Ingrouille

Peter T. Ingrouille
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson.  Copyright October 2011)

Peter T. Ingrouille
(Photo courtesy of Shirley Ingrouille Mandernack, 2015)

Peter Ingrouille
Mr. Peter Ingrouille, (Sr.) died at the home of his son on Wednesday February 19, 1908 after a short illness of typhoid pneumonia.  Mr. Ingrouille was born on the isle of Guernsey, January 1, 1840.  He was united in marriage to Miss Louisa Dorey in 1867,  whose death occurred March 1, 1900.
In April 19, 1870 they came to this country and settled on the farm where they lived until their death.  The deceased was an industrious man, highly honored and respected by all who knew him.  He leaves one son, and two grandsons to Mourn his departure.  The funeral services were held from his home Saturday afternoon, conducted by Rev. Woodrow of the Methodist Church.  A large concourse of friends followed the remains to their last resting place in Oakwood Cemetery.
(Source:  Racine Journal Times, February 25, 1908)

Louisa Ingrouille, wife of Peter
Oakwood Cemetery

Ervin W. Ingrouille
Oakwood Cemetery

Ervin W. Ingrouille
Passed away in St. Catherine's Hospital, Kenosha on Feb. 28, 1972 at the age of 74.  He had been hospitalized as the result of an auto accident.  Mr. Ingrouille was born in Somers Township on Sept. 27, 1897 and had been a lifetime resident of the Racine-Kenosha area.  He was employed at the Dumore Co. for many years and had been employed at Massey-Ferguson, Inc. before his retirement in 1962.  He was a member of the Somers Golden Agers.  On Nov. 9, 1918 he was united in marriage to the former Marie Rasmussen who survives him along with three sons and daughters-ion-law.  Gerald and Olive Ingrouille of Racine; Robert and Betty Ingrouille, Edward and Joanne Ingrouille; daughter and son-in-law, Shirley and Ralph Mandernack, all of Kenosha; 12 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren; brother Clifford Ingrouille of Chicago; sister-in-law Mrs. La Verne Sears of Bristol, Wis. and one niece.  Burial at Oakwood Cemetery, Somers.
(Source:  Racine Journal)

Charles P. Ingrouille
Oakwood Cemetery

Annie C. Ingrouille
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson.  Copyright October 2011)



Annie C. (Mrs. Peter) Ingrouille
Mrs. Peter Ingrouille (Jr.) died at her home in Somers at one o'clock Thursday afternoon after a long illness due to lung trouble.  The deceased was born on August 23, 1874, and at the time of her death she was in the thirty-ninth year of her age.  A husband, three sons, and one brother are left to mourn her death.  The funeral services took place from the house on Saturday morning, conducted by Rev. G.C. Lacy, pastor of the Somers Methodist Church.
"We miss thee from our home, dear mother
We miss thee from thy place,
A shadow o'er our life is cast,
We miss the sunshine of thy face.
We miss thy kind and willing hand,
Thy fond and earnest care,
Our home is dark without thee.
We miss thee everywhere."
(Source:  Racine Journal Times, publication Feb. 25, 1913)

Robert L., Gerald, and Clifford Ingroiville
"Staff Sgt. Robert L. Ingroiville, top turret gunner on a Liberator bomber in the third bombardment wing, has been awarded his third oak leaf cluster for his air medal as a result of his participation in attacks on Germany.  The son of Mr. and Mrs. Erwin Ingroiville of Somers Township, Sgt. Ingroiville enlisted a year and a half ago, took his basic training at Ft. Meyers, Florida, and at camps in Colorado and California.  He went overseas in April of this year.
A brother, Gerald, in the Infantry, is training in a Georgia camp.
An uncle of the two  Somers soldiers, Clifford Ingroiville, who enlisted two years ago from Somers, is serving in Burma-India.  He has been in that theater of the war since two months after his enlistment."
(Source:  October 20, 1944 - acknowledge last name is spelled incorrect in news article)


The Ingrouille Family
Written by Shirley Ingrouille Mandernack
August 17, 2014 for the Somers Community Church's 175th Anniversary – Cemetery Walk at Oakwood Cemetery

INGROUILLE – An early Somers pioneer family
I've learned that my great grandparents, Peter T. & Louisa Ingrouille, and their son came to the U.S. In 1868 (1870?) from the Isle of Guernsey, one of the Channel islands off the coast of England. At the time, my grandfather, also named Peter T. Ingrouille, was just 2 years old. When they arrived, they came to Somers and first lived with the William Anderson family (he was also from Guernsey) and ended up purchasing land in an area of Somers where several other families from Guernsey also settled – the Corbetts, Andersons, Bishers and Ozannes, among others. I believe most made their living as farmers. My grandfather was married to Anna Abresch and was a blacksmith. He probably learned his trade by apprenticing with his friend, William Anderson, who was already an established blacksmith shop at another Somers location. I still remember the stone foundation of the shop next to the road (Green Bay Road) in front of the old farmhouse. That's all that was left of the building by the time my family moved from Racine to the Somers property in the early 40s. Grandpa had a stroke and died in the winter of 1936, a very bad winter that year. The snow was as high as the electric poles and he had to be taken by horse and sleigh into Racine where the ambulance met them. Red Mueller has told me that, when he was a young kid, he used to love going to my grandpa's blacksmith shop just to sit and listen to the farmers gathered around the stove just talking (and gossiping??) among themselves.

Since all of my grandparents were deceased by the time I was born, I know very few details about their early lives. I did know my two uncles, Charles and Clifford Ingrouille, and, of course, my dad, Ervin. Dad married Marie Rassmussen and they had 4 children, my 3 older brothers and me. Two of my brothers, both WW II vets, are buried here in Oakwood—Bob just a little SE of where we are now and Jerry on the south side of the road and a bit east of here. Uncle Charlie, a bachelor, lived with my grandparents on the farm until both my grandmother, Louisa, and my grandfather had died. My parents ended up buying the farm from the uncles and that's when my family moved to Somers. Cliff, however, had other ideas. No farming for him! He became a mortician and worked in Racine, Chicago and probably many ports in between!. He was overseas in WW II and retired in Minneapolis, dying in his early 90s.

The Ingrouille Family
Peter Thomas Ingrouille (born 1840) & wife, Louise Dorey and their son,, Peter T. Ingrouille, II, (born 1867) came to the USA in 1870 from the Isle of Guernsey, one of the Channel islands off the coast of England. The elder Ingrouille purchased a small plot of land in an area in Somers where several other families from Guernsey had located and, like most of them, he farmed his land. His son, Peter, married Anna Abresch and became a blacksmith. His shop was located on what is now “Old Green Bay Road,” just north of Petrifying Springs Park. They, in turn, had three sons—Charles, Ervin and Clifford. Ervin married Marie Rasmussen in 1918, they lived and worked in Racine and had three sons and one daughter—Gerald, Robert, Ed and Shirley. Two of the three sons are also buried here in Oakwood. When both parents had passed, my father, Ervin, bought the house and farm from his brothers and my family moved to Somers, and I have lived here ever since.

