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COMMEMORATIVE
BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD
OF
PROMINENT AND REPRESENTATIVE MEN
OF
RACINE AND KENOSHA COUNTIES
WISCONSIN
CONTAINING
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES OF BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL MEN AND MANY OF THE EARLY SETTLED FAMILIES.
ILLUSTRATED
J. H. BEERS & CO.
CHICAGO
1906
HC«K POB^^^
preface:.
HE importance of placing in 1x>ok form biographical history of rep- resentative citizens — both for its immediate worth and for its value to coming generations — is admitted by all thinking people; and with- in the past decade there has been a growing interest in this commend- able means of perpetuating biography and family genealogy.
That the public is entitled to the privileges afforded by a work of this nature needs no assertion at our hands ; for one of our greatest Americans has said that the history of any country resolves itself into the biographies of its stout, earnest and representative citizens. This medium, then, serves more than a single purpose; while it perpetuates biography and family gen- ealogy, it records history, much of which would be preserved in no other way. In presenting the Commemorative Biographical Record to its patrons, the publishers have to acknowledge, with gratitude, the encouragement and support their enterprise has received, and the willing assistance rendered in enabling them to surmount the many unforeseen obstacles to be met with in the production of a work of this character. In nearly every instance the material composing the sketches was gathered from those immediately in- terested, and then submitted in type-written form for correction and revision. The volume, which is one of generous amplitude, is placed in the hands of the public with the belief that it will be found a valuable addition to the library, as well as an invaluable contribution to the historical literature of the State of Wisconsin.
THE PUBLISHERS.
INDEX
PAGE.
Acker, Marvin W 585
Adams, John W 559
Alirens, Otto E 458
Alaxon, Edwin 315
Alaxon, Knut 315
Alexander, Rev. Walter S 625
Allen, Charles W 27
Allen, Nathan 27
Allen. Nathan R 26
Andrewson, Christian 163
Andsion Family 219
Apple, Hon. Adam 40
Apple, Charles E 41
Apple, Harry 41
Arnold. John 175
Ashy, William 311
Bailey, Hon. Alexander 104
Bailey Family 104
Bain, Edward 394
Baker, George R 401
Baker, John R 421
Baker, jily ron A 55
Baker, Robert H 23
Baldwin, James G 131
Barnes, Mrs. Clara P 411
Barrows, Alvin 510
Barrows, Mrs. Clarissa 511
BiEsett, Mrs. Adeline F 591
Bassett, Edgar 625
Bassett, George 626
Bassett, Reuben L 581
Bassett, Volney L 591
Bayley Family 181
Bayley. Herbert 0 181
Beardsley, Ezra 207
Becker, Dr. Bernard A 589
Becker, Peter 606
Beecher, Gustavns A 180
Beimer, Henry G 432
Beimer, Rudolph 432
Belden, Hon. Ellsworth B 48
Belden, Hon. Philo 22
Benson, Mrs. Elizabeth 427
Benson, Elliott C 426
Bever, Michael 319
Bevins, Arthur N 636
Bierce, Rev. Daniel E 625
Billings, Edward T 331
P.ACE.
Bird, Walter B 164
Bishop, Isaac T 323
Blakey, John S 172
Blood, Alvin H 597
Bloss, Ward 539
Bolton, James 363
Bones, Benjamin R 317
Booth, George H 416
Botsford, Ahira F 551
Brehm, Bernard 127
Brook, James 223
Brower, William B 428
Brown, Charles C 572
Brueggenian, Frank H 391
Bryant, James 5S0
Buchan, Edwin 166
Buckmaster, Albert E 168
Buell Family 576
Buell, Fred J 5/6
Buell, Thomas W 576
Bull, Frank K '27
Bull, Silas H 557
Bull. Stephen i
Bull, Wakely T 396
Bullamore, Henry L 256
Burfeind, William F 257
Burroughs, Eben 596
Buttles, Elijah T 310
Buttles, Mrs. Nancy E 310
Cadwell, Rev. Christopher C 621
Caley, Henry 613
Calkins, Orla M 235
Callaghan, John J 414
Callender, John 456
Callender, William J ......456
Cape, James, Jr 78
Carswell, Charles N 454
Case, Henry C 328
Case. Jackson 1 59
Case, Hon. Jerome 1 2
Cavanagh, James 232
Chandler. James G 31
Choak, Charles 380
Christien, Joseph M 299
Clausen, John 392
Clemons Family 326
demons, Ward C 606
Clergyman, The Pioneer 620
INDEX
PAGE,
Collar, Deacon Daniel N 4^9
Collier, Joshua Z 5'-
Colville, Rev. George M., D. D 625
GonnoUy, (Patrick H 67
Cooper, Archibald 211
Cooper, Hugh R 212, 322
Corwin, Rev. Eli, D. D 625
Cox. Francis 158
Crabb, Odle L 213
Crane, John W 307
Crane, William 546, 553
Crane, William A 240
Cunningham, Matthew 223
Curtis, Cyrus A 409
Curtis, G. Harry 574
Curtis, Philo 408
Curtiss, Hon. Walker M 448
Cutting, Andrew J 611
Dabbs, William G 308
Daniels, Anton 39°
Daniels. Nicholas 374
Darbv, Henry C, M. D 412
Dardis. H. Gene 117
Davidson, Joseph F 58
Davies, John P 208
Davis Family 33t
Dearsley, John W 53-
DeVuyst. Abraham 643
Dexter, Hon. Walter L 116
Dingee, William W 66
Dixon, Joseph E 403
Dow, William C 182-
Dowse. James C 148
Drake, William H 3S8
Dunkirk, John 437
Dunnebacke, Ferdinand 603
Dyer, Judge Charles E 459
Early Settlers of Racine County 461
Eastman, J. Russell, M. D 588
Edwards, Hugh R 332
Emerson Family 152
Emerson, Thomas J 152
English, John J 95
Erskine, IMassena B 273
Esmond, James 0 546
Essmann. Theodore H 451
Evans, Dr. Christmas E 438
Evans, Dr. Evan R 598
Evans, John 371
Faulkner, George W 604
Feldshau, Frederick C 375
Fennell, John 503
Feuerer, Pious 547
Findlay. Charles M 373
Fink, Eugene 540
Fisher, Frederick 176
Fisher. William F 178
Flegel, Albert L 71
Foltz, Charles G 140
Folwell. John H 602
Fonk, John 263
PACE.
Foote, Rev. Hiram 622
Foster, Julian A., Sr 348
Foxwell, John 102
Fratt, George N 43
Fratt, Hon. Nicholas D 278
Frost, Charles N 352
Frost Family 352
Gaines, Harvey B 640
Garnetz, August W 287
Gehr, Rev. George F 558
Gittings, Christopher C 70
Gittings, John T 612
Gittins, Elmer E I39
Gleeson, Bartholomew 382
Goodland, Walter S 51
Goold, John F 49
Gould, Myron A 563
Graham, Charles L 525
Graham, Owen P 410
Gray, James H 123
Greeley, Horace C 333
Grenier, George W 288
Griffiths, Thomas P no
Gunder.son, Gouty 150
Gunter, Charles 615
Gunter, William 615
Hale F'amily 250
Hale, George 250
Hale, Myron H 252
Hallock, William H 297
Halter, Henry 198
Hansen, Thomas 284
Hansen, Valdemar 521
Hanson, Dr. William C 541
Harbridge, Frederick 44
Harcus, Adam H 347
Harden, Delbert 354
Harden, Theodore 353
Hartnell, Frank G 368
Hartnell, John 368
Harvey, William J 129
Haumersen, Frederick H 62
Hausner, Christof 528
Hausner, John W 529
Haven, Wiltsie S 146
Hay, John S 413
Hay. Thomas 155
Head. Eugene R 372
Head, George D 96
Heck, Judge i\Iax W 60
Hcg, Ole 313
Hegeman, Louis 590
Heidbrink, Dr. Jay A 627
Heidersdorf, Christian 255
Henningfeld, Louis 542
Herzog, George H 608
Hewitt, Benjamin F 169
Hewitt, Mrs. Louisa M 170
Higgins. Michael, Jr 136
Hildebrand, Andrew 79
Hilker, Adolph 280
Hilker, Adnlph W 280
Hilker, William 272
INDEX
PAGE.
]Iinchliffe, Tom 316
Hocking, James N 537
Hocking. Josiah 525
Hocking. J\Iiss Prudence M 525, 538
Hoffman. Martin L 424
Hogenson, Christopher 420
Holhster, Homer T 618
Holloway, Morris W 538
Holton Family 75
Hood. William C 247
Hoyt Family 26g
Hcyt, Franklin E 269
Hoyt. William E 268
Huck. Mathias 113
Hueffner, Ernst J 22
Humphrey, Rev. Zephaniah M 623
Hunter, Adam 2,2"]
Hunter, Mrs. Charlotte 328
Hurd, James 405
Hurn, David 197
Hutchins. Rev. Charles J 624
Hyde, Henry H 63
Jacobs, Rev. Theodore 184
Jasperson, Orlando A 643
Johnson, Charles K 203
Johnson, Charles 0 286
Johnson Family 200
Johnson, Halvor K 242
Johnson, Henry F 233
Johnson, John F 204
Johnson, Joseph C 545
Johnson, Samuel C 200
Jones Family 350
Jones, Richard 262
Jordan, Henry F 141
Jorgensen, Dr! Palle P. M 39°
Kaltenbach, Louis E., D. D. S 119
Karcher. Adam 436
Kehlor. John M 64
Killeen. John A 146
Kimball, Roger N 637
Klein, Francis G 265
Kolander, Frederick W 550
Kradwell, Gustave V 579
Krenzke, Charles 587
Krichbaum. Joseph E 326
Kruckman, August H 427
Kupfer, William M 291
Lane, Capt. Theodore 132
Lawton. IDavid 236
Leber. John 5^4
Lee. Charles H 115
Leet. George F 253
Leonard, Harry J 632
Leonard. Peter F 632
Lewjs, Arthur W S36
Lewis. William H 535
Lichber, George 362
Lintner, Frank 567
Litzenberger, Charles 434
Loescher, Mathias 534
TACE.
Lothrop, Jason 156
Lugg, James 397
Lund, Jacob C 5S1
Lytle, Henry 143
McBeth, Daniel 174
McBeth, Mrs. Elizabeth A 369
McBeth, John 369
McCanna, Charles B 68
McCarron, George B 633
McCarron, Jeremiah 634
i\IcFarland, David E 555
McMamis, Charles 16;
McNeil, Charles D 94
McQuarrie, Frank 507
Malone, Edward 600
Alabch, Fredrick 21 r
IMarlatt. Walter T 566
Maxwell, Elmer A 160
Maxwell. Hon. Walter S ito
Maver. Joseph A 441
.Meachem, John G., M. D 38
Meadows, George 357
Meadows, Hon. William 245
Mealy, Mrs. Alice M 444
Mealy, Patrick 444
Meredith, Charles E 501
Mever, Rev. Theodore B 192
Miles, Herbert E 281
Miller, Frank J 74
Miller, Joseph T2
Miller, Joseph F 7=;
Miller, W. Henry 46
Moeller, John '. 604
Mohr, Charles J 513
Mohr, Jacob 54
Monaghan, John 388
Moore Family 506
Moore, Col. Webster P 504
Morey, Darius J 124
Moth. Robert H 393
Movie. John F 114
Movie. Dr. Thomas F 616
Mungen, Matthias 383
Murdoch. John 439
Murdoch, William M 440
Murphy, James 300
^lurray, James H 295
Mutter. James 122
Mutter, James W 599
Mutter, Robert .■ 87
JNIyrick Family 320
Myrick, Mead 0 320
Myritp. Mars 213
Nelson. Hans P 264
Nelson, Ole 258
Nelson, Peter B 112
Newell, Frank F., j\L D 592
Newell, George E., M. D 561
Newell, Henry B., M. D 336
Newman. Hiram 154
Nichols. Rev. Cyrus 620
INDEX
PAGE.
Nickerson, Rev. Charles S., D. D 625
Nims, F. H 147
Nisen, Michael 126
Noble, John 446
Noll, Louis, Sr 215
Northrop, Byron B 31
Northrup, O.sro S 243
O'Laughlin, John 593
Orvis, Charles W 520
Orvis Family 450
Orvis, Miss Flora B 521
Oversen, Andrew 547
Overson, Henry M 227
Ozanne, Lawrence E 351
Ozanne, Peter 351
Paddock, Alva 422
Palmer. Walter C 216
Park, Linus H 42
Parker Families 67, 348
Parker. Frederick 0 191
Patterson, Albert 345
Peacock, Arthur H 376
Peacock, George W 338
Pearce, John P 128
Peat. Richard 229
Perkins. Edward D 135
Petersen, George C 441
Peterson, Halvor N 292
Pettit. O^sian M 276
Pfeiffer, John P 529
Pfennig, Charles C 569
Pfister, Fred 149
Phillips, Charles 594
Pierce, Alzo B 560
Pierce, Andrew J 29
Pierce, Joshua 138
Pjerce. William 138
Pioneer Clergyman, The 620
Pirsch. George R 629
Pirsch, John B 629
Pirsch, Nicholas 628
Powles, Henry G 90
Pow'les. William 532
Prasch. Frank J 573
Puffer, Kneelon C 443
Pugh, William H 279
Purvis, William R 271
Racine County, Early Settlers of 461
Ramsden, John 139
Rasch, Gustave C 312
Rasmussen. Matt A 626
Reesmann. Henry 178
Remer. Clarence E 144
Reynolds. Samuel 106
Reynolds. William F 631
Richards. Clarence J 24. 47
Richards, Griffith 304
Ripley, Everett W 619
Ripley, George H., M. D 75
Ritter. Hiram 159
Robbins. Herbert E 518
Roberts, Robert F 544
PAGE.
Roliinson, Dwight 499
Riil)inson, Mrs. Frances S 500
Ri)l)inson, Frederick 34
Robinson, Hon. Frederick 56
Robinson, Rev. Henry D., D. D 30
Robinson, Richard T 39
Rogers, Zophar 344
Rooker, Joseph C 502
Rowntree Family 238
Rowntree, George W 238
Rowntree, James C 289
Runkel, John P 607
Russell, Andrew J 296
Russell, James 447
Russell, Richard 445
Ryan, Dr. Charles C 394
Rygh, Carl J 218
Rygh, ]\Irs. Ellen A 219
Sage, Miss Emma M 82
Sage Family 80
Sage, Sidney A 82
Sage, Stephen H 80
Sanders, ^Irs. Eunice 70
Sanders, Horace T 69
Schaeffer. Jacob P 343
Scherf. Anton 399
Schiefen. Rev. John H 570
Schlax. John H 433
Schlax, Peter 402
Schlegel, Leonard 335
Schmitt, Peter 457
Schnederman, Edward H 316
Schreck. Frederick R 568
Schroeder, Frederick C 610
Schweitzer, Charles T 53
Sears, William 439
Secor, IMartin M '84
Scngbusch, Frederick J 565
Shepbard. Wesley 638
Shields. George A 634
Shumway, Walter G 406
Simmons, Ezra 6
Simmons, Gilbert M 224
Simmons, Gilbert M., Library 224
Simmons, Samuel S SS4
Simmons, Hon. Zalmon G 6
Smieding. Judge William, Jr 103
Smieding. William, Sr 46
Smith, Arthur D 509
Smith, Frank F 365
Smith, Frank J 641
Smith, Hiram J 134
Smith, Rufus 364
Snyder. Clarence 628
Sorenson, Soren C 642
Spear. Hugh S 277
Spencer Family 356
Spencer. James E 355
Spiegelhoff. Erwin 614 ,
Spillum. George 82
Sprague Family 349
Stanbridge. William 309
Stanley, William J 635
INDEX
PACE.
Starbuck, Frank W 120
Stebbins, James M 260
Steinmetz. Martin 387
Stevens Family ol
Stevens, Frank E., M. D 61
Stevens, John L *»
Stocker, Bradley H 524
Stoel, William N 452
Stone, Dr. George \V., Jr 355
Stone, Dr. George W., Sr 209
St. Patrick's Church Society 99
Sturges, Benjamin 0 86
Summers. Joseph W 293
Swantz, Fred W 4i8
Swenson, Richard B 53°
Tate, William R 267
Thelen, Nicholas C 435
Thiers, Edward C 34
Thiers, Louis M 226
Thronson, Bartholomew C 171
Tiedemann. Peter 52
Timme, Henry H 303
Tilley, Henry 520
Titus, Alonzo S 552
Toner, Charles 302
Topp, Albert J So4
Torrey. James P 55°
Trant Family 98
Trant. Rev. Stephen Dean 98
Turnock, James H 384-
Udell, Lathrop A 568
Upson Family 378
Upson, Salmon E 378
Van Alstine, James J 381
Van Arsdale. William 630
Veitch, Dr. John H 385
\'incent, Dow J 039
Vnorhces, Elias S m
Vos, Frank H 503
Vyvyan, Henry 453
Vyvyan, John 5io
Wadsworth, John 339
PAGE.
Walker, Mortimer E 118
Walker, Robert M Si7
Wallis, George 455
Wallmann, George F 121
Ward, Lorenzo C I94
Washburn, Charles H 418
Weber, Adolph 583
Wells, Frank L 45
Wendt, Frank 531
Wentworth, John T 65
Wentworth, Hon. John T 21
Werve, Alathias 248
West, Benjamin 37°
West, George 330
West, George A 331
West, Thomas 234
Whitcher, Charles H 584
White, Joshua H 361
Wicks, Frank B 609
Wieners. Joseph. Sr 508
Wigley, David P lOO
WiUerton, Charles H 359
Willett, George P 522
Willev, John R 400
Willey, Samuel 400
Williams, Daniel 366
Williams Family . . . . .' 196
Williams, Henry 252
Williams, Henrv C 162
Williams. John G I95
Williams, Lewis C 54^
Williams, Thomas L 168
Williamson, Capt. Halvor 217
Wilmore, William J. 386
Worthington, Francis E 34i
Wright, Edwin E 407
Wustum, Charles A 76
Wustum Family 76
Yule, George 36
Yule, George A 38
Yule, John T 283
Zimmermann, Henry E 360
A
i^>
.{Ec^^
BIOGH/
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STEP! |
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cine, Wis., r. |
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the city, ha\ i- |
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Although iKi |
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man, of men! |
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1845. He V |
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■f DeGrove : |
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DeGrovt |
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consin alxnn |
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spent the rem |
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seventy-secor, |
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away, aged ( . |
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still living: |
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widow of Tb |
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Clarissa, decc' |
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I. Case; Dan if |
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ci-ne; Wakely |
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farmer of the |
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Stephen ■ |
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first employmi |
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were plowing. |
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to school duri: |
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that the teach. |
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to New Yorl |
e he clerki |
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Wisconsin, !■ |
;acine for |
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county and '.v |
ing Prairit |
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mained about |
In iRs7 ''• |
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ever since. O |
K' ■' . |
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J. I. Case. ari. |
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the firm. Mr ' |
■!i(l Mr. i |
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At that time '.' |
I'll name \^ |
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T. I. C:i-r ■■■■ |
y; Machine |
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^'■-i urc |
his deai; |
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iiie^iidcn. |
d down t.' |
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if the 0 |
esent pre^' |
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t8..- A[r |
Hull wns T' |
^t
BIOGRAPHICAL
STEPHEN BULL, one of the pioneer residents and business men of Ra- cine, Wis., residing at No. 119 Eleventh street, is a well-known capitalist of the city, having large investments in real estate and various business concerns. Although now living retired, in spite of his eighty-four years he is a vigorous man, of mental strength and activity, and has been a resident of Racine since 1845. He was born in Scipio, Cayuga Co., N. Y., March 14, 1822, son of DeGrove and Amanda M. (Crosijy) Bull, natives of New York.
DeGrove Bull, the father of Stephen Bull, was a farmer, and came to Wis- consin about 1846, locating in Raymond township, Racine county, where he spent the remainder of his life engaged in farming. His death occurred in his seventy-second year, while his widow survived him until 1880, when she passed away, aged eighty-four years. They had eleven children, six of whom are still living: Mrs. Sally Fish, deceased, was the wife of Ira Fish; Jeanette, widow of Thomas Gage, resides in -Racine ; George is deceased ; Stephen ; Clarissa, deceased, was the wife of Robert Dilly; Lydia A. is the widow of J. L Case: Daniel is deceased; Caroline is the widow of Lorenzo Waite, of Ra- cine; Wakely T. is of Racine; James is deceased: and Charles H., formerly a farmer of the town of Mount Pleasant, now lives retired in Rac'nie.
Stephen Bull started out in life for himself when a boy of ten years, his first employment being the driving of a horse in front of a team of oxen which were plowing. He worked on the farm until eighteen years of age. and went to school during the winter seasons to the old subscription schools, at the time that the teachers boarded from house to house. From the farm Mr. Bull went to New York City, where he clerked in a grocery store, and in 184^ came to Wisconsin, locating in Racine for one year. He then removed to Walworth county and settled in Spring Prairie, where he operated a general store and re- mained about ten years. In 1857 he returned to Racine and has remained here ever since. On locating in Racine he entered the employ of his brother-in-law, T. L Case, and so remained until 1863. when the employe became a member of the firm. Mr. Case and Mr. Bull continued together until the former's death. At that time the firm name was known as J. L Case & Co.. but in 1872 the T. L Case Threshing Machine Company was established. Mr. Case being the first president. On" his death Mr. Stephen Bull became president, and the presidency has passed down to Mr. Frank K. Bull. Mr. Steven Bull's son, who is the companv's present president. From the time of Mr. Case's death until 1897 Air. Stephen Bull was this company's able president,' and it was largely
2 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
through his foresight and good management that the success of the firm lias been so marked. Mr. BuU was also president of The ^Nlihvaukee Harvester Company for twenty years.
Stephen Bull has been a stockholder in the Manufacturers National Bank since 1872, of which Mr. Case was the first president, being succeeded by Mr. M. B. Erskine, who in turn was succeeded by Mr. Bull, who held that office -until Jan. i, 1904, when he resigned.
