Berrien County MI Archives Obituaries.....Alexander, Alexander M> October 25, 1889 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Mary Ellen Drolet marydrolet@comcast.net January 17, 2008, 8:37 pm Berrien County Record, Tuesday, Oct. 31 1889 DIED, In the bend of the river, Oct. 25, 1889, Alexander M. Alexander, aged 80 years, 10 months and 3 days. Deceased was born in Bucks county, Pa. Dec. 22, 1799. He was married to Sarah Ann VanPelt, Sept. 22, 1825, in Trenton, NJ. Their first home was in Morrisville, where they lived until 1839. They then moved to Indiana and lived there until 1840, when they moved to Michigan and lived his present home till his death. He left a family of seven children, one of whom is Mrs. Charles Snyder of this place. His wife died Feb. 26, 1882. Additional Comments: Buried at Long Lake cemetery, Berrien Twp., Berrien Co, Michigan File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/berrien/obits/a/alexande2793gob.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 1.3 Kb

Berrien County MI Archives Obituaries.....Churchill, Cyrus B. June 4, 1893 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Mary Ellen Drolet marydrolet@comcast.net January 17, 2008, 8:21 pm Berrien Springs Era, June 16, 1897, page 3 Cyrus B. Churchill, once a resident of this village, later of Buchanan, died at the asylum at Kalamazoo June 4. His body was brought to Buchanan for interment. File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/berrien/obits/c/churchil2792gob.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 0.8 Kb

Berrien County MI Archives Obituaries.....Drolet, Francis Benjamin August 2, 1967 ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Mary Ellen Drolet marydrolet@comcast.net January 17, 2008, 8:09 pm Niles Daily Star, August 4, 1967, page 2 Francis B. Drolet, 78, 13 N. 14th St., died Thursday at 5:30 p.m.. in the Memorial Hospital, South Bend, where he had been a patient for six days. Drolet was born in Decatur, Ind, Feb. 17, 1889. He moved here from Kalamazoo in 1924. He is a retired executive secretary of the Associated Package Liquor Dealers of Michigan. He owned and operated Drolet's Drug Store in Niles from 1925 to 1951. He is a graduate of the University of Michigan and a registered pharmacist. He is survived by his wife, Kathryn T. Drolet, a daughter, Mrs. James W. Reilly of Brown City; five sons, Francis B. Drolet, Jr., of Coldwater, Alfred A. Drolet, of Scottsdale, Ariz., Louis P. Drolet, of Niles, Daniel E. Drolet, of Battle Creek, and George W. Drolet, in the Navy, stationed in Norfolk, Va.: and two sisters, Mrs. Lulu Solomon and Mrs. Helene Dillon, both of Fort Worth, Tex. And 23 grandchildren. The funeral will take place at the St. Mark Catholic Church, Monday, at 10 a.m. The rosary will be read Sunday at 8 p.m. in the Halbritter-Swem Funeral Home. Burial will take place in the Calvary Cemetery. File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/berrien/obits/d/drolet2791gob.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 1.7 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Blodgett, Delos A. March 3, 1825 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:13 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago Delos A. Blodgett, lumberman and farmer, was born March 3, 1825, in Otsego Co., N.Y. He is the son of Abiel D. and Susan (Richmond) Blodgett. His father was born i Plymouth, N.H., April 21, 1794, was sheriff of Otsego Co., N.Y., two terms, and otherwise a prominent citizen of that county. His mother was born in Puttsfield, Bershire Co., Mass., Nov. 19, 1796. they were born of English descent. there were five children born to them, namely: Albert A., Delos A., Ellen C., Helen R. and Harriet E. Delos A., the subject of this biographical sketch, was named for Dr. Delos White of Cherry Valley, N.Y., then his father's family physician, and was always called by his parents and schoolmates "Dod:" hence the cognomen of to-day. When he was four years of age his father sold out his farming interests in Otsego County and settled in Erie Co., N.Y., near Springville. Here Delos was reared and educated, going to school betimes, and helping his father on the farm. When he was of sufficient age he was sent to the Springville Academy, where he remained, pursuing his studies during the school months, until the age of 20. At this period - the spring of 1845 - his father sold his farm, to be delivered to the purchaser the following year, with the intention then of going West and settling in Illinois. Having a desire to see something of the world, Mr. Blodgett then formed his plans to make what was then considered an extensive tour. Accordingly he set out from his parental home, and, having a preference for Western navigations, descended the Alleghany River. From this he went down the Ohio River to the Mississippi, and on this great "father of waters" was carried to New Orleans. Her and at Vicksburg, he spent most of his time, working at whatever would favorably present itself, until the fall of 1846, when he joined his parents, who had in the meantime purchased and settled on a farm in McHenry Co., Ill. Here he remained for two years, working with his father on the farm and attending school winters at the Geneva (Wis.) Academy. In the fall of 1848, believing that by age and knowledge he was able to take care of himself, and probably do something more, he again left his home and started out to seek his fortune, arriving at Muskegon village, his objective point, soon thereafter. At this place he worked a year and a half at lumbering. In July 1850, he formed a partnership with Thos. D. Stimson, "pooling their issues," for the purpose of engaging in the lumbering or logging business up the Muskegon River. they bought them a canoe, and loading it with supplies, haying implements, etc., started up the Muskegon. With this canoe, they paddled, pushed and worked their way up the River, camping out nights and often wading, one pushig and the other pulling thier little barge, which contained all of their earthly possessions, up the rapids or over shoals until they reached a point 200 miles from their starting point, which was some miles above any other lumbering camp. This was at the place where the river - which has since become historical and known as the "Doc and Tom," deriving its name from the given names of these two pioneers - effects a confluence with the Muskegon River. One of their night camps was made at the mouth of the Hersey branch of the Muskegon River. Here Mr. Blodgett was strick with admiration of the beautiful level of land bordering these rivers on the west side, and the magnificent elm forests, and made up his mind that if fortune favored him he would some day be the owner. They arrived at their designation in August, looked up their beaver meadows and cut their hay for their coming winter's work. This accomplished, they returned to Muskegon on foot. Buying their oxen, supplies and ither camp equipments, and hiring their men, they returned, driving their oxen before them. From Big Rapids (which was then an unbroken