Burgess, William and Jane Leet Burgess

Amanda Foster Burgess (widow of Benjamin Burgess who is father of William E. Burgess)
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township
(Source: Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson. Copyright October 2011)
 

William E. Burgess and Jane Leet Burgess
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township
(Source:  Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson.  Copyright October 2011)



 

William Everington Burgess
William Everington Burgess is a prominent farmer of Somers Township, residing on Section 8, and a worthy representative of one of the pioneer families of Kenosha County, the history of which would be incomplete without this mention.  Our subject was born in Erie County, New York, May 2, 1830.  The family is of English descent and was probably founded in America in early Colonial days, for the grandfather of our subject was a native of New England.
Benjamin Burgess, father of William, was born in Vermont, and when a young man went to New York.  He was twice married, his second union being with Amanda Foster, a native of the Empire State and a daughter of Alfred Foster, a mechanic and well-known citizen of the community in which he resided.  After a few years' residence in Erie County, New York, Mr. Burgess removed to Oswego County, where he was engaged in the milling business, and manufacture of lumber for a number of years.  Alfred Foster came to Wisconsin in 1835, to make locations for friends, and finally took up his residence in Kenosha County, where he resided until his death.  Benjamin Burgess and his family followed him in 1836.  They started in the month of February with teams and sleighs, and from Michigan continued to journey with wagons, at length arriving in the Town of Southport, now known as Kenosha, on the 9th of March.  He made a location in what is now the Town of Somers, where he took a claim and built a mill engaging in the manufacture of lumber.  The family endured much exposure, suffered from sickness and many privations came upon them during the first year.  They had to live in covered wagons ere their cabin could be built.  As a result of this exposure, Mr. Burgess died after two years, in March, 1837.  His widow then carried on the business and when the land came into market paid for the same.  She reared her family and lived to an advanced age.  She passed away in 1887, when in her eighty-eighth year.  In the family were two sons and two daughters.  Martha is the deceased wife of Charles Ticknor, of Racine; Belinda married Thomas Dow, of Racine; and Cyrus, a sailor on the lakes, met his death by drowning.
William E. Burgess, the eldest of the family, during his boyhood aided his mother in carrying on the farm, and as soon as old enough worked out as a farm hand, his earnings going toward the support of the family.  His educational advantages were necessarily very limited and after he was grown, he spent one year in the Kenosha High School, under Prof. Harvey, afterward Governor.  One of his first ventures was in the milling business, and he engaged in the manufacture of lumber for several years.  In the meantime he was married in Kenosha County, October 17, 1850 to Miss Jane R. Leet, daughter of Charles Leet, a pioneer, who aided in the development upbuilding of Kenosha County.  She was born in Delphi, New York, and during her girlhood, came to Wisconsin in 1837.
When Mr. Burgess relinquished the milling business, he bought one hundred and sixty acres of land on which Somers Station is now located, and in the three succeeding years, placed it under a high state of cultivation.  He then returned to the mill, having charge of that business for two years, after which he bought another farm.  It was operated by Mr. Burgess for two years, and he then sold it and bought an eighty-acre tract of timber land upon which he made his home for a similar period.  Having cleared and improved it, he sold at an advance of $36 on the acre, thus realizing a handsome profit on his investment.  In 1870 he bought the farm which is now his home, fenced it, and has made the well-tilled fields yield him a golden tribute.  This farm comprising two hundred and twenty acres is a valuable one, pleasantly situated about a mile from Somers Station.
In 1872 and 1873 Mr. Burgess traveled for J.I. Case & Co. making sales and showing how to operate machines, where an experienced man was needed for that purpose.   Since that time, he has devoted his energies chiefly to agricultural pursuits.
Since attaining the majority, Mr. Burgess has strenuously upheld the principles of the Republican party and has frequently served as delegate to the county conventions, his opinions being much sought for in the councils of the party.  He has been honored with a number of official positions, having served as Assessor of Somers Township for fifteen consecutive years, was also Town Treasurer, and is not a member of the Board of Supervisors.  These offices have been conferred upon him unsought, and their duties have ever been discharged with promptness and fidelity.  He has also been officially connected with the schools of the community and has done much for the cause of education.
Mrs. Burgess departed this life on the 3d of June 1891.  She was a most estimable lady of noble Christian character, and was an active worker and consistent member of the Presbyterian Church.  She also belonged to the Woman's Christian Temperance Union.  For over forty years she proved herself a true and faithful helpmate to her husband and was a friend to all those in need of the aid which she could bestow.  The family numbered ten children - Mary, wife of Dr. Frank Cogswell, of Oaksdale, Washington; Emma, wife of Charles Buswell, of Lewiston, Minnestoa; Virginia, who keeps house for her father; Charles, who is married and follows farming in the Town of Bristol; Edwin C., who is married and engaged in business in Momence, Illinois; George, who aids in the operation of the home farm; William E., who is engaged in business in Chicago; Hattie, Burdette and Robert, all at home.
Mr. Burgess commenced life a poor boy.  He is both a self-educated and self-made man financially.  By his own labors and enterprise he has accumulated a large and valuable property and has aided his children in obtaining homes.  He is now, practically, living a retired life, his sons having relieved him of the care of the farm.  For more than half a century he has been a resident of Kenosha county, where he is regarded as a valued citizen.  He is a man of unblemished character and sterling worth, social and genial in manner, and his friends throughout the community are many.  At his hospitable home they delight to gather to do him honor and share in the good will and kindly cheer ever extended to the guests of the Burgess household."
(Portrait and Biographical Album of Racine and Kenosha Counties, Lake City Publishing Co., 1892, Chicago).

William E. Burgess
Again the death angel has entered and taken from our midst one of our pioneer citizens.  William E. Burgess, age 73 years, departed this life April 9, 1903 after a long illness from lung trouble.  The deceased was a man who was honored and respected by all who knew him.  In 1836, he with his parents came to Wisconsin.  Oct. 17, 1850 he was united in marriage to Miss Jane Leet.  Eleven children were born to them, of which number ten survive.  Mrs. Frank Cogswell and Charles of Salem; Mrs. Charles Buswell of Winona, Minn; Edward, William and Burdette of Chicago; Mrs. Clayton Rease of Portersville, Cal.; Jennie, George and Robert of Somers.  Mrs. Burgess died June 3, 1891.  The family have the sympathy of the entire community in this their hour of sadness.  The funeral services were held from the Methodist Church Saturday afternoon, conducted by the Rev. Stockham.  Internment at Oakwood Cemetery. (Source:  Racine Daily, April 17, 1903)

Additional information about the Burgess - DeLong family
Horace R. DeLong was born on June 20, 1837 in Utica, New York.  He came to Wisconsin with his parents in 1838.  Horace married Mary Rease, daughter of Peter Rease, on October 13, 1861.  They had 4 children.  The DeLong family settled at Kellogg's Corners in Section 6, of Somers Township, facing County Line Road.  Mary (Rease) DeLong died in Chicago, Illinois on Feb 14, 1927.  She is buried at Graceland Cemetery, Racine, by her son J. Edwin DeLong.  It is not known where or when Horace died.
Children of Horace and Mary:
Carrie DeLong born August 16, 1862 in Mt. Pleasant Township, married William E. Burgess, the son of William E. and Jane Leet Burgess, on December , 1891; died Dec. 8, 1941, buried in Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin.
James Edwin DeLong, buried at Graceland Cemetery, Racine.
Willard DeLong, died June 1870
Alton B. DeLong, buried at Graceland Cemetery, Racine.
(Source:   Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and Sylvania Cemetery Trustees)

