he came to the United States, settling in Wyoming and found employment in Evanston, where he resided until 1897, when he came to his present location and purchased a homestead of 320 acres, where he has since devoted his time and attention to raising and dealing in cattle. He was joined in marriage in Sweden in 1872 with Miss Sophia Israel, daughter of Israel Johnson, and this union has been graced with eight children, Selma B.. who died in Sweden at the age the age of four years; Mary Wilhelmina; Hyrum and Joseph, twins; Halmer. The parents are members of the Mormon Church, active in following all of its beneficent teachings, and in the good work of the church they take an active part. To the industry and enterprise of such men as Mr. Danielson the prosperity of all new states is due, for the reason that the natives of Europe are trained to useful manual occupations, which in after life are employed practically in the development of the resources of the new countries in which they pass their remaining years, as the recompense for their labor far exceeds that which they would receive for the same exertions in their native land, and results, as a rule, in retirement in advanced life on comfortable competences. The success of Mr. Danielson is perhaps to be envied, but all credit should be given to him, as well as to all others who overcome frontier hardships. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
JOSEPH DEAN
For long generations has the trade of cotton spinning been handed down as an industry in certain families located in County Cheshire, one of the northwestern counties of England. Long established in this locality and intimately connected with this industry, has been the Dean family, of which Joseph Dean, the popular hotel proprietor and postmaster of Spring Valley, Uinta county, Wyoming, is the sole American representative. His parents were John and Lavina (Oldfield) Dean and his birth occurred in Cheshire. England, on March 21, 1854, and he was the youngest of three children. Orphaned by the death of both of his parents when he was a lad of about three or four years of age, he was reared by and made his home with his aunt, Harriet Oldfield, until his marriage in 1875. Devoting all that could be spared of the early years of his life to diligent attendance at the government schools of Cheshire, where he acquired a good practical education, he then became connected with the carding department of a cotton mill, with whose operation he was connected for about eight years and until his emigration to America, which occurred in 1881 His first American home was at Garden City, Rich county, Utah, where he was engaged in agricultural operations for four years, rcmoving then to Alma, where he was employed around the mines for the same period of time. He then was placed in charge of the mining companys stock, holding this responsible position until the fall of kjoi, when he resigned of the hotel at Spring Valley, receiving also the appointment of postmaster of the Spring Valley postoffice in April. 1901. In conducting his hotel, as in all other labors that he has undertaken, he has spared no pains to place his business upon a high foundation and in this he has notably succeeded, having attained a high reputation as a genial landlord and a pleasant host which has gone out over a wide extent of country and has brought him a profitable patronage. Mr. Dean was married in England on May 22, 1875, to Miss Mary J. Ingham, a daughter of Alfred and Margaret (Dow) Ingham. Her father, a native of England, was a son of John and Mary Ingham, and was a stationary engineer, at which trade he passed many years. Her mother was born in Ireland and Mrs. Dean was the eldest of their family of nine children, two boys and seven girls, of which three of the children came to the United States. Her father died in England in 1894 at the age of sixty-six years, while her mother is still residing there at the age of seventy-seven. To Mr. and Mrs. Dean have been born ten children, their names in consecutive order of birth being: Alfred, died in England at the age of three years and three months; Lavinia; John I.; Joseph ; Margaret E.; James D.; Edith V.; Effic E., died in Alma at the age of eight years and two months; Myrtle I.; Hugh E. There are no more devoted adherents to the Church of Latter Day Saints than arc the worthy subject of this sketch and his family. lie has in every way manifested a devout character and strong religious principles and these, united to marked executive business ability, has caused him to be elevated to the high office of bishop of his local church. In social relations and in the home circle Mr. Dean is a most genial companion, himself and wife dispensing a graceful and bounteous hospitality to the many numerous friends who esteem and honor both of these worthy people for their many winning traits of character. Fraternally, Mr. Dean is a valued member of the Ancient Order of United Workmen, with which brotherhood he is affiliated at Spring Valley and in which he has held the office of master workman. Mr. Dean has always takes a prominent part in public and educational affairs, and, while actively engaged in the management of his business interests, he has never shirked from the duties of citizenship and has often been entrusted with matters of great importance and official place and responsibility, where the possession of true honesty and integrity was demanded, and in it he has never been found wanting. He is a very stanch supporter of the political doctrines ever maculated by the Republican party and has always been a strong defender of its principles, policies and candidates, laboring with earnestness for its success in its campaigns and elections. When in the fullness of time the historian shall gather in the name of those who in their separate spheres of life have wrought with earnestness successfully and well in the building up of a high mural and religious culture in this portion of the great American Republic, not lowest nor least in its importance will be the name of the venerable gentleman whose life we have just reviewed. He has a large concourse of friends who appreciate him for his sterling worth, his ability and his numerous personal traits of high order. Conspicuous among these qualities, however, must be noted his devotion to his family and the care which he has given and is still giving to the rearing of his children to become useful and valuable citizens, being honored and reverenced by all.(Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
SAMUEL DICKEY.