wilderness) they had to drive their oxen through the thickest of woods, without any road or even a trail, to the mouth of the Doc and Tom, their future lumbering camp. Here they labored through the winter, getting out their logs. In the spring of 1851 they constructed some canoes, and when the river opened up put in their camp outfit and started down the river, driving their logs before them, until they reached the rear of the main "drive." Then Mr. Blodgett returned to Croton, purchased some potatoes, which he hauled to Big Rapids. These he loaded into his canoe and started for the mouth of the Hersey, the place that had so captivated his fancy the previous summer. The land all about here then belonged to the Government. On arriving here he availed himself of the squatter's right, selected his land and chopped and logged off a piece by hand and planted his potatoes. This was the first crop planted, and Mr. Blodgett was the first settler i the territory now embraced by Osceola County. This land lay near the Muskegon River on the south side of the Hersey branch, and is embraced in the present village plat of Hersey and his now adjoining farm. When done with his planting he looked up more pine lands in this and Muskegon County, and from this began his afterward extensive lumbering operations. In 1852, he cleared up more ground, enlarging his potato crop, purchased the first 40 acres from the Government, which was the beginning of the farm now known as "Blodgett Farm," in Hersey. Mr. Blodgett continued to lumber winters and farm summers, purchasing additional lands from time to time, until the spring of 1858, when, with L.O. Schofield, of Branch Co., Mich., he erected a saw-mill and grist-mill at Hersey. Before these mills, however, were fully completed, he purchased the interest of Mr. Schofield. All the lumber used up to this time in putting up farm buildings was drawn from Newaygo County, a distance of 60 miles. In the fall of 1859, he was married to Miss Jennie S. Wood, daughter of John and Clara L. Wood, of Woodstock, Ill. she was born Aug. 26, 1841, at Jersey Shore, Lycoming Co., Pa. He returned to Hersey with his bride, where they settled down to domestic life. Of this marriage there were two children: John Wood, born July 26, 1860, and Susan Richmond, born May 26, 1865. In 1861, Mr. B., with B. F. Gooch and others, organized the first township, which then embraced the entire territory of the county, and which was called Richmond, from his mother's family name. At this first election Mr. Blodgett was chosen Supervisor. He was instrumental in bringing about the organization of the county, which was effected in 1869, and caused the county-seat to be located at Hersey, where it still remains. Upon the advent of the railroads, he platted the village of Hersey, in and about which his farm lands were located. In 1870, he commenced the erection of his large and handsome residence, which was completed in 1871. In this beautiful home he resided until the fall of 1881, when he removed to Grand Rapids, where he now resides. Mr. Blodgett started out in life with a purpose and worked up to it. during the last 15 years, Mr. Blodgett has been extensively engaged in lumbering in Osceola, Missaukee and Clare Counties. He is also the surviving member of the firm of Blodgett & Byrne, who are largely engaged in lumbering in Roscomon and Crawford Counties. Here they have an extensive tract of fine pine timber, and operate a steam railroad, the track of which is laid with steel rails. With this road they put in at the head of the Muskegon River from 25,000,000 to 30,000,000 feet of logs a year, which is floated down to Muskegon where they have their mills. Mr. Blodgett has a natural taste for farming, and takes great pride in it. He has several farms in different parts of the State; but his best farm, and the one to which he has given the most attention and in which he has the most pride, is at Hersey. Here he is breeding the Norman and Percheron stock, having first imported this breed of horse firect from France. Mr. B. has been eminently successfu in his business operations, and is to-day one of the largest lumber operations in the State. While this has been the result of his labors, it is gratifying to know that his successes have not been accomplished at the expense of his manhood, or his humanity, which is too often the result. His hand is ever ready to help the poor or aid the deserving, while his heart always welcomes an old friend or acquaintance. He is a ronounced Republican, and has been active and prominent in the politics of the county, as well as that of the State. He has been a leading figure and an important factor in the growth and development of Osceola County from its first settlement to the present time; his individuality is clearly wedded to its annals and traditions; his life is a part of its history, which would be incomplete without this, his biography. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/blodgett1018gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 9.9 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Davis, Alfred February 18, 1844 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:12 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago Alfred Davis, farmer and merchant, located on section 8, Hartwick Township, was born Feb. 18, 1844, in Steuben Co., N.Y. His father and mother, George and Nancy (Holden) Davis, were natives of New England, of English descent, and were farmers by calling. The county of Steuben, was the scene of nearly the entire course of their earthly career, and there they died, the ofrmer in October, 1866, the latter in 1880. They had three children. Vincent resides in Steuben County; Matilda died in her native county in 1879. Mr. Davis is the eldest, and attended the common schools until he was of 16 years of age. He remained at home until he was 22, when he engaged in general farm labor. He was married Mach 22, 1862, in Steuben County, to Elida E. Robinson, a native of the same county, born April 9, 1844, of New England parentage and origin. Wilbert, Emery, Benjamin, Denis and Daniel are the names of their children. All but one are attendants at the public school of the district in which the family reside. Mr. Davis was a farmer in his native county until 1870. In the spring of that year he secured the homestead where he has since resided, which incuded 160 acres of land, then entirely wild and unbroken. Of the original acreage he owns 79 acres, most of which is improved. He is engaged in the sale of articles of merchandise, for which there is a local demand, and he manages his store in conjunction with the postoffice, of which he is the official, to which position he was appointed in 1881. He is independent in political views and actions, and is Justice of the Peace and Township Treasurer. His wife is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/davis1017gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 2.4 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....McMullen, John H. January 16, 1831 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:11 