On June 7, 1849, ^i'"- Bull married Miss Ellen C. Kellogg, of White Pigeon, Mich., daughter of A. B. and Rhoda (Lawrence) Kellogg. She died March 27, 1880. There were seven children born to this union: One son ■died when three months old; Ida R., who married H. W. Conger, lives in San Francisco. Cal. ; Frank K., president of the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Co., married Miss Arabella Jones, of Milwaukee; Jeanette married Richard T. Robinson, and they live in Racine: Lillian M. married Frederick Robinson; Herbert died at the age of twenty-three years ; and Bessie ]\I. married A. Arthur Guilbert.
Among the heads of the prominent families of Racine, none is more con- •spicuous that is Wx. Stephen Bull. The great benefits to the community that have come from the institutions and enterprises with which he has been con- nected can hardly be estimated. Their influence will continue to be felt as long as the city stands, hundreds of families having been sustained and deriving benefit therefrom. The name of Mr. Bull will endure, and cannot be effaced from the histoiy of the city and county. The fame of such men should be written not for a brief moment, but as an everlasting example worthv of emu- lation. Notwithstanding his strenuous life, Mr. Bull is noted for his genial •disposition and affable manner, and he has hosts of friends in all classes.
HON. JEROME I. CASE (deceased) was undoubtedly the most re- markable of the many strong characters who came to Racine county in pio- neer days. In his own line, as a manufacturer, he was foremost among the most successful in the world. Yet the influence of his success was not so much on manufacturing interests as on agricultural interests, and especially on the developing farming lands of Wisconsin. The use of the wonderful machines he improved or invented has spread until they are known in almost every agricultural region on the earth, but Wisconsin had the first benefit of these products of his genius. Thus the limitations of poverty are not aUvays prejudicial. In the struggling days of his early manhood he was obliged to use the facilities at hand for the fulfillment of his ambitions, and he likewise chose the field nearest at hand, in which to introduce his first attempts at improved farm machinery. This was one manifestation of a trait which always predominated in his character. He never wasted his energies looking for something particularlv worthy of his efforts, or rejected imme- diate opportunities for those that looked better because their disadvantages were less apparent at a distance. He did the work that lav nearest to him, Avith the facilities available, and, like many another modest but aspiring spirit, found that when ambition and industry go hand in hand the road to success ■cannot be closed against them. His particular road to success mav well be compared with the roads of his adopted State. When he came to Wisconsin the pioneers of this section were still making their wav through the dense forests bv means of blazed trails, the beginnings of the fine roads which now
COMMEAIORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RFXORD. 3
traverse the country. So he started his career in a practicaUy untried field, making slow progress at first, with the uncertainty of first steps. But no man ever came to realize more fully than he that "nothing succeeds like success." His interests broadened with the years until the road was so wide and well laid that it afforded room for many besides the man who unconsciously laid out a great highway to prosperity for so many of his fellowmen.
Mr. Case did much for his fellowmen in other ways, though of course /he building up of the great J. I. Case Threshing Machine Company may justly be considered his most important work, especially from a material standpoint. He was essentially a business man, hut the executive ability which was so manifest in the management of his own affairs enabled him to give, time to other things. As a leading business man of Racine he was naturally con- cerned in the advancement of the city, but his interest was not a selfish one. He gave of his means and influence to the furtherance of every good cause, and as an official gave considerable time and personal attention to the proper management of civil affairs at a period when a progressive but wisely con- servative leader was much needed. He was the object of appreciative regarn among the best element of the citizens of Racine and his business associates and employes had the utmost respect for him as a man, inspired by many years of congenial association.
Mr. Case was the product of old New England stock, of English de- scent, his first ancestor in America being one of four brothers who came hither from England in Colonial days. He himself was a native of New York State, born Dec. 11, 1818, in Williamstown, Oswego county, of which county his parents, Caleb and Deborah (Jackson) Case, were pioneers, having moved thither from Rensselaer county, same State. These hardy people cleared a farm from the woods, the sons assisting in the work, which was arduous and apparently never-ending. Jerome I., though the youngest son, had his share. He received such education as the local schools afforded, but as the country was sparsely settled school was held only for a few weeks in the year, and the instruction was elementary. Thus he continued, helping at hqme and attending school, until he was about sixteen, at which he practically began the work to which 'he devoted his life. At that time his father secured the right to sell and use a one-horse treadpower threshing machine, a wonderful thing in that day, and he turned the management of same over to our sub- ject, who must have given evidence of some special abilitv in that line to en- title him to such trust.
As w^as the custom in those times, Mr. Case faithfully gave his services to his father until he was of age, after which he began to run a threshing machine on his account. However, he was anxious to add to his intel- lectual acquirements, and his first savings were devoted to that end. In Jan- uary, 1 84. 1, he entered the academy at Mexicoville. N. Y., where he took up such studies as he thought would help him most in business life. But with all his ambition for and appreciation of book learning it is not to be denied that the greater and more valuable part of his knowledge was acquired by his con- tact with men in the management of his vast interests.
At the age of twenty-three, in the spring of 1842. Mr. Case tried a new field. He bought six threshing machines, on credit, which was then his only capital, and brought them to what was then the Territory of Wisconsin, ar-
4 CO.MMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
riving at Racine. He sold five of them, and with the remaining machine went about the country, doing threshing. With constant usage the machine at the end of the second season needed rebuilding, and Mr. Case applied him- self to the task with interest. He had no special mechanical training, and his tools under ordinary circumstances would have been considered inadequate, but he had no time to remedy either lack, and did have definite ideas of what he wished to accomplish. Until that time there was no machine that would thresh and separate the grain in one operation, but Mr. Case's ex- perience convinced him that such a machine was possible. The open or "ground hog" threshers, as they were generally know^n, only beat out. the grain, which was thrown out together with the straw and chaff, after which the tedious work of winnowing had to be done. A thresher that would do away with this was the ideal Mr. Case kept before him, and in the winter of 1843-44, in the kitchen of a farmhouse in Rochester, Racine Co., Wis., he made a model, showing his ideas in practical form, which must certainly have been gratifying to the ambitious young man. He found himself in possession of a thresher which could not be equalled even by the best product . of the East. During the summer he demonstrated the practical qualities of the ma- chine and improved it, and in the fall (1844) he rented a small shop in Racine, as he had planned to build a few machines for sale.
Modesty was ever one of Mr. Case's most prominent traits, especially in estimating his ow^n worth and achievements, and while he knew his invention filled a long-felt want he never dreamed of the popularity it was destined to win. Even his most optimistic encouragers thought that a half-dozen ma- chines, if they were proved successful, would fill the demand in Wisconsin, and the further extension of the business does not seem to have entered into the original plans. It may be that the business gained much of its solidity from this natural grow-th. Mr. Case always exerted himself to keep up with the demand, but he never forced it — such a course would have been contrary to his nature. He did good work, he turned out a product the people w-anted. he managed his own affairs tvell, and did right by his associates and his patrons — and success took care of itself.
In 1847 Mr. Case erected near the site of the present manufactory, a three-story brick building 30x90 feet in dimensions. It was more than the needs of the business called for at that day, but his public spirit impelled him to put up a structure that would reflect credit on the town. But farmers in the Western State were beginning to prosper, and the merits of the T- I- Case threshers and horsepower machines became known, the demand running ahead of the supply. The small plant was enlarged from time to time by the erec- tion of new- buildings, each supplied with the most up-to-date machinery of the day. and the process of expansion and improvement has never ceased, until now the establishment is the largest of the kind in the world. No one could have predicted the phenomenal prosperity which attended the undertaking. That the modest little shop opened in 1844 would ever develop into a factory of such immense proportions would have seemed beyond belief at that day, when, for one thing, business enterprises were not conducted on so larsre a scale as nowadays. Moreover, Racine was then only a small town, with no promise of its present importance as a lake port and manufacturing; center. There is no question that many other business concerns of more or less
COMMEMORATR'E BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 5
magnitude liave been attracted to the place through the influence of the Case estabhshment, but it has continued to be the great industry of the place, one- sixth of the total population of the city being made up of the employes and their families. The annual output is valued at over $2,000,000, and the ]: I. Case threshers and plows are shipped to almost every country on the globe. The buildings now cover some thirty acres of ground, on the banks of the Root river, just inside the lake harbor, with its docks for loading an/1 unload- ing vessels.
With all the changes and all the improvements which have been made in the thresliers since their manufacture was started, the basic idea is still the same, the problem of a perfect thresher having been solved in the first model. But many changes have taken place in the conduct of the business. In 1863 Mr. Case admitted to partnership three men who were then in his employ, and the mere mention of their names justifies his choice — Steolien Bull, the late ;\I. B. Erskine and the late Robert H. Baker. Thev did business under the firm name of J. I. Case & Co., and continued together until Mr. Baker's death, on Oct. 5, 1885. Meantime, in 1880, the concern had been re- organized as the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Company, with a paid-up capital of $1,000,000, and Mr. Case was president of the same from the time of its organization until his death.
An important advance in the threshing business was made with the in- troduction of the portable steam engine, and later the traction steam eneine, which the J. I. Case Threshing ^lachine Company manufactures extensivelv.
In 1876 a company was organized to manufacture plows at Racine, under the style of Case, \\'hitney & Co., with a capital stock of $120,000, which was increased to $150,000. Mr. Case was made president, and con- tinued as such after the reorganization, two years later, when the concern was incorporated as the J. I. Case Plow Company. He was at the head of affairs in this company also until his death. Many other enterprises of Racine besides these two principal ones received his support and encouraeement. but he did not confine his attention to manufacturing interests. In 1871 he was one of the incorporators of the Manufacturers' National Bank of Racine, one of the soundest financial institutions in the State, of which he was elected president, sen'ing in that capacity until his death. The same vear he assisted in establishing the First National Bank of Burlin?ton. ^^'is.. which he also served as president. He aided in establishing banking houses at ]\lonrovia, Cal. : Fargo, N. Dak. ; and Crookston, Minnesota.
It is no exaggeration to say that Mr. Case did more to make Racine a manufacturing city than any other one man, and his fellow-citizens of all classes were not unappreciative. He received many honors at their hands. In 1856 he was chosen mayor, and so satisfactory was his administration of affairs that he was renominated the next year, but declined. Again in 18^8 he was urged to accept the nomination, and was elected over Hon. Tohn M. Cary. Aleantime. in 1856, he was elected to the State Senate, and served two years as a member of that body. Originally Mr. Case was an old-time Whig' in political sentiment until the rise of the Renublican narty. to whose prin- ciples he adhered ever afterward. His first Presidential vote was cast for William Henry Harrison. He was an ardent supporter of the Union cause.
6 comme:\iorative biographical record.
and when, at the Ijreaking out of the Civil war, Col. William Utley proposed lo raise a regiment, JNIr. Case generously offered $i,ooo to the first company that would enlist. Throughout the war he was unfailing in his liberality to the families of the boys in blue.
Air. Case's admiration iur fast horses l.ir(jught him considerable pmnii- nence. He took great pleasure in breeding and training turf stock, and not only had elegant barns and track at Racine, but also a third interest in the Glenview Stock Farm, near Louisville, Ky. He enjoyed the distinction of having the once fastest trotting horse on the globe, the famous "Jay- Eye- See." "Hickory Grove Farm," his stock farm situated just south of the city of Racine, and adjacent to the city limits, became justly famous. Mr. Case bred and owned forty-eight horses that made records ranging from 2:10 to 2:34. The names and records of a few are here given: "Jay-Eye-See," 2:10; "Phallas." 2:13^; "Brown" (at four years old in race), 2:1894-
As has been said, Mr. Case was eminently a business man, but he never lost sight of the fact that his success in business was based upon the agri- cultural development of the country, and he took a real interest, not prompted wholly by prospect of material gains for himself, in the agricultural advance- ment of the country, having been identified with both State and county agri- cultural societies. He was one of the founders and a life member of the Wisconsin Academy of Sciences, Arts and Letters.
With all his hard work, his devotion to business, and his numerous (ither interests, Mr. Case lived to be over seventy, passing away Dec. 22, 1891. It is enough to say that he was sincerely mourned alike by his family, his busi- ness associates, his hundreds of employes, and the entire community for which he had done so much, and where he had resided for half a century.
In 1849 ^^^'- Case was united in marriage with Miss Lydia A. Bull, daugh- ter of DeGriive and Amanda (Crosby) Bull. Seven children were born to the union, four living to maturity: Henrietta, the wife of Percival ,S- Ful- ler, a prominent lawyer at Chicago; Jessie F., the wife of H. M. Wallis, who owns a large interest in and has full charge of the J. I. Case Plow Works at Racine; Amanda, the wife of J. J. Crooks, of San Francisco, Cal. ; and Jack- son I., deceased, who served at one time as mayor of Racine, and is said to have been the youngest mayor of a large city in the L'nited States.
HON. ZALMON GILBERT SIMMONS has a business reputation which extends all over the United States among railroad and telegraph men. His connection with Kenosha covers a period of over sixty years, and he has improved the opportunities his high position and means have given him to such good purpose that he is justly regarded as its principal benefactor. He has done more than any other one man for the Iniilding up of the city. His gifts to various enterprises which have been a matter of pride to Kenosha have been liberal and bestowed with hearty good-will. The benefits his ex- tensive undertakings in the locality have conferred can hardly be estimated.
Mr. Simmons was born in the town of Euphrates, Montgomery Co., N. Y., Sept. 10, 1828, and conies of old New England stock. His grandparents. Rouse and Mary (Potter) Simmons, were early settlers in Montgomery coun- ty, N. Y., moving thither from Rhode Island. Ezra Simmons, father of Zal-
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COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 7-
mon G. Sinionms, was born x\pril 3, 1805, in Montgomery county. In acquiring an education he had to cope with the usual disadvantages of an undeveloi)ed section in that respect, but he was naturally studious and persevering and he managed to prepare himself for teaching. He alternated the pursuit of that profession with clerking when a young man. Not long after his marriage he removed with his wife and young child to Oneida county, N. Y., to a region which was then, like his old home in his boyhood, in its primitive state. He made a home in the woods, clearing and improving a farm upon which he re- mained until 1839, in which year he removed to Rome, the county seat, la 1843 the family came West, journeying by canal to Buffalo, where they took steamer for Southport, as Kenosha was then called. They arrived on the I2tl'i: of June, but remained in the village only a short time, Mr. Simmons buying a tract of land in Benton township. Lake Co., 111. Again he began the work of wresting a farm from the wilderness, this being the third place on which he had such experience. He made a remarkable improvement in the place during his residence thereon, but in 1851 he entered into partnership with his sons in a mercantile business in Kenosha, under the name of Simmons & Sons. After four years Ezra Simmons retired from the firm, and he spent the rest of his life in retirement, dying July 14, 1878. He was buried in the Kenosha ceme- tery.
]\Ir. Simmons was married, in Montgomery county, N. Y., to Maria Gil- bert, who was born there April 20, 1808, and five children came to this union, namely: Zalmon G., Burr, Rouse, and Ezra and Mrs. J. M. Stebbins, twins. All married, reared families and settled in Kenosha. Mrs. Simmons survived her husliand, making her home until her death with her daughter, IMrs. Steb- bins. ]\Ir, and Airs. Simmons first united with the Methodist Church, of which they were active members, Mr. Simmons acting as class-leader for many years, but in later life their belief was that of the Unitarians. He was originally a Democrat in political sentiment, but supported the Republican party from the time of its formation.
Zalmon G. Simmons passed his boyhood in his native State, being fourteen years old when the family came West. His early life, both in "York State" and in the new West, was typical of the times. He was a sturdy youth and able to handle the hard work which fell to his lot on the home farm, and he became skilled in the rude athletic feats so popular in that day in rural com- munities. Remaining on the farm until he attained his majority, he then went to Southport to take a position as clerk in the store of Seth Doan, a pioneer merchant of the place.
Mr. Simmons clerked for Mr. Doan sixteen months, at the end of that time purchasing the stock and store and embarking in business on his own account. As previously stated, the firm was originally Simmons & Sons. The business was well managed, and custom increased steadily until the Simmons establish- ment was among the most thriving in the city. The next move our subject made showed his strong faith in the future of the State as well as the tire- less efforts which he was willing to expend on anything he undertook. After two years of mercantile life he sold out to devote himself to the interests of the Kenosha, Rockford & Rock Island Railroad Company, taking the presidency. The tide in its affairs was then so low that it had neither money nor credit, and
8 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
he was obliged to draw on his own friends and endorse the company's paper in order to complete the partially finished road, which had been turned over to him entirely. The first train was run through for a meeting of the stockholders at Harvard, 111., on the day the first battle of Bull Run was fought. The stock- holders were so disheartened that they refused to advance the necessary money for equipment, etc., and voted unanimously that Mr. Simmons take the road and manage things as he liked. He entered into the work undismayed, al- though he was involved to the extent of $80,000. Perhaps the magnitude of the task and the hopeless attitude of his associates acted as a spur to his energies, and he determined to come out on top. The difficulties he had to contend witti can be neither understood nor appreciated by anyone unfamiliar with such a situation. It was a task the success of which depended as much upon his will power and strength of character as on his financial and executive ability. Many a man would have gi\en up in despair. The same indomitable perseverance which made this undertaking a success has distinguished the man in the suc- cessful conduct of the other vast enterprises in which he has since become in- terested, many of which he has piloted from an almost hopelessly involved con- dition into assured prosperity.
Mr. Simmons entered upon a similar experience with the Wisconsin State Telegraph Company. In 1856 he had acquired a half interest in the company for $500, which would have been considered a sufficient price for the other half also, as the line was considered practically worthless. Time proves, however, that his judgment was not at fault. He was president of the Telegraph Com- pany from the time he became connected with it. and manager until the year 1 88 1, and the unbounded success of the concern is due directly to his methods of business. But at the time he became interested in the project the little line from Milwaukee to Madison was not regarded as a wise investment from a business standpoint. With his usual gift of far-sightedness ]Mr. Simmons recognized the possibilities of the business particularly in the growing North- west, in whose great distances a means of rapid communication would be es- pecially valuable. There was nothing to prevent the company putting up its lines wherever a business opportunity offered, and the rough country was not enough to prove a serious drawback to the indomitable men who were back of the enterprise. It is enough to say that during the period it was operated bv an independent company, from the beginning of Mr. Simmons's connection there- with until 1 88 1, it paid a total of nearly one million dollars, also a dividend of $1,250,000 in seven per cent bonds, besides the amount of the original outlay. In the year 1881 the lines were leased to the Western Union Telegraph Com- pany, for ninety-nine years, the Western Union Company taking care of the outstanding bonds, $1,180,000, and a semi-annual dividend on $2.^00,000, commencing at four per cent and increasing to six per cent.
All this, however, was in the line of ordinary- business, from which he made quite a departure when he undertook the construction of what is pooularly known as the "Cog Road" up Pike's Peak. Work was besfun in October, 1889. and the first train made the ascent June 30. i8gi. The road starts at Manitou, Colo., at the base of the Peak, and winds its way up the mountain- side at n grade of one foot in four. cn\-ering a distance of nine miles, the sum- mit of the peak being reached at an altitude of 14.143 feet — the highest point
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 9
attained by rail in the world. The road-bed is of solid earth or masonry, ex- cept where four chasms are spanned by iron bridges. The superstructure con- sists of three steel rails, the outer ones on which the train runs laid at standard gauge. The one in the center is a compound cog rail, on which the propelling wheels of the engine act. All along the route the traveler enjoys a panoramic view of magnificent scenery. The road is operated during the summer months when a trip to the high altitude is exhilarating and novel.
Mr. Simmons has always encouraged local enterprises. He has been president of the Northwestern Manufacturing Company since he founded the same, in 1872. They first manufactured cheese boxes, but before long began to make wire mattresses, and with the advantages afforded by modern machin- ery they have been able to enlarge the scale and scojie of the business until they are now extensively engaged in the manufacture of iron and brass bedsteads and cots. The mattress business increased so that the original yearly output of fifteen hundred was in time equalled by the daily output. This concern gives steady employment to two thousand people. Mr. Simmons has been president of the First National Bank of Kenosha, the oldest bank in the city, for some thirty-seven years. It was due principally to his influence that the Brass Works were located in the city, and he helped to organize the Scotford and the Lane Manufacturing Companies. The incalculable benefit which all these prosperous concerns have brought to the town is well appreci- ated by the citizens, especially as steady and profitable employment is given to hundreds of respected and substantial residents.
Mr. Simmons cast his first vote for John P. Hale, and he has been a Re- publican ever since the formation of that party. In spite of the demands of his numerous business interests, he has found time for acceptable public services, believing it the duty of every patriotic citizen. In 1865 he represented Keno- sha county in the State Legislature. He served two terms as mayor of Keno- sha, 1884 and 1885, and gave the city an administration remarkable in many ways, his wise methods and the practical projects he set on foot conferring last- ing benefit on the municipality. His activity in the matter of the city debt won him the admiration and appreciation of every public-spirited citizen. The ex- penditures for harbor construction and extension of railroad connections, so necessary to the continued advancement of the city, had involved the munici- pality to" the extent of $1,750,000, including interest, etc., with no prospect of relief. When Mr. Simmons took the helm the city was struggling hopelessly against this burden, which had already begun. to aiYect business very materially, many of the residents moving away. Through his able financiering the entire debt was refunded with $200,000 worth of 1-20 bonds at five per cent. His services in this line covered altogether a period of about twenty years, during which he worked untiringly, without compensation, bearing his own expenses, an important item, as he had to do considerable traveling. But the problem was one of the kind which has always roused Mr. Simmons's best business instincts, and as usual he came out ahead. Many new enterprises were at- tracted to the town, and the healthy reaction thus brought about has been one of the most potent factors in its prosperity. At the present time there is plenty of work, at good pay, for the population of 21,000. However, this is only one of the many things which have jjroved his genuine interest in the
10 CO^niE^^IORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
welfare of tlie place. His gifts to churches regardless of denomination, and to benevolent objects generally, would amount to considerable, without thought of the influence his connection with such enterprises means to those interested. The elegant library building, as fine as anything of the kind to be found in the State, is another substantial evidence of his generosity. It was the result of the action of the city authorities taken upon the receipt of the fol- lowing letter :
Gentlemen :
In making the following proposition to you and through you to the citizens of Kenosha, I beg to acknowledge my grateful consideration and appreciation of the many blessings that have come to me and my family during the long time we have lived in }-our midst, a period reaching beyond a half century.