An ex-sheriff and a prominent and worthy citizen of Evanston, Wyoming, and the youngest child of John and Margaret (Rutherford) Dickey, of Oxford, Pa., Samuel Dickey deserves more than a mere mention in this work. His father was born in York, Pa., and lived there until Samuel was eight years old, being a butcher by trade. In 1854 he left Pennsylvania and went to St. Louis, Mo., and after various changes finally located at Webster Grove and followed his business there as a butcher until his death in 1874 at the age of sixty. He was a Democrat in politics, a member of the Presbyterian Church, a generous man and a kind father. His wife was a native of Ireland; born in 1814, who was brought when young to Chester county, Pa., by her parents and here she married and became the mother of nine children, dying at the early age of thirty-six, being a devoted member of the Presbyterian church. Samuel Dickey was born in 1847 al Oxford, Chester County. Pa. He got his early education in the schools of Missouri and in 1863 he returned to Pennsylvania and enlisted in Co. F, Fifth Penn. Cavalry, serving in the Civil War until May 20, 1865, when he was mustered out at Richmond, Va. He then returned to Missouri and again attended school for a short time until. he went into the butcher business at Kirkwood, Mo., in which he remained until 1871, after which he came west to Fort Bridger, Wyo., where he was employed by Judge W. A. Carter, until 1874, when he came to Evanston and entered the employ of Crawford & Thompson, wholesale meat dealers, remaining in the meat business until appointed deputy sheriff under Sheriff Pepper in 1877, serving four years as deputy under Sheriff Pepper, he was then himself elected sheriff in 1881 and served one term and he was also during this time and for eight years a deputy U. S. marshal. At the expiration of his term as sheriff he went into the Union Pacifics office at Green River as a clerk for six months, when he returned to Evanston and went into the employment of the Neponce Land and Live Stock Co. After this he served the city of Evanston as marshal and then returned to clerking in the freight office of the Union Pacific here in 1890 and remained at it ever since, and in 1900 he was promoted to agent of the same road at Evanston. Mr. Dickey has always been an efficient officer, giving his best efforts to the work of his office. His interest in public affairs has been marked; and he is an extremely popular man with his acquaintances and constituents. He has been a member of the governors staff as an aide under Governor Barber, Ex-Governor Richards and the late Governor Richards, being also chief clerk of the State Senate in 1899. He is a member of the Wyoming Consistory, A. A. S. R. of the Masonic fraternity and belongs also to the Maccabees. Mr. Dickey was married in 1867 at Webster Grove, Mo., to Emma Kalffus, a native of Baltimore, Md., a daughter of William and Susan (Chandler) Kalffus; and five children have blessed the union: Mary, Lillian, Clara M., Robert and Samuel. Robert died in 1888 and Samuel in 1898. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
MRS. EMILY DURNFORD.