William E. Burgess
William E. Burgess, a farmer in Section 8 of Somers Township, was born in Oswego County, New York in 1830.  His father, Benagh Burgess was a native of Vermont who came to what is now Kenosha County in 1836, and engaged in business in a saw-mill located on the Pike River in what is now the Town of Somers, in which business he engaged until his death, in the spring of 1838.  At an early age, William entered the milling business, which he followed up to 1850, when he went to farming, in which he is at present occupied.  Mr. William Burgess has been Assessor of the Town of Somers for the past two years, and held the office of Town Treasurer.  He married in the town of Somers, in 1850, Miss Jane Leet, a native of the State of New York, and a daughter of one of Kenosha County's earliest settlers, Mr. Charles Leet, who died in Somers Feb. 11, 1874.  Mr. William Burgess has ten children living:
Mary A. born August 5, 1851
Martha E., October 30, 1852
Virginia L. March 11, 1855
Charles, March 15, 1857
Cyrus E., August 23, 1859
George F., January 23, 1861
William E., October 29, 1865
Hattie J., March 9, 1868
Burdett H., November 9, 1870
Robert C., May 9, 1873
Della, April 25, 1863 (died June 27, 1863).
Mr. Burgess' mother, Amanda Burgess, formerly Miss Foster, is still living; she was born in the State of New York in 1799; her father, Mr. Alfred Foster, was one of Kenosha's first settlers, having been one of the exploring party who came to Wisconsin in 1835; he built the first saw-mill in what is now Kenosha County.  Mr. Burgess is owner of 247 acres of land.
(Source:  The History of Racine and Kenosha Counties, Chicago, Western Historical Company, 1879)

Della Burgess, infant daughter of Willim E. Burgess
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin
 

George F. Burgess, son of William E. Burgess
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin

Virginia Burgess, daughter of William E. Burgess
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin

1877 Partial Map of Somers Township
Section 8
W.E. Burgess parcel

Ozanne, Abraham



Abraham Ozanne
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Larry and Linda Kopet, USGENWebArchive, Wisconsin)

Abraham Ozanne
The community was greatly startled on Tuesday  morning on hearing that Abraham Ozanne had died very suddenly at his home southwest of the village.  It was thought that he had completely recovered from a recent illness, as he went about his work as usual, not complaining at all of not feeling well.  He arose early that morning and after eating his breakfast went out as usual about his work.  He was found a few moments later in an unconscious condition.  Dr. Valentine was quickly summoned, but the patient was beyond medical skill and passed away without regaining consciousness.  The deceased was a native of the Isle of Guernsey, where he was born May 21, 1822, and emigrated to America about the year 1848, which entitled him to be considered as one of the pioneer residents of Somers.  He was a member of the Episcopal Church and a devout Christian.  Having a great fondness for good literature he kept his home supplied at all times with books and papers of the choicest reading.  Mrs. Ozanne's death occurred a few years ago.  Four children being born to them three of whom are living, as follows:   Mrs. Emery Bush of Somers, Mrs. Henry Uhlenberg of Kenosha and Louisa, who is at home.  The funeral services were held on Friday afternoon and were conducted by Rev. W.W. Gray of the M.E. Church.
(Source: Racine Journal Times, publication March 22, 1899)

Lavinia Ozanne Uhlenberg Obituary
Somers Woman Heart Victim.  Daughter of Prominent Kenosha County Pioneer Dies.
"A heart ailment which followed closely an attack of pneumonia early this morning caused the death of Mrs. Lavinia Ozanne Uhlenberg, 69, Town of Somers resident.  Mrs. Uhlenberg had been ill but a few days and was apparently on the road to recovery when the heart attack which proved fatal came.
The deceased was a daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Abram Ozanne, pioneers of Kenosha County.  She was born in Somers Township on April 16, 1863, and was united in marriage to Henry Uhlenberg on June 12, 1886.  Her husband preceded her in death by five years.
Mrs. Uhlenberg had been affiliated with the Methodist Church and active in its affairs for many years.  For the past 38 years, she has maintained her own home as a charitable residence for orphaned Kenosha County children.  She lived her entire life, with the exception of a brief residence in the City of Kenosha, in the Town of Somers.
The deceased is survived by three daughters, Miss Ida Uhlenberg and Mrs. Evelyn Nelson, both of Somers; and Mrs. Marjorie Everett, Town of Paris.  An adopted son, Carl Uhlenberg, of this city, also survives her.
Other survivors are three sisters, Mrs. Amelia Bush and Mrs. Louise Pedersen of Somers; Mrs. Sophia Bush, Racine; and eight grandchildren.
Arrangements for the funeral services will be announced at a later date.  The remains have been taken to the Hansen Funeral Home."
(Source: Racine Journal December 6, 1932)

Gould

Bernice Gould
daughter of  Myron and Adaline Heidersdorf Gould and grand-daughter of  Amon R. and Laura Gould
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Larry & Linda Kopet, US GENWEb Archives, Wisconsin)

Amon T. Gould
Amon T. Gould was born in New York about October 13, 1830. He came first to Kenosha, where he worked several years as a carriage builder, blacksmith, and horseshoer. Later he came to Kellogg's Corners where he was a blacksmith on the south side of Racine-Kenosha County Line, just east of Highway 41 or Highway I-94. He married Laura B. Baker, daughter of Elisha and Adaline (Bailey) Baker. She was born about July 1, 1833, in Cayuga County, New York.  Amon T. Gould was very active in the community and church affairs. The Post Office for the area was located in a corner of his blacksmith shop. He was Sunday School Superintendent for the Kellogg's corners M.E. Church for many years. They had seven children. Laura Gould died June 6, 1896 and Amon T. Gould on March 15, 1899. They are buried at Sylvania Cemetery. Known children:

Frances Ella (Fannie) Gould - born about 1854 in Kenosha County. She married John Mitchell in Kenosha County on December 31, 1874 and they lived in Somers.

Ervin H. Gould - buried in Sylvania Cemetery.

Catherine A. Gould (Kittie) born about 1860 in Kenosha County. She married Fred W. leonard and they lived in Bristol, Kenosha County, Wisconsin

Myron A. Gould was born on June 25, 1864 in Somers Township and he married Adeline Heidersdorf, daughter of Christian Heidersdorf, on July 4, 1888. One of their four children, Bernice, died in infancy in 1926 and was buried in Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin.

Warren Elijah Gould - born about 1865 in Somers Township, died in Racine County on October 30, 1919.

Maurice LeRoy Gould was born about 1867 in Somers Township, married Lucelia Davis, daughter of Jason Davis, on April 6, 1887, lived in LaCrosse, Wisconsin.
(Source: Mary Ann Culshaw Falk and Sylvania Cemetery Trustees. Copyright 1991.)

Adeline Gould
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Larry & Linda Kopet USGENWebWisconsin)

Adeline Heidersdorf Gould
Adeline Gould, age 85, passed away Thursday morning, Feb 18th in the Milwaukee Hospital after a long illness.  Mrs. Gould is the daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Christian Heidersdorf.  She was born in Somers Township September 3, 1868 and had been a lifelong resident.  On July 4, 1888 she was married to Myron A. Gould who preceded her in death on April 30, 1926.  Surviving is one daughter, Mrs. Otto C. Tabbert of Milwaukee and one brother, John Heidersdorf of Somers, one sister, Mrs. Minnie Woodward of Racine.  Burial at Oakwood Cemetery.
(Source:  Racine Journal News, publication date February 19, 1954)

L. Jay Gould
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet, USGENWEBArchivesWisconsin)

About Jay Gould
"Jay Gould, age 60, passed away July 15, 1950 at the Kenosha Hospital.  He was born in Somers, Wisconsin September 9, 1889.  Mr. Gould was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Myron Gould.  He had operated a garage in Somers for many years, later becoming associated with the Greiner Nash Co. and the Sheridan Road Garage Co. both of Kenosha.  He was a member of the Masonic Lodge No. 47 F. & A.M.  Surviving are one daughter, Carmen of Burbank, Calif., his mother, Mrs. Myron Gould of Milwaukee; one sister, Mrs. Otto C. Tabbert of Milwaukee.  Funeral services will be held at Hansen Funeral Home in Kenosha.  Burial will be in the Oakwood Cemetery in Somers, Wisconsin.
(Source:  Racine Journal, July 17, 1950)

