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