This estimable, Progressive and truly representative lady is the widow of George T. Durnford, a prominent and much beloved citizen of Evanston, who was greatly identified with its history and took an important part in its making. He was born in I841 in Somersetshire, England, and there learned the trade of stone masonry. He came to the United States in 1860, going to Salt Lake City, Utah, where he followed his trade for five years. Following this he lived for a time in Summit county, Utah, and then came to what is now the city of Evanston in the employ of a coal company, but soon became a contractor in his own line of work, and he was connected with the building of nearly all of the brick structures of the town, thus making himself one of the most useful of its citizens. Mr. Durnford was a man of marked honesty and generosity, devoted to both home and country. He was well posted in the political affairs of his adopted country and a Democrat in his politics; but he never sought and would not accept political office. He took a great interest in inventions and was ever ready to avail himself of their advantages in his business. He died April 22, 1900, and is buried at Evanston. He was married in 1865 at Salt Lake City, and besides his widow, he leaves the following sons and daughters: Helen A., now Mrs. Miller; George T.; Walter J.; Curtis W.; Emily J., now Mrs. Goodman; Florence E., now Mrs. Daily. Another child, Frank, died at the age of one year and is buried in Summit county, Utah. Mrs. Durnford is comfortably situated and she lives pleasantly in one of the comfortable suburban homes of Evanston. She was born on the Hudson River in Orange County. NY., the daughter of Ross R. and Helen (Curtis) Rogers. Her father was a native of New York City, a cabinetmaker by trade, and became one of Utahs early pioneers, crossing the plains with his ox team in 1851 and settling at Provo. There he became interested in sawmills and furniture making, remained two years in Provo and then went to Iron county, where he was also interested in a mill and in a furniture factory. He was interested in mills in various parts of Utah, but he finally went to Arizona and lived at Hades Ferry, where he owned land which he took pride in improving, and he developed a fine orchard and also devoted himself to stock raising. He died there in 1891. He was a Republican in politics and held a number of offices, being a member of a Masonic lodge and of the Mormon church. Mrs. Durnfords mother. Mrs. Helen Curtis, was born in 1821 in Danburv, Conn. She was married in New York City and died thirty years ago and is buried in Summit County, Utah. She also was a member of the Mormon Church and a woman devoted to her home. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming Biographie Index
C. J. EARLY.
Among the energetic and enterprising young men of Uinta county who are rapidly forging to the front through the force of their inherent ability and a nobility of character. Christopher J. Early, of Fort Bridger, Wyoming, holds a conspicuous place. He was born in Brooklyn, New York, on December 24, 1864, a son of James and Ellen B. (McNaughton) Early, both natives of Ireland. His father did valiant service in the bloody ranks of the Civil War, to attest the sincerity of his devotion to his adopted country, and was in the service at Fort Bridger, where Christopher received most of his education at the military school at the fort and at the local public school. Following this he was engaged with his father in the cattle business in this vicinity until 1898, when they disposed of most of their stock. In 1893 Mr. Early had filed a squatters' right on the 160 acres, where he now makes his home, and his selection was a most valuable one, as he has it now well improved and producing bounteous crops of excellent hay. Mr. Early takes an active and earnest interest in public affairs as a member of the Republican party, and has served as a deputy assessor for several terms with marked acceptability, being also elected to the Legislature in 1902. Mr. Early was united in the bonds of holy matrimony with Miss Mary E. Kavanagh, a daughter of Dennis and Elizabeth (Lyons) Kavanagh, in Salt Lake City, Utah, on November 22, 1900. Her parents were natives of Ireland and both died in West Virginia. Mrs. Early has two brothers residing in Chicago, Ill., and a sister whose home is in West Virginia. Herself and husband are members of the Catholic church and they have a large circle of appreciated friends. Source: (Progressive men of the state of Wyoming) Biographie Index
JAMES EARLY.