Max A. Gould
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet, USGENWEBArchivesWisconsin)

Myron A. Gould
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet, USGENWEBArchivesWisconsin)

Myron A. Gould
Myron A. Gould, who conducts a blacksmith and wagon making business at Somers Station, Kenosha County, was born June 25, 1864, in the Somers Township, son of Amon and Laura B. (Baker) Gould, natives of the State of New York.  Of their seven children, the survivors are:
Frances, wife of John Mitchell of Somers,
Kittie, wife of Fred Leonard of Bristol,
Myron A., of Somers Station,
Warren E. of Woodstock, Illinois,
Maurice A. of LaCross, Wisconsin.
Amon T. Gould was a carriage builder in young manhood, later a blacksmith and horse-shoer in Kenosha, where he was an early settler, coming immediately after his marriage.  He worked for some years at Kenosha, and then came to Somers Township where he built a shop and carried on all lines of his trade up to within two years of his death.  He was considered a man of skill and reliability, and farmers and purchasers would come miles out of their way in order to deal with him.  He lived until 1900, dying at the age of 67 years, his wife having passed away in the previous year at the age of 64.  They were Methodists in religious belief.  The paternal grandfather of our subject died in New York when 100 years old.  He was twice married and left issue from both marriages.  Elisha Baker, the maternal grandfather was also an early settler in Kenosha County.
Myron A. Gould was reared in Somers and was educated in the district schools.  When about 15 years of age he began learning his trade with his father, working in the summer seasons and going to school in the winters.  He thus acquired a very good knowledge of the business, and by the time he was ready to marry, was able to establish himself at Somers Station, where he owns his shop and a very comfortable home.
On July 4, 1888, Mr. Gould was married to Miss Addie Heidersdorf, daughter of Christian and Margaret (Meyers) Heidersdorf.  The parents of Mrs. Gould were born in Germany and they had five sons and five daughters:
William,
Christian,
Frank,
Fannie
Margaret of Paris Township, widow of William Coughlin,
Addie, Mrs. Gould
Hattie (twin to Mrs. Gould), wife of Frank Holmes of Yorkville township,
Minnie, Henry and John, still home.
The father came to America and settled as a farmer in Yorkville Township, where he died in 1874.  His widow still survives, and lives on the old homestead in Paris Township.  The paternal grandfather of Mrs. Gould, Conrad Heidersdorf, lived and died in Germany, his children being:
Christian,
William,
Fannie,
Eliza, the latter the widow of Jacob Barnes of Union Grove, Wisconsin.
The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Gould lived his whole life in Germany, married and became the father of four children, the three survivors being:
Margaret, mother of Mrs. Gould,
Jacob and Peter, both of Racine.
Mrs. and Mrs. Gould have had four children:
Loren Jay,
Max A.,
Gladys,
Bernice, the latter of whom died in infancy.
Polically Mr. Gould supports the Republican ticket.  He is a member of the fraternal order of Modern Woodmen Assoc. 
(Source:  Biographical Records of Racine and Kenosha Counties, J.H. Beers & Co., 1906)

"Max Gould has accepted a position with the Morrow Dredge Co., Hebron, Indiana.
(Source:  Racine Journal, Oct. 27, 1910)

Gascoigne

Hazel Gascoigne
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  USGENWEBArchives-Wisconsin. Photo by Larry and Lina Kopet)



Hazel Gascoigne
Hazel Gascoigne, daughter of Mrs. Annie Gascoigne, died at an early hour Saturday morning after a few hours' illness, aged four years.  The funeral services were held from the home of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Gascoigne on Monday morning, conducted by the Rev. Nathan.  Interment at the family plot in Oakwood.  The bereaved mother and brothers have the sympathy of the community in this their hour of sorrow.
(Source:  Racine Journal, April 27, 1912)

Mrs. Julia Gascoigne

82, died at Kenosha Hospital yesterday afternoon following a five-week illness.  The daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. George Breckenfield, she was born in Racine September 25, 1877.

She spent her early life and received her education in Racine and moved to Somers Township in 1899.  She came to Kenosha to make her home in 1914.  On June 20, 1899, she married Thomas W. Gascoigne, who preceded her in death on February 16, 1943.  (Kenosha News date of publication October 8, 1959)

Everett T. Gascoigne

76, Friendship, Wisconsin, died October 2, 1976, at the Adams County Hospital Saturday morning following a long illness.  Born in Somers on July 12, 1900, he was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Thomas (Julia) Gascoigne.  On April 17, 1926 he married Florence F. Fogarty.  He operated Gascoigne Garage from 1926-1941.  Brother, Dr. Clarence Gascoigne, Bradenton, Florida.

Florence Gascoigne (wife of Everett). 75, died at Shady Lawn West Nursing Home.  The daughter of the late William and Amelia (Roloff) Fogarty, she was born on March 13, 1904, at Chippewa Fall, Wisconsin.  She first came to Kenosha in 1917, left in 1967, and returned in 1978.  On April 17, 1926, she married Everett T. Gascoigne.  He preceded her in death October 2, 1976.

Dr. Clarence Gascoigne, of Bradenton, Florida, died May 5, 1979 in Adrian, Michigan.  He was born in Somers Township on September 20, 1904, the son of the late Thomas and Julia Gascoigne.  He graduated from Marquette Medical School in 1932.  He practiced in Kenosha before becoming company doctor for Kohler Co., Kohler, Wisconsin where he worked until his retirement.  Survivors include his wife Florence, sons Dr. Richard Gascoigne of Adrian, Michigan and Dr. James Gascoigne, Tuscaloosa, Alabama.  He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Everett.

Ozanne, Ward and Ida

Ward and Ida Ozanne
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson.  Copyright October 2011)

About Mrs. Ida (Reed) Ozanne
Address: 5021 30th Avenue, Kenosha, Wis.
Age 84. Passed away June 22, 1966 in the Brookside Nursing Home, Kenosha, following a long illness. Mrs. Ozanne was born in Peshtigo, Wisconsin on June 17, 1882. She was a resident of Racine, farming in Somers, until 1960 when she moved to Kenosha.
In January 1908, she was married to Ward Ozanne in Racine, who preceded her in death in March, 1960. Mrs. Ozanne was a member of the Royal Neighbors of America. Surviving are three sons, Dalton of Holister, Calif., Ward Jr. of Somers, and Donald E. of Rockford, Ill.; one daughter, Mrs. Sam (Alice) Valeo of Kenosha; seven grandchildren; one great-grand child. A son, Paul, also preceded her in death. Funeral services will be held Saturday, June 25. Interment in Oakwood Cemetery, Somers. (Source: Racine Journal Times, publication June 23, 1966)

Birch, William R.

William R. Birch
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson.  Copyright October 2011)

Wm. Birch
(Source:  Photo courtesy of Jim and Sharon Bose Smith.  Copyright 2012.  All Rights Reserved.)

William R. Birch
Somers Township, age 80, passed away this morning at St. Catherine's Hospital, Kenosha, following a long illness.  Mr. Birch was born in Somers, March 17, 1888, son of the late Mr. and Mrs. William R. Birch.  During World War I he had served in the U.S. Army.  For many years he had farmed in Somers Township.  Two brothers, Chris and Frank Birch, survive.
Funeral services will be held Saturday at the Hansen Funeral Home.  Burial will be in Oakwood Cemetery, Somers. (Source:  Racine Journal Times, publication May 13, 1948)


Military Documentation (Thank you to Dominic Cariello)
The 12 AM TN 12 DIV is the unit that PVT Birch served with. It is the 12th Ammunition Train of the 12th Field Artillery Brigade of the 12th Division. This unit was never deployed. PVT Birch was drafted and served……..but never went over to fight.