Proposition.
I will construct a building of sufficient size to hold over 30,000 volumes ; material to be used stone, steel and hardwood made fireproof. It will be my aim to make it a beauti- ful building in every way. and to secure this object no efliort will be spared. The struc- ture to be placed as near as may be in the center of the park.
Second : I will continue and complete the curbing around the park. I will make of cement the curbing around the park. I will make of cement and concrete all the walks that will be required in the park; will do all the. necessary grading, will remove and replace all the trees and add thereto all the trees and shrubbery that may be needed to make the park a fit setting for the building, so there will be a true harmony throughout. In this building I will place not less than 25,000 of well-selected books. The whole when completed I make a free gift to the city of Kenosha on the fol- lowing conditions: ist — The Library shall be named Gilbert M. Simmons. '2d — The city to accept the same and agree to levy and collect the one mill tax provided by law on all taxable property in the city. 3d — The Library to be kept open no less than six hours every day. 4th — After paying the necessary expenses of the librarian and help, heating and lighting, the remainder (if there be any) of this one mill tax fund to be used for the purchase of additional books.
Most respectfully submitted,
Z. G. Simmons.
^Ir. Simmons has always been particularly interested in the welfare of the old soldiers, and to show that he believes in honoring their memory, as well as in looking after their well being physically, he has presented to the city a magnificent monument, which was dedicated May 30, 1900, the occasion being a memorable one. The numerous visitors, the carefully and elaborately ar- ranged parade, the profuse street decorations in honor of the event, and the dedication ceremonies themselves, combined to make the grandest spectacle ever witnessed in Kenosha, and one which will live in the memory of all who participated. The weather was auspicious, trainload upon trainload of visi- tors arrived, and fully thirty thousand people were at the services. At noon Fred S. Lovell Post, G. A. R., and the various civic societies formed on Mar- ket Square and marched to the North Western Depot to meet the comrades from the North and South who were to be present, and then reforming marched along West Main street (beautifully decorated with flags and bunt- ing and pictures of Lincoln and the famous generals of the Civil war) to Grand avenue, and thence east to the harbor, where salutes were fired by the L^nited States Gunboats "Michigan" and "Fessenden," and the revenue cutter "]\IorriIl,"' which was sent by the government in honor of the occasion. Then they proceeded to Central Park, where tlie monument stands, and the crowd was called to order by Commander Hale, who had charge of the ceremonies, with these words :
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. ii
"This is a special and open meeting of the Fred S. LoveU Post, No. 230, Department of Wisconsin, Grand Army of the Republic, assembled to-clay with their visiting comrades and friends, for the purpose of unveiling and dedicating this beautiful monument, erected by our friend and fellow citizen, Mr. Z. G. Simmons, in honor of the brave men of Kenosha county, who vic- toriously defended the Union on land and sea during the war of the great rebellion of 1861-65. The ceremonies will open with the invocation of the Divine blessing."
After the invocation of God's blessing upon the events of the day, the old soldiers and the donor of the monument, by Rev. H. S. Roblee, who is a son of a veteran, St. George's choir sang "Hail! Hail! Starry Banner," with good effect. Attorney Peter Fisher delivered the address of welcome, as follows :
"It is my pleasant duty, on behalf of the county and city of Kenosha, to welcome you, in a formal manner, to our exercises to-day, and one cannot fail to feel a pride in welcoming the soldiers and citizens of this land to our beau- tiful county and city on such an occasion as this. We now meet in commem- oration of the deeds of the brave men who fought on land and water the stern battles of the Civil war — in commemoration of their patriotic valor — in com- memoration of the noble deeds of the now silent dead — in formal recognition of their zeal for their country's welfare — in perpetuation of the grand prin- ciple that this Union is one and inseparable — and we most heartily welcome you, each and all, to join us in our devotions to the memory of those men and the principles for which they fought.
"As the memory goes back thirty-five or forty years our breasts swell with patriotic emotions and our hearts extend the warmest sympathy to the homes made desolate by that war, and with loving hearts to cherish the memory of the departed soldiers.
"From 1861 to 1865 Kenosha county and city took a foremost place in the ranks of the Federal army and navy, and many a tombstone now marks the last resting-place of the men who, then in early life, offered their time and their lives that the constitution of the United States might prevail and that the homes of their loved ones might be protected, and many a crutch supports the tottering limbs of the survivors of that brave band. Hence we love to meet on such occasions, so that the lessons of patriotism taught by these men. often cemented in blood, may endure for all time. And we welcome to our midst and to our assistance the citizens of this country, of whatever city, county or State, for our purpose is a common purpose. And thrice welcome to our ranks to-day are the men who stood side by side with these departed heroes through the long tedious 'march and upon the bullet-ridden and blood-stained battle- field, or braved the angry waves on bullet-torn battleships. To you.we extend the kindest welcome.
"Through the kind generosity and patriotism of one of its honored citi- zens Kenosha county is to-day able and glad to dedicate to the memory of those departed heroes a monument, beautiful and grand, symbolical and symmetrical, which is only exceeded in endurance and beauty by the principles for which these men fought, and of which it shall ever be constant reminder.
"We thank this generous giver for his noble deed. We thank these brave men for their lessons of patriotism, for their sacrifices, for the protection of our
12 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
homes, for the defense of our country, for the hberation of the b(jndsnien, and for the perpetuation of the American Union. And we sincerely welcome you to join us in uttering our appreciation of these things.
"While such exercises awaken a great many sad memories, recall a great many disappointments, they are tinged with joy when we contemplate the grand and noble deeds of the veterans of the Civil war, and now see our coun- try, then on the verge of dissolution, united and happy, knowing neither North nor South, East nor West, prosperous and free. We therefore welcome you, citizens and soldiers, laymen and veterans, patriots and heroes, most cordially, to participate on this beautiful May day in dedicating to the memory of these departed warriors that which shall speak to future generations, when you and I have passed away, of the heroic acts, of the unsullied patriotism, of the un- faltering devotion to country, and of the unexcelled bravery of the soldiers, whether on land or sea, of the Civil war."
At this juncture Miss Elizabeth Clarkson Simmons, granddaughter of Air. Z. G. Simmons, was escorted to the base of the monument by Capt. E. G. Timme, who lost his arm at Chickamauga. Miss Simmons pulled away the flags that veiled the monument, and as she did so the bands played the "Star Spangled Banner," and the warships and revenue cutter fired a salute in honor of the event. The vast multitude rent the air with cheer after cheer.
Then Commander Hale introduced Kenosha's benefactor as follows :
"Comrades and Citizens : It is my great pleasure to introduce to you Mr. Z. G. Simmons — the true friend of the citizen-soldier from 1861 to 1865, and from 1865 to this Memorial day, 1900 — who will now present formally, this beautiful memorial shaft to the citizens of Kenosha county."
On rising Mr. Simmons was greeted with a hurricane of applause and when it ceased he said :
"Two score years ago this Nation divided on the question of human slavery. This was followed by the greatest war of modern times. And now looking back on these two score years, judging by results and consequences, we may safelv claim it to have been the most important war of all time.
"When this war commenced Kenosha county bad less than 1700 able- bodied men subject to military duty. Before it ended she gave 1,367 of her bravest and best to the field. Before this record I am dumb. \\\)rds cannot tell of its grandeur and glory.
"This granite monument standing before us, serene and beautiful, is placed here to tell the story of their sublime achievements ; not for to-dav alone, but for all time ; not to the people of this land alone, but to all people of all lands.
"With a feeling of profound gratefulness for- the privilege, I turn this monument over to the care and keeping of the liberty loving people of Keno- sha county, to be their possession forever.
"Mav the blessed sunshine bathe it until all bloodstains are washed away. May God's approval rest upon it now and forever."
Supervisor Samuel B. Cropley of Pleasant Prairie, who had been dele- gated for the dutv bv Mr. H. F. Jordan, chairman of the countv board of supervisors, accepted the moiniment on behalf of the people of the county. In doing so he said :
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 13
"Mr. Simmons : The duty of accepting from you, in behalf of the citizens of Kenosha county, this beautiful testimonial of your gratitude to the men of Kenosha county who defended the Union during the war of the Rebellion, has fallen upon me, and I assure you that 1 esteem it an honor, indeed, to have the privilege of accepting it from one whose patriotism and generosity has made possible these exercises.
"In accepting this, I trust that I may safely pledge the honor of every citi- zen of Kenosha county that it shall be protected and cared for and the sur- roundings kept in harmony with its beauty.
"Inscribed on yonder monument are the words, 'In honor of the bra\-e men of Kenosha county, who victoriously defended tjie Union on land and sea dur- ing the war of the great rebellion — 1861-1865,' an inscription teaching to the present and future generations the impressive lesson of gratitude. As one who took an humble part in that victorious defense of the Union, it occurs to me that this memorial shaft expresses still an(ither message to future generations — a lesson of patriotism.
"Long may it stand where you have placed it — stand in all its beautv, sublime yet not silent, but as an object lesson teaching that although those to whose memory it has been erected may have sacrificed health and even life itself — yet their sacrifices and achievements have not been forgotten ; and may it also instill in their minds and hearts that true spirit of patriotism which shall cause them to be ever ready to defend their homes and country. The motive which actuated you in the erection of this most beautiful monument, as we all well know, and as stated in your presentation, is one of profound gratitude to those in whose memory jt has been placed there, and your object to tell of their sublime achievements.
"A few words, yet impressive and full of meaning, realizing as you do most fully that they' achieved that for which they fought, the preservation of our country, that it might live as a nation, and to-day it does live, respected and honored by all nations.
"I am conscious of my inability to fitly express to you the feeling of grati- tude which to-day fills the hearts of every patriotic man and woman of Keno- sha county, yet I feel that I not only voice the sentiment of the survivors of those who sacrificed their lives in that great struggle, but also the sentiment of every living soldier and sailor, when I say that they are most profoundlv grate- ful to you for what you have previously done for them, and for this your crown- ing efTort in the erection of yonder '■2autiful monument to their memory.
"And now in behalf of those who laid down their lives on battlefields, in prison pen or hospital — in behalf of all who have been laid to rest from 1861 to this Memorial day, 1900— in behalf of the fathers, mothers, widows and orphans of those who have passed away, and in behalf of the living soldiers. and of each and every citizen of Kenosha county, I most sincerely thank vou. May God graciously prolong your life that you may have the satisfaction of the completion of this long cherished wish, and when in the lapse of time vou have passed to the Great Beyond may your name ever remain fresh in the hearts and minds of every one— remain revered and honored as long as yonder memorial shaft shall stand where your hands have placed it. "Again and again I thank you."
14 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
St. George's choir then sang "Brave Hearts Sleep On."
The orator of the day, Bishop Samuel Fallows, of Chicago, was then in- troduced hy Attorney James Cavanagh. In introducing the speaker Mr. Cavanagh said :
"Decoration Day is the grandest, nohlest and most impressive day in the whole calendar of patriotism. It is the day of heroes, not of soldiers. Soldiers are men bred to war ; heroes are men of peace. The men of '61-65 were heroes. They went to the front not for emolument or the spoils of war, but for love of country and home, and to preserve the nation and the flag. The gentleman who presented this noble and beautiful shaft as the crowning act of his grati- tude to the heroes of the War bf the Rebellion has erected other monuments in the hearts of the veterans and has ever been mindful of them. It was a happy thought that suggested Bishop Fallows as the speaker on this occasion. He is one of the heroes of the Civil war. He knew personally and fought side by side with many of the heroes whose memory is held in trust by this beautiful shaft. I have the honor and it is my pleasure to introduce to you Bishop Sam- uel Fallows, who is known throughout the length and breadth of land as the 'Fighting parson from Wisconsin.' "
When Bishop Fallows rose to speak he was met with a warm recejjtion. He spoke as follows :
"Comrades, Fellow Citizens, Ladies and Gentlemen : The sod is scarcely green over the graves of many in both hemispheres who listened to Edmund Burke on the floor of the British Parliament, as with his broad majestic elo- quence he spoke of America as having been within the lifetime of some around him 'a little speck scarcely visible in the mass of the national interest ; a small seminal principle, rather than a formed body.'
"During the few short years since these words were uttered this 'little speck' has grown to be one of the most populous, civilized nations of the earth. Within its borders has been carried on a war compared with which the most gigantic military campaigns of the past dwindle into comparative insignificance.
"Two million, six hundred and eighty-eight thousand names were placed on the muster-roll of the armies of the republic; over one million and a half on the muster-roll of the Confederacy.
"I need not stop to recapitulate the causes which led to this struggle. "That memorable April day came when the flag of the Republic, never before dishonored, was shot down and trailed in the dust — that flag of which we have often proudly sung,'
. "When freedom from he.r mountain height
Unfurled her standard to the air, She tore the azure robe of night And set the star of glory there.
"Then came the unparalleled uprising of the people, the call for 75,000 men, and the advance of the 'whirlwind of the North,' the darkness and defeat of the first Bull Run battle, the deepened determination, the varying fortunes of war, the piercing of that long and well defended Confederate line stretch- ing from the eastern mountains to the Mississippi, and the capturing of Forts Henry and Donelson by L^nconditional Surrender Grant, the battle of Shiloh,
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 15
the gallant fight of the 'Cumberland' and 'Monitor' with the 'Merrimac,' the immortal exploits of Farragut and Porter, and the capture of New Orleans; answering the song of the nation 'We Are Coming Father Abraham, 300,000 More,' the battles of Antietam and F"redericksburg, the bloody conflicts of Chancellorsville and Gettysburg, the surrender of Vicksburg, the starvation, defeat and glorious victory at Chickamauga, the enthusiastic response, 'We Are Coming Father Abraham, 300,000 more" ; the placing of the flag on Lookout Mountain, the storming of Missionary Ridge and the 'fight above the clouds.' The song more earnestly than ever sung 'We Are Coming Father Abraham, 300,000 More' ; the decisive battles of Atlanta and Nashville, the siege of Rich- mond, the 'Grand March to the Sea,' and the final chorus of the nation, 'We Are Coming Father Abraham, 600,000 More.' The surrender of Lee and John- son, the foul assassination of President Lincoln, the passionate _grief of the people, the magnificent review at Washington, the glad thundering of guns without the murderous thunderbolts, the rising tide of a redeemed nation's rapturous joy, as it swelled from the Atlantic, rolled over the Alleghanieg, on over our w^estern prairies, 'God's own Gardens,' up and over the Rocky Moun- tains, down the slopes of the Pacific States, till 'like a sea of glory, it spread from pole to pole.' And the melting of the vast army into the ranks of civil life like mist before the rising sun.
"Our soldier dead cannot receive their just meed of praise without the fullest recognition and the most unqualified admiration of the magnificent bravery of the soldier dead; they engaged in strife on the more than two thou- sand battlefields of the war. Virtue is measured by the temptation it meets and masters ; success is scored according to the difficulties to be surmounted ; victory has its values precisely proportionate to the means and men to be over- come. In our war West Point met West Point, volunteer vied Avith volunteer. The flower of our hearts and homes lay down side by side in the last long sol- dier sleep with the flower of the Southland's hearts and homes : sincerity strove against sincerity ; conviction confronted conviction ; determination defied deter- mination ; purpose was pitted against purpose ; sacrifice was set over against sacrifice: prayer against prayer. Not men of alien nations were they: they were our own kith and kin. And because they were of our own stock and lin- eage, they fought, as men who would not disgrace the American family name. That is the reason it took four long years to end the contest. Because of this the hands of our Southern brethren set fire to a thousand miles of cotton, their very last resource, that every bridge might be burned behind them. To 'die in the last ditch' was no language of empty braggadocio. It meant the grim resolve of stubborp. ingrained Anglo-American valor, which, enlisted with our own on the side of right, can, if need arise, whip the world.
"This noble shaft and this beautiful library building are striking and worthy tributes to the transcendent idea that wealth has its irreparable obliga- tions to society. He who by genius and industry and honorable dealins: has amassed a fortune, viewing his lawful acquisitions aright, truly savs, 'These are not my own for sordid and selfish ends. They are for the well-being of those dependent upon me. and for that of my fellowmen. I will therefore use them to enrich and glorify human lives. I will blend in their use the gift of architecture, poetry and eloquence, with the undying sentiments of philan-
i6 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
thropy and patriotism. I will unfold new vistas of knowledge to the opening and gladdened eyes of youth. I will multiply for them the sources of inspira- tion and the upward paths of aspiration.'
"It is thus my friends that money should be used, not to forge fetters to bind and enthrall mankind, but with chains of gold to link heart to heart in the reciprocal offices of good-will and glowing gratitude.
"He whom we all delight to honor to-day, and whose name will be lield in increasing regard as the generations come and go, in this spirit has caused this splendid monument to spring into being. And in the fullest sympathy with the words of James Whitcomb Riley has he erected
"A monument to the soldiers.
And what shall you build it of? Can you build it of marble, or brass or bronze,
Outlasting a soldier's love? Can you glorify it with legends
As grand as their blood has writ From the inmost shrine of this land of thine
To the outermost verge of it?
"A monument for the soldiers- Built of a people's love,
And blazoned and decked and panoplied With the hearts ye build it of.
And see that you build it stately In pillar and niche and gate
And high in pose as the soul of those It would commemorate.
"Your most generous friend and fellow townsman ardently desired to go to the front when the war broke out, but considerations of business in which the vital interests of many others were concerned interposed an insuperable barrier. And yet he always felt a keen disappointment that stern necessity had prevented the enrollment of his name among his country's actual defenders. But in this case we all have taken gladly 'The will for the deed' : and in the en- during form of this graceful memorial shaft has that will found a renewed ex- pression of the profound regard he has ever cherished and of the marked prac- tical appreciation he has ever felt for the heroes of the Republic.
"It has been reared as described in the beautiful and felicitous language on its base 'In honor of the brave men of Kenosha county, who victoriously defended the Union on land and sea during the war of the great rebellion of 1861-1865."
"Not soldiers professionally trained, but men who became soldiers for the time of strenuous need, did this country send forth. When the war was over the survivors of the gallant Union host resumed their places in society as men. Men first and always they were. The function of the soldier was but a tem- porary one in their experience.
"Glorious beyond the power of utterance were the deeds they wrought amid the fire and tempest of battle. But they fought not for conquest but for harmony, unity and peace. The peace which was to make the Nation one could only come by power. Look upon that radiant figure which crowns this un- springing column. It is not the representative of the god of war crying 'To arms ! To arms !" It is tliat of the Angel of Peace, breathing benediction and
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. v;
love. And yet wilhuut the men girded with overcuming strength the iVngel ut Peace wouW not have descended from ahove.
"Other hps will tell in detail the thnllmg story of the loyalty and bravery of our Kenosha boys. No more intrepid citizen-soldiers shouldered arms or carried sword. The great State that sent them fortli gained added glory through their renown.
"General Sherman said in my hearing and in that of the Thirty-second Wisconsin Regiment in the field, 'Had all the regiments behaved as well as the Wisconsin troops, there would have been no Bull Run." And it was as much in compliment of the men we sent out as well as of the policy of the State in fill- ing up her regiments with recruits that he said in his Memoirs, 'We estimated a VV'isconsin regiment equal to an ordinary brigade.' It is no disparagement to the valiant soldiers from the other States to say that Wisconsin soldiers were, second to none in every physical, intellectual, moral and military quality. Wherever the white plume of Henry of Navarre was seen there always was the fight the hottest. Wherever the dags of Wisconsin regiments were seen in battle you might know the thickest of the deadly fray was there. The history of the war could be made out from the records of the conflicts in which Wisconsin soldiers took part. I cannot do justice to the deeds of our Wisconsin dead. Ten thousand fell in battle, on the march, in hospital, in prison pens, and through wounds and disease at home. Our noble Governor Harvey, going to the front to care for the wounded, found a watery grave in the swiftly flowing Tennessee. Colonel Haskell, the embodiment of chivalrous courtesy, culture and daring, surrendered his life early and heroically at his post of duty. Gen. Cassius Fairchild and General Cutler, after the battle's shock was over, lay down to rest, wearied unto death, through the preternatural stress and strain of war. Scores of other brave officers fell, whose names and deeds are engraven on tablet and monument, and slirined in the undying re- membrance of grateful hearts.
"True to the last were those Wisconsin soldiers. One of them, who went from the University in the northern part of our State, with the baptism of learn- ing on his brow, fell at the head of his cavalry command, but the last word that escaped young Paine's lips, as the sand in the roadside drank his blood, was 'Forward.' That motto of Wisconsin must be the watchword of the Na- tion. It has the right military ring in its imperative utterance.
"This Memorial day speaks to us perhaps as never before of common duties and responsibilities. It summons the whole nation to bear together the 'white man's burden.' to meet the red man's claims, to safeguard the brown man's rights, and redress the black man's wrongs. She must check with the hand of prudence and justice the insatiable greed of rapacious monopolies and trusts which exist by the grace and to the disgrace of the long-suf=fering public, and which, like the horse" leech with her two daughters, are evermore crying 'Give ! give !' She must not only shut now and forever the door of the Ameri- can congress to polygamy, but sternly prevent its baleful spread. She must deal practicallv and in a common-sense manner with intemperance. She must preserve the sacredness of marriage, and the integrity of the home, and the open school-house for her children.
"No maudlin sentimentalism must weaken the tenacity of the iron mole- cules in the martial blood of our American youth. Millennial conditions do-
i8 co]mme:\iorative biographical record.
not as yet prevail. However ardently we may desire and fervently pray for peace, we can fulfill our mission as a Christian nation only as we become thor- oughly prepared to compel peace when ambitious nations may desire to 'let slip the dogs of war."
"There can be omnipotence in our ringing utterances only as we can make these nations hear the reverberations of the best cannon, sighted by the best artillerists the world knows of, if occasion should demand such an accom)3ani- ment. We have sprung to the front as one of the great world-powers, not by any will of our own, for no statesman or soldier dreamed of this three years ago.