In the review of the life of Mr. Early we are to write a brief synopsis of the activities of a brave soldier, much of whose life has been passed in dangerous campaigns against wily savages, who has been in numberless perils by land and sea. He is now a useful citizen, performing in the plain times of peace the same earnest attendance to the call of duty and the same industry in its performance. He is now the owner of a pleasant home of 160 acres of land, and engaged in ranching and stock raising. James Early was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, in March 1829, the son of Hugh and Sarah (Kearney) Early, descendants of old time honored families of the Emerald Isle. In 1854 Mr. Early emigrated from Ireland to the United States and soon after landing enlisted in the U. S. military service, in which connection he was sent to Oregon and to Fort Vancouver, passing six years of eventful life on the coast and meeting with many thrilling experiences. After his muster out he reenlisted in New York City in June, 1860, and for a time was engaged in drilling recruits in that city, not long thereafter being assigned to his old organization, Co. K, Fourth U. S. Infantry, whose eventful fortunes he followed for three more years, receiving an honorable discharge at Fort Sedgwick, Colo., in 1863, soon reenlisting. For his third term of service, and proceeding to Laramie, Wyo., and from there to Frankfort, Ky., where was passed the remainder of his enlistment. Once more a free man. he almost immediately reenlisted in the same company and accompanied it to Fort Wayne, Mich., and to Omaha Neb., but soon, on account of Indian troubles, it was dispatched to the far West. In 1871 he was stationed at Fort Bridger under General Flindt. His term of service here expiring, he again became a soldier by another enlistment in his old company. This term was a comparatively quiet one, as his regiment was kept on garrison duty at Fort Bridger until again he received his discharge. Mr. Early saw the various wars with the Nez Perces, the Kiowas. the Spokanes and other hostile tribes, and from 1855 and 1860 valiantly participated in some hard fighting and met with many hardships and thrilling episodes. A brave old soldier, he ever enjoyed the confidence of his comrades and officers, being for a long time sergeant of his company. In 1876 he located 160 acres of government land a short distance below Fort Bridger, and made that his home and at the present writing (1902) he is looking after the 166 acres owned by his daughter immediately at the old fort. He has ever been a stalwart Republican and with his family are faithful members of the Catholic Church. In 1861 he married Miss Ellen B. Norton, who shared his joys and sorrows for thirty-eight years and died on December 19, 1902, at her home in Fort Bridger. By this marriage there has been four children, Christopher J., who lives near his father; John F., who died on September 11, 1896; Mary D., a professional nurse of Salt Lake City; Katherine C. a stenographer of the same city. It must be pleasant indeed after so long a life of discipline to have the bands relaxed and to live in peaceful quiet in the consolation of having done lifes work well and blessed with children who occupy useful and honored positions in society. . May the twilight of life be long and filled with sunshine for this old veteran. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
CORNELIUS EDWARDS.
The little country of Wales has sent many of her sons to the United States and they invariably prove sterling citizens, intelligent, industrious and manifest forces for usefulness in the communities where they have established their homes. Cornelius Edwards, the popular and efficient chief engineer of the Kemmerer coal mines is one of this class. He was born in South Wales in August, 1856, a son of Thomas and Elizabeth (Thomas) Edwards, who descended from families resident in Wales from time immemorial. At an early age becoming practically acquainted with the theories of engineering, it did not take Mr. Edwards long to acquire the actual workings of that trade and, after the family migration to Utah in 1873, as a portion of the Mormons yearly addition to the population of the Promised Land, which he accompanied, the new home was made at Evanston, Wyoming, where the mother is now residing, the father closing his slay on earth in October, 1895, at the age of seventy-eight years. Cornelius Edwards, one of the ten children of his parents now living, was thoroughly equipped for his life in the West by his complete knowledge of his trade and took the position of chief engineer at the U. P. mines at Almy. Wyo., holding this with great capability until the mines were closed as the result of the great explosion, following which he was engaged, in the same capacity at Spring Valley, performing here his duties in the same competent manner that had characterized his work at AIniy. In 1900 he took charge of the mining machinery at Frontier, and is the present incumbent of the chief engineers office, being sober, industrious and capable and one to whom the higher trusts can be safely given. He is a public spirited citizen, popular in the community and in the fraternal societies of the United Workmen and the Woodmen of the World. His earnest labors in the business field have brought him satisfactory financial results, tangible evidence of this being shown in his fine residence at Evanston and the productive ranch on Blacks Fork in the Fort Bridger country, where he is quite extensively engaged in profitable stock raising. In Evanston, Wyo.. on April 22. 1874. Mr. Edwards and Miss Eliza Blight, a daughter of Philip Blight, were joined in matrimony and from that union has resulted eleven children. Mary J., the wife of Arthur E. Robinson of Frontier; Christmas, married and living at Evanston, where he is employed in the railroad shops; Gertrude, wife of George Fife of Evanston; Cornelius; Hattie; Philip; Simon; Edna; Otto and Effie (twins); and one who died in infancy. The family occupies a distinguished position in the community and are in the membership of the Church of the Latter Day Saints in Evanston, being loyal to their church, themselves and the wellbeing of society. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
ROBERT FADDIES.