The unit information is as follows:

Twelfth, 12th Division Nickname: Plymouth Division
23rd, 24th, Infantry (Inf.)
12th Artillery (Art.)
34th, 36th Machine Gun (M. G.)
212th Engineers (Eng.)

Generals Commanding: Major - General Henry P. McCain (Aug. 20, 1918 - Jan. 31, 1919, from formation to disbandment)
Other Commanders: 23rd Infantry Brigade Commander: Brigadier - General John N. Hodges; 24th Infantry Brigade Commander: Brigadier - General John E. Woodward; 12th Field Artillery Brigade Commander: Brigadier - General G. R. Allen.
Sources:
Roster, Plymouth (12th) Division, Camp Devens, Massachusetts, November 30, 1918
Robinson, W.J.: Forging the Sword, The Story of Camp Devens, The Rumford Press, 1920, pp 115 - 159
Steve Zolla provides the above information on the 12th Division.

Not deployed. War ended.

Shoulder/Sleeve Insignia
12th Ammunition Train

Shoulder/Sleeve Insignia:

12th Field Artillery Brigade
34th Field Artillery
35th Field Artillery
36th Field Artillery
12th Trench Mortar Battery
12th Ammunition Train

More About William Birch, Jr.
William Birch, Jr., one of the best known men of the Town of Somers and formerly actively connected with the management of the Kenosha Pure Milk Company, appeared in the municipal court late Monday afternoon and entered a plea of guilty to charges of forgery. He is a member of one of the old Somers families. In court, Birch told a story of hard luck. More than three months ago, when he was in financial straits, he went to the Merchants and Savings Bank and secured a loan of $250. He signed the note as principal with the name of Edward Witscheber of Somers, his uncle, as surety. When Birch could not pay the loan, it was discovered that Witscheber had never given his consent to the making of the note and in fact, knew nothing about the loan. Birch hoped he would be able to repay the loan. Birch's father, who is one of the most prominent farmers of the town of Somers, was in court and declared his willingness to aid his son out of the financial difficulty and he made a strong plea for his release on parole. Birch is now employed by one of the Kenosha Milk companies and he has given assurance that he will make good all losses in the case."
(Source: Racine Journal Times, publication date Dec. 13, 1916)

Frank Birch, son of William R. Birch

Frank E. Birch, 73, 2108 Birch Road, died at Necedah, Wisconsin, Sunday morning, following a sudden illness while duck hunting.  October 23, 1971.

Born September 30, 1898, in Somers Township, he was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. William R. Birch.  He married Miss Palmyra Degeyter, December 4, 1919.

Mr. Birch was a farmer on the Birch homestead all his life.  He is survived by his wife, a daughter Angeline.  Preceded in death by brothers William and Chris and two sisters Louise and Mrs. Pauline Tennessen.

Yule, William and Mary

William Yule and Mary Yule
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson.  Copyright October 2011)

William Yule
After an illness of but a few days, Mr. Wm. Yule died on Saturday evening at his home in Somers, at the age of 78 years.  The deceased was born in Scotland on December 16, 1816, and in 1840 he left his native land in search of a home in America.  In 1855 he was married to Miss Mary Spence, and lived a few years on a farm in  Illinois which Mr. Yule had purchased.  In September, 1864, they moved to Somers and bought the farm of Mr. Alexander Yule, father of the deceased.  Here they spent many years of their life, where through his untiring efforts and perseverance, Mr. Yule proved himself to be a most successful farmer.  A few years ago they moved to the village, where they have lived ever since.  The deceased was a Christian man and a member of the Presbyterian Church in this place.  A wife and a number of brothers and sisters are left to mourn his death.  The funeral services were held on Monday morning from the church, where a large concourse of friends and relatives assembled to pay their respects to the departed.  Internment in Oakwood Cemetery. (Source:  Racine Weekly Journal, publication date August 8, 1895)

Mrs. Mary Yule
Mrs. Mary Yule, wife of the late William Yule, departed this life Sunday evening, after a lingering illness, aged 81 years. The deceased was a true christian woman, beloved by all who knew her. She leaves a great many relatives and friends to mourn her departure. The funeral services were held from the Presbyterian Church Tuesday afternoon. Internment at Oakwood Cemetery.
(Source: Racine Weekly publication March 21, 1901)

Bishop, Sr, Isaac T. and Lydia

Isaac T. Bishop, Sr. and Lydia J. Clemons Biship
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin
(Source:  Photo courtesy Larry & Linda Kopet US GenWeb Archives Project Wis.)

Isaac T. Bishop
The Hon. Isaac T. Bishop, former Senator from the Third senatorial district of Wisconsin, and one of the best known of the pioneer residents of Kenosha County died at his home in the Town of Somers on Sunday morning at the age of 76 years.  Death followed a long illness due to a general breaking down from advancing age.  Senator Bishop was one of the most widely known residents of this section of the state and he had won distinction as a farmer, as a soldier in the war of the rebellion and as a member of the legislature.  He had also held many offices in his home town and was prominent for years as a political leader among the members of the Republican party.  His most distinguished service for the state was rendered during the two terms he served as a member of the state senate.  During his career in the upper house of the legislature he was the author of many bills to aid the agricultural districts of the state and he held many important committee assignments.

The former senator was a native of Kenosha county.  He was born in the town of Somers June 6, 1844, a son of the late Jacob and Fanny (Potter) Bishop, who were among the earliest pioneers of this section of Wisconsin.  Mrs. Bishop was a direct descendant of Gen. Potter, one of the famous leaders of the American troops in the war of the Revolution.  His father was a political leader and had the distinction of being the first clerk in the school district No. 1 in the Town of Somers.

Senator Bishop was educated in the common schools of his home town and when he completed his school he worked as a clerk in the store of Doan & Hawle.  He remained in the store for a year when he heard the call to service in the Union army and served extensively including the Battle of Port Gibson, Champion’s Hills, and the Siege of Vicksburg.

After he had been honorable discharged from the Union Army he returned to the farm in the town of Somers.  A little later he bought a farm of his own which he cultivated until 1908 when he retired and moved to the village of Somers.  He was one of the organizers of the Home Insurance Company of the town of Somers and he served as secretary of the company for 37 years.

Senator Bishop was recognized as leader of the Republicans in Racine and Kenosha Counties and he had wide influence over the party thought the state.  He was one of the “Old Guard” of the Republicans.  He held many public offices.  He served as Town Treasurer in his home town for 11 years, as a Justice of the Peace for seven years, and for many years he served as a member of the county board serving as chairman of the board for a period of several years.  1906 he was elected as State Senator from the third senatorial district.  He was re-elected for a second term and after he had completed his eight years the senate he declined to be a candidate for re-election.

Senator Bishop had always been a leader in the social life of the town of Somers.  He was united in marriage in November, 1886, to Miss Lydia J. Clemons, a native of Utica, New York.  To this union five children were born and two sons Adelmar A. Bishop, Racine and Benjamin H. Bishop, Racine, survive.  Another son, Edwin S. Bishop , who became a prominent instructor in the University of Chicago, died July 31, 1916.

May 23, 1912 Mrs. Lydia J. Clemons Bishop gently dropped the threads of this earthly existence and peacefully passed to her Heavenly Home after suffering many weeks from a complication of diseases.  She was born in Oswego County, New York, July 3, 1846 and was a daughter of Hosea and Eliza (Wallace) Clemons, who came to this area of Wisconsin.  At the age of sixteen years her mother died, leaving her the oldest daughter in a family of nine children.  Her splendid, unselfish devotion endeared her to the whole family and bears sufficient evidence to the nobility of her character.