"Let skeptics sneer at us if they choose. I but repeat the thought of devout and practical men that the right hand of the God of Nations was on the hands of our American heroes when they were lift up to destroy tyranny and make wider yet the bounds of freedom in the enlarging of our national domain. What we have we must hold and we will hold with the grip of gravitation. We ■ will strike swift and steady blows till the last armed foe expires. We are sure we are right and we are going ahead. We are going to tax to the utmost the learning and ability of our commanding constitutional lawyers, the construc- tive genius of our foremost governmental administrators, the knowledge and deliberative wisdom of our most impartial and patriotic legislators, in dealing Avith the tractable and intractable human material that Providence has forced upon us.
" 'He has sounded forth a trumpet that shall never call retreat.' Vrni mav as well try to roll yonder sun backward as to turn the American people from the inward path of honor. We are workers together with God in lifting up and enlightening the once enslaved people now committed to our care.
"The Republic is living a grander life today than when Grant grasped tlie hand of Lee and said 'Let us have peace.' The years that have sped on since then have welded together the North and the South into a compact and glorious unity. Beneath the starry flag of the fathers the sires and sons who represented contending hosts have been marching victoriously forward to ful- fill our manifest destiny.
"We shall solve the many and complicated problems which are before us to-dav even as those who sleep in soldiers' graves solved the problems they had to face during the stirring times in which they lived. Because they suc- ceeded we have the sure promise of unfailing success, if we shall be faithful as were they. It is not only poetry but prose which is embodied in the senti- ment of the song 'Columbia, the Gem of the Ocean.' She is indeed the chief of the nations of the earth. W^e can gratefully thank the Giver of good gifts that there is no consumption in her blood, no paralysis in her limbs, no serious impairment of her digestive powers, no signs of heart failure in that central organ of her being.
"Tlie strength of the 'everlasting hills' is in her glorious frame. The beauty of her flushing lakes and rivers and seas is in her beaming face. 'The sweep continental' of mighty and majestic thought is in her active brain. The ardency and freshness of perennial youth are in her leaping pulses. The light of liberty is in her eyes of heavenlit blue. The words of conciliation and af- fection are on her persuasive lips, and her yearning arms have clasped once more all her children to her bounteous bosom in the unbroken embrace of ma-
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 19
ternal, filial and fraternal love. And the children now sing as ne\er before could be sung :
"Columbia, Columbia, to glory arise, The Queen of the World and the child of the skies."
Attorney James Cavanagh then introduced Rev. Father Cleary, of Min- neapolis, who said that the erecting of the monument was but a very small part of what Mr. Simmons has done for the old soldiers. He said that Mr. Sim- mons had always taken a great interest in the upbuilding of Kenosha, and gave liberally of his means toward every worthy enterprise. He told how, when he commenced the work of building St. James' Church, Mr. Simmons took him by the hand one morning and told him he was glad to see that there was one man who had faith in the future prosperity of Kenosha — that Kenosha was all right — to go ahead with the building of the church, and when in need of fvmds to call on him. He also said that Mr. Simmons remarked to him after the dedication of the soldiers' monument in the city cemetery several years ago which was the gift of Mr. Simmons, that the dead soldiers should have a monument, and they would have it if he had to erect it himself. Everyone knows when Mr. Simmons said anything had to be done it would be done. In concluding his short address he invoked the choicest blessings of Hea\-en on Ml'. Simmons.
The exercises closed with the singing of "America" by the assemblage.
Rev. Roblee then announced that the old soldiers would be furnished tick- ets for their supper at the dining halls of the W. R. C. and the ladies of the several churches.
A nice feature of the day was the singing by the school children. After the exercises the Wolcott Post Drum Corps of Milwaukee serenaded Air. Sim- mons at his home. During the evening the surviving members of the Twentv- sixth Regiment, Wisconsin Volunteers, held a reunion at St. George's Hall. It was a happy event.
The M onumcnt . — The monument is a fluted Corinthian column twentv- ejght feet in height, four feet in diameter at the bottom and tapering to three feet four inches at the top, and is one solid piece of gray granite. The cap- stone is five feet six inches square, and six feet high. On top of this stone is a beautiful statue of Victory, eleven feet in height, holding in her hand a wreath. On the base is the inscription, "In honor of the brave men of Keno- sha county, who victoriously defended the Union on land and sea during the war of the great rebellion — 1861-1865."
The approaches consist of four -steps and eight buttresses. The lower course is circular in form and thirty-six feet in diameter. From the approaches to the base of the column the monument is octagonal in shape, consisting of two bases, eleven feet six inches in diameter, also a die, six feet six inches, and a capstone eight feet in diameter. The approaches are similar to the approaches to the Victory monument at West Point, N. Y. The monument was designed by Mr. D. H. Burnham. who designed the buildings for the ^^"or!d's Fair. The statue of Victory was designed by \\' illiam H. Morse, of this city, who erected the monument. The work on the monument was all done by the William H. Morse Company, at Barre, Vt. The total weight of granite is 180 tons. There
20 CO!^BIEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
is not a finei" niunument in the State of Wisconsin. [The ahove report is taken from the Kenosha Union of May 31, 1900. J
No better evidence of the good feehng created by this handsome gift was necessary than the make-up of the procession, which inckided, besides veterans and sons and grandsons of veterans, representatives of numerous societies of every kind.
This generous act was but the climax of a consistent career of helpfulness in behalf of the veteran soldiery and their families, which covers a period from the beginning of the Civil war until the present time. It is not too much to say that no person in the United States to-day is a warmer friend, or a more liberal contributor, to the cause represented by the G. A. R. than Hon. Z. G. Simmons, of Kenosha. Abundant evidences of his friendly attitude, and of his splendid work, which proves his iaith in the great patriotic fraternity, are scat- tered along the past forty years of his life. One of the most touching local incidents testifying to his good-will is the annual entertainment which he has prepared and given for the last thirty years at his private residence for the enjoyment of two hundred veterans of Kenosha, Waukegan, Racine and Mil- waukee. Last year the late Commander-in-Chief of the Grand xA.rmy, W. \V. Blackmar, was present on this occasion.
A more striking evidence was presented at the thirty-ninth national en- campment of the G. A. R., held at Denver, Colo. While there, in company with the regular members of the Kenosha post and with his own granddaugh- ter, Mr. Simmons and the lady mentioned were called to the platform and heartily applauded. Then and there Mr. Simmons was unanimously and en- thusiastically pronounced a comrade of the gray-haired boys in blue, and voted formally into the organization — in view of what he had done in the past for them and theirs. In reply he delivered a short but telling address ; but he had come to the convention provided with something more tangible than words, and calculated to give a more enduring pleasure. Before the session was com- pleted he had distributed three tons of handsome bronze medals, which had been struck ofif at his personal expense. The soldiers attending the Denver Encampment received 15,000 of these beautiful mementoes, and, after return- ing home, Mr. Simmons had more of the medals made for presentation to the members of the Kenosha post who did not attend the convention.
On April 20, 1850, Mr. Simmons was married, in Kenosha, to iVIiss Emma E. Robinson, daughter of Capt. Morris Robinson, a prominent pioneer of Benton township. Lake Co., 111. Mrs. Simmons was born in Cleveland, Ohio, Oct. 15, 1830, and in 1835 went with her father to Lake county. 111., where she grew to womanhood.
Children as follows were born to Mr. and Mrs. Simmons : Gilbert ^T. died in the prime of manhood ; Nelson L. died at the age of three years ; Min- nie J. is the wife of Arthur F. Towne, of Chicago ; Emma Belle, Mrs. Lance, is a resident of Kenosha ; Ezra J- died at the age of thirteen years; Zalmon G., Jr., is the youngest. The mother passed away Oct. 11, 1899. In religious faith she was a Unitarian, as is also Mr. Simmons.
Mr. Simmons has proved in his career that hard work is a blessing and not a bane. His success also is evidence of the fact that a man never injures his own prospects by generosity to others, and the esteem in which he is held
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 21
by all is the reward of a life-long policy of unselfishness. His name is known to every resident of Kenosha county, for he has taken a prominent part in the history and development of both city and county throughout the period of his long residence here. He has made his way from small beginnings, for when he arrived in the then town of Southport he had only $2.50 in cash, and his cap- ital when he took the store was but $200, though he had a good name ancP credit from which none of his subsequent dealings have detracted.
HON. JOHN T. WENTWORTH (deceased) was one of the self-made men of his day and for years was a prominent citizen of Racine. He was born March 30, 1820, in Saratoga County, New York, a son of John and Mary (Brown) Wentworth.
The Wentworth family is of English extraction. About, the middle of the seventeenth century, one William Wentworth came from England to America and established his home in New Hampshire. Among his distin- guished descendants were John Wentworth, who became governor of New Hampshire, and another John, of a later generation, who was one of the early settlers and liberal patrons of Chicago, Illinois.
John Wentworth, father of Judge Wentworth, was born in New Hamp- shire, and married Mary Brown of Rhode Island. He died in Sarato'ga County, N. Y.. when the late Judge Wentworth, the youngest member of his family of five children, was but two years of age.
The late Judge John T. Wentworth was given liberal educational ad- vantages and he graduated in the class of 1846 at Union College, Schenec- tady, N. Y., one of a brilliant coterie of distinguished men. He then began the reading of law with William A. Beach, at Saratoga Springs, and was admitted to the Bar in 1850, and began the practice of his profession at this point. After two years he went as far west as Chicago, where he engaged in practice until 1856, when he removed to Geneva Lake, Walworth Co., Wis., where in the following year he was elected district attorney and re-elected in 1859. In 1870 he was made clerk of the circuit court, and held the posi- tion for five years, and while still officiating as such, was elected circuit judge to fill a vacancy of two and a half years. When this period had expired he was elected to the office, and he continued to serve until 1884, his circuit in- cluding Walworth, Kenosha and Racine counties. In 1877 Judge Went- worth had removed to Racine, and his death occurred in the familv home in that city. For ten years he served as circuit court commissioner, and for an extended period as United States court commissioner.
Judge Wentworth was married Oct. 4, 1852, in Saratoga county, N. Y., to Miss Frances McDonnell, of Saratoga county, and they had children as follows : John T., a graduate of Yale and a prominent attorney at Racine : Thomas M., who died in April, 1882: Mary; and Jane, who is the wife of J. Pinto, consul at Brussels from Cuba.
Judge Wentworth was a member of the Presbyterian Church, as are the other members of his family. His political affiliation was with the Repub- lican party. Fraternally he was a Knight Templar Mason, belonging to Geneva Lodge, of wdiich he was master: Geneva Chapter, of which he was high priest, and Racine Commandery, No. 7. In 1865 he was elected grand
'^2 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
master of the State, and two years prior to this had been grand senior warden. He was also an honored member of the Wisconsin Bar Association.
HON. PHILO BELDEN. The late Senator Philo Belden, one of the earliest pioneers and universally respected citizens of Racine county, Wis., was born Oct. 22, 181 5, at Canaan, Litchfield Co., Conn., son of Jonathan and Love (Dean) Belden.
In the spring of 1838 he came to the Territory of Wisconsin, locating at Rochester. Racine county. He returned to Indiana in the following year and was there married, June 6, 1839, to Mary F. Belden, born Sept. 23, 1818, daughter of Henry and Fannie Belden. With his bride Mr. Belden came again to Wisconsin and, until his death many years later, he was one of the leading men of his community.
In October, 1839, in company with Martin C. Whitman, Levi Godfrey, Obed Hulburd and Hiland Hulburd, Mr. Belden caused to be platted all the village property extending on the west side of Fox river, and also all the property on the east side south of Main street. In 1840 Mr. Belden built a sawmill on the Muskego river, and two years later, with Jeremiah Ford and T. E. Green, was interested in the establishment of the town's present water power. !Mr. Belden was the builder of the first flouring mill at Rochester, of which he was the sole owner until 1846. He was prominent in many of the other industries of the place, operating an iron factory and encouraging other enterprises new to the region. He brought bricks from the mouth of Root river, and built the first brick chimney ever constructed in Rochester. Mr. Belden was very public-spirited. When the Fox River Valley railroad was first thought of as a possibility, and a company was formed for its construc- tion, he was elected president, and contmued as such until unlocked for difli- culties arose, over which he had no control, and the scheme was abandoned. He lost heavily financially, and was disappointed at the failure of the enter- prise which he had encouraged on account of its promised value to this section.
In his political sympathies he was a Republican and from early man- hood had been appointed and elected by his party to responsible ofiices. In 1852 he was first elected to the State Legislature, was re-elected in 1862 and again in 1865. and in 1870 he was elected to the State Senate. In 1884 he was appointed by Gov. Rusk to fill the vacancy created by the death of Judge Bronson on the County Bench, and in 1885 he was elected for the succeeding four years. His service continued until the month of his decease, September, 1889, he having but a week previously resigned on account of failing healthy
Judge Belden and wife had four children, viz. : Henry W., of Milwau- kee: Edward J., of Stockton, Cal. ; Albert O., of Rochester, Wis.; and Allen H., of Rochester. During the Civil war Judge Belden gave support and en- couragement to the L^nion cause not only with voice and pen. but saw three of his beloved sons enter the army and encouraged them for their patriotism. The death of this statesman, jurist and loyal citizen removed from Racine county one of its notable men, one whose name is identified with much that has made it great.
ERNST J. HUEFFNER, president of the Manufacturers" National Bank, is one of the most prominent citizens and enterprising business men
CO\BIEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 33
of Racine. He was born in Forste, Prussia, Germany, Feb. 15, 1838, son of Ernst C. and Julia (Klinkmueller) Hueffner, natives of Germany. The grandparents, both paternal and maternal, died in Germany.
Ernst C. Hueffner always followed the tanning business, operating a tannery in his native country, and, on coming to America, in 1848^ located a tannery at Racine. He died here in 187 1, aged sixty-three years, while his widow survived until 1880, being seventy-one years old at the time of her death. Both were members of the Lutheran Church. Mr. Hueffner was one of Racine's early aldermen. He and his wife had seven children, two of whom still survive: Ernst J. and Bertha A., the latter the widow of August Frank, of Milwaukee.
Ernst J. Hueft'ner was ten years old when brought to America bv his parents. His early schooling was obtained in Germany, and he attended the public schools in Racine for a time. Here he grew to manhood, helping his father in the tannery and later in the leather and shoe finding business, and on his father's retirement he became his successor, and has since continued in that business. He has been a stockholder in the Manufacturers' National Bank since its organization, and in January, 1904, was made president of that institution, a position he still holds.
In 1868 Mr. Hueffner married Miss Martha A. J. Kuehne, daughter of Henry and Caroline (Voelz) Kuehne, and nine children have been born to this union, seven now living : Julia, who married August C. Frank, of Racine ; Ernest C, assistant cashier in the Manufacturers" National Bank, who mar- ried Miss Lillian Cook, of New York; Bertha, who married A. J. Horlick; Alfred, a clerk for his father in the leather business, as is also Otto ; and Frederick and Martin, who are attending the State University, at Madison. Mr. Hueffner is a member of the Lutheran Church. Politically he is in- dependent, and he served as alderman for several terms, and as mavor in 1879.
ROBERT HALL BAKER (deceased). The death of Robert Hall Baker, which occurred at his beautiful home in the city of Racine, Wis., removed a man who was noted not only for his business success, but for those high ideals of business honor which won for him the esteem of those with whom his many important enterprises brought him closely in contact.
Mr. Baker was born June 27, 1839, at Lake Geneva, Walworth Co., Wis., and died Oct. 5, 1882. His parents were Charles M._and Martha L. Baker, natives of Larrabee Point. Vt., who were early settlers in Wisconsin. Mr. Baker completed the common school course in his own neighborhood and then entered Beloit College. In March, 1856. he came to Racine. Wis., and for several years was a clerk in a hardware store. In i860 he became general bookkeeper and accountant with J. I. Case, and in 1863 purchased a fourth interest in the manufacturing business and was one of the incorporators of the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Company. Besides his interest in and conijection with this great enterprise, Mr. Baker was interested in many others in the State of Wisconsin. He was a large stockholder in the Manufac- turers' National Bank of Racine; of the First National Bank of Crookston. Minn. ; and in the First National Bank of Burlington, Wis. ; a director of the
24 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
Racine Hardware Manufacturing Company; and of the National Iron Co., of DePere, Wis. ; and president of the Hampton Coal Mining Company.
Mr. Baker was always a zealous supporter of the Republican party and a defender of its principles. In 1867 he was elected school comniissioner ; in 1865 and 1868 was elected an alderman and re-elected to this office in 1871 ; in the year succeeding he was elected to the Wisconsin State Senate; in 1873 ^""^ ^^'^^ ^^^^ Republican candidate for lieutenant-governor; in 1874 he was chosen mayor of Racine; in 1875 ^"'J '" 1876 he again served in the State Senate. During the campaign of Garfield, Mr. Baker was chairman of the Republican State Central Committee, a position he held at the time of his death, and he was also chairman of the delegation to the National Repub- lican Convention that nominated Mr. Garfield. During this campaign he was so active that his health became impaired. Subsequently he was ofiiered important positions under the Government, but refused all with the exception of Government director of the Union Pacific Railroad, which at that time was in the beginning of its reconstruction period. This position of respon- siljility he held until the end of his life.
Mr. Baker's superior executive ability, extensive acquaintance, comjjined with his prominent position in his State, influenced his appointment in the representation of the State of Wisconsin at the Centennial Exposition in 1876. He was made a sub-committee to supervise and arrange the exhibits of agricultural machinery and implements and the care which he gave to this commission resulted in the notable display offered. Through his instru- mentality Racine was specially represented in the art department of that exposition. In 1878 Mr. Baker was sent as Wisconsin's representative to the Exposition Universal at Paris.
On Dec. 20, 1859, Mr. Baker was united in marriage with Miss Emily M. Carswell, daughter of John S. Carswell, formerly sheriff of the county. To this union were born four sons and one daughter, viz. : George C. ; Edward L. ; Robert H. ; Charles H. ; and Mary Louise, who is the wife of Clarence T- Richards, a prominent attorney-at-law^ at Racine.
The funeral of Mr. Baker was a very impressive one and was conducteil under the auspices of the Episcopal Church of which he was a consistent member, and of the Masonic fraternity in which he was a Knight Templar. A few lines may be appropriately quoted from the beautiful sermon of the Rev. Dr. Corwin, of Racine, on this occasion, as follows :
"Of no man in the community cculd it be said that his friendships were .so numerous or so wiile-reachins:, including those of every class, creed and condition. This arose not from the lack of positivity of manner or of opinion, but was the natural outcome of his whole-souled manners, his personrd can- dor and quick appreciation of what was worthy or winning in all classes. This vast concourse of sincere mourners is a sincere tribute not to wenlth but to worth. Of magnetic temperament he made fast friends and made them just as readily when he was comparatively noor as when diligence was crowned with affluence. His was not a cold and neutral nature. I have often noticed the cmickness of his svmpathy when the weak and helpless were wrone'ed. and the lieat of his in'ho-n^tion when some meanness wns meditated toward those whose worth he highlv esteemed. He had large plans for the
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 25
improvement of the city where he dwelt, which his deatli must delay, if not wholly thwart, and was not backward in affording- the Church of Christ financial support."
Appropriate resolutions were adoptetl by the various business and fra- ternal bodies with which he had been connected. At a bank meetin.s;' which was presided over by President J. I. Case, the late Judge Allen s))oke as follows :
"Few men possessed the rare qualities of a banker equal to Mr. Baker, which always led to success. His mind had a powerful intuition as well as great powers of analyzing, enabling him at a glance to separate the spurious from the genuine, so that he was seldom, if ever, deceived. His long ex- perience with business transactions of great magnitude, to the smallest detail thereof had so developed his mental powers as a banker and as a business man that it may be said of him with truthfulness that he had attained the eminence that raised him among the most elevated of business men, and as he went up, he took his integrity with him, a quality he never surrendered and which has never been questioned. While Mr. Baker was an ambitious man, he loved justice more than money. His' word or obligation was never broken but faithfully kept and maintained. He religiously believed in the divinitv of a man's word and contract, and if not kept and maintained, mankind must go back to barbarism. While I speak of him as a banker and business man, I may justly add that he was equally so as a gentleman, and none are more willing to bear witness of the fact than the Board of Directors of the bank as well as its employes.
"Mr. Baker was a kind man, whether in business or out of it. he was ever the same genial gentleman. He was free from mif¥s and resentments without a good cause, and never with a revengful spirit. He regarded that the fairest action of man was scorning to revenge an injury. By the death of Mr. Baker, it is not the bank alone that has met with a loss, but the Nation. Mr. Baker, by instinct and education, was a statesman, ranking with the most eminent. He had clear and comprehensive views of national affairs, and his influence was felt outside the bounds of his native State, where he was so favorably known. He took a deep interest in all public affairs for the county's good, and to this end it may be said that he was generous with his monev and labor to accomplish, at the same time without anv sinister motive.
"It is true that Mr. Baker has left us to return not, but he has not left us comfortless. He left his good character with us, a legacy above all price, on which there is not a spot or blemish ; it belongs to his family and the pub- lic in common. Indeed the loss of Robert H. Baker reaches far and wide, the people mourn it as a calamity, and well may they, for Mr. Baker was a benefactor; the world was made better and people have been iDlessed for his having lived in it. We all deplore his death. He was entirelv free from ostentation, and mingled with his fellow citizens as one of them, apparently unconscious of his superiority. But it was in his home, surrounded bv his family and friends, if any olace more than another, he excelled. He was a kind, affectionate, appreciative husband; equally so as a father, and had a fpculty in receiving and entertaining his friends in a Avav that endeared them all to him. Indeed, he was a general favorite everywhere and had the love
26 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
and confidence of all who knew him. He was the same courtly gentleman to all classes, the poor as well as the rich, and was equally approachable by all, and none now speak of him except to praise."
After the closing of the church service at St. Luke's Church, Racine, Rev. Arthur Piper, rector, reciting the impressive service of that church, the funeral was taken charge of by the Knight Templar Masons of Racine Com- niandery, and the procession was formed on Main street, in the following order : Garfield Guards, Light Guards, employes of the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Company, Fire Department, Racine Club, Racine Lodge, No. i8, A. F. & A. M., Belle City Lodge, No. 92, Racine Commandery No. 7, Knights Templar, Wisconsin Commandery, No. i, Consistory No. i, of Milwaukee. Then came the heavily draped hearse with its guard of honor, followed by the family, the city council and a long line of carriages filled with citizens who desired in this way to show respect for one who was so universally mourned. The body was consigned to the dust with Masonic rites, Prelate Arthur Piper officiating. Had a longer life been vouchsafed to Mr. Baker he might have risen still higher in the halls of fame but he could not have achieved more entirely a lasting remembrance in the hearts o'f his fellow citizens.