One of the popular and influential citizens of Almy. Wyoming, is Mr. Paddies, who is a native of Kilwinning. Scotland, where he was horn on September 21. 1850. a son of Robert and Jeannette (Wilson) Faddies. The family has long been renowned in Scottish history and has ever been conspicuous for those knightly characteristics, valor and courtesy. The father. born in 1824, died in 1889. was a lifelong miner, a man of good parts and reputable life, and a son of Robert and Lida (Thompson) Faddics. This elder Robert died in 1863 at the age of seventy years, his wife passing from earth ten years later at the venerable age of ninety years, a veritable Mother in Israel. The mother of our subject, who was a daughter of Alexander and Jeannette (Kennedy) Wilson, still resides at Kilwinning, at the age of seventy, honored and reverenced by all of her acquaintance. The subject of this review, Robert Faddies, was provided with that solid education given in the excellent national schools of Scotland until he was nine years of age, he then engaging as a miner in the coal mines, where for twelve years he gave steady and honest labor, and acquired that practical knowledge of the business that has been of great service to him in the western country of his adoption. In 1881 Mr. Faddies emigrated from Scotland, crossing the Atlantic and choosing Indiana as the state of his first residence, here continuing to be identified with mining, subsequently engaging in the same vocation in Utah. His persistent industry, his genial disposition and his fund of general information and technical knowledge of his profession, made him many friends, and he was ever held in high esteem, being prospered in his undertakings and labors. In 1886 Mr. Faddies came to Almy, Wyo.. where he is now an esteemed citizen, and worked at mining until he turned his attention to that profitable industry, the raising of stock. Securing a homestead claim of 160 acres, lying on Hear River, not many miles from Almy, he has added to his estate until his holdings now constitute a fine estate, where he is developing a most convenient and pleasant home, and conducting a prosperous business in his special line of industry, giving especial attention to the raising of cattle. Mr. Faddics has been twice married; first, in 1870. with Miss Elizabeth McCutcheon, who was a daughter of John and Mary (Anderson) McCutcheon. old residents of Kilwinning, where she was born in 1850. and died in 1886, and where her body is now quietly reposing in the ancient cemetery. The children of this union were Robert and Mary (twins), Jeannettc and Lida. The second marriage was with Sarah Bartlett, on April 25, 1892. She was born in Wales, the daughter of George and Jane (Lewis) Bartlett, the father being a native of England and coming to America and crossing the plains as a pioneer of pioneers of Wyoming. Mrs. Faddies had been previously married with Frank Murphy, by whom she had three children, Alice, Nettie and Thomas, and from whom she obtained a divorce. She has borne two children to Mr. Faddies, John and Sarah. This family stands high in the social circles of the community and a pleasant hospitality radiates from the fireside. Mr. Faddies also takes great and active interest in local matters of public interest, being an ardent member of his political party and a very highly esteemed citizen of his section of the commonwealth. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
JOHN G. FIERO.
John Gillispy Ficro, a prosperous and well known citizen of Evanston, Uinta county, was born on November 16. 1836, in Ulster county, N. Y., amid the impressive scenes and suggestions of the Catskill Mountains, at the little town of Woodstock. His parents were Dr. John Gillispy and Mary (Hall) Fiero, whose family consisted of six children of whom five reached maturity, Mrs. Harriet Hyde, now deceased ; John G.; Wright E.; Mrs. Zemira Trombley: Mrs. Margaret O. Stephens. Dr. Fiero died at the early age of thirty six years, after a record of great credit and success as a physician and surgeon and after his death his wife, with her young children, removed to Mount Clemens, Mich., the home of her parents, where her husband had also owned property. Here she lived to the age of eighty four years and at her death, in 1894, she was buried in the beautiful cemetery of this well known city. She was a lady of excellent character and disposition, well known and well beloved, whose life was passed in good deeds. Her father, a prominent and successful physician and surgeon, was a man of affairs and connected with numerous business enterprises. He married Olive Rich, a native of Connecticut of English parentage and both lived to old age, the Doctor being eighty five and his wife eighty seven at death. Among the industrial enterprises with which the Doctor was connected was a glass factory which he built and operated at Mount Clemens. John G. Fiero after leaving the academy at Mount Clemens, where he finished his education, was apprenticed to the machinists trade in the Detroit Locomotive Works and worked there until the shops