(Source:  Racine Journal Times, publication date July 19, 1920)

Isaac Bishop Wedding Announcement (April 8, 1915)

Isaac T. Bishop Civil War History
Isaac T. Bishop has lived in Somers Township all his life.  The outbreak of the Civil War interrupted the quiet current of his life just as it did the thousands of others who answered the call of country in the fateful years of 1861-1864.
On September 9, 1862, Mr. Bishop enlisted under Chief of Police Bradley of Chicago, in Battery B, First Illinois Light Artillery, and was ordered to report to the Battery then located at Memphis, Tenn.  The quota of the Battery having been filled, he enlisted in Company C, 55th Illinois, Vol. Infantry.  During the siege of Vicksburg he was assigned to special duty in the Ordnance Department of the 15th Army Corps.  After the capitulation of Vicksburg, he was transferred to the Post Ordnance Department.  In January 1864, he was assigned to duty in the Ordnance Department, Military Division of the Mississippi, located at Nashville, Tenn., by order of Lieut. Gen. U.S. Grant, where he remained until the close of the War, in May 1865.  He enlisted as a private, and was mustered out as Assistant Ordnance Officer.  Seven days after joining the 55th regiment, he participated in the Battle of Chancellorsville and his regiment soon after went down the Mississippi River to Young's Point, opposite Vicksburg, where in the summer of 1863, they helped to dig the canal which was usually called by the soldiers, "Grant's Ditch," which is destined some day to cut an important figure in navigation.  A force of 25,000 men was engaged for three months in digging this canal.  The object was to cut off and leave Vicksburg an inland town, and the work was in charge of Generals Grant and Sherman.
General Grant then threw his Army across the river to Grand Gulf, where he met General Pemberton in command of the Confederate forces, who fought stubbornly from Grand Gulf to Raymond, and next at Champion Hills, Black River Bridge, ending with the siege of Vicksburg.  Mr. Bishop carried a gun and participated in all of that campaign, and was finally mustered out of the service at Nashville, Tenn.  He returned to his home in Somers Township and again became a farmer with his brother.
(Source:  Commemorative Biographical Record of Racine and Kenosha Counties, J.H. Beers & Co., Chicago 1906)

About Lydia J. Clemons Bishop
The Death Angel has again visited Somers and taken one of our oldest and best known pioneers.  On Thursday afternoon, May 23, 1912., Mrs. Lydia J. Clemons Bishop gently dropped the threads of this earthly existence and peacefully passed to her heavenly Home, after suffering many weeks from a complication of diseases.
Lydia J. Clemons was born in Oswego County, New York, July 3, 1846.  She was a daughter of Hosea and Eliza (Wallace) Clemons, who came to Wisconsin from New York in 1846 and settled in Mt. Pleasant, Racine County, where they lived until their death.  She was a woman of high educational attainments, educated in the common schools and later attending the Racine Kenosha High Schools. 
At the age of sixteen years the mother died leaving her the oldest daughter in a family of nine children.  Her splendid, unselfish devotion endeared her to to the whole family and bears sufficient evidence to the nobility of her character.  November 28, 1866, she was united in marriage to Isaac T. Bishop, who survives her.  Five children were born to this union.  Three of whom are living, Adelmer A. of Racine, Edwin S. of Chicago, and Benjamin H. of Somers her.  The funeral services were held from the late home on Saturday afternoon, conducted by the Rev. Johnson, assisted by the Rev. Bruhn.  A quartet from Racine, directed by Russell Lewis, Jr., sang some of the dear old hymns.  A large concourse of surviving friends followed the remains to its resting place in Oakwood Cemetery.
(Source:  Racine Journal, publication date June 4, 1912)

Benjamin H. Bishop
"Benjamin H. Bishop, an enterprising young agriculturist of Kenosha County and a representative of one of its well known pioneer families, owns and operates a farm of forty acres on Section 16, Somers Township, which he purchased from his father three years ago.  His birth occurred in that township on the 18th of June 1887, his parents being Isaac T. and Lydia Jane (Clemens) Bishop.
Benjamin H. Bishop attended the common schools until sixteen years of age and subsequently assisted his father in the work of the fields until 1913, when he was married and established a home of his own, purchasing forty acres of land from his father on Section 16, Somers Township.  His labors as an agriculturist are attended with excellent success and bring him a gratifying annual income.
When a young man of twenty six years, Mr. Bishop was united in marriage to Miss Annette Sorensen, a daughter of Chris and Marie (Christensen) Sorensen, both of whom were born in Denmark.  They now have a daughter, Lydia Jane.
Mr. Bishop gives his political allegiance to the Republican party while his religious faith is that of the Methodist Church.  Fraternally he is identified with the Modern Woodmen of America belonging to Camp No. 828.  His entire life has been spent within the borders of Kenosha County.
(Source:  City and County of Kenosha, Vol. II, Chicago, S.J. Clark Publishing Co. 1916)

Isaac and Lydia Children
Five sons:
John G., who was drowned in August 1902 while in the employ of the St. Paul Railway Company, married Maggie Fitzgerald, of Somers Township, and had two daughters, Arvilla L. and Delia M.
Click here to read John G. Bishop posting.

John G. Bishop
1870-1902 (32 years)
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin
(Source: Photo courtesy Larry & Linda Kopet US GenWeb Archives Project Wis.)

Adelmar A., a graduate of the State Normal School at Whitewater, and formerly for nine years bookkeeper for the J.I. Case Threshing Machine Co., and now in the laundry business at Racine, married Maud E. Thompson, and has one son, Gordon A.
Issac T. died at the age of eighteen years

Isaac T. Bishop, son of Isaac T. Bishop and Lydia J. Clemons
(1878-1896) 18 years old
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Township
(Source: Photo courtesy Larry & Linda Kopet US GenWeb Archives Project Wis.) 

Edwin S., a graduate of the State University at Madison, taught two years there in the Pyhsics Department, and at present occupies the chair of Physics in the East Division High School at Milwaukee.

Edwin Sherwood Bishop, son of Isaac and Lydia J. Clemons Bishop
Born July 14, 1880.  Died July 31, 1916 in Chicago at age 36.  Working in Chicago as a Teacher.
Married to Florence Melissa Spence, daughter of James Alexander Spence and Frances Amelia Strong Spence.
Florence was born April 15, 1879.  Died June 1930.
James Spence Bishop, son of Edwin Sherwood and Florence Melissa Spence Bishop
James born July 26, 1910 and died February 28, 1933.  Born in Chicago.  See below.
(Source: Photo courtesy Larry & Linda Kopet US GenWeb Archives Project Wis.)

James Spence Bishop
Funeral services for the late (James) Spence Bishop whose death occurred in Texas last week, were held from the Hansen Funeral Home, Kenosha, Saturday afternoon, Rev. Hogan of the Plymouth Congregational Church officiating. The remains were interred beside his parents, the late Mr. and Mrs. E.S. Bishop, at the Oakwood Cemetery.
(Source: Racine Journal Times, publication date March 10, 1933).

Edwin Sherwood Bishop, son of Edwin Sherwood Bishop and Florence Melissa Spence Bishop
1915-1947
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Township
(Source: Photo courtesy Larry & Linda Kopet US GenWeb Archives Project Wis.)