NATHAN R. ALLEN (deceased) was the first sheriff of Kenosha county, the builder of the first frame structure erected in the city, for many years the proprietor of an extensive tannery, and stands in the local annals as among the earliest and most respected pioneers of Kenosha. His sons, Charles W. and Nathan Allen, have continued his business under the firm name of N. R. Allen & Sons.
Nathan R. Allen was born in Granby, Oswego Co., N. Y., Feb. 3, 1812, being the son of Zodac and Esther (Blake) Allen. The father, of Scotch- Irish ancestry, was a native of Connecticut, bvit migrated to New York and located at Granby Center, near Fulton, where he engaged in farming until his death, at an advanced age, in the year 1837. His wife, who died while still young, bore him a large family. Nathan R. Allen was reared on his father's farm, acquired as good an education as the schools of the time afforded, and for several winter terms was a teacher himself. In the summer of 1835 he mi- grated to the West, settling at Pike's Creek, afterward called Soutliport and finally Kenosha.
When he first settled at what is now the city of Kenosha, Mr. Allen took charge of a small store for William Bullen, besides turning his industrious and ingenious hand to such various occupations as wood-chopping, lathing and building. As stated he erected the first frame structure of the settlement and afterward superintended the building of many others. For a number of years he was the owner of the largest building in the city, in which were installed all of the municipal offices. Upon the organization of Kenosha countv he was elected its sheriff and after serving out his term engaged for a time in the lumber business.
In 1856, with Levi Grant as a partner, Mr. Allen opened a small tannery on the site of the present large establishment. The business gradually in- creased until it became one of the most prominent industries of Kenosha. On Feb. 2, i8go. the tannerv was destroyed bv fire, but a new and larger iilant was
A^v ,
^^
(.,'OM M li A ! UK,\ i J \ L B 1 UUKAl'HiCAL KliCORD.
;n; f 'l' v lio knew him. He was the same courtly gentleman
to is well as the rich, and was equally approachable by
a! ■ ...v of him except to praise.''
ng of the church service at Si. Luke's Church, Racine, R . rector, rcciting'the imprev- - ■> i,-e of that church, the
11 charge of by the Knight 1 -ons of Racine Com-
n- procession was foraied oi .'ct, in the fullowing
oi ■.id Guards, Light Guard;, empl J. L Case Threshing
M npany. Fire Departmenl, Racine i me Lodge, \o. i8,
A. I ;^ /\. AL, Belle City Lodge, No, 92, Racine v^ummandery No. 7, Knights Ti.nipiar, Wisconsin Commandery, N.j. i. Consistory No. i, of Milwaukee. Then came the heavily draped heaisi with its guard of honor, followed by the family, the city council and a l<«itr I'ne of carriages filled with citizens who desired in this way to show r ne who was so universally mourned.
The body was consigned to f Masonic rites, Prelate Arthur Piper
officiating. Had a ' Mr. Baker he might have
risen still higher '; not have achieved more
entirely a lasting rciri^ni.ic-.,,. . .r ... ..rtii>k>i u- ii:iluw citizens.
V \THAN P \i i ■ -v • ;he buildt' : proprieti r among the earliest and most 1 V\'. and Nathan Allen, have 0 )\. .\llen & Sons.
Nathan R. Allen was born l)eing the son of Zodac and Irish ancestry, was a native ■ located at Granby Center, near 1 death, at an advanced age, in the year 1837. young, lx)re him a large family. Nathan R. Ai
;.-.M v"'-- ti'c- first sheriff of Kenosha
ted in the city, for many
j, ..inds in the local annals as
leers of Kenosha. His sons, Charles
s business under the firm name of N.
■nnby, Oswego Co., N. Y., Feb. 3, 1812, 'ake) Allen. The father, of Scotch- icut, bii<^ ?pigrated to New York and A, where '■ 1 in farming until his
who died while still ,\< reared on his father's farm, acquired as good an education as the schools of the time affordetl. and for several winter terms was a teacher himself. In the summer of 1835 he mi- gi ated to the West, settling at Pike's Creek, afterward called South)jort and fr.ially Kenosha.
When he first settled at what is now the city of Kenosha. Mr. Allen took
i''i:,;>.c of a small store for William Bullen, besides tmni <■ Irs industrious and
lis hand to such various occupations as w t;', lathing and
^. As stated he erected the first frame strut . settlement and
ait— > ard superintended the building of many others, ror a number of years
li. the owner of the largest building in the city, in which were installed all
'lunicipal offices. Upon the organization of Kenosha countv he was
^ sheriff and after serving out his term engaged for a time in the
Levi Grant as a partner, Mr. Allen opened a small tannery
■cut large establishment. The business gradually in-
;ie of the most prominent industries of Kenosha. On
icry was destroyed by fire. l)ut a new and larger plant was
1
s^/Z^^
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 27
promptly erected and tlie liusiness was continued witli its old-time prosperity. In the meantime Mr. Cirant had retired and Mr. Allen's two sons, Charles W. and Nathan, had been admitted to the hrm.
On Oct. 25, 1843, Nathan R. Allen was married to Miss Mary Hale, of Paris Hill, N. Y., the American branch of whose family is traced to the seven- teenth century, when Richard Hale emigrated from England and settled in Connecticut. Samuel Hale, father of Mary (Hale) Allen, a native of New York, engaged in farming at Paris Hill, and died at the age of over seventy years, his wife, Hannah (Munson) Hale, passing away at about the same age. To Mr. and Mrs. Nathan R. Allen were born nine children, of whom the fol- lowing four are living: Charles W., Nathan, Julia, and Clara A. (Mrs. Charles E. Arnold, of Milwaukee). The father passed away April 15, 1890, but his wife is still living, in her eighty-seventh year. Neither were members of any church, but were constant attendants of the Congregational services. In this connection it should be stated that Mr. Allen assisted in building the first sacred edifice ever erected in Kenosha. In early manhood the deceased was an Abolitionist, during the Civil war was a Republican, and afterward became a Democrat.
Charles W. Allen, now the senior partner in the firm of N. R. Allen & Sons, was born in Kenosha, was educated in its public schools, and in 1870 was admitted to partnership with his father under the iirm name of N. R. Allen & Son. About ten years later, by the admission of his brother Nathan, the style became N. R. Allen & Sons, which it retained after the death of the founder of the business in 1890. In the various operations of the industry one thou- sand persons are employed, and the products of the establishment are shipped to all parts of the world.
Charles W. Allen was married on April 4, 1878, to Miss Ella F. French, daughter of Alvin and Nancy (Stevens) French, the former of whom settled some three miles from Kenosha as early as 1835. Mr. and Mrs. Allen are the parents of three children, namely: Charles C, who married Miss Susan Swandale, of Greenville, S. C, and has one son, Charles W. ; Robert W. ; and Gertrude E. The family resides at No. 431 Chicago street. Mr. Allen stands high in both the social and business circles of Kenosha. In politics he is a Democrat.
Nathan Allen, brother and partner of Charles W., was born in Keno- sha, and on Feb. 17, 1892, married Miss Ellen Jebb, of Waukegan, by whom he has had three children, Margaret J., Francis J. and Nathan R.
FRANK KELLOGG BULL, who fills the important position of presi- dent of the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Co., Racine, Wis., is by virtue of that connection alone one of the city's most prominent and influential citi- zens. The concern, being one of the most important of its kind in the world, confers untold benefits upon the city in which it is located; and the heads are responsible in more than a business sense. His father has been a resident of Racine for almost fifty years and a member of the firm for over forty years, and Frank K. Bull has been identified with the business since he was nineteen, ever since he left school.
Mr. Bull was born ]\Iay 7, 1857, at Spring Prairie, Walworth Co., Wis.,
28 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
son of Stephen and Ellen C. (Kellogg) Bull, who in that year came to Racine to make a permanent home here. The family is of New England origin, our subject being of "Mayflower'' descent in one line. DeGrove and Amanda M. (Crosby) Bull, who were the paternal grandparents of Frank K., were the first of this family that came to Wisconsin, and they passed the remainder of their lives as farming people in Raymond township, Racine county, both living- to advanced age.
Stephen Bull was born March 14, 1822, in Scipio, Cayuga Co., N. Y., and though now past eighty-four is still vigorous in mind and body. How- ever, he has retired from active business pursuits. Like many of the most successful men of his day he has been self-made, having had few opportun- ities in his youth. He received his education in the subscription schools of his boyhood, and worked on a farm until he was eighteen, beginning farm work when he was only ten. Then he clerked in a grocery store in New York City for a time, and in 1845 came to Wisconsin, at that time locating in Ra- cine for a year. He next went to Spring Prairie, Walworth county, where lie conducted a general store for about ten years, until his return to Racine, in 1857, wdien he went to work for his brother-in-law, J. I. Case, with whom he entered into partnership in 1863. They continued together until Mr. Case died, after which Mr. Bull became president of the firm, then known as the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Co. He held the position until 1897, since which year his son Frank K. has been the head of that immense concern. During all of these years he has been one of the most important figures in the business life of Wisconsin. Since 1872 he has been a stockholder in the Man- ufacturers' National Bank of Racine, of which Mr. Case was the first pres- ident, Mr. M. B. Erskine the second, and Stephen Bull the third. Mr. Bull resigned Jan. i, 1904.
On June 7, 1849, Mr. Bull was married to Miss Ellen C. Kellogg, who died March 27, 1880, the mother of seven children, namely: A son who died when three months old; Ida R., wife of H. W. Conger, of San Francisco, Cal.; Frank K. ; Jeanette, wife of Richard T. Robinson, of Racine; Lillian M., married to Frederick Robinson; Herbert, who died wdien twenty-three years old; and Bessie M., wife of A. Arthur Guilbert.
Frank K. Bull was brought to Racine when three months old, and he has resided here ever since. He attended the public schools and later for six years was a student in Racine College, and then he started to work in the factory. He was under the immediate supervision of Mr. R. H. Baker, who entered the firm at the same time as his father, and under him worked through the clerical and mechanical departments, learning the business from beginning to end. In 1881, the year after the organization of the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Company, Mr. Bull succeeded Mr. Baker as secretary-treasurer of the company, Mr. Baker retiring on account of illness. He continued as such for over fifteen years, until 1897, in wdiich year his father retired from tlie presidency. Frank K. Bull has since held that position, Mr. Frederick Rob- inson being vice-president, Mr. Richard T. Robinson secretarv, and Mr. Charles L. Mcintosh treasurer.
The institution gives employment to from T,6oo to 2,000 employes, and the product finds ready sale all over the LTnited States, Canada, Europe and
COxMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 29
South America. The great growth of the business in the last two years is clue largely to the inuividual efforts and foresight of Mr. Erank K. Bull. Though he commenced his business career with unusual opportunities, he nevertheless has been obliged to sustain a difficult role, for the responsibilities placed upon him have required great ability, and no amount of prestige would have compensated for lack of energy or executive force. His predecessors in his present position were men of remarkable strength, and to maintain their standards and continue to progress within reason requires a breadth of judg- ment and a measure of farsighteil enterprise which few possess. Mr. Bull has interested himself in other important concerns, being president of the Belle City Manufacturing Company (of which he was one of the incorpor- ators), a director of the Mihvaukee Harvesting Company and a director of the Manufacturers' National Bank of Racine. Throughout his business career his affairs have been conducted with the strictest honesty and fairness, and to-day there is none who enjoys the confidence and resi)ect of his fellow citizens to a greater extent.
Mr. Bull was married Sept. 16, 1880, in Milwaukee, to Miss H. Belle Jones, a native of that city, daughter of Louis Emery Jones and w'ife (whose maiden name was Bliss). To this union two children have been born, Stephen and Jeanette. Mr. and Mrs. Bull are members of the Episcopal Church, and he was one of the originators, and for some time a member, of the surpliced choir at St. Luke's. Politically he is a Republican, and a member of the Union League Club of New York, but he is not a politician, though he takes an intelligent interest in political questions and party issues. He also belongs to the Milwaukee Club, the Chicago Athletic Association and the Racine Club.
Mr. Bull's fine residence is located at No. 1121 Main street, and he has a beautiful winter home at Camden, S. C, where he owns the Camden Water, Ice & Light Company.
ANDREW J. PIERCE, president and treasurer of the Pierce Eneine Company, of Racine, Wis., has the distinction of having manufactured one of the first automobiles in the State of Wisconsin. He was born in Rochester, N. Y., Jan. 11, i8s9, son of Andrew T- and Abigail Pierce, natives of New York.
Jeremiah Pierce, his grandfather, was a native of Vermont, and ran a line of packet boats on the Erie Canal. During the war of 1812 he was an officer, and in 1849 he went to California, and was never again heard from. The father of our subject was a baker of Canandaigua and later of Rochester, N. Y., wfhere he died in 1865, aged thirty-eight years. He married Abigail Koonradth, who still survives. The Koonradth familv was of Holland- Dutch descent, and was founded in this countrv on Manhattan Island, later settling in the Afohawk Valley. The maternal grandfather of Mr. Pierce was a native of New York and was a bridge builder by trade, building all of the important bridges on the Rome and Watertown Railroad, and many on the New York Central. He died at an advanced age. Three children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Pierce : George Lester, of Rochester, N. Y. ; Andrew J., of Racine; and Alfred of Racine, Wisconsin.
30 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
Andrew J. Pierce, our subject, was reared in Rochester, X. Y.. and there attended the public schools. After graduating from the high school he began learning the machinist's trade, which he followed as a journeyman about eighteen years. In 1887 he came to Racine, and went to work for the Racine Hardware Company. In 1893 he started in business on his own ac- count in the manufacture of gas and gasoline engines, marine motors, includ- ing launches and launch engines ; that same year he also commenced manu- facturing automobiles and automobile machinery on a small scale. The busi- ness was originally started at the corner of Racine and Sixteenth streets., he purchasing his present location, Twenty-Second and Racine streets, in the fall of 1898. Here he erected three buildings, and now has ten buildiygs and departments, in which an average of 130 men are employed. Nineteen years manufacturing gas and gasoline engines, and with more than 8000 Pierce motors, aggregating over 50,000 horsei30wer, doing business in all parts of the world, bespeak attention for the company's method of building, which includes all that is modern and up to the very latest and best practice. Their present shop capacity averages 3000 motors a year. They manufacture almost every part of their car from the raw material, having their own foundry, blacksmith and machine shops, wood and upholstery departments, buying only such standard parts as wheels, tires, springs, roller bearings, chains and a few forgings. Their product is a strictly high-grade, up-to-date and reliable car.
^Ir. Pierce was married ]\Iay 5, 1887, to Miss Katherine ]\Iatthewson, daughter of Andrew J. and Rosella (Place) Matthewson, natives of Vermont. Mr. Pierce is an -Odd Fellow, having joined that order when twentv-one years old. He also belongs to the Royal Arcanum. Politicallv he is inde- pendent. He lives at Xo. 1742 College avenue, where he built a fine home in 1893.
REV. HENRY DOUGLAS ROBINSON, D. D.. who has held the position of warden of Racine College. Racine, Wis., since 1900, is a native of Massachusetts. He is the son of Alexander Douglas Robinson and Clara (Boate) Robinson, natives of Ireland.
Dr. Robinson was nine years old when he came to Racine. He attended the public and preparatory schools. He graduated in the Classical course of Racine College in 1884, and was then for one year assistant rector of the grammar school of that institution. The following year he accepted the posi- tion of instructor in mathematics in St. Matthew's Military Academv, San Mateo, Cal., where he remained until 1889. In that vear he became rector of the grammar school of Racine College, which position he held until 1900, when he was made warden. He has held that office ever since. The school now has an average attendance of between one hundred and sixty and one hundred and seventy pupils.
Dr. Robinson was married on July 13. 1889. to Miss Florence Bruce, daughter of Frederick and Anna Mead Bruce. Dr. and Airs. Robinson are members of the Episcopal Church, and he is rector of St. John's Collegiate Chapel.
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 31
TAJvIES GILBERT CHANDLER, senior member of the well-known firm "of Chandler & Park, architects, of Racine, Wis., was born in the town of Success, New Hampshire, Aug. 4, 1856, son of Milton Walker and Sarah (Grover) Chandler.
Mr. Chandler's paternal grandfather was of English descent and a native of New Hampshire. He carried on farming and lumbering, and died in New Hampshire aged sixty-two years. His wife, Betsy (Leary) Chandler, died aged ninety-six years. Milton Walker Chandler, our subject's father, was born June 26. 1825, followed his father's vocation of lumbering in early man- hood, and in 1861 located in Goodhue county, Minn., following farming until 1888. In that year he moved to Appleton, Minn., where he lived retired until his death. Sept. 11. 1896, at the age of seventy-one years; his wife was born Nov. 10, 1822, in Bethel, Maine, and died in Appleton, IMinn., Dec. 25. 1891. They were members of the Congregational Church. They were mar- ried Jan. 18, 1853, and had four children : Harry, of Appleton, Minn. ; James G., of Racine; Frank R., of Dawson City, Alaska; and Leon A., of Almont, Michigan.
James G. Chandler was five years okl when he came to Minnesota with his parents, and there grew to manhood on a farm. He attended the district schools and high school and learned the carpenter's trade, to which he served a three years' apprenticeship; and then served a three years' apprenticeship to architecture in Madison, Wis. He located in Racine in 1879 and that city has been his home ever since. Here he was married Aug. 19. 1885, to Miss Frances Evans, daughter of David R. Evans, and to this union were Ixirn four children : Edith. Lucille. Milton and David. Mrs. Chandler is a member of the Presbyterian Church; she was born in Cambria, Wis., Jan. 6, i860, of Welsh parentage. Her father was born in Denbighshire. Wales, Dec. 23, 1827; came to America in 1846, and located in Columbia county. Wis.; he moved to Racine in 1848. By trade he was a carpenter, but he follpwed a mercantile business. He w-ent to California in 1849, returned from there, and was married in Racine to Miss Frances Howell Feb. 5, 1859. Mrs. Evans was born in Montgomeryshire, Wales, Feb. 2, 1836, and came to America in 1846, living in Ohio up to the time of her marriage. Mr. and Mrs. Evans had four children: Frances (wife of James G. Chandler), Emma J., Howell Edwin, and Newton David. Mr. and Mrs. Evans and all their children are alive at this writing.
Mr. Chandler has designed most of the principal buildings in Racine since his location there, and at this writing is making a specialty of school buildings, having designed many throughout this and neighboring States. Politically he is a Republican. His residence, at No. 803 Lake avenue, he erected in 1889. He also owns other real estate.
BYRON BOOTH NORTHROP. The history of any community, like the history of a country, is best shown in the record of the lives of its people. Among the men of character comprising the better element in the city of Racine there are none perhaps whose daily life and conversation are more worthy of mention than the respected gentleman whose name heads this brief
32 CO^niE^IORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
biographical sketch. He may well be called a pioneer of Racine county, hav- ing tirst come here in 1842, in the days when Vv'isconsin was still a Territory and before a harbor was secured. All but a few years of his business life have been spent in Racine, where for over forty-six years he has been promi- nent in financial affairs, especially as cashier of the Manufacturers" National Bank, which has grown into the largest and strongest financial institution in Racine.
Byron Booth Northrop was born Oct. 2, 1830, in Gahvay, Saratoga Co., N. Y., the youngest son of Dr. Booth Northrop. The father was a skillful and unusrvally popular physician of the Allopathic school, and so devoted to his professional duties that his death, which occurred in Aledina, N. Y., at the comparatively early age of forty-nine, was the result of overwork. Byron Booth Northrop was quite young when his parents moved to Canandaigua, Ontario Co., N. Y., and thence to Medina, and he was only six years old when his father died. He received an excellent foundation for his literary education at Yates Academy, in Orleans county. In 1842, in his twelfth year, he came to Wisconsin to live for a time with his sister, Mrs. Hiland S. Hul- burd, at Rochester, Racine county, and for a year or so attended school in that village. After that for several years he made his home with his eldest brother. Rev. Henry H. Northrop, at Homer, Mich., during- which time he was a student at the Wescott Academy, in Homer, Calhoun Co.. Mich. Returning to Medina, N. Y., he prepared for college under the instruction of Daniel W. Fish, A. M., a scholar and educator of national renown, particu- larly as the author of Fish's Arithmetics and the reviser of Robinson's Series of Mathematics. In 1847 ^^^- Northrop matriculated at the Universitv of Michigan, in Ann Arbor, taking the classical course, and graduated with the degree of A. B. in 1855, when Henry P. Tappen. LL. D., was president. In 1877, under the presidency of James B. Angell, LL. D., the degree of A. M. was conferred upon him. Following his graduation he was engaged for a few years in work that gave him the opportunity to use the knowledge he had been acquiring while gaining needed business experience, being employed by the publishing house of A. S. Barnes & Co., of New York, as general agent in Michigan and Wisconsin to introduce their publications properly to educa- tors and professional men in those States.
In 1859 he came to Racine, where he has ever since remained. In that year he formed a partnership with his second brother, George C. Northrop, establishing the bank of B. B. Northrop & Co. This institution continued in successful business until March, 1871. Upon the organization of the Manufacturers National Bank it was merged in the new institution of which Mr. Northrop has ever since been cashier. He has also been for thirtv-five years one of the directors of the bank, and its sound financial policy and high standing are due in no small degree to liis faithful care and conservative though progressive methods. His energies in a business wav have been concentrated chiefly upon the affairs of the bank.
Though without political ambition Mr. Northrop has occupied a number of important positions in the public service. He is strictly a business man, and perhaps for that very reason has taken a patriotic interest in the proper
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 33
administration of civic affairs. Thus he has taken an active part in the direc- tion of pubHc educational matters. ,\t the charter election of 1878 he was elected school commissioner from the Second ward, and upon the organization of the school board was elected president of the board of education. In 1887 he again became school commissioner from the Second ward by appointment of Mayor D. A. Olin, and was made chairman of the finance committee of the school board by President J. B. Quarles. In 1888 he was elected to the presidency of the school board, and subsequently re-elected, serving four years in that honorable and important position.