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago John H. McMullen, farmer, section 26, Evart Township, was born Jan. 16, 1831, in Kilkenny Co., Ireland, of which county his parents were also natives. His mother was born Nov. 2, 1809; his father, April 22, 1810. They emigrated to America in 1832, with two children - John and Mary Ann - (the latter is now deceased) and located at West Guillemsbury, Simcoe Co., Ont. They purchased 100 acres of land, and soon after sold a portion of the property to a relative. The remainder was sold soon afterward, and they entered a claim of 200 acres in the township of Mara, Ontario Co., Can. They maintained a residence thereon about 18 years, when the father sold teh farm and engaged in a mercantile enterprise in the same township, combingin therewith the manufacture of potash. He was Postmaster at that point for 18 years. In 1865 Mr. McMullen sold his Canadian property entire, and in the fall of the same year came to Ottawa Co., Mich., where he remained three years on a farm, of which he became the owner. He was not satisfied with the place, and in 1868 sold out and removed to Evart Township, where he bought 80 acres of wild, unimproved land. He has cleared away the forest and has 62 acres in excellent farming condition, with good and valuable farm buildings. He now owns 160 acres. He is a Democrat in political connection and views. He was married in Orillia, Ont., in 1864, to Jessie Elder, and they are the parents of eight children, viz: William J., born Oct. 22, 1864; Harry, Oct. 7, 1866; Julia, Oct. 19, 1868; David D., July 18, 1871; George M., Dec. 29, 1873; May, May 12, 1877; Ernest O., Feb. 29, 1880; Ada E., Nov. 6, 1882. Mrs. McMullen is the daughter of James E. and Jeannette (Wilson) Elder, who reside in Mara, Canada. She was born March 35, 1847. the record of her brothers and sisters is as follows: Mary H., Jane L. (deceased), Wilhelmina, John E., James T., David W., Christina F., George M. and William M. Following is the record of the brothers and sisters of Mr. McMullen: Mary Ann (deceased), Ada, William A., Margaret A., Louisa (deceased), George M., Jane E. (deceased), David and Emma. William C. and Margaret (Nesbitt) McMullen, the parents of Mr. McMullen of this sketch, removed to Osceola County in 1868 and reside on section 26, Evart Township. The family are in sympathy with the Episcopal Church. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/mcmullen1016gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 3.1 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Lanphear, John H. December 12, 1836 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:10 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago John H. Lanphear, farmer, resident on section 30, sylvan Township, was born Dec. 12, 1836, in Columbia Co., N.Y. His parents, James A. and Rebecca R. (Shufeldt) Lanphear, were natives of the State of New York, and were descended from parents born in New England of English and German origin. They are now in advanced years and reside in Columbia County. Mr. Lanphear is the oldest of five children born to his parents, all of whom are living. Two reside in the State of New York and two live in Massachuestts. At the age of 19 he began to serve an apprenticeship in a machine shop, and spent 10 years in that business in Chatham, N.Y. In 1877 he came to Jackson, Mich., coming a year later to Osceola County, he located on 160 acres of land in Sylvan Township, of which he is still the owner of all but 40 acres on section 29 adjoining his homestead, and has placed 100 acres under improvements. His farm buildings are creditable and suited to the needs of his farm. He is a Republican in political opinions, and has served four years as Supervisor, Clerk, two years, also as Treasurer and Highway Commissioner, and is at present a School Inspector. He was married in Columbia Co., N.Y., to Hattie M. Messenger. Their children are Frank C., James I., Carrie A. and Anna M. Two died in infancy. Mrs. Lanphear was born in Massachusetts, and removed in her childhood to New York. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/lanphear1015gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 2.2 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Oaks, Daniel November 24, 1835 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:08 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago Daniel Oaks, owner of the Oaks House at Reed City, and a sloon-keeper in that place, was born Nov. 24, 1835, in Worcester Co., Mass. His father, Joel Oaks, was born in New Hampshire and died in Massachusetts, which was the native State of the mother, Abbie (Pierce) Oaks, who died at East Saginaw in 1880. Mr. Oaks is the youngest of nuine children born to his parents. He was reared on the farm in the Bay State until he was 15 years of age, after which he obtained employ in the factories about five years. He came to Detroit i 1855, and there became interested in the traveling entertainment business, in which he was occupied a long term of years. He came to Reed City, Jan. 1, 1872, and erected a small building on the south end of the lot which is his present location, and which was designated the "Blue Front." In 1882 he built the hotel which bears his name. It has a frontage of 100 feet and is 75 feet deep, is three stories high and can accommodate a large number of guests. The house commands a liberal share of the best patronage. The first floor has three store apartments. Mr. Oaks built his present place of business in 1881. It is constructed of brick, 80 x 50 feet in size, and is two stories in height above the basement. He deals in the merchandise common to similar establishments. He is a member of the Masonic fraternity and is one of the Council. Mr. Oaks is public spirited and take a considerable interest in local politics. He was married in August, 1876, at Nowen's Mills, in Barry Co., Mich., to Mrs. Ellen E. Gates. She was born in Allegan co., Mich., and has a son by her former marriage, McGinley Gates. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/oaks1014gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 2.4 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Hoover, John June 18, 1837 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:06 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago John Hoover, farmer, section 14, Evart Township, was born June 18, 1837, in Stark Co., Ohio. His parents, Solomon and Margaret (Ringley) Hoover, removed from the Buckeye State in the fall of 1837, to the city of Wabash, Ind., where his father died Aug. 6, 1854. Mr. Hoover was 16 years old, and was made executor of the estate by the will of his father, which entailed upon him the care of his mother, and he discharged the duty until the close of her life, Aug. 7, 1881. She was born March 29, 1792, and was the mother of nine children. Four sons and a daughter survive her: George, Mary, David William and John. Daniel, Adam, James and Elizabeth are deceased. Mr. Hoover grew to manhood in Wabash, and in March, 1867, came to Osceola County, where he had entered a homestead claim of 80 acres the year previous. Besides improving his farm, he has engaged in lumbering during the winter seasons. He affiliates with the Republican party. He was married Feb. 10, 1859, in Wabash Co., Ind., to Eva Lenon. their children were born as follows: Charles E., March 30, 1860; Elizabeth, Nov. 24, 1861; Araminta, Feb. 23, 1863; Mattie, July 3, 1864; Daniel W., Feb. 12, 1866; George W., Nov. 19, 1867; John H., Dec. 26, 1868; Nettie S., Dec. 8, 1876. Mrs. Hoover is the daughter of Daniel and Sophia (Saunders) Lenon. Her father was a native of Miami Co., Ohio, and was a soldier in the Union service. He died of diarrhoea <sic>, June 19, 1864, in the hospital at chattanooga. Her mother died Dec. 13, 1880, in Wabash Co., Ind. Their family included seven daughters and one son, born as follows: Sarch C., Elizabeth, Eva, Ruth C., Martha, Barbara, Phebe E. and John W. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/hoover1013gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 2.4 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Arndt, John J. October 21, 1824 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:06 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago John J. Arndt, one of the first settlers and most widely known citizens of Osceola Township, is a resident on section 23, and is the proprietor of 260 acres of land. He was born Oct. 21, 1824, in Prussia. He was a pupil in the schools of his native country until he set out alone without money to make his way to America. He shipped on a sailing vessel as a deck hand, and worked his passage, which consumed eight weeks. This was in 1837, and he landed at the port of New York. He proceeded soon after to Waterloo, Ont., where he found occupation as a farm assistant on the estate of John Eyte, and continued in that genteleman's employment eight years. After leaving his service he bought 100 acres of forest land in Perth County, on which he began operations in his own behalf, and placed the entire acreage uner improvements. In 1873 he sold the place and came to Osceola Township, buying 340 acres of land on section 23. He has sold 80 acres and placed nearly all the remainder under improvements. The farm is justly ranked among the most valuable in this section of the county. It is supplied with three flowing wells. He is a Republican of unmistakeable and inflexible stamp, and has held local official positions for 12 years. In 1858 he connected himself with the Evangelical Chrch, in whose interests he has been an unremitting and zealous laborer. He has discharged the duties of all its offices and has been for many years Superintendent of the Sunday school, for whose welfare he has labored untiringly. He was first married in Perth Co., Ont., in 1849, to Barbara Riffer. She was born about 1828, in Germany, where her parents passed their entire lives. She came in youth to Perth Co., Ont., where she died Jan. 13, 1863. Of six children of whom she became the mother of three are deceased - Elizabeth, Maggie and Lizzie. Henry, Christina and Mollie survive. Mr. Arndt was a second time married in 1864, in Perth Co., Ont., to Rebecca Leibert. She was born i Ontario, of German parentage, and died in October, 1868, in Osceola Township, aged 33 years. Of her six children, two preceded her to the land of the hereafter, - William and Betsey. John, Katie, Mary and Simon are living. The wives of Mr. Arndt were both members of the Evangelical Church. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/arndt1012gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 3.1 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Mapes, Andrew J. December 3, 1836 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:05 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago Andrew J. Mapes, farmer and joiner, resident on section 14, Hartwick Township, was born Dec. 3, 1836, in Mayfield Township, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. His father, Rufus Mapes, was born in the State of New York, was a farmer, and died in 1875, in Ohio. His mother, Abigail (Allen) Mapes, was a native of Maine and related to the celebrated Ethan Allen of Revolutionary fame, better known as the "Hero of Ticonderoga." She died in Cuyahoga County, Jan. 14, 1882, and was the mother of 17 children, nine of whom are still living. Mr. Mapes represents number 14 in the list of his parents children, and he passed his minority under the parental roof. On being released from his filial obligations he began to serve an apprenticeship for his tade, and after he had acquired a thorough knowledge of its details, he engaged in its prosecution and continued to pursue it as a vocation until 1866, the date of his removal to Michigan. He settled in Osceola (now Hartwick) Township, securing a homestead claim of 120 acres of land on section 26 and purchasing 160 acres on section 14. He lived on the first named property six years, working meanwhile at his trade in connection with farming. In 1876 he removed to the farm situated on section 14, where he has improved 70 acres. Politically he is a Republican of a decidedly radical type, and has served his township as Clerk. He was married Nov. 27, 1869, in Mayfield, his native place, to Atnah M. Hawkins, who was born March 25, 1837, in Otseog Co., N.Y., and is the daughter of Smith and Lucy V. (Gardner) Hawkins. She celebrated her 30th birthday dressing the first white child born in the township of Hartwick: this was Miss Emma, daughter of Loyd and Sarah Clark. At that period her neighborhood was about 40 miles from the nearest physician or drug store, and Mrs. Mapes was for many years the only attendant upon the sick for many miles around. In 1879, the only year she kept a record, she spent 200 days in this service. July 3, 1883, while she was riding horseback, she was thrown off and nearly killed, the injury being so great as to fracture the hip bone. In her religious views she is a close- communion Baptist, with which church she first connected herself, remaining with them as long as she was within convenient distance of their places of worship; she is now a member of the Disciples Church. The children of Mr. and Mrs. Mapes are: Rufus S., born Dec. 3, 1864, and Melvin A., March 25, 1870. Mr. Hawkins was born Nov. 4, 1809, in Otsego Co., M.Y. His father, Rufus Hawkins, was born in Rhode Island, of English parents. Mr. Hawkins remained in New York until he was 27 years old, when he came to Michigan and settled where Battle Creek is now situated, and moved thence to Ohio in 1851, where he remained until 1866. He then moved to Hartwick Township, settling on 160 acres on section 24, clearing 35 acres with his own hand. He was a man of poor health and had not been able to do any labor, having been a school-teacher for 21 years. The school-room being to confining for him, he started out with a wagon load of dry goods and crockery, which he peddled through the country, selling goods all the way from Ohio to this township. He had located his land here the year before. His mother was born in Rhode Island in 1759, of German and English descent, and went to New York in 1800, where she remained until her death. Mr. Hawkins was the first settler in Hartwick; was the first Supervisor of the township, holding the position for many years. A man had come in here before him, but Mr. Hawkins was the first land located. Himself and wife were members of the Baptist Church, joining in 1841. They came to Michigan in 1837, settling where Battle Creek now stands and residing there 14 years. They then moved to Cuyahoga Co., Ohio, and after 14 years residence there, in 1866, they came to this county, where they both have since died, he at the age of 73 and she at the age of 63 years, and they are buried on the farm of Mr. Mapes, wher is located the little grave-yard designated by the family name. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/mapes1011gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 4.9 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Shank, Alonzo M. May 2, 1850 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:03 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago Alonzo M. Shank, Sheriff of Osceola County, and proprietor of the Hersey City Flouring Mills, was born May 2, 1850, in Hancock Co., Ohio. Joseph shank, his father, was born in the same county, Jan. 6, 1822. In 1853 he removed his family and interests to a farm in Heath Township, Allegan County, coming thence in 1867, to Sherman Township, Osceola County, locating on an 80 acre farm, now in fine condition for agricultural purposes. The mother, Sarah (Crow) Shank, was born July 31, 1828, in Hancock County. Seven of their nine children are living. Martha married Ashley Babbitt, a farmer in McPherson Co., Kansas. Mr. Shank of this sketch, is the second in order of birth. John is a farmer; William Nicholas is a shingle manufacturer; Mary married Charles Marvin; Albert is still at home. With the exception of the first and second they are residents of Sherman Township. Joseph and Samuel are deceased. In 1872 Mr. Shank secured 80 acres of land on section 10, Sherman Township, and he now owns 80 acres situated on the same section, having added 80 acres by later purchase. In 1871 he began the manufacture of shingles in Heath Township, ioerating in that line of business two years. In 1873 he took possession of his property in Sherman Township, where he has 130 acres of his land under cultivation, and is largely engaged in the raising of hay for the Cadillac market. In the spring of 1878, he moved to Hersey, to manufacture shingles for W. S. Gerrish, running two mills, one within the corporation, the second situated one and a half miles east of the depot. In 1882 he bought a meat market and grocery, to which he gave his personal supervision one year, and then rented the stand. In September, 1883, he bought a half interest in the Hersey City Flouring Mills, owned by A. Root. Their joint ownership continued until Aug. 22, 1884, when Mr. Shank became sole proprietor by purchase. The mill has three runs of stones, two sets of rollers, and a producing capacity of 70 barrels, besides the custom grinding of feed, etc. Two assistants are employed. Mr. Shank is a Mason, and belongs to the Blue Lodge, Royal Arch Chapter and Commandery. He was elected to the position of Sheriff of Osceola County in the fall of 1882, on the Republican ticket, receiving a majority of 500 votes over the nominee of the opposition element. He was married June 19, 1870, in Sherman Township, to Essie E. Deffenbaugh. Their children were born as follows: Bessie, Jan. 27, 1873; Cora, Feb. 6, 1875; Byron L., July 3, 1883. Mrs. Shank was born May 4, 1853, in Morrow Co., Ohio, and is the daughter of Jacob and Hannah Deffenbaugh. In the portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Shank, on other pages of this work, may be seen the fair types of the element on which the assured progress of Osceola Co. is based. Intelligent, energetic, trustworthy, and public-spirited, Mr. Shank may be considered a representative of the spirit which gives the county an impetus in an onward course, notwithstanding the depression of the times, which have not yet corroded nor dimmed the luster of the era of the present of Osceola County. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/shank1010gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 3.9 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Lunney, James A. November 7, 1847 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:02 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago James A. Lunney, farmer, Osceola Township, section 14, was born Nov. 7, 1847, in Halton Co., Ont. His father, Hugh Lunney, was born in the north of Ireland. He married Ann Noble in his native land, and when 22 years of age came to Ontario, where he became a lumberman of prominence, and resided until his death, Sept. 19, 1868, at the age of 49 years. The mother is 58 years old, and lives in Gaylord, Mich. Mr. Lunney was sent to the public schools of Ontario until he was 16 years old, and he passed three succeeding years assisting his father in lumbering. In 1866 he came to Saginaw and became a member of the lumber firm of J. Henry & Co. The relation existed seven years, the company transacting extensive operations in lumber and shingles at Hemlock City, Saginaw County. In 1877 he came to Osceola County and purchased 160 acres in Osceola Township, a part of which was under cultivation. He has added by later purchase to his home place until he holds 300 acres, and he also owns 700 acres in Clare County, Mich., which is principally in timber. He has been engaged to a considerable extent in lumbering operations since he settled in this county. The mill of the firm with which he is connected, situated on section 2, Hartwick Township, was recently destroyed by fire, entailing a loss of several thousand dollars. Mr. Lunney has improved 115 acres of his homestead, and is now erecting an elegant residence designed to cost $5,000, and finished throughout the interior in hard wood of Beautiful grain. He aims to put his entire surroundings over which he has control in the best possible condition. His business firm owns 1,400 acres of land, in which he holds an interest. It comprises both pine and hardwood, and is all situated in Osceola County. Politically Mr. Lunney is a Republican. He was married Sept. 11, 1869, in Holly, Oakland Co., Mich., to Mary Ennes. They have had two children: Vernon H. was born May 11, 1873, in Hemlock City; and Elmer M., Sept. 26, 1880, and died Feb. 29, 1884. Mrs. Lunney is the daughter of James R. and Catherine (Reed) Ennes, natives of New York. They reside at East Saginaw, where her father is manager of a carriage factory. Mrs. Lunney was born Nov. 5, 1846, in Erie Co., Ohio. Her parents became residents of Holly in 1869. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/lunney1009gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 3.1 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Elmore, Luther T. April 5, 1840 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:02 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago Luther T. Elmore, farmer, section 32, Sylvan Township, was born April 5, 1840, in Ontario Co., M.Y. His father was a tailor by profession and reared his family on a farm. The son, who is the subject of this sketch, was uner his father's care until the period of his majority, when he entered the Union Army, the Civil War having broken out just after he arrived at his 21st birthday. He enlisted in Co. F., 26th Mich. Inf., under Capt. Lemuel Saviers, now of St. John's, Mich. He was in the service throughout the remainder of the war, and was honorably discharged June 4, 1865, at Washington, D.C. He went to Jackson, Mich., whence he enlisted, and later was assigned to duty at the Government bakery at Alexandria, Va. In May 1867, he came to Osceola County, and made a homestead claim of 160 acres in Sylvan Township. He is one of the Pioneer settlers of this portion of the township, and has improved about 60 acres of his land. He was the leading active mover in securing the organization of the township, and has been Clerk and Notary Public. He is a Republican in political creed and connections. The marriage of Mr. Elmore to Clarissa E. Jones took place Dec. 25, 1869, in Orient Township. she was born in Ronald Township, Ionia Co., Mich., May 13, 1852; and came with her parents to Osceola County in 1868. Her parents were the first settlers of Orient Township, where they are still living. Mr. and Mrs. Elmore are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. They have two children, Lizzie M., born Aug. 17, 1812, and Rosie V., born March 18, 1875. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/elmore1008gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 2.3 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Carmell, Charles December 31, 1836 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 6:00 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago Charles Carmell, farmer, section 3, Sylvan Towsnhip, was born Dec. 31, 1836, in Marine City, St. Clair Co., Mich. His father, Moses Carmell, was born in the Dominion of Canada, and descended from French ancestors. He was a carpenter and joiner, and pursued his vocation at Marien City until his death in 1867. Julia (Cushway) Carmell, his mother, was born, married, and passed the entire course of her life at Marine City. She was of French descent, and died about 1848, leaving seven children. Two of her children's deaths preceded hers. Mr. Carmell remained in the protecting care of his father until 17 years old. At that age he became a saw-mill assistant in the lumber mills of his native county and acquired superior skill in the position of sawyer. He pursued that business during the winter seasons and through the summers of several years he was a sailor on the lakes, operating at first as a common seaman, and later as first mate. In 1856 he went to Saginaw City, where he was a sawyer in the extensive lumber mills for some years. Meanwhile he purchased a home in South Saginaw and resided there until 1872, working at his trade, and as foreman for a boom company. He went thence to Lowell, Kent County, where he remained 11 months, going from that place to Evart, Osceola County. In the spring of 1877 he purchased 40 acres in Sylvam Township, all in timber and situated on the line of the Flint & Pere Marquette Railroad, where he established a permanent home, went vigorously to work to reclaim his land from its wild state, and he now has 20 acres under cultivation, with comfortable buildings. Mr. Carmell was married April 24, 1859, in East Saginaw to Mary A. McNally. She was born Aug. 26, 1838, in County Down Ireland. Her parents, Thomas and Mary A. (forley) McNally, came from Ireland to America in 1852, and located primarily in albany Co., N.Y., where the entire household were employed in the cotton factories situated at Cohoes. After a stay there of four years, they came to Michigan and settled in the forest on the Flint River, 16 miles from East Saginaw, and at so early a period that it was still an unbroken wilderness and inhabited by Indians. Later, the daughter went to East Saginaw, where she was soon after married. Three children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Carmell: Lizzie (Mrs. Birdsall), Josephine and Willie; the latter died in infancy. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/carmell1007gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 3.2 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Lambert, William November 23, 1837 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 5:59 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago William Lambert, woolen manufacturer at Reed City, was born Nov. 23, 1837, at Cavan, Ont., and is the son of Richard and Elizabeth (amos) Lambert. His father was born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1808, and his mother in Dalkeith, Scotland, in 1818. They moved to Ontario in 1832, settling in Cavan, and are now living in Ailsa Craig, in the Dominion, to which point they moved in 1859. Mr. Lambert left the parental home in 1856, going to the township of London, where he resided most of the time until his removal to Reed City, arriving June 2, 1883. Here he purchased a building a mile and a quarter from the city for the purpose of converting it into a woolen mill; but finding that a poor investment after a nine month's trial, he purchased the building he now occupies in Reed City, where he is setting out in good earnest in his chosen business. He was married Oct. 9, 1858, in the city of London, Ontario, to Miss Ann Waugh, the daughter of Robert and Margaret (Robson) Waugh, the former a native of Scotland and the latter of the North of England. Mrs. L. was born in Lobo Township, Ont., May 13, 1841. To Mr. and Mrs. L. have been born six children, as follows: Robert A., Sept. 9, 1859, in the 15th concession, Land Township, Ont.; Margaret, Jan. 3, 1861, at the same place; Isabella, June 1, 1863, at Varna, Ont.; Elizabeth M., July 24, 1867, in London Township, Ont.; and Richard A., Nov. 28, 1868, in the same township. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/lambert1006gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 2.2 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Lacy, Francis D. May 5, 1838 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 5:58 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago Francis D. Lacy, of Nirvana, Lake Co., Mich., was born in Western, New York on the 5th day of May 1838. He is the youngest son of Eli Lacy, who raised up a family of six boys and four girls. His father moved to this State in the year 1840, and settled in the wilds of Oakland County upon 120 acres of land, marsh and lake, about one-third of which was upland of an inferior quality, and the remainder entirely worthless. Eli Lacy ws a man of respecability and fair intelligence, but his financial abilities were lacking, and had it not been for the wonderful qualities of his wife, her good physical health and untiring ambition, it is hard to say what would have been the result in raising up a family of ten children, and in what condition they would have been launched out upon the world. As ot was. the family passed through many privations and was forced to exercise a frugality which has scarcely a parallel on record. Thousands have passed through a more degraded poverty, but the cases where a family of such high order of intelligence has been forced to so low a condition of destitution, are certainly uncommon. Imagine what a burden of anxiety must have rested upon the inadequate abilities of parents, struggling to their utmost to furnish food and raiment and educate so large a family, and at the same time somebody standing ready to snatch the last dollar at hand to pay the interest on an old calloused mortgage which held a death grip upon the freedom of the household! Children attending school in cold winter weather, wearing blue drilling trousers without lining or drawers, and otherwise lightly clad, and suffering with the cold as the children of this family were often compelled to, have learned to demonstration what "hard times" mean. An older brother, now a wealthy citizen residing in Reed City, went bare-foot the winter through, and did chores in the barn, and often slid down hill as a pastime; and in rlating the fact, remarks that it was not so much a matter of romance as of stern reality. This brother, V.E. Lacy, always born his privations with fortitude, and labored for the comforts of others, denying himself; being half way from the oldest to the youngest, he was last to be provided for; and yet he doubtless did more for the comforts of home than all the others together; and even since leaving home for himself, he has rendered much for the comforts of parents and sisters, as also has Francis, of whom we are narrating. these blessings have doubtless been showered back upon both of them, as they are both well situated in life, with happy families around them. In those boyhood years, it required but little to constitute a luxury. A toy like a penny jewsharp, a slate pencil or goose- quill pen, or stick of candy, were all worthy of remark, and well relished by children of such poverty. A new garment made by that industrious mother, or a new pair of shoes, would make the lucky wearer the center of attraction for a time, and let those only who have experienced the situation judge how "good" the red leather "looked." Francis was mentally bright and physically active. He became a good scholar, and at the age of 16 engaged as a teacher. This vocation he followed for several years, "until," as he expressed it, "he became unfit for anything else, and a few more terms would make him totally unfit for that!" At intervals, during the years of his teaching, he learned the printer's trade, and having a taste for literature, indulged in writing considerable for the press, and acted at times in the capacity of the editor. Having quite a fondness for poetry, he wrote occasional pieces, and in the year 1860, published his first pemphlet, entitled "Leisure Hours." In 1862 he published "The Ray of Light," and in 1863 a treatise on mental philosophy, to be used as a phrenological chart in giving delineations of character. Engaging in this profession, he followed lecturing for a time, but having an opportunity of studying more carefully the anatomy of the human brain, and the nature of its convolutions, he rather concluded that the old theory of phrenology as advocated by Fowler & Wells was somewhat a farce, and therefore dropped the subject to engage in the study of legerdemain. In this he soon became proficient, and, being without money to start with, constructed his own apparatus, and bought on credit a horse, buggy and harness. He now boldly struck out in his new profession, and, meeting with good success, soon paid for these, and contracted for 80 acres of land, costing $1,400, mear Laingsburg in this State. Wearying of this business, after following it for about three years, he engaged as a partner with his brother, V.E. Lacy, near Lapeer, this State, in the manufacture of shingles. This business prospered, the same as anything else the V.E. ever took hold of, and at the end of three years they dissolved partnership, each buying a mill for himself; and in the year 1874 Francis shipped his mill and household goods to Nirvana and established himself there for making shingles, and also engaged in merchandise, where he will be found comfortably situated at the present time. Since he has been at Nirvana he has suffered some severe losses. His mill was burned, and at the time when the loss fell most heavily upon him, and in other ways has had numerius financial set-backs; yet he has passed through them with scarcely a riffle tio disturb his good humor; and being surrounded by a beautiful wife and four sparkling eyed children, he has but little to regret. He still continues to ply the pen, and within the last two years has published two works, - "Nature's Harmony, " a philosophical treatise, and "Star Lake Romance," a poetical story - both of which do credit to the author. And thus we have narrated the history of one who commenced in the lowest degree of poverty, and has risen to a fair height in both fame and fortune. When he had made some progress in the accumulation of property, and was standing well in society, he thought favorably of taking a wife. some there were of the gay and fashionable circles, and some who were wealthy, among the ladies, whom he flattered himself that he could win; but being interested with a beautiful child 13 years old, Eunice A. Stevens, the daughter of William and Delilah Stevens, who lived far back in the lowest of poverty, he took pleasure in providing her with nice clothing and furnishing her with books for intellectual culture. She bore the appellation of "The Rustic Angel" and "Lacy's Gypsy Princess" until 1872 at which time she had reached her 14th year; and on the 8th day of November, of that year, in the presence of a pleasant circle of friends at Lapeer, Mich., he married her. She was arrayed like a princess on the occasion, much to the admiration of those present, but greatly to the contempt of many who envied her. Eunice A., nee Stevens, the wife of Francis D. Lacy, was born on the 28th day of October, 1858. On the 19th day of August, 1874, she gave birth to her first child. Lately before this ordeal, they moved from near Lapeer to Nirvana, and it is thought her fatigue proved fatal to the child: it lived but 12 hours. His name was entered upon the family register as Herbert Emmanuel. Arthur Jay, the second son, was born Sept. 30, 1876; Rollo Guy was born Jan. 27, 1879; Plato Ray, April 17, 1881; and Florence May, March 17, 1884. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/lacy1005gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 8.3 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....McIlwain, William J. May 12, 1849 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 5:57 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago William J. McIlwain, farmer, located on section 26, Evart Township, was born May 12, 1849, in Newton-Hamilton, County Armagh, Ireland. His father Isaac McIlwain, was a native of the same county and married Margaret Scott. she died April 12, 1862, and was about 50 years of age when her decease occurred. The senior McIlwain is stil a resident of the Green Isle, and is 62 years old. Mr. McIlwain, of this sketch, landed at the port of New York, May 21, 1873. After a delay of one week, he came to Evart, where he arrived May 28. His first employment was as a clerk in the store of Mark Ardis. He afterwards formed a partnership with his employer, which continued two years. After their dissolution he resumed his former relation as salesman, in which he still continues. In 1877 he bought his farm, with only five acres uner culture. the place is now in fine condition, with 70 acres under the plow and with excellent farm buildings of all varieties necessary to a high order of agriculture. He was married Sept. 19, 1876, to Ida M. Wightman. They have had five children: Mary M. was born July 4, 1877; George J., July 3, 1878; Maggie E., July 19, 1882; William Joseph, June 5, 1883, and Allie Louise, June 23, 1884. Once child is deceased. Mrs. McIlwain is the daughter of George R. and Mary (Crandall) Wightman, who were born in Homer, Courtland Co., N.Y. Her father was born Oct. 18, 1808. He is a physician by profession, and is now resident at Wayland, Allegan Co., Mich. Her mother was born Aug. 31, 1815, and died June 17, 1883, in Evart. They had 12 children. Mrs. McIlwain was born Sept. 22, 1855, in Galesburg, Kalamazoo Co., Mich. The brothers and sisters of Mr. McIlwain are George, James, John, Mary, Jane and Samuel. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/mcilwain1004gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 2.5 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Pierson, Thomas P. December 11, 1856 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 5:56 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago Thomas P. Pierson, farmer, section 29, Hersey Township, was born Dec. 11, 1856, in Pierson Township, Montcalm Co., Mich. His father, George M. Pierson, was born in Naples, Ontario Co., N.Y., has been a carpenter most of his life, and is also a farmer. He came in early life ot Michigan and married Nancy E. Peck, a native of the Empire State. The parents yet reside in Pierson. Mr. Pierson remained under the guidance of his father until he was of age, when he obtained employment in a shingle-mill, continuing in that occupation six years in various parts of the State. In 1883 he took possession of the farm which has since been his field of operation. About five acres were under improvement at the time of his purchase, and he has cleared 17 acres, built a frame house, and by his vigorous industry is fast putting his affairs into prosperous condition. He is a Democrat in political views and relations. He was married May 6, 1883, to Martha Jacobus, who was born Feb. 22, 1862. She has two brothers and two sisters and a half-brother - Frank E., George E., Elizabeth, Minnie E. and Warren. Her father, Edward Jacobus, resides at Vistula, Ind., where her mother Christina (Daun) Jacobus died, July 26, 1871. Additional Comments: 1884 Portrait & Bio Album of Osceola Co. Chapman Brothers, Chicago File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/pierson1003gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 2.0 Kb

Osceola County MI Archives Biographies.....Clark, Oliver August 28, 1848 - ************************************************ Copyright. All rights reserved. http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/copyright.htm http://www.rootsweb.com/~usgenweb/mi/mifiles.htm ************************************************ File contributed for use in USGenWeb Archives by: Jan Cortez http://www.rootsweb.com/~archreg/vols/00020.html#0004939 January 16, 2008, 5:55 pm Author: Chapman Brothers, Chicago Oliver Clark, farmer, section 30, Middle Branch Township, was born Aug. 28, 1848, in Tiffin, Seneca Co., Ohio. His parents, Thomas and Mary Clark, are natives of the Buckeye State and removed from Seneca County to Hardin County in the same State in 1851. They have been farmers all their lives and have reached advanced age. Mr. Clark was three years old when his parents located in Hardin County. He obtained his education in the common schools, and worked on his father's farm until he was 17 years of age. His first independent action was his enrollment in the military service of the United States. He enlisted Aug. 23, 1864, in the 180th Ohio Vol. Inf., Co. A., Captain Howell, the regiment being commanded by Colonel Warner. After six months he was seized with illness, and was assigned to the hospital at Newbern, N.C. A month later he was transferred to the hospital on David's Island, New York Harbor, where he was discharged in June 1865. After his return to Ohio he remained a year with his parents, and afterwards was occupied at various points as a farm laborer, until he was married. In 1867, the year following that event, he made a homestead claim in Middle Branch Township, securing 140 acres of land. At that date this section of Osceola County was wholly unsettled; not a road had been built nor a tree cut. He had hardly settled in his new home when his house and its contents were burned. He again erected a log house, and with his wife and child managed to obtain the barest livlihood. there was no work to be had. Swamp hay was $40 per ton, and could not be afforded even for a bed, and they slept on hemlock boughs. The famous salt famine of Northern Michigan occurred at this time, and the family were destitute of that sanitary article for seven weeks. Many other necessities were equally scarce, and their only food for nearly a year was potatoes, eaten from a borrowed tin plate! A barrel of salt, the first brought in, by a man named David Shadley, was sold in the vicinity for $18. The wife worked during the winter of 1868, and earned the money to buy their first cow. Mr. Clark is still the owner of the first purchase of land he made in the township, and of 160 additional acres. He has 150 acres under excellent improvements and supplied with good and necessary farm buildings. He is a Republican of fixed and earnest principles, has been Township Clerk two years, and has held various other official positions. He was first married Sept. 24, 1867, in Hardin Co., Ohio, to Lydia E. Connor. She was born in the same county and there grew to womanhood. She died in the hospital for the Insane at Kalamazoo, Mich., leaving three children, - JOhn W., Thosia B. and Byron L. Mr. Clark was again married Oct. 23, 1877, in MIddle Branch Township, to Agnes Mitchell. She ws born July 3, 1858, in Bruce Co., Ont., and is the daughter of Joseph and Mary A. (Kingshott) Mitchell. Her parents were born respectively in England and Ontario, and are both of English parentage. They reside on section 4, Middle Branch Township. File at: http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb/mi/osceola/bios/clark1002gbs.txt This file has been created by a form at http://www.genrecords.org/mifiles/ File size: 3.8 Kb