Benjamin H. is at home (see biography above)

Isaac T. Bishop Biography

Lived in Section 16.  Born in Somers in 1845.  His father, Jacob Bishop was one of the early settlers who came to Wisconsin in 1839 and brought his family in 1842, locating on the farm where he now lives.  At the age of 16, Isaac engaged as clerk in the dry goods store of Seth Doom in Kenosha.  September 9, 1862, he enlisted in Taylor's Battery, at Chicago, Ill. He was transferred to the 55th Ill V.I. and detached from that to the Ordnance Dept, Military Division of the Mississippi serving in the capacity of Ordnance Office until the close of the war.  He participated in the battle of Champion Hills, Miss.; Raymond, Black River and others; also in the siege of Vicksburg; returning to Kenosha, he was in 1867 elected Justice of the Peace of Somers, holding that position at present.  He married, in 1866, Miss Lydia Clemens, a native of Wisconsin.  He has three sons and owns 160 acres.

(Source:  History of Racine Kenosha Counties  1879)

Fink, Levi and Caroline

Levi Fink and Caroline
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson.  Copyright October 2011)

Levi Fink
Levi Fink, one of the early settlers and a retired farmer of Kenosha County, now residing on Section 10, in the Town of Somers, is a respected citizen of the community, and a sketch of his life will undoubtedly be received with interest by his friends, who  are many.
He was born in the Mohawk Valley in the Town of Palatine, Montgomery County, N.Y., May 6, 1816.  His grandfather, John Fink, was of German descent and was a farmer of the Mohawk Valley.  William I. Fink, the father of our subject, was there born and reared and married Catherine Kaiser, a native of the same locality and a daughter of Esquire Kaiser.  After their marriage they settled upon the old homestead and in connection with that Mr. Fink also owned another farm in the Montgomery County, until his death which occurred in 1824.  Mrs. Fink survived her husband many years and reared a family of eight children.  Betsy, the eldest child, became the wife of Adam Snell, and they resided in Montgomery and Oneida counties until called to their final home.  Margaret married Christian A. Fink, and they also located in the Mohawk Valley.  Benjamin, after attaining to mature years, was married, engaged in farming and also carried on the hotel business. At length he removed to Racine County, Wisconsin, first locating in the Town of Mt. Pleasant, but his death occurred at his home in the City of Racine.  John after his marriage located in Syracuse, N.Y. and subsequently started for Wisconsin, but the vessel in which he sailed was wrecked, and he was drowned in Lake Michigan.  Nancy became the wife of John Tubb, of Oneida County, N.Y., but both are now deceased.  James is a resident farmer of Somers Township.  Levi is the next younger, and Mary, widow of John Harris, resides in Little Falls, N.Y.
Our subject grew to manhood in the county of his nativity and received but limited educational advantages, for at the age of ten years he began life for himself, working for neighboring farmers until seventeen years of age, when he was employed by a railroad contractor, with whom he remained eleven months.  He then became porter in a hotel in Fultonville, where he remained for two years.  He there acquired good business ideas and the experience of which he stood in need.  Later we find hm employed in a wholesale and retail liquor house of Troy, where he remained for three years.
In Fultonville, N.Y., July 29, 1840, Mr. Fink led to the marriage alter Miss Caroline, daughter of Peter M. Vrooman, a native of the Empire State, who engaged in farming in Schoharie County, where Mrs. Fink was born.  In 1842, the young couple determined to try their fortune in the West, and by way of the Erie Canal and Great Lakes came to Wisconsin, arriving at Racine on the 8th of July.  The previous year Mr. Fink had come West and purchased land in the Town of Mt. Pleasant, Racine County, upon which they located.  A partially completed log cabin was there standing, which during the year was finished and made a comfortable home for the family.  For twelve years they resided upon that farm and in that period the once wild land was greatly improved.
Renting his farm in 1848, Mr. Fink and his family returned to New York, where they spent the summer in visiting old friends and again viewing the scenes amidst which their childhood days were passed.  On again coming to Wisconsin, Mr. Fink resumed farming and in 1855 bought and located on a farm in Somers Township, Kenosha County.  Subsequently he purchased another improved farm and one of those he carried on for some years, but has now given them to his two sons, he, himself, removing to his present home in Somers Township.
Unto Mr. and Mrs. Fink were born four children: Albert J., who died in infancy, James H., who married Olivia Leonard, and is a resident farmer of Somers Township.  He served as one of the Hundred Day men during the late war.  Martha is the wife of Joseph F. Bishop, who is engaged in farming in Somers Township.  John W., who wedded Orrie J. Stonebreaker, resides in Racine.  The cause of education has ever found in Mr. Fink a friend and he gave his children good advantages, thus fitting them for the practical duties of life.  Since the organization of the Republican party he has been found among its supporters.  Of the Somers Mutual Fire Insurance Company, he is President and has been one of its officials since its organization.  Both Mr. and Mrs. Fink are faithful members and active workers in the Somers Presbyterian church, with which they have been connected since 1844.  He is now steward, trustee, deacon, and church treasurer.  His life has been well and worthily spent, devoted to the interests of his family and the cause of right.  The Fink household is a hospitable one and our subject and his estimable wife are held in high regard by all who know them.
(Source:  Portrait and Biographical Album, Racine and Kenosha Counties, Wisconsin, Chicago, Lake City Publishing Co., 1892).

James Fink, son of Levi and Catherine Fink
James' wife, Olivia Leonard Fink
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County
(Source: Photo courtesy of Linda and Larry Kopet, USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Lee R. Fink, son of James and Olivia Leonard Fink
(Source:  California Death Index: mother maiden name is Leonard, birth date Aug. 31, 1872 and death Feb. 5, 1964 in Los Angeles, Califiornia)
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County
(Source: Photo courtesy of Linda and Larry Kopet, USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Alice E. Fink, wife of Lee R. Fink, born July 3, 1873 and died March 13, 1963
(Source:  1900 US Census. They lived in Chicago.  Marriage to L.R. Fink in 1898)
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County
(Source: Photo courtesy of Linda and Larry Kopet, USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Orren Chester Fink and Hallie May Fink, son and daughter of John W. and Orrie Stonebreaker Fink.
John W. Fink is the son of Levi and Caroline Fink.
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County
(Source: Photo courtesy of Linda and Larry Kopet, USGenWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

More About Caroline Fink
"Once more we are called on to chronicle the death of another old and respected citizen of Somers.  Mrs. Caroline Fink was born in the State of New York on March 2, 1818 and died in Somers on Saturday, March 17, 1907 at the advanced age of 80 years and 14 days.  Her maiden name was Caroline Vrooman and she was married on July 29, 1840 to Levi Fink who died on December 9, 1894, aged 78 years, 7 months, and three days.  In 1842 when moved to Wisconsin, they settled in Racine County on what is now known as the Jacob Herzog farm, situated one mile south of Corliss.  Later they moved to Somers and settled on what is now known as the Jacob Biehn farm.  There was born to this union four children, three sons and one daughter.  Albert J., who died in infancy; James H., of Villa Street; John W., and Martha J. Bishop of Somers, who survive to mourn her loss.  Mrs. Fink was converted in early life and was a faithful member of the Somers Presbyterian Church, almost from its organization up to the time of her death, a period of about sixty-four years.  She died as she had lived, an earnest Christian woman, loved and respected by all who knew her.  It can now be truly said that the departure of this noble life marks the passing away of the last of that sturdy band of pioneers who immigrated from the eastern states and from foreign lands and took up their abode in Somers in the early 40's and history alone can now impart to us the information we may seek regarding the hardships incident to pioneer life in this vicinity.'
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal, publication dated March 20, 1907).

Click here to read about Levi's brother, James.


