Gibbon

Partial 1861 Map of Somers Township
Section 8, 80 acre parcel for A. Gibbon

Alexander Galloway Gibbon
1860 U.S. Federal Census
Alexander Gibbon, born about 1821
Elsie Gibbon (also known as Elspeth), spouse, born about 1835
David (Scott) Gibbon, born about February 24, 1858
Mary (Louisa) Gibbon, born about 1859

1870 U.S. Federal Census (one more child born)
William Shearne (misspell on report) Gibbon, born about 1865

1880 U.S. Federal Census (one more child born)
Maud Gibbon, born about 1875
This census uses Sherman as the first name for William Shearne

1930 U.S. Federal Census (David Gibbon lived in Oshkosh, Wisconsin)
David's spouse:  Mary Lincoln Bowker (daughter of Myron Bowker of Somers Township)
Mary born September 18, 1982 in Somers Township.  Died April 29, 1954 in Hennepin County (Minneapolis), Minnesota.  When Mary was widowed, she moved to Minnesota and lived with her daughter, Grace Gibbon (Mrs. John) Kuhlman.  David and Mary were married August 25, 1887 in Kenosha County, as recorded in the Wisconsin Marriages Index.
David and Mary had three children:
Grace born Sept 10, 1888 in Somers Township, Dorothy born Feb 29, 1892 in Oshkosh, and Alexander Myron born Nov. 14, 1896 in Oshkosh.

Illinois Death Index
Mary L. Gibbon
Born: April 20, 1859
Died: June 24, 1931
Death Place:  Glencoe, Cook County, Ill.
Burial Date:  June 27, 1931 at Oakwood Cemetery in Somers, Wisconsin
Death Age: 72
Parents:  Alexander and Elsbeth Spruce (should be Spence) Gibbon

Illinois Death and Census Records
William Sherman Gibbon
Died in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois April 17, 1899 age at 34.  Spouse is Fannie J. Smith.  Two children:  Margaret born April 1896 and Elsie born April 1898.
Minnesota Death Index
Alexander M. Gibbon, Born Nov 15, 1896 in Oshkosh and died Sept 11, 1985 in Hennepin, Minnesota.  Mothers Name: Mary Lincoln Bowker Gibbon and father David S. Gibbon.
Dorothy S. Gibbon, Born Feb. 29, 1892 and died Nov. 6, 1976 in Hennepin, Minnesota.  Mother Name:  Mary Lincoln Bowker Gibbon and father David S. Gibbon.

David S. Gibbon Obituary
"Oshkosh Teacher Dies at Somers, Wisconsin.  Former Principal of 11th Street School Expires.  Well known educator passes away as result of prolonged illness - had been a given a year's leave of absence from duties and was endeavoring to recuperate.
The many friends of David S. Gibbon who for the past nine years was principal in the public schools of Oshkosh, will be shocked to learn of his death, which occurred Saturday evening at this home in Somers, Wisconsin where he went at the beginning of the fall opening of school hoping of recovering from his prolonged illness through compete rest.  He died at the residence of his wife's father in Somers where his mother also lives.  For more than a month past little hope was entertained for his recovery as he grew weaker rapidly and his family revealed to him the seriousness of his condition, with the result that he made every preparation for the inevitable, although he never lost hope until the very last and was confident that he would recover.
He was taken seriously ill about a year ago in this city and for a time he hovered between life and death at his home at 371 Jackson Street.  In spite of efforts of his family and friends to get him to take a vacation and secure a much needed rest, he finished the full term although he was very weak and often was assisted in walking to and from his school.  His death was due to a general breaking down of health, largely due to overwork.
Mr. Gibbon was born in Somers, Wisconsin.  He graduated from the Oshkosh Normal School in the class of '83 and then taught school for more than 15 years.
He is survived by a widow and three children:  Grace, Dorothy and Alexander.  His mother is also living.
His life was of a peculiarly quiet and unassuming character.  He was a very conscientious and reliable man with the best of habits.  He was a hard worker and labored incessantly in his chosen profession.  He was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of this city.  The funeral will be held next Wednesday at 2 o'clock at Somers.
(Source:  Daily Northwestern, Oshkosh November 5, 1900)