In the spring of 1877 Mr. Northrop was the Republican candidate for mayor of Racine, but failed of an election. In the fall of the same year he was sent as a delegate to the State convention of his party held at Madison and was given a place on the committee on resolutions. In 1885 he was elected an alderman from the Second ward, and during his two years' connection with the city council was honored with the chairmanship of the Finance com- mittee (Hon. Joseph Miller, the mayor, making the appointments) and also acted on the three most important special committees of the council — those on Revision of the City Charter, Lake Shore Protection and Water Works.
Mr. Northrop has witnessed marvelous changes in the city since his first arrival here, in 1842. At that time the harbor was not deep enough to permit the entrance of large steamers, and he was landed from a small lighter. When he came again, in 1859, to embark upon what proved to be a highly, successful business career, the city had begun to expand, but all the remarka- ble development which has placed this port among the most important on the Great Lakes has taken place during his residence here. He has in large meas- ure aided in the good work, and is considered one of the most substantial of the old-established business men.
On Jan. 20, 1863, Mr. Northrop was married to Miss Alice Theresa Porter, youngest daughter of Allen Porter (now deceased), of Hartford, Conn. Three children have been born to this union, Allen Booth Northrop, May Northrop (now Mrs. Philip M. Wackerhagen) and George Porter Northrop. The sons are conducting the W. A. Porter Furniture Company, a business founded by their uncle, William Allen Porter (now deceased).
Mr. Northrop takes much interest in the Masonic fraternity, having been for many years treasurer of Racine Lodge, No. 18, F. & A. M., and in 1905 was elected treasurer of Racine Commandery, No. 7, Knights Templar.
He also has the honor of being a member of the Eastern Star ^.nd the oldest in membership of Orient Chapter, No. 12, Royal Arch' Masons, although there are a few older in years. He has long been an earnest worker in the First Presbyterian Church, having joined in 1862, upon confession of faith. He is one of the nine elders of that church, and served several vears as Sunday-school superintendent.
Mr. Northrop has lived for the past thirty-three years in the plain sub- stantial brick house at what is known as No. 845 Main street, southwest cor- ner of Ninth and Main. It has a large lawn in front and a large garden in the rear, the lot being 80x240 feet, and the neighbors all agree that Mr. and Mrs. Northrop are never so happy as when their grandchildren, Alice Nor-
34 co:\i:\ie:\iorative biographical record.
throp Wackerhagen and Edward Northrop Wackerhagen, are having a hoH- day frohc or a game of ball on this lawn.
It seems not inappropriate to add that it is a rare circumstance for the same man to occupy the position of cashier in the same bank for the long period of thirty-five years. This gives the strongest assurance possible that such a man has been faithful in the discharge of his duties, and has secured the entire confidence of his associates in business. The Manufacturers' National Bank of Racine, of which Mr. Northrop is cashier, has grown from a beginning with $100,000 in 1871 until now its resources exceed $2,500,000 in 1906, and a dividend of 10 per cent, per annum has been paid each year to the shareholders upon the capital stock of the bank, which is now a quarter of a million dollars.
FREDERICK ROBINSON. In every community, great or small, there are found men who by reason of personal attributes, enterprising spirit and natural aliility. ha\-e arisen above their fellows in business, social and public life. Racine, Wis., has numerous examples, and one of these is Frederick Robinson, vice-president of the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Company. Mr. Robinson was born in Kenosha, Wis., Nov. 15, 1862, son of Frederick and Ann Maria (Bertholf) Robinson.
Mr. Robinson was reared in his native town, where he attended the public schools, and later Lake Forest Academy. His business, life started in the office of the National Vehicle Company, at Racine, as office man, and in 1887 he went to Denver, where he engaged in the manufacture of architectural iron work for several years. In 1896 he returned to Racine and became pur- chasing agent for the J- I- Case Threshing Machine Company. In 1897 he ■was one of the purchasers of the entire stock of the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Company. Mr. Frank Bull was made the president ; Mr. Frederick Robinson, vice-president: ]\Ir. Richard T. Robinson, secretary, and Mr. Charles Mcintosh, treasurer. The J. I. Case Threshing Machine Companv is one of the largest threshing machine manufacturing companies in the world, and the goods find sale throughout the United States, Canada, Europe and South America.
Mr. Robinson was married in 1887 to Miss Lillian j\l. Bull, daughter of Stephen and Ellen C. (Kellogg) Bull, and to this union have been born two children : Stephen Bull and Bessie. Mr. Robinson is a man extremely do- mestic in his tastes, devoting much of his time to his family and to his home. He is a liberal patron of art, having probably the finest collection of oi] paint- ings in this part of the State, having selected a number of them with .great care in his travels abroad. His home at No. 1012 Main Street also contains many interesting curios and valuable bits of art collected in his travels. Mr. and Mrs. Robinson are members of the Episcopal Church. ]\Ir. Robinson is a trustee of Racine College. Politically he is a Republican, but is too much taken up with Inisiness to get into politics.
EDWARD C. THIERS, secretary and treasurer of N. R. Allen's Sons Co., which was incorporated Aug. i, 1905, from N. R. Allen's Sons, with
COMME^NIORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 35
whuni he has been associated since 1883, affords another illustration of tlie fact that many of Kenosha's most useful citizens are found amon.e;- her native sons. The advantages of the place as a convenient manufacturing and ship- ping center have attracted outside capital to a degree which has proved of im- mense benefit to the city, but the men who have brought their means here to multiply have not had to bring talent too. They have found efificient workers awaiting their opportunity and ready to grasp it intelligently.
The Thiers family is of French Huguenot origin, and members thereof were settled in New York State in an early day. Mr. Thiers" grandfather was born there and passed his life in farming. He and his wife both died in mid- dle life. They had a small family, of whom Catherine, Mrs. Van Arsdale, died in Kenosha, Wis., and was buried there.
David Thiers, father of Edward C, was a native of New York State, and was reared there on a farm in Orange county. About 1850, when still a young man, he came West, first locating in Kenosha for a short time. Then he removed to McHenry county, 111., but a few years later returned to Ken- osha, where he engaged as clerk for a few years, until he started in business for himself as a flour and feed merchant, on the north side of Market Square. Some years afterward he removed to Main street, doing business in the John Riley building until his death, which occurred in 1875, when he was aged fifty-five years. Mr. Thiers was devoted for the most part to liis business affairs, but he took interest and pride in the public welfare of his adopted city, and he served as school commissioner in the early days. His wife, Louisa K. (Capron) Thiers, also a native of New York State, survives him, making her home with her daughter in Milwaukee, and though past ninety enjoys good health and is quite active for one of her years. Five children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Thiers, three sons and two daughters, four of whom survive : Herbert M., of Chicago; Emma W., wife of Charles Quarles, of Milwaukee; Edward C, of Kenosha; and Louis M., of Kenosha. Both parents united with the Congregational Church.
The Caprons, Mr. Thiers' maternal ancestors, were of English origin, and the family in America is descended from Banfield Capron, who came from England in the seventeenth century and located in one of the New England States. Seth Capron, father of Mrs. Louisa K. (Capron) Thiers, was born in Massachusetts, and was a soldier in the Revolutionary war, enlisting at Norton. Mass., when he was eighteen years old. He was a small man, and at one time served as the cockswain of Gen. Washington's barge. After the war he studied medicine, and he was known as Dr. Seth Capron up to the close of his long life. He lived at Whitesboro, N. Y., where he enjoyed a large practice and died at an advanced age. Dr. Capron married Eunice Mann, who was born in 1767. and their family consisted of four sons and one daughter. Mrs. Capron reached the age of about eighty-seven years, after her husband's death coming to Wisconsin and making her home in Kenosha, wliere she passed away.
Edward C. Thiers was born in Kenosha April 17. 18^6. and received his early educational training in its public and high schools, later havins: the ad- vantage of three years of study at the Northwestern Lmiversity, at Evanston,
36 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
HI. Returning home after his father's death, he clerked for the tirm of Slos- son & O'Brien for a year or two, and then commenced the study of law with the firm of J. V. & (J. Quarles. with whom he remained seven years. Mean- time, in 1880, he was admitted to the Bar, and he gave his attention whoUy to legal practice until the fall of 1883, when he took his present position with N. R. Allen's Sons. His long retention in their service is the best testimonial of his worth.
Mr. Thiers was married, May 16, 1885, to Miss Mary Nicoll, whose par- ents, John and Helen (Nelson) Nicoll, were born in Scotland. This union has been lalessed with one daughter, Helen, who is at present a junior in Vassar College. Mrs. Thiers is a member of the Congregational Church, which Mr. Thiers also attends, and he belongs to the church society. Fraternally he holds membership in Kenosha Lodge, No. 47, F. & A. M. The question of public education is considered by him one of the most vital issues which con- front municipalities in these modern times, and he shows his interest in his service as school commissioner, and president of the board of education ; he is also secretary of the board of directors of Gilbert M. Simmons Lijjrary. In politics he supports the Republican party, particularly in national issues.
GEORGE YULE, one of the leading business men of Kenosha, was born Aug. 31, 1824, in Rathen, near Fraserburgh, Aberdeenshire, Scotland, son of Alexander and Margaret (Leeds) Yule.
Alexander Yule will be remembered by many of the old residents of Kenosha county as one of the early settlers in Somers township, where he was a large landowner, and for many years an extensive farmer. Here he established a family whose members for over sixty years have been use- ful and prominent in the life of the community, diligent in attending to their own affairs and active in the promotion and support of worthy public enterprises. Several members of the Yule family are now prominent in com- mercial circles in Kenosha, connected with the Bain Wagon Company, one of the important industrial concerns of the city. The family is of Scotch line- age, and Mr. Yule's ancestors came from farming stock of Scotland, where his parents lived- and died.
Alexander Yule was the only one of a small family to come to America. He was born in Scotland about 1795 or 1796, and was twice marriejJ, his first wife dying in Scotland in the year 1835. By this union he had a family of eight children, namely : William, who died in Somers township, Kenosha Co., Wis., at the age of seventy-six; James, who died at the age of seventy-one, in Millburn, III. ; Alexander, who was a professor in Ireland, where he died when a young man ; George, of Kenosha ; Beatrice. Mrs. George Smith, of Evanston, 111. ; John T.. of Kenosha, and Cutes and Marv, both of whom died in infancy. Mr. Yule's second union, also contracted in Scotland, was to Miss Jane Watson, and to this marriage were also born eight children, namely : Mary, now the widow of David Heddle, of Somers township, Kenosha county; Joseph, of California; Henry, of Seattle. Wash.; Anna, of Somers township; Thomas, deceased; Frank, of Somers township; Robert, of Chicago, and Edward, of Sergeant Bluff, Iowa.
y^L.-C^t/~y~<^ ( ' / ^'X^t.,<U^
^
36
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
111. Returning home after his father's death, he clerked for the firm of Slos- son & O'Brien for a year or two, and then comnien.ceil the study of law with the firm of J. V. & C. Quarles, with whom he remained >e\en years. Mean- time, in 1880, he was admitted to the Bar, and he gave his attention wholly
to legal practice until the fall of 1 N. R. Allen's Sons. His long rei of his worth.
Mr. Thiers was married, May 16, ' ' nd Helen (Nelson) Nicoll. with one daughter. Helen • ^iiivm:. -vlrs. Thiers is a mf"'- ' 'I'hiers also attends, and ht holds memhership in Ken.^- -,-• -■
public education is coi' ^im one <'
front municipalities i: in times,
service as school . Kh president ot
is also secretary " directors of Gi
In politics he suppoiis liie Republican party, part'.
GEORGE YULE, one of the Ic; born Aug. 31, 1824, in Rathen, near 1 son of Alexander and Marg.'
Alexander Yule will h
present position with 's tlie best testimonial
icoU. whose par-
ifu of Keuuali:!, ua.s erdeenshire. Scotland,
lie CM.lllll.-i;'
ful and pri:
their Qwn ati,.., .
enterprises. Sevc
mercial circles in
of the important i iie city. J
age, and Mr. Yui' mi farmin,:
his parents lived- and >!
Alexander Yule \v,, ..^1 in
He was born in Scotland aboui i;"^^ or 1796, and w first wife dying in Scotland in thv ve;tr 1835. By t.iniily of eight children, na- Hiam, who died
many of the old residents of ;u S ij.ship, where he
farmer. Here liave l)een use- Mi attending to
vv.rii,-,- ,.nl>!ic
.111)-
, one
• 1 line- .vhtrc
erica.
tiiiCil, Jiis
he had a
■mers township.
Ker.osha Co., Wis., at the :'; nty-six; James, who died at the age
01 seventy-one, in Millburn, In.. \k ..uider, who was a professor in Ireland, where he died when a young nnui ; George, of Kenoslia : Beatrice, Mrs. George Smith, of Evanston. 111.; John T.. of K • ....... 1 xf.^rv.
both of whom died in infancy. Mr. Yule's ■ 1 in
-•'tlrmd. was to Miss Jane Watson, and tt ,. Uildren, namely: Mary, now the widow 01 .ip, Kenosha county; Joseph, of California: i -:111a. of Somers township; Thomas, deceased; Frank, ni Soniers township; viAert, of Chic:(go. and Edward, of Sergeant Blufif, Io\v:i
U:/J: Bears ^ ^<r
COMME^IORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 37
About 1840 Mr. Yule brought his family to America, coming by way of Quebec, and settling in Kenosha county, Wis., near Southport, as Kenosha was then known, he bought 257 acres of land in Somers township, which he improved and occupied for a number of years. Here he reared his family and when the children were grown Mr. Yule sold the property to his sons, George and William, while he moved to a small farm in the same section, known as "Sunnyside," which was his home until he died, in 1871, aged sev- enty-six. His widow lived to be seventy-eight years old, passing away in 1896. Mr. Yule was a Presbyterian in religious faith.
George Yule, son of Alexander by his first wife, received all his school- ing in his native land, being sixteen years of age when he came to America with his father. For three years thereafter he worked on the farm with his father, when nineteen entering the employ of Henry Mitchell, a wagonmaker of Kenosha, learning the trade and remaining with him until i8s2. After the factory passed in that year into the hands of Edward Bain. Mr. Yule became superintendent, and occupied that responsible position for thirty years. In 1882. when the company was incorporated, Mr. Yule was chosen vice- president, continuing to act in that capacity until 1900, since which vear he has filled the office of president of the corporation, which bears the title of the Bain Wagon Company. \Vhen Mr. Yule was first employed in the works everything was done in the place by hand, and his first job was sawing out plow-beams. At that time not more than ten or fifteen new wagons a year were turned out, together with a small number of plows, the principal w'ork being repairing. From that modest beginning the business has grown to large proportions, the establishment at present being one of the largest of its kind in this section, and about sixteen thousand wagons are manufactured annually, employment being given to about four hundred people. The market is principally in the West, although the product is known all over the world.
Personally Mr. Yule deserves all the prosperity he has won. His policy has always been that of hard work, and the results in his case justify the means. However, he has been fortunate in the possession of good health ; and though he has worked one stretch of twenty-five years without a dav's vaca- tion he is unusually active for a man past eighty, his appearance being that of a man at least fifteen years younger. He has always been content to let his work speak for itself, being modest and unassuming in all things.
On Jan. i, 1848, at Kenosha, was solemnized the marriage of George Yule and Miss Catherine Mitchell, who was born in Fifeshire, Scotland, daughter of William Mitchell. The family home is at No. ^12 Park avenue. Six children were born of this union, namely: Maria, who died in childhood; Louise, who married the late \\'i]liam Hall; Ada, who died in childhood; George A., mentioned below; William L., connected with the Bain Wagon Company, wdio married Miss Esther Elliott, and has one son, George Gordon; and Harvey, who died young. Mrs. Catherine Yule is a member of the Bap- tist Church, but her husband is not identified with any religious body. Politi- cally Mr. Yule was an Abolitionist before the war, when it required men with courage to openly advocate such principles, and he was one of six men in Kenosha county who were pelted with rotten eggs for voting that ticket. Since the w-ar he has been a Republican, and he was the first Republican alder-
38 COMMEAIORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
man in Kemjsha to be elected ivum the First ward. However, he has never sought pubhc position, giving his services wilhngly to the advancement of the general welfare and the encouragement of public utilities, and avoiding the limitations of official service. No man in Kenosha realizes more keenly that a business man reaps the reward of his activity in furthering the good of his community, and while his motives are not selfish he has displayed his good judgment as much in this respect as in the direct management of his manu- facturing interests.
Public-spirited in the truest sense of the word, Mr. Yule has been identi- fied with the growth of Kenosha from the very early days, and has helped financially nearly every important institution in the city. In addition to his responsibilities in the Bain Wagon Company he holds the position of vice-presi- dent of the First National Bank and also of the North Western Loan & Trust' Company. He enjoys a commanding position in both social and business circles.
George A. Yule, son of George, born in Kenosha June 13, 1838, is connected with the Bain Wagon Company in the capacity of superintendent and is also president of the Badger Brass Company — the first to manufacture the acetylene bicycle and automobile lamps. George A. Yule married Miss Harriet Head, daughter of Orson and Mary (Treadwell) Head, and one son has been born to their union, William Head Yule.
JOHN G. MEACHEM, M. D., one of the leading physicians of Racine, Wis., resides at No. 745 College avenue. He was born in Genesee countv, N. Y., June 10, 1846, son of Dr. John G. and Myraette (Doolittle) Meadiem, the former of the County of Somerset, England, and the latter of New York State. Our subject had two sisters, both of whom died young.
Rev. Thomas Meachem, the paternal grandfather of Dr. Meachem, was an Episcopal clergyman. He came from the old country with his familv of four or five children, and. after locating in New York, was there ordained to the ministry. He died at Wethersfield Springs, when about fifty-six years of age. and was there buried. His wife, Elizabeth Goldesbrough. was a descend- ant of a very fine family and a cousin of Admiral Goldesbrough of the British navy, the family has a crest. Mrs. Meachem survi\-ed until her seventieth year. They had seven children, one of whom died in England ; the others came to .America and grew to maturity, one still living. William, of Racine.
Reul)en Doolittle, Dr. Meachem's maternal grandfather, moved from Washington county, N. Y., and took up land in the Holland Purchase, settling at a point which was afterward known as Wethersfield Springs. He came with bis two brothers, and opened up a blacksmith shop, clearing their land mean- while. Thev later started an ashery and woolen mill, and became wealthv for those days. Thither they brought their friends and started a village. Reuben Doolittle went West to collect bills from parties who owed him monev, and while on a trip to Illinois contracted malarial fever, from which he died in Waukegan. There being no burying ground there at that time, he was buried in the sand on the beach, but his body was removed a few weeks later to his home in Wethersfield Springs, where he was buried. His wife was Sarah
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 39
Rood, of Washington county, N. Y., and she died in Racine aged eighty- seven years. They had six children.
Dr. John G. Meachem, father of our subject, was a physician from young- manhood. Coming to America with his parents when a small boy, he grew to manhood in eastern central New York, and studied medicine at Geneva, N. Y., and at Castleton, \'t. He began practice in Wethersfield Springs, Wyoming Co., N. Y., and th.en removed to Linden, Genesee Co., N. Y., and later to Warsaw, Wyoming county. Coming to Wisconsin in the fall of 1862, he settled at Racine, where he practiced until his death, Feb. i, 1896, when he was aged seventy-three years, lacking a few days. His wife still survives, and is an Episcopalian, as was her husband. He had a commission in the New York State militia, being a surgeon. While in Racine, during the Civil war, he was surgeon at Camp Utley, and later became mayor of the city, which position he held for three consecutive terms.
Dr. John G. Meachem lived in New Y'ork State until sixteen years of age, and received a common school education there. He attended Warsaw Academy, and on accompanying his parents to Wisconsin attended Rush Medical College, in Chicago. Graduating therefrom in February, 1865, he soon afterward took special courses at Bellevue Hospital, New York City, and was graduated there in special lines. He then returned to Racine, where he has practiced his profession to the present time.
On Dec. 20, 1870, Dr. Meachem married Miss Eliza Smith, daughter of Eldad and Harriet (L'nderwood) Smith, and two children have been born to this union, John G. and Elizabeth. John G. is a physician, being a graduate of Racine College and Rush Medical College, Chicago, and of the University of the State of New Yoi-k ; he has his headquarters in the office of his father. EHzabeth died at the age of six and one-half years. Dr. John G. M_eachem, Sr., and his wife are members of the Episcopal Church, of which his father was warden for every year during his residence here, most of that time bein_g senior warden. The Doctor is a member of the Wisconsin State Medical Society, of the Academy of Sciences, Arts and Letters and of the American Medical Association. Politically he is independent. He has his home and also other real estate interests in Racine.
RICHARD TAYLOR ROBINSON, who has been prominently identi- fied with the business interests of Racine, Wis., for a number of years, first as a pharmacist, and now as secretary of the J. I. Case Threshing Machine Company, was liorn Nov. 22. 1855, in Kenosha, Wis., son of Hon. Frederick and Ann Maria (Bertholf) Robinson, natives of Chyrch Stretton, Shrop- shire, England.
He was reared in Kenosha, where he attended the public schools, supple- menting this with a literary course at the University of INIichigan to the junior year, then taking a pharmaceutical course from which he was graduated with the class of 1879. In September, of the same year, he located in Racine, pur- chased a stock of drugs, and carried on business for some years, adding to his stock until he had one of the best establishments of the kind in the country, and also laid the foundation for the most successful drug business in the State, now known as tlie Kradwell Drug Company, with which he continued until
40 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
1895. In 1895, when he left the drug business, he became connected with the Commercial Savings Bank, as president. In 1897. in company with Frank K. Bull, Frederick Robinson and C. L. Mcintosh, Mr. Robinson was one of the purchasers of the entire stock of the J. I. Case Threshing "Machine Com- pany, of which company he has since been the secretary.
On Feb. 17, 1884, in Racine, Mr. Robinson married Jeanette Bull, daughter of Stephen and Ellen (Kellogg) Bull, and to this union two children have been born: Richard T., Jr., and Katharine. Mr. and Mrs. Robinson aje communicants of the Episcopal Church. Politically he is independent, and has never interested himself largely in party matters. Mr. Robinson is one of the prominent business men of Racine, and has always been interested in the improvement and development of the city. His steadfast adherence to high principles has caused him to be esteemed by all who know him.