closed during the panic of 1857. He spent the following summer in the U. S. Coast Survey on Grand Traverse Bay. Michigan, and after that worked at carpentry for some time. He was next engaged at the Canada oil springs drilling oil wells and in this line of work was a very successful operator. In 1864 he entered the U. S. army as an engineer and was assigned to duty in the construction corps, building bridges, railroads and other necessary works. In March, 1865, he left the army and returned to his former home in Michigan, thence in June of the same year he started west across the plains to prospect for oil in the service of a company which failed before he reached his destination, but nothing daunted by its failure, he came to Fort Rridgcr, Wyo., and became the pioneer oil prospector of the state, boring the first well within its limits, locating valuable oil fields and opening and operating them in partnership with the late Judge Carter of Fort Bridger. In 1876 he removed to Evanston and beginning work as a carpenter became a builder and contractor in this line and also established a business in drilling and piping oil wells, being from his long and practical experience in this line of activity a master of it in every detail. Mr. Fiero has prospered in business, is securely established in the respect and esteem of his fellows and has rendered signal service to the various communities in which he has lived. He owns valuable property in Evanston, in Northvillc and in St. Louis, Mich. In politics he is an active and devoted Republican, standing by the principles and candidates of his party and rendering loyal service in all its campaigns. In fraternal relations he is a master mason, and belongs to Evanston Lodge, No. 4, with which he affiliated to aid in its organization as a charter member. He is a Presbyterian in religious belief and an elder in his church. On October 6, 1891, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary Landol Bowen, the marriage occurring at Nashville, Tenn., where she was born on February 3, 1863, the only child of James Landol and Rachel (Kernell) Bowen. She is a highly educated lady, a graduate of Wards Seminary at Nashville, Maple Hill Seminary and Doyle College, all celebrated educational institutions of Tennessee. In art especially she is richly endowed and has been very successful as a teacher, working directly from nature by the freehand system. Her work has had honorable mention wherever it has been shown, winning high commendation at the Nashville exhibit. She is also prominent and active in the W. C. T. U. organization, having been the president of the local union at Evanston and its secretary for many years. She has good business qualifications and manages her estate with skill and judgment. Her property in Nashville is valuable, and she also owns 2160 acres of timber and prospective oil land in DeKalb county. Tenn., located about three miles from Smithville, the county seat, which is in the PennsylvaniaTexas oil belt. Mr. and Mrs. Fiero have a pleasant home at 398 Lombard Street, in Evanston, one of the attractive social resorts of the town, and a center of intellectual culture and genial hospitality. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
FRANK M. FOOTE.
This gentleman who is one of the most prominent citizens of Evanston, Wyoming, was born in 1846 at South Bend, Ind., the son of Alexis and Christiana (Millis) Foote. His father was a native of Connecticut where he lived until his twentieth year when he went to Indiana and established a boot and shoe business in South Bend, retiring from this later to a farm about four and one-half miles south of the town where he died in 1859, his remains being interred in South Bend. He was an active Republican. Mrs. Foote was born in Saratoga, N. Y. being the daughter of James and Almira (Gill) Millis, and she died on March 20, two years ago and is buried at South Bend, Ind. She was a devoted and active member of the Methodist church. Frank M. Foote was educated in the Northern Indiana College and the Indiana Normal School at Valparaiso. He was fifteen years old when Fort Sumter was fired on and the event so stirred his patriotic young blood that he tried to enlist as a soldier in the defense of the Union; but his youth barred him and he failed of acceptance on its account, and later he was employed at bookkeeping for some years. In 1871 he came west and obtained a clerkship with the Union Pacific Railroad at Bryan, Wyo., where he remained in this capacity for thirteen months and then took the place of agent for the same road at Evanston. This responsible position he continued to hold for seventeen years, when he was appointed a receiver of public moneys under President Harrison for four years, after which he was elected the assessor of Uinta county for two years on the Republican ticket, being reappointed receiver of public moneys by President McKinlcy in June, 1897, but resigned the office on May 2, 1898 to take command of a battalion of Wyoming troops in the Spanish-American War, this giving proof that the patriotic fire