Fink's In the News
"Mr. Levi Fink, an old resident of the Town of Somers, died at his home on Sunday morning after a few days' illness, at the age of 78 years.  The deceased was a native of New York State and moved to the Town of Mt. Pleasant early in the 40's, where he owned a farm near Munter's Corners, and engaged in farming for a number of years.  A few years later he moved to Somers, where he bought a farm, which he worked until a few years ago, when he retired.  He was member of the Presbyterian Church and Secretary and Treasurer of the Bible Society in this place.  He was also President of the Somers Mutual Fire Insurance Company for a number of years, still holding the office at the time of his death.  The funeral occurs at 1 09'clock Tuesday afternoon from the house.  A wife, two sons and a daughter are left to mourn his death."
(Source:  Racine Journal, publication date Dec, 12, 1894)

"After an illness of about three months, Mrs. L. Gardinier of Kenosha, passed away at the advanced age of 88 years.  The deceased was a resident in this vicinity several years ago, her husband having died about four years ago.  A daughter, Mrs. Hill, and sons Edward of Kenosha, and James of Somers, are left to mourn her death.  She leaves a sister in our town, Mrs. Levi Fink.  The funeral took place in Kenosha, Saturday morning at 10 o'clock."
(Source:  Racine Journal, publication date Feb. 6, 1895)

"It was announced today that Mr. Percy Fink, one of the leading young farmers of Somers, Kenosha County, and Miss Eva L. Guerin, an estimable young lady of Milwaukee, were quietly married on January 14 by Rev. A.O. Grier, of the Universalist Church of this city (Racine).  Immediately after the ceremony, the newly wedded pair went to Chicago on a wedding tour, and then to Somers, where they reside.  Mr. Fink is a very popular young man and well known throughout Racine and Kenosha counties and the announcement of his marriage will be received with surprise.  The bride is a charming young woman and possesses a happy disposition which makes her a favorite with all.  To Mr. and Mrs. Fink is extended the congratulations of hosts of friends with the hope that they may live to enjoy a long and happy wedding life."
(Source:  Racine Journal, publication date Feb. 4, 1902)

"The residence of James H. Fink, was completely destroyed by fire on Sunday evening, the fire originating about 9:45 o'clock.  The residents of the neighborhood, some of whom were returning home from church, hurried to the scene, and others who had retired for the night were awakened by the cry of fire and the barking of dogs, and in a short time a number had congregated, some coming a distance of nearly four miles.  Your correspondent arrived on the ground about this time and the condition of the burning building was such that nothing could be done and that attention of the people was turned to the large woodshed that stood about 20 feet away and which was in danger of igniting at any moment. A number of men on the roof and others carrying water saved the building from destruction.  How the fire originated is not known, there being scarcely any fire in either stove at the time.  Mr. Fink had just retired for the night when a sound as of distant thunder caused by the fire in the roof came as the first warning that their home was at the mercy of the flames.  Mrs. Fink and daughter had not yet retired and all put forth their best efforts to save what they could.  Their work in trying to extinguish the flames having failed.  Frank Rude, who was spending the evening there, rendered valuable aid in removing property from the house.  The rapid progress of the flames, however, cut short the work along this line, as the fire had already made such headway as to drop into a bureau drawer as Mr. Fink carried it from the house.  The property is insured in the Somers Mutual Fire Insurance Company.  The farm had been rented and the family was about to move out in December."
(Source:  Racine Journal, publication date October 29, 1901)

"On Friday evening, August 21, Somers Camp 4052 R.N.A., will hold an ice cream and peach social at the home of Mr. and Mrs. John W. Fink.  Everyone is invited to come and have a good time."
(Source:  Racine Daily, publication August 18, 1908)

Fink Family Have Two Sets of Four Generations
Members Residing in Racine and Kenosha Counties Present a Rare Distinction
"Racine and Kenosha counties contain the most remarkable family in the entire northwest.  There are two sets of generations.  It is the family of James Fink.
Recently they had pictures taken and a representative of the Journal viewed the same.  They embrace:  James Fink of Somers, Kenosha County, 92 years old, born in New York State and a resident of Kenosha County fifty-eight years.  In the early days he sold wagons, hauling them through Illinois with an ox team.  Next is his son, Charles E. Fink, aged 40, born in Somers, a resident of that place all his life.  The third is Mrs. A.H. Van Wie of Racine, aged 25, and his daughter, born in Mt. Pleasant, Racine County.  Her son, Adelburt Van Wie, aged 3-1/2 years, is next.
In the second set, are: Mrs. C.E. Fink, 48 years old, wife of C.E. Fink, born in Mt. Pleasant; second, her father James Buckley, Mt. Pleasant, aged 83, born in England; third, Mrs. A.H. Van Wie, daughter of Mrs. Fink, and her son, Adelbert.
All of the eight are living and in perfect health.  Belief prevails that they are the only family with similar record in the northwest."
(Source:  Racine Journal, publication date July 12, 1904)

"Mr. and Mrs. James Fink of Racine spent Friday with Mr. and Mrs. John Fink."
(Source:  Racine Daily, publication Jan. 3, 1907)

"Mr. James H. Fink, of Racine and his daughter, Jessie of Colorado, spent Saturday with relatives in the village."
(Source:  Racine Journal July 25, 1905)

"Born to Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Fink of Greeley, Colorado, a daughter."
(Source:  Racine Journal, February 28, 1902)

"Mr. L. Cook of Kenosha, accompanied by his daughter, Mrs. L.R. Fink, and son of of Forest Glen, Illinois, were callers at Mr, James Fink's on Wednesday afternoon.
(Source:  Racine Journal, May 31, 1900)

"Mr. and Mrs. James H. Fink of Racine drove out to Somers on Sunday last, Mr. Fink's mother being seriously ill."
(Source:  Racine Daily March 14, 1907)

"A little daughter arrived at the home of Mr. and Mrs. L.R. Fink of Forest Glenn, Illinois on Thursday."
(Source:  Racine Journal Aug. 16, 1901)

"Miss Eveline Fink of Racine, spent a few days with her parents in the village last week."
(Source:  Racine Daily, Feb 28, 1902)

"Elinor Caroline Fink, the infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Fink died at the family residence Tuesday, Feb 7th, after an illness of a few days.  The bereaved parents have the sympathy of the community in this their hour of sadness."
Source:  Racine Journal Feb. 17, 1905)

"Mr. Ed Fink's children who have been very sick with diphtheria are improving."
(Source:  Racine Daily, Jan 24, 1900)

"Roscoe Fink is now on a freight train running between Milwaukee and Chicago with the intention of entering the company's service as a brakeman."
(Source:  Racine Journal Jan. 10, 1902)

"J.W. Fink, who has been traveling weeks in the interest of the Case Plow Co., has returned home."
(Source:  Racine Journal July 4, 1895)

"Adam Rice has rented J.W. Fink's farm, with the exception of 40 acres, moving on the place last week."
(Source:  Racine Journal March 27, 1897)

"Mr. and Mrs. L.R. Fink of Libertyville, Illinois called on friends in Somers during the past week."
(Source:  Racine Daily October 21, 1896)

"The marriage of Mr. Levi R. Fink and Miss Alice Cook is announced for Tuesday, June 23, 1896."
(Source:  Racine Journal June 18, 1896)

"Elinor Caroline Fink, infant daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Fink died at the family residence Tuesday, Feb 7th after an illness of a few days."
(Source:  Racine Weekly Feb. 13, 1905)

"Levi R. Fink will serve as night operator at the station this week, in place of J.G. Mitchell, who will take a vacation."
(Source:  Racine Journal Dec, 26, 1894)

"Eugene Fink is building a new house."
(Source:  Racine Journal October 3, 1894)