HON. ADAM APPLE, who died at North Cape, Norway township, on the 19th of April, 1905, during his noteworthy career of half a century in Racine countv was first a pioneer, and finally an opulent farmer; first a pub- lic official of the township, who faithfully and ably fulfilled his limited duties, in various capacities and covering long periods of service, and finally w-as re- warded by being called to both houses of the State Legislature, in which for many years he conscientiously and fully met all the requirements of the more important legislation and earned an enviable name as one of the leading rep- resentatives of the great agricultiu'al interests of southeastern Wisconsin.
Mr. Apple was born in Rhenish Bavaria, Germany, Nov. 28, 1831, son of Adam and Barbara (Beecher) Apple. His parents were also natives of Germany, and their four other sons were Jacob, W^illiam. Frederick and Louis, three of whom died in the Fatherland, where \A'ilIiam is still living. The father was born in Germany in 1800, served in the regular army, and for many years was engaged as a stone and brick mason. He died in 1862, firm in the faith of the Lutheran Church, of which both he and his wife were members.
Adam Apple, who after-ward earned such a fair name in ^^'isconsin. lived with his parents in Germany lintil he was seventeen years of age, acc|uiring a common school education in his native locality. Coming to America he settled in Philadelphia, becoming an apprentice to the cabinetmaker's trade. At the expiration of his three years" term, instead of applying himself to that vocation he shipped for the gold fields of the Pacific coast, reaching his destination bv way of the Isthmus of Panama. Three years of mining in southern California fortunately so increased his possessions that he returned to Philadelphia with the intention of investing his savings in the East : but he was more strongly drawn to the great West, so that in 1855, after he had worked at his trade for a time, he came to Wisconsin. Locating in Norway township, he purchased 120 acres of land in Section 26. which he first improved liefore addins' another forty to it. Later he bought 180 acres adjoining the first farm on the sou.th, which he also lirought to a high state of cultivation and imnro\'ement. Mr. Apple resided on the old homestead until within two years of his death, when he rented his farms to his sons. Charles and Harry, he and his wife moving to North Cape, where he passed his bst da vs.
Mrs. Adam Apple is still a resident of North Cajie. Before her mar-
xJlJUy^y^^ Zrlj'
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 41
riage, in 1856, she was Dorothy Eckel, and when quite youncr was brought by her parents from Germany to America. By her vinion with Mr. Apple she became the mother of four sons and four daughters : Ella, wife of Charles Blakey, of Estherville, Iowa ; Adam, Jr., who died at the age of twenty-eight years; Josephine, wife of D. M. Clump, living in Monmouth, Iowa; Annie, unmarried, a teacher of Mitchellville, Iowa; Andrew J., residing in Chicago; and Charles E. and Harry and Flora (twins), all of Norway township. As to the children of the family it may be stated, more in detail, that Mrs. Blakey is the mother of five children, the three living being Leonard, Addie and Doro- thy. Josephine has two children, Irene and Ruth. Andrew J. married Ollie Mae Groshon, who was born in Chicago, daughter of Hugh and Charlotte (Hurley) Groshon, the former a traveling salesman for Carson, Pirie, Scott & Co., for fourteen years until his death at the age of forty-eight, the latter sur- viving and living with her daughter (besides Mrs. Apple, Mrs. Groshon has two sons. Dr. A. D., of Kansas City, Mo. ; and Albert, of Chicago, connected with the U. S. Rubber Company). Charles E. has been a member of the school board of Norway township for the past four terms and has been secretary of the Dover & Norway Mutual Fire Insurance Co. for eleven years, and still holds that position ; he married Josephine Plucker, and they have one son, Adam, Jr. (III). Harry married Nellie Smith, a native of Dover township, and they have one son, Harold John. Flora is single and lives with her mother in North Cape, occupying the residence Mr. Apple built shortly before his death.
In politics Adam Apple was a life-long Democrat, and it is a remarkable testimony to his sterling honesty and sound ability that he should have made such progress in a public career while residing in a county which was strongly Republican. He entered upon that career as chairman of the town board of supervisors, retaining the position for eight years. His abiding interest in pop- ular education was shown in that he held the clerkship of the school board for about eighteen years. The duties of these positions were performed with such impartial ability that he was decisively elected to the lower house of the Wis- consin State Legislature in 1882, 1883, 1885 and 1887. His record there was enthusiastically endorsed by his selection as a candidate for the State Senate and his election, in 1890, by which he overcame a normal Republican majority of 1.200. Mr. Apple retained the State senatorship for two successive terms, and his earnestness, honesty, impartially and broad common sense as to the nature of his duties as a representative of his entire district — not of any section, cr clique — won him the commendation of even his political enemies ; and his conduct in public life was but a reflex of his private character, which was based upon justice and broad humanity. He was a prominent member of the I. O. O. F. and the Masonic fraternity, to which latter his three sons also belono-. and his funeral, which was one of the largest ever held in Racine countv, was con- ducted by the Masons.
Mrs. Dorothy Apple, widow of Adam Apple, and now sixtv-nine vears of age. was born in Germany, daughter of Jacob and Christina (Damm) Eckel. In 1844. when she was seven years old, her parents sailed for the United' States, and she still vividly remembers that long voyage of seven weeks be- fore they approached the shores of New York harbor. The family at once
42 CO^niE:\IORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
located in Waukesha cnunty, Wis., where the father and mother hoth died in old age. They had six daughters and one son, the following four still sur- viving: Barbara, wife of John Pfluger, of Diamond Blufif, Minn.; Margaret, now Mrs. George W' agner, of Waukesha, Wis. ; Lucy, who married John Sour, of Fort Atkinson, Wis. ; and Dorothy, Mrs. Adam Apple.
The two farms of 340 acres which ex-Senator Apple owned at the time of his death are now in the possession of Charles and Harry, who, as stated, had rented them about two years before their father's decease. Thev are both extensive stock raisers, Charles E. being especially a breeder of Shorthorn Durham cattle. They are men of industry and perseverance, thoroughly versed in their line of l)usiness. possessed of marked business ability, and are destined to broaden the family estate and perpetuate the honorable name of their father.
William Plucker, of Waterford, the father of Mrs. Josephine Apple, the wife of Charles E. Apple, married Minnie Alby. The paternal grandfather was an early settler of Racine cnunty. where he died many years ago: his widow married twice afterward, her third husband being still alive, but she is deceased. The maternal grandparents, John and Minnie Alby, are both deceased.
John H. and Elizabeth (Lewis) Smith, parents of Mrs. Nellie Apple, wife of Harry Apple, were born in Dover township and England, respectivelv, the mother being brought when an infant- to America, by her parents. Their family consisted of one son and four daughters: Mary, wife- of George WHierry, of Racine: Nellie, Mrs. Apple: Lulu, unmarried, of Dover township: and Alice and Boyd, who are living at home. The paternal grandfather. W'il- liam Smith, was a native of England, and a very early settler of Dover town- ship, dying there when, more than seventy years of age. His wife, Marv, was about sixty years of age at the time of her death, and the mother of eight daughters and three sons. The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Harry Apple was William Lewis, a native of England, and a pioneer of Dover township. He died well advanced in years, and his wife (Mary Millard) had passed the age of eighty at the time of her death. They were the parents of one daughter and four sons, William, Elisha, Philip, Elizabeth and George.
LINUS H. PARK, of the Avell-known firm of Chandler & Park, archi- tects, Racine, Wis., is a native of Illinois, born at Tonica, June 2, 1862, son of John and Martha (Ide) Park.
The great-grandfather, Robert Park, of Ballewater, Ireland, was of Scotch or English descent and was a teacher of mathematics. He came to Philadelphia in 1786. His wife, Jane Bailey Park, lived to be 108 vears of age. To these two were born four children, the second of whom was John Park, the grandfather of our subject. He followed the business of tanning and the currier's trade in connection with farming in Pennsylvania. His wife was Mary Lang, the daughter of James Lang, a Presbyterian minister nf Scotch descent, and a relative of John C. Calhoun, of South Carolina. Her mother's maiden name was Helm. To them were born nine children, the eighth beins: John Park, father of the above mentioned Linus Helm Park.
John Park was born in 1823 at Marion Center, Pa., and wns renred tn the life of a farmer, but afterward learned the carpenter's trade, which he fnl-
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 43
lowed in conjunction with farming. He located in Illinois in 1858, settling" in Tonica, where he remained until 1883, in that year going to Wheaton, 111., where he lived up to the time of his death, which occurred while he was visiting his son, Linus H., in Racine, in 1903, when he was aged seventy-nine years. His wife Martha (Ide), a native of New York State, had passed away ten years previously, in her sixty-eighth year. Her parents, Ebenezer and Sarah (Sherman) Ide, lived to an advanced age, and had a large family. Of the children of John and Martha Park, Rufus Lang and Linus Helm (twins) are the only ones living, the former making his home at Muskegon, Michigan.
Linus H. Park was reared in the vicinity of Tonica, 111., and remained on the farm until twenty years of age. He attended the public schools and the high school, and graduated in the classical course at Wheaton College in 1889, then taking up architecture, which he has pursued ever since. He went to" Chicago, later to Kentucky and Tennessee, and in 1892 came to Racine, work- ing with Mr. Chandler for two or three years. He became associated with him as a partner in 1896, this connection still continuing. They have erected many of the public buildings of Racine and surrounding country, among them many public school buildings in Wisconsin and other States.
Mr. Park was married Aug. 19, 1895, to Miss Maud Whipple, daughter of Prof. Elliot Whipple and Samantha (Johnson) Whipple, of Wheaton, III., and to this union have been born two children, Martha Whipple and Elliot Whipple. The family residence, located at No. 1239 Wisconsin street, Racine, was built by Mr. Park in 1899. Mr. and Mrs. Park are members of the First Presbyterian Church of Racine, in which he is an elder. Politically he is inde- pendent, usually voting the Prohibition ticket.
GEORGE N. FRATT, a prominent and esteemed citizen of Racine, Wis., cashier of the First National Bank of that city, was born in Racine, Jan. 3, 1855, son of Hon. Nicholas Diller and Elsie (Duffies) Fratt, the former of New York, and the latter of Scotland. Jonathan Fratt, grandfather of George N., migrated from New York, and spent the rest of his life in Ra- cine, dying there some time in the sixties, well advanced in years.
Nicholas Diller Fratt came to Racine about 1842, embarking in the mar- ket business, in which he continued for some time. In 1855 he removed to a farm in Mt. Pleasant township whereon he remained until 1893, <it the end of which time he returned to Racine. He was one of the organizers of both the Racine County Bank and the First National Bank, the former being merged into the First National Bank in 1864. Mr. Fratt was for some time prior its president, an office he has held continuously since it became the First National. He has a wide knowledge ,of banking and finance, and his foresip"ht and wis- dom have been of inestimable value in placing the institution on sound finan- cial footing, capable of withstanding any grave and startling fluctuations in the money market. For the last ten years Mr. Fratt has lived retired. He married Elsie Duffies, who died in 1890, aged about sixty-three years, in the faith of the Universaiist Church, to which Mr. Fratt also belonsrs. He was a State senator in the early sixties, and has held various minor offices. He was president of the State Agricultural Society for many years, and of the Racine
44 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
County Agricultural Society, antl he was also a member of the board of re- gents of the State University.
John Duffies, Mrs. Fratt's father, was a native of Scotland, and on com- ing to America first settled in New York State, locating on a farm in the town of Dover, Racine Co., Wis., about 1841. There he remained until a short time prior to his death, when he moved into the village of Union Grove, where he died at an advanced age. He held various offices in the county, and at one time was county treasurer. To Nicholas Diller and Elsie Fratt were born the following children : Mary, widow of A. J. Webster, of Redlands. Cal. ; Alfred, who died aged four years ; Frank, who died aged one year ; Gertrude, who be- came the wife of W. S. Mellen, and died in 1888, leaving two children, a daughter and a son ; George N. ; Clara, wife of W. T. Griffith, of Racine ; Frederick W.. a civil engineer of Oklahoma City, O. T. : and Charles D.. of Everett, Washington.
George N. Fratt was reared in Racine, and attended the public and high schools, supplementing the education there received with one year's studv at business college. On Feb. i, 1877, he went into the First National Bank as messenger boy and assistant bookkeeper, and since June, 1892. he has been cashier of the bank.
On April 20. 1881, Mr. Fratt was married to Miss Elizabeth Daggett, daughter of Thomas and Mary (Raymond) Daggett, and to this union have been born three daughters : Elsie, Elizabeth and Gertrude. Mr. Fratt and his wife are members of the Universalist Church. He belongs to the Knights of Pythias, the Modern Woodmen, Royal Arcanum, Royal League and Equit- able Fraternal LTnion. Politically he is a Republican. He was president of the Racine Business Men's Association ; president of the Southeastern Wis- consin Good Roads Association, and vice-president for Wisconsin of the Na- tional Good Roads Association; from 1897 to 1899 he was head banker of the Modern Woodmen of America; in 1904 and 1905 was president of the Wis- consin Bankers' Association ; and has been vice-president of the American Bankers' Association for Wisconsin. Believing that the prosperity and pro- gress of the community work for the good of every individual there, he has always taken an active part in public affairs, and is found among the leaders in all plans for improvement. He is at present alderman of the Second ward, now serving his second term. As a financier he has inherited from his father the wonderful acumen that has contributed so much to the good of the institu- tion he represents, and that this is recognized beyond the confines of his own institution is best attested by the high offices he has Ixen called upon to fill in the various associations with which he has been identified. Mr. Fratt's beau- tiful residence, which he built in 1895, '^ located at No. 1720 College avenue.
FREDERICK HARBRIDGE. president nf the F. Harbridge Companv, No. 422 Main street, is one of the leading citizens of Racine. Wis. Mr. Harb- ridge's birth occurred in Cheshire. England. June 19. 1837, and he is a son of Joseph and Elizabeth (Lightfoot) Harbridge, natives of England. Of the family of eleven children born to his parents Mr. Harbridge and Miss Hannah, of Kingswnod. Frodsham, England, are the onlv living members.
Joseph Harbridge was a farmer, and died in England in 1838. aged fifty-
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 45
five years, while his wife survived him many years, and died at the ag:e of seventy-seven. They were members of the Episcopal Church.
!• rederick Harbridge was reared and educated in England, where he studied pharmacy. He became a druggist, and in 1864 came to America, stopping in Chicago three or four months, w hence he made his way to Racine, where he has lived ever since. On locating here he engaged in the drug and grocery business, in which he has been very successful. He married Sept. 15, 1868, Miss Mary Douglas McRitchie, daughter of David and Margaret (Mc- Inroy) McRitchie. His wife was born in Dundee, Forfarshire, Scotland, and to this union four children have been born : George Frederick, who is in the drug and grocery business in Racine; Delamere Forest, M. D., a physician of Philadelphia, who married Miss Cora Brown, of that city; Stuart Mc- Ritchie, who married Miss Sylvia Rowe, and is in the First National Bank of Racine; and Roy Malcolm, in the drug and grocery business in Racine, mar- ried to Miss Bertha Louise Spence.
Religiously ]\Ir. Harbridge is an Episcopalian, while his wife is a Pres- byterian. Politically he is a Republican. Mr. Harbridge's fine residence, which he built in 1892, is situated at No. mo College avenue.
FRANK L. WELLS, a manufacturer of spring bed machinery in Ken- osha, is one of the wealthy citizens of the place, a position he has attained solely by his close attention to business and the exercise of the sound judgment which marks all of his operations. He was born May 14, 1865. in Lake county, 111., where his parents both lived in early life.
Mr. Wells comes of English ancestry on his father's side, his grandfather. John Wells, being born in England. He came from Ohio to Lake county in 1839, and died there, well advanced in years. He married Miss Sarah Net- tleship, who lived to be ninety years old. They had a large family and were well-to-do people.
William Wells, father of Frank L., was born in Ohio. He moved to Ilfi- nois in 1841, settled in Lake county and there married Miss Sophia ^trock, a native of the State. She was a daughter of Joseph and Martha (Smalley) Strock, the former a native of Germany and a farmer. The parents were early settlers in Lake county and there reared their family, which was a small one. Mr. Strock lived to a good old age. William and Sophia W'ells had eleven children, four sons and seven daughters, of whom eight are living, as follows : Frank L. ; Cora, widow of Walter IMelick. of Ravenswood. Chicago; Lucy. Mrs. William Winigar; Bertha, wife of Richard Hawkins: Grace, Mrs. Frank Goodman; Alonzo; Jessie; and Eva — all of Kenosha except Mrs. Melick. William Wells lived .in Illinois until 1881. but since that time he has made his home in Kenosha, where he is retired from active life. He and his wife are both Baptists in religious faith.
Frank L. Wells grew up on his father's farm in Lake county and was educated in the district schools. His bent toward a mechanical line of work early manifested itself and when he was but sixteen years old he left home to go to Kenosha and there learn the machinist's trade. He has been ever since engaged along that general line of business. In 1893 he commenced manufac-
46 COMMEMORATI\'E BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
turiiig spring bed machinery and from that time to the present has continued to conduct the plant himself, usually having about thirty people in his employ. Mr. Wells was united in marriage, June 4, 1889, to Miss Emma E. Mes- sier, daughter of Mitchell and Mary (Talham) Messier. Their family con- sists of four sons and three daughters, Walter, Harold, Francis and Joseph (twins), Isabel, Florence and Cora. Mrs. Wells is a Catholic in her faith. Mr. Wells is an active politician, always working for the improvement of municipal conditions, and is now alderman from the Second ward, elected on the Repub- lican ticket. Socially he belongs to Kenosha Lodge, No. 47, F. & A. M.; and to the Elks, No. 750. He is a man of wealth, a part of it being invested in real estate, in Kenosha, where he owns several houses, which he rents, in addition to his own residence at No. 616 Park avenue, built in 1905. Mr. Wells stands high in the esteem of his fellow citizens and commands the confidence of his constituents.
WILLIAM HENRY MILLER, a prominent and substantial citizen of Racine, Wis., engaged extensively in the real estate, loan and insurance busi- ness, is a native of that city, born Nov. 2, 1847, son of Moses and Frances (Durand) Miller, the former a native of New Jersey and the latter of Cqn- necticut.
Moses Miller, father of William Henry, came to Wisconsin about 1844, and here he carried on wholesale merchandising for some years before the days of railroads. He was a man of sterling worth and great influence for good, universally loved and respected. He died in Racine in August, 1868, aged fifty-three years, while his widow still survives. She is a member of the Pres- byterian Church, as was her husband. They had four children, of whom W'ill- iam Henry was the eldest.
WMlliam Henry Miller was reared in Racine, where he attended the ward and high schools. In 1864, during the Civil war, with youthful patriotic en- thusiasm, he enlisted in Company F, 39th Wis. V. I., which regiment was soon ordered South, being in Memphis at the time of Forrest's raid in thait city. Mr. Miller is now a valued comrade of Governor Harvey Post, No. 17, G. A. R. At the close of his army service he returned to Racine and continued his studies for a time. In 1866 he embarked in the insurance, real estate and loan busi- ness with his father. In 1872 he engaged in the business on his own account, and has continued in the same line to the present time, building up one of the most honorable and profitable agencies in this city, his ofiice being now in his own building. No. 213 Sixth street.
On Jan. 13, 1887, Mr. Miller was married to Jenny R. Hoy, only daughter of Philo Romayne Hoy, M. D.. an old settler of Racine, a leading physician and surgeon and a distinguished naturalist, and to this union have been born two children, \\^alton Hoy and Romayne Frances. Mr. Miller and his family reside at his beautiful home, situated at No. 900 Main street, which he built in 1900, and he also owns considerable other business and residence property in Racine.
WILLIAM SMIEDING, Sr., an early settler of Racine, Wis., now liv- ing retired, is one of that citv's hiehlv esteemed citizens. He was born No'w
comme:morat]ve biographical record. 47
II, 1 83 1, in Westphalia, Germany, son of August and Amelia (Nix) Smied- ing, also natives of Germany. The paternal grandfather was a brewer and baker of Germany, and owned a small estate. He and his wife both died at an advanced age.
August Smieding also followed brewing and baking. Going to Holland, he was there employed as a clerk in a mercantile business. He served as a sol- dier under Napoleon I, in 181 5. August Smieding died in 1850, aged about fifty-six years, and his wife passed away about six years before. They had seven children, five of whom are still living: Henry E., of Racine; William; Sophia, wife of William Mayer, of Lubbecke, Westphalia, Germany ; Maria, widow of Gustav Retry, of jNIinden, Germany; and Rev. Rudolph, a Lutheran minister of Kiel, Germany.
William Smieding grew to manhood in Germany, and received his edu- cation there. When fourteen years old he was apprenticed to a general mer- chant for five years, and in 1853 he came to America. Residing in Cincinnati until 1855, he then came to Racine, and, with his brother Henry E., engaged in the drug business until 1881, when they sold out. Since that time Mr. Smieding has lived retired at his home, just adjoining the limits, across from the Horlick Food Company's factory, where he owns thirty-five acres of land.
Mr. Smieding was married in September, 1864, to ]\Iiss Mary Wustum, ■daugliter of George and Mary Wustum, and to this union were born six chil- dren : Henry, a lawyer of Racine; William, Judge of the INIunicipal Court of Racine : Herman, bookkeeper for the Horlick Food Company, who married Jessie Conroe; George, a physician of Jefferson, Wis.; Frederick, at home; and Marie, of Racine. Mr. and Mrs. Smieding are among the oldest settlers in Racine, and ha\'e watched the city's population grow from 5.000 to 30,000 inhabitants.
CLARENCE J. RICHARDS, who was for a number of years an eminent member of the Racine county Bar, is now living retired at his home, No. 1003 Lake avenue, Racine. 'Sir. Richards was born in Racine, Wis.. Sept. 18, 1861, son of James and Ann (Langdon) Richards, natives of Wales and Ireland respectively.