of his youth was kindled in the depths of his nature. In this command he acquitted himself well, serving with gallantry in the battle at the taking of Manila on August 13, 1^98, at the fight at San Pedro Macati, Guadaloupe and at San Juan del Monte, in the Morang expedition, and in many other battles, engagements and skirmishes. Mr. Foote has distinguished himself in several fields of undertaking. His military record though brief is full of fruitful activity. His political record is both long and strong. From 1876 to 1880 he was the probate judge of Uinta County. From 1881 to 1884 he was deputy sheriff; and we have already noted the filling of many later years service in other work civil and political. His social and fraternal attainments have been the very highest possible to any man. In 1879 he was grand master of the Odd Fellows of his state; in 1880, grand master of the Freemasons; in 1895, grand commander of the Knights Templar of the state. He has taken thirty-three degrees of Masonry. He is an active member of the Supreme Council S. J. of U. S. and a member of the Salt Lake City Lodge No. 85 of Elks. Mr. Foote married in 1873 at Waterloo, N. Y., with Ida L. Deuel, a native of the state of New York and a daughter of J. T. and Emeline Deuel. Four children have blessed this union: Mary E., Grace S., Robert P., and Frank. The last named was born in July 1876 and died on October 5, 1881, his remains being interred at South Bend, Ind. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
GEORGE A. FORBES.
This popular leader of the Republican Party in Kemmerer county stands today one of the foremost men among the builders of Wyoming. Lineally descended from good Scottish stock, through George A. Forbes, who emigrated from Glasgow, Scotland, in Colonial times, he inherits all the strength of character, canny virtues and heroic bravery which led his great-grandfather to cast his fortunes with the New York militia of the Continental forces and to rise to distinction in its ranks. He is a native of the state of Ohio, having been born at Litchfield, Medina county, on October 22, 1849, a son of Alexander and Cornelia (Randall) Forbes, of Syracuse, NT. Y., Among his American forefathers were prominent lawyers and successful farmers, his own father following the latter occupation, both in New York and in Ohio, and dying at the age of eighty-five years on September 22, 1897, being buried at Litchfield five years after his wife had been laid to rest in the same place. Well educated in the public schools of Ohio Mr. Forbes began his business career in 1863 as a government employee, becoming a mailing clerk at Nashville. Tenn., for two years, when he returned to Ohio and became an engineer in a sawmill, continuing this occupation for eighteen months and until he was engaged as a fireman by the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad, being there soon promoted to the position of locomotive engineer, which he held until November. 1875. when he came to Evanston, Wyo., and was engineer for the Union Pacific, remaining with that road in the freight and passenger service until 1894, only to leave it for the less exacting and more peaceful pursuits of farming and stock raising. He has been constable for the Kemmerer precinct for three years and as a party leader for his county, it goes without saying that he must have good judgment, courage and a wise precaution to inspire confidence and merited esteem, which is now his in great measure. Fraternally, he is in full accord with the Masonic Lodge, No. 4, of Evanston, Evanston Chapter No. 2 and Evanston Commandery, No. 4, besides being an active member of the Maccabees and also of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers. In October, 1876, he married his first wife, Miss Susan Sparks of Bushnell, a daughter of Thomas and Sarah (Sparks) Bushnell, natives of Illinois, assistant principal for seven years of Professor Howes college at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. She died on September 13, 1881, and was buried on the same day as was President Garfield, leaving one child, Susan Alice, now a graduate of the State University at Lincoln, Neb., and a teacher in that institution. In the second marriage the lady of the choice of Mr. Forbes was Miss Alice Lenehan, of Toledo, Ohio, a daughter of Thomas and Mary (Lenehan) Lenehan of Ohio. They have one daughter, Laura M., who graduated from the Evanston high school with the class of 1902. The practical business qualities of Mr. Forbes have enabled him to acquire an enviable share of this worlds goods and. he owns 800 acres of valuable land near Evanston, the family residence in the city, and city property in Ogden, Utah, and Kemmerer. His career has been one of success and one of which he may well be proud, marked as it has been by energy, probity, loyalty to home and native land and a pleasing geniality which has gathered around him many warm friends who class him among their honored citizens. (Source Progresive Men of Wyoming) Biographie Index
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