James Richards, father of Clarence J. Richards, came from Wales to America as a boy, and grew to manhood in Racine. Here he died in 1875, aged forty-eight years, while his widow survived him until 1882, when she passed away, in her forty-third year. James Richards had, in his boyhood; been apprenticed to an ironmonger, and later worked in the hardware estab- lishments of John Conroe, Edwin Hunt & Sons and Raymond & Jones. He- then engaged in general merchandising, which he followed up to the time of his death. He and his wife had two children, Mary Elizabeth and Clarence J., the former of whom died at the age of six vears.
Clarence J. Richards was reared in Racine and attended the public schools and McMynn's Academy, graduating in 1879. He then studied law in the offices of John T. Fish and Quarles & Winslow, and was admitted to the Bar in 1882, being twenty-one years of age. He worked for Quarles & Winslow as clerk until May, 1882, when the firm of Quarles, Spence & Richards was formed and continued until 1886, when Mr. Richards on account of failing health made
48 COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
a trip to California, remaining there four years. He then returned to Racine^ and since that time has lived retired. He owns a beautiful home at No. 1003 Lake avenue, and also other residence and business property in the city.
On Dec. 27, 1883, Mr. Richards married Miss Mary Louise Baker, daugh- ter of Robert H. and Emily (Carswell) Baker, and three children were born to this union: Juliet Langdon. Margaret Carswell and Robert Baker. Mr. and Mrs. Richards are members of St. Luke's Episcopal Church, in which he is vestryman. Fraternally he is connected with the [Masons, the Knights of Pythias'and the B. P. O. E. In politics he is a stalwart Republican.
HON. ELLSWORTH BURNETT BELDEN, Circuit Judge of Racine county. W'is., is one of the distinguished men of this section, one who is a dominating personality in business, political and professional life. Judge Belden was born May 18, 1866, at Rochester, Racine Co., Wis., son of Henry W. and Emily F. (Brown) Belden, and grandson of Hon. Philo Belden, de- ceased, ex-State Senator and for years County Judge of Racine county.
Henry W. Belden. the father, was born Nov. 10, 1840, and was reared in Racine county. At the opening of the Civil war he enlisted, becoming a private in the 24th Wis. Y. I., and climbed, through promotions for gallantry, to the rank of captain by the close of the war. After the cessation of hostili- ties, he located in Milwaukee and established later a book and stationery store in that city, but for some years has lived retired. He married Emily F. Brown, a daughter of Ezra Brown (whose wife was a Horton), and they had these children: Judge Ellsworth B. ; Gertrude, wife of Byron R. Jones, of Racine: Ruby, of ^lilwaukee; Charles E., of Spokane, Wash.; and Rob- ert, who died aged twenty-one years. The father of ]\Irs. Emily F. Belden, and the grandfather of our subject, was a native of \'erniont and settled in Wisconsin in the early forties.
Judge Ellsworth Burnett Belden was reared in Racine county, and grad- uated from the common schools into the Rochester Seminary, where he was graduated in 1883, and entered the employ of his grandfather. Judge Belden, in the County Court of Racine county. Here he continued until the fall of 1884, at which time he entered the Law Department of the University of W^isconsin, at Madison, where he was graduated with the class of 1886, the youngest graduate to whom the school had ever presented a diploma.
Being still under age and therefore not eligible to practice, according to the laws of his State, he entered the office of the Attorney-General for a time, and then resumed his former duties in the County Court, shortly afterward en- tering upon the practice of his profession.
Judge Belden has the distinction of being the youngest man ever elected to the office of County Judge in the State of Wisconsin. He was elected County Judge in April. 1889. Judge Philo Belden resigned the position in September, 1889. and the grandson, who had been already elected to succeed him, was appointed to fill the vacancy, and he held his first term of court ir, the following month, and Jan. i, 1890, he entered upon his own elective term. This election was a just recognition of his ability and sterling traits of char- acter. This popularity never waned through twelve years of judicial life, dur- ing which period he came nearer and nearer to the ideal of his fellow citizens-
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COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 49
as a jurist, and in 1901 he was elected Circuit Judge, assuming the duties of that responsible office in January, 1902.
Judge Belden is a product of those best forces which have made Wiscon- sin what it is today. He is energetic, eager, broad-minded and liberal, one of the men who can do large things in a large way. Although the greater part of his public life has been spent on the Bench, where his comprehensive knowl- edge of law has made him a power, his name is known and his influence felt wherever important issues of a public nature are at stake or the welfare of his city is concerned.
Judge Belden was married, June 26, 1900, to Hattie M. Raymond, daugh- ter of Hyland and Emily (Foster) Raymond, and to this union two sons have been born, viz. : Stanley and John. Judge Belden and wife belong to St. Luke's Episcopal Church, at Racine, in which he is a vestryman. Politically Judge Belden is a Republican, but has independent ideas and is not identified with any clique or faction. Fraternally he belongs to Racine Lodge, No. 18, A. F. & A. M. ; Orient Chapter, No. 12, R. A. M. ; and Racine Commandery, No. 70. He belongs also to the Knights of Pythias, Lodge No. 32 ; to the B. P. O. Elks; to the Royal Arcanum, Council No. 220; Modem Woodmen of America, Lakeside Camp, No. 379 ; and to the Chi Psi College Fraternity. He is a member of the Racine Business Men's Association, a vestryman of St. Luke's Church, a trustee of Racine College and St. Luke's Hospital Associa- tion, and president of the Young Men's Christian Association.
Judge Belden and family have a beautiful home in this city, one of re- fined and cultured influences. Mrs. Belden is a charming hostess, being highly accomplished as an artist and as a musician.
JOHN FULLER GOOLD, president of the Fiebrich, Fox, Hilker Shoe Company, of Racine, was born in Carlton. Orleans Co., N. Y., Nov. i, 1821, son of Horace Octavius and Lorinda (Fuller) Goold.
Horace O. Goold came of English lineage, descending from one of three brothers who crossed the ocean and settled in Connecticut. His father was a native of that State, but nothing further is known of him. There were six sons in his family. Horace O. Goold became a farmer and spent most of his life in Orleans county, N. Y. He belonged to the old Whig party before the war, but after the formation of the Republican party cast his vote in its support. He was a public spirited citizen, and served efficiently in various town offices. He died at Lyndonville, at the age of sixty-five, and his wife survived him but a week. Both were members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Mrs. Goold was born in Pennsylvania, daughter of Capt. John and Sally Fuller. Capt. Fuller took up a large tract of land in Orleans county, N-. Y.. and for the rest of his life was engaged in farming. He had five sons, who all settled on farms in the same locality, and three daughters. One son of this family lived to be over ninety years of age, but all are now deceased. Capt. Fuller gained his title by service in the war of 1812. His death was caused by a runaway. The children born to Horace O. and Lorinda (Fuller) Goold numbered fourteen, of whom only three are now living, viz. : John Fuller, the oldest ; Horace Dar- win, of Linden, N. Y. ; and Olin May. of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
John F. Goold passed his youth in Orleans county, attending first the pub-
50 COALAIE.MORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
lie schools, and later a select school taught by Prof. Hard, who is thou,a;ht to be still living, although over ninety years of age now. At eighteen Mr. Goold gave up assisting his father on the farm and began clerking in a store at the county seat, Albion. He was next engaged in an establishment which carried on a dry goods, drug and tailoring business combined, and he remained w'ith this concern several years. In 1844 Mr. Goold went west to Ohio, and spent several years in Cleveland. This was followed by a period in a country store near Cleveland, and then he went into the mercantile business for himself in Ohio City, conducting same for several years, after which he moved to Chi- cago, and was in charge of an office there for two or three years. Returning to Cleveland from Chicago, he remained there until 1857, the year he settled in Wisconsin.
From Mr. Goold's first location in Wisconsin to the present time he has always resided in or near Racine. The first twelve years, from 1857 to 1869, he was in Mt. Pleasant township, engaged in farming with his brother-in-law, Isaac Taylor. The following six years he spent in Racine, carrying on a hard- ware business, and then gave his attention to farming again. He carried on a small farm north of the city for three years, and after that invested in farm lands in Kansas, spending two summers in that State, putting in crops of wheat, but at the end of that time he sold the property and went back to Ra- cine. Abandoning agricultural pursuits from this time forth, Mr. Goold ac- cepted a position as timekeeper with the Mitchell & Lewis Company, and has discharged the duties of that place continuously since that time. In 1898 he was one of the organizers of the Kambach, Fiebrich Shoe Company, in which lie became a stockholder and w-as chosen president. He still holds that i)nsiti(in although the organization has been changed, the corporation now being en- titled the Fiebrich, Fox, Hilker Company.
Mr. Goold's wife bore the maiden name of Sylvia jMartin, and their wed- ding took place April 21, 1847. They became the parents of five children : ( i ) Adeline, died when seven years old. (2) Alfred Wright is a trimmer in the employ of the Mitchell & Lewis Company. He is a fine scholar and a particu- larly good penman, and his educational acquirements are the more noteworthy as they have been gained in spite of the fact that he is a mute. He is married to Miss Ada Rutherford, also a mute, a graduate of the Delavan Mute School. (3) Emer Cornelia married Frank L. Mitchell, of the Mitchell & Lewis Com- pany, and they have two daughters. Alabel Martin and Olive A. (4) Ida Adelia married Charles Clark, who died, leaving her with two sons, Alfred Charles and Loren Clark. (5) Harry Martin is an engraver in Indianapolis. Bv his wife, Helen (Grayson) Goold, he has had two children, but the only one living is a daughter named Sylvia. Mrs. Sylvia M. Goold, who was a daughter of Abner and Lucy (Buckingham) Martin, passed away in Racine, in 1883, aged fifty-nine years. A member of the Methodist Church, as is her husband also, she exemplified in her life all the beauties and virtues of the Christian life, and was deeply loved for her admirable character. Mr. Goold is prominent in church work, acting as trustee and treasurer for many years, besides holding the office of class-leader. Politically he is a Republican, but he has never sought official position since he served as town clerk of Mt. Pleasant townshi|i during
COi\IME.MORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 51
the Civil war. He enjovs the sincere respect of his fellow citizens. Mr. Guold resides at No. 917 College avenue.
WALTER S. GOODLAND, editor and proprietor of the Racine Daily Times — a man whose talent and taste for journalism exceed even his marked ability in the legal profession — was born in Sharon, Walworth Co., Wis., Dec. 22, 1862, of good English parentage.
William Goodland, his grandfather, was a lifelong resident of Taunton, Somersetshire, England, where for many years he was engaged in the coal ijusi- ness. He died when over four score years old while his wife, Abigail Rebecca, attained a still greater age. They were the parents of a large family.
John Goodland, father of Walter S., was born in Taunton, Somersetshire, England, Aug. 10, 1831, and there remained until he was eighteen, in 1849 coming to America. Five years later he settled in Wisconsin, and this State has been his home ever since with the exception of a few years he passed in Chicago. He has takn a prominent part in public affairs and is well known throughout central Wisconsin. Offices of trust and responsibility in the gift of the people have been showered upon him, and he is now serving as judge of the Tenth Judicial District of the State, each year adding to his already very high reputation as a jurist. He married Caroline M. Clark, who was born in New York State, where her father, an Englishman by birth, settled on his coming to America; Mr. Clark was a mason contractor in Rochester, that State, but later moved to Muskegon. Mich., where he died in advanced age. Mrs. Good- land died Oct. 26, 1893, the mother of nine children, as follows : William, de- ceased; Abigail, of Appleton, Wis.; Mary, who married J. H. Woehler, of Oshkosh, Wis. ; Edward, deceased ; Fayette, deceased ; Walter S. ; Emma, who died in childhood; Edith, who married F. D. Bartlett, of Milwaukee; John, of Appleton.
Walter S. Goodland, sixth child and third son in the fam'ily born to his par- ents, was but three years of age when his parents removed to Chicago, and later accompanied them on their removal to Appleton, Wis., where he com- pleted his public school education, graduating from the high school. He also spent one year in Lawrence University, at that place. For five years after he left the schoolroom as a pupil, he was engaged in teaching. Under his father's guid- ance he began the study of law, and was admitted to the Bar by Judge George H. Meyers, at Appleton, March 9, 1886. His law studies were interesting, but he found journalism so congenial to his tastes, that shortly after his location in Wakefield, Wis., in March, 1887, he established the Wakefield Bulletin, which he continued to publish for about a year. He then moved to Ironwood, in March, 1888, there founding the Ironwood Times, which met with popular favor, and he continued in active work connected with its publication until May, 1895. The preceding November he had, however, resumed his practice of law, opening an office in Ironwood. On March 30, 1895, President Cleveland ap- pointed him postmaster at Ironwood, and this office he efficiently filled for three years. Moving to Oshkosh he lived there but a short time, when he went to Beloit. there for one year to publish the Daily News. In March, 1899, Mr. Goodland located in Racine, and in partnership with Mr. V. W. Lothrop, pur- chased the Racine Dail\ Times. This firm continued until 1902, when Mr.
52 CO:\IMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
Goodland purchased his partner's interest and has since conducted the paper alune. in connection he dues a large job prniting business, and the class of work turned out will compare favorably with that done by much larger con- cerns. Politically the paper is inuepencient, and it has a wide patronage.
Fraternally Mr. Goodland is a Mason, belonging to Ironwood Lodge, F. & A. M., and he is also a member of Racine Lodge, H. P. O. E. In religious faith he is a member of the Episcopal Church. Mr. Goodland wields a wide influence through the editorial columns of his paper, and this influence is always on the side of the public good as he sees it. His honor and integrity of char- acter are so well known that his opinions have great weight.
PETER TIEDEMANN, a prominent business man of Racine, Wis., en- gaged in the insurance, real estate and loan business, is serving as notary pub- lic and superintendent of the poor. He resides at No. 6i8 High street. He was born in Hanover, Germany, near Harburg, Nov. lo, 1839, son of Peter and Andeheidt (Suer) Tiedemann, natives of Hanover, Germany.
Both the paternal and maternal grandfathers of our subject were laboring men and natives of Germany, as was also Peter, our subject's father, who died in Germany in 1888, aged seventy-nine years. His wife passed away in 1882, aged sixty-nine years, in the faith of the Lutheran Church, of which her hus- band was also a member. They had a family of six children, three of whom are deceased ; the others are Claus, of Atmer de Ziel, Germany ; Peter, of Ra- cine; and Anna, the wife of Henry Stooke, of Hanover, Germany.
Peter Tiedemann attended the common schools of his native country, and at the age of thriteen years went on shipboard, making a trip to Brazil. He followed the sea until thirty years of age, spending several years on the coast of China, and in the East Indies. Mr. Tiedemann has sailed twice around the world, and speaks several languages, including Himalayan, Spanish, German, Scandinavian and' English. In 1869 he ran away from the passenger ship on which he was serving, and was married, coming to America. He landed at New York, from where he came directly to Wisconsin. For a time he sailed the Lakes, and in 1871 went to Chicago, engaging in the grocery business. There he remained about twelve years, after which he came to Racine, locating permanently; he put up a double store, and has been conducting a grocery store, saloon and hall for eleven years.
In November, 1869, Mr. Tiedemann married Miss Emma Friederica Bauer, born on the Island of Ragan, daughter of Frederick and Friederica (Reich) Bauer. Mr. and Mrs. Tiedemann, although not members, attend the Lutheran Churcli, and contribute to its support. Fie belongs to Racine Lodge, I. O. O. F. ; and is president of the German Maennerverein. Politicallv a Dem- ocrat, he was alderman of the Seventh ward for twelve years. He was a can- didate for mayor on the Democratic ticket of 1905, and, while Racine is strongly Republican, he was beaten by but 300 votes. This honor was forcefl on Mr. Tiedemann. he having not been in the convention. In 1905 he was elected, by the council, superintendent of the poor, and this position he has since held with great credit to himself, and to the entire satisfaction of all concerned. He is very highly esteemed in Racine.
COMMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 53
CHARLES THEODORE SCHWEITZER, vice-president of The J. Miller Shoe Co., of Racine, Wis., was born March 4, 1S42, in Prussia, Ger- many, a son of Thomas and Petroneha Schweitzer.
The parents of Mr. Schweitzer were both born in Prussia, near Coloo^ne, as were their parents who died there. The father was a charcoal manufacturer in Germany, dealt also in tan bark and lumber, and made some of the first rail- road ties ever put down in constructive work in Prussia. In 1846 he came to America and located six miles south of Milwaukee, where be bought a small farm on which he lived two yeai's. In 1848 he came to Racine, after which he followed various pursuits, dealing considerably in real estate, and remained here until his death, May 16, 1889, at the age of eighty-six years and six months. His wife died Nov. 20, 1880, aged seventy-two years. Both were members of the Catholic Church. Before coming to America he had served his three years in the regular army as is required of German young men.
Charles T. Schweitzer was four years of age when his parents brought him to America. Since 1848 his home has been in Racine and he is thus entitled to the distinction of being one of the old settlers. He attended the parochial schools and lived at home until he reached maturity. Then he learned the cooper's trade with his father, continuing with him until 1867, when he became a clerk in the shoe factory of Joseph Miller. He remained in that capacity until 1872, when Mr. Miller disposed of his retail business and engaged exclusively in manufacturing for the wholesale trade. It was then that Mr. Schweitzer became associated with him. Ever since the in- corporation of The J. Miller Shoe Co., which is one of Racine's large indus- tries, he has been vice-president of the concern.
On May 3, 1864, Mr. Schweitzer was married to Miss Clara Miller, daughter of Reiner and Elizabeth (Yunker) Miller. The children born to this union, all natives of Racine, are as follows : William J. is engaged in the insurance business at Racine ; he married Mary Luxem. Elizabeth M. died aged twelve years. John W. is a prominent business man of Racine, and president of the Modern Skirt Co. ; he married Ida Anderson, and thev have three children, Marion, Clara and Elizabeth. Gertrude married Frank Becker and they reside in Racine and have three children, Clara, Josephine, and William. Josephine married Charles Salbreiter, of Racine, and thev have one child, Clara. George W. is one of the proprietors of the White Star Laundry. Frank is head cutter for the Modern Skirt Co. : he married Ella Fitzgerald, and they have one child, Gertrude. Frederick W. is also a cut- ter with the Modern Skirt Co. Elizabeth died aged six months. Edward H. is a pharmacist, as also is Charles G. Clara lives at home. Mr. and Mrs. Schweitzer have reared a family in which they are able to take a great deal of comfort, the survivors all being well established and thoroughly respected members of society. The beautiful family home where peace and plenty reign, is situated at No. 1419 Superior street, Racine. Mr. and Mrs. Schweitzer are members of the Catholic Church, and he is a liberal sup- porter of its many benevolent enternrises.
The parents of Mrs. Schweitzer were natives of Germany, and they came to America in 1847, with five children, locating with the earlv settlers at Racine. Mr. Miller owned a small tract which is now in the heart of the
54
CO^niEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD.
city, having been turned into city lots years ago. The father of Mrs. Schweitzer died in 1S84, aged eighty-three years, and two years later his wife died, aged seventy-six years. Both were worthy members of the Catholic Church. He had been a soldier in the German army. Of their seven children, the sur- vivors are : ]\Iargaret is the widow of William Piel ; Clara is the wife of Mr. Schweitzer ; and Rev. \V. G. is a Catholic priest at Waukesha, Wis. Joseph, deceased Dec. 29, 1905, was president of The J. Miller Shoe Company, of Racine. The paternal grandparents lived and died in Germany. The mater- nal grandfather was a miller in Germany and at his death left one son and one daughter. He had married a Mrs. Bauer, who had two daughters and one son. Much of the early family history has been lost, but a close examination would reveal the fact that for generations back may be found honest, upright, industrious, Christian people.
JACOB INIOHR, senior member of the firm of ^lohr-Jones Hardware Company, at Racine, Wis., was born Aug. 15, 1850, in one of the Rhenish provinces, in Prussia, a son of Frederick and Kathrina (Deitrich) Mohr, both of whom were born in Germany. Mr. Mohr is at the head of one of the largest establishments of the kind in the county, carrying the most com- plete lines of hardware, stoves and woodenware and doing a large portion of the general tinsmithing and furnace work. Between twenty-five and fifty hands are continuously employed.
Continuing the personal sketch of Jacob Mohr. it may be said that of the eleven children born to Frederick Mohr and his wife six were sons and five daughters, the survivors being but two sons, Charles and Jacob, both resi- dents of Racine. The father, who was a miller, died in Germany in i860, aged sixty-two years; the mother passed away in 1853, aged forty-eight years. They were both worthy members of the Lutheran Church.
Jacob Mohr was but nine years old when he became an orphan, and he Avas taken to the home of a maternal uncle, with whom he li\-ed until about thirteen years old, in the meantime attending school. He was then appren- ticed to the tinner's trade, at which he worked until he was nineteen vears old, when he emigrated to America. In 1869 he settled at Racine, where he began working in the tin-shop and hardware store of E. R. Cooley, and con- tinued thus until the death of the proprietor. In 1877 he commenced busi- ness for himself in partnership with William Griffith, the firm name being Griffith & Mohr until 1887, when Mr. Mohr bought his partner's intertest and continued the business alone for eleven years. He then formed a stock co'.n- pany under the name of the Mohr- Jones Hardware Company, of which he is president and general manager, J. W. Jones being secretary and treasurer.
On Dec. 12, 1875, ^'I''- Mohr was united in marriage to ^Nliss Louisa Halter, daughter of Louis and Katherine (Gonselman) Halter. Thev have three daughters, viz. ; Millie K., Leona and Luelia. IMiss ]\Iillie is a Kinde."- garten teacher in the Winslow school, Racine. Leona married B. W. Chad- wick, and they reside at Des Moines, Iowa, and have one son. \\'illiam Jacob. Luelia is still a student in the high school. Mr. Mohr is a member of the Episcopal Church. Fraternally he belongs to Racine Lodge, No. 92. A. F.
CO^IMEMORATIVE BIOGRAPHICAL RECORD. 55
& A. M., and also to the Royal Arcanum ami the Modern Woodmen. Polit- ically he has always been a Republican.
The parents of Mrs. :\Iohr were natives of Alsace-Lorraine, and came to America sixty years ago, settling first in the southern portion of the city of ^Milwaukee. Thence they removed to Caledonia township, Racine county, and engaged in