U.S. Naturalization Record Index
Alexander Gibbon, born about 1820, arrived July, 1838 in New York.  Born Aberdeenshire, Scotland.  Witnesses:  William Smith and Charles Leet

U.S. Civil War Draft Reg. Records
Alex G. Gibbon, Class 2

In The News
"Prof. David S. Gibbon departed this life Saturday afternoon, November 4, after a lingering illness of many weeks.  Prof. Gibbon has been in school work for the past twenty-five years, as principal of Racine, Brandon, and Oshkosh schools.  He was a citizen highly honored and respected and his demise has cast sadness over the entire community.  He was a member of the Modern Woodmen of America.  The deceased leaves a wife, one son and two daughters, a mother and two sisters, besides many friends to mourn his death.  The funeral services will be held on Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the home of Mr. Myron Bowker, conducted by his pastor, Rev. Smith of the First Presbyterian Church of Oshkosh."
(Source:  Racine Daily Journal, publication date November 7, 1900)

"Mrs. David Gibbon of Oshkosh is visiting with her father, Myron Bowker"
(Source:  Racine Journal Feb. 11, 1897)

"Mrs. W.S. Gibbon spent Thanksgiving with her sister, Miss Edith Smith, who is still ill at the hospital in Chicago."
(Source:  Racine Journal Dec. 3, 1896)

"Miss Maude Gibbon of the Phillipps, Wisconsin public schools is spending her vacation at home"
(Source:  Racine Journal Dec. 27, 1900)

"Misses Dorothy and Grace Gibbon of Oshkosh are visiting their grandmother, Mrs. Gibbon.  Misses Margaret and Elsie Gibbon of Kenosha visited with their grandma, Mrs. Gibbon this week."
(Source:  Racine Journal Aug. 12, 1904)

"Miss Maude Gibbon departed Tuesday for Ashland where she has recently been appointed first assistant in the Ashland High School."
(Source:  Racine Journal Sept. 10, 1901)

"Misses Grace and Dorothy Gibbon and brother Alexander of Sparta visited the home of Mrs. Elsie Gibbon this past week."
(Source:  Racine Journal July 8, 1914)

"The well drillers struck a good flow of water at a depth of 300' for Mrs. Gibbon last week."
(Source:  Racine Journal March 14, 1911)

"Miss Minnie Gibbon met with a distressing accident on a day last week.  While she and Mrs. John Gray were driving over the St. Paul Rail Road tracks in the village the roach of the buggy broke throwing them out.  Miss gibbon has a dislocated shoulder.
(Source:  Racine Journal July 9, 1913)

"Prof. David Gibbon of Oshkosh, who is recovering from a severe nervous prostration, is at his mother's."
(Source:  Racine Journal, Nov. 2, 1899)

"Miss Maud Gibbon closed her school in Distr No. 7 on Friday afternoon."
(Source:  Racine Journal,  Feb. 20, 1895)

"Rev. and Mrs. Geo. R??, Mr. and Mrs. D.S. Gibbon, Elmore Cooper, and Pierre T. Ozanne leave on Wednesday morning of this week on a visit to Niagra Falls"
(Source:  Racine Journal, Aug. 15, 1895)

"Miss Minnie Gibbon of Milwaukee spent Thanksgiving with relatives in this place."
(Source:  Racine Journal, Dec. 5, 1894)

"Miss Fannie Bowker returned from Oshkosh Thursday where she was called on account of the illness of her brother-in-law, Prof. Gibbon."
(Source:  Racine Journal, October 12, 1899)





"Well Known Somers Woman Passes Away"
Mrs. Elspeth Spence Gibbon, wife of the late Alexander G. Gibbon, died Wednesday afternoon, September 20 at Somers, Kenosha County, after an illness of some months.
Elspeth Spence was born at Insch, Scotland, January 10, 1835 and with her parents came to this country in 1845.
In 1856 she was united in marriage to Alexander G. Gibbon whose death occurred some years ago.  Five children were born to this union, two of them surviving - Miss Mary L. Gibbon of the Milwaukee Public Schools, and Miss Maude M. Gibbon, of Somers.
The eldest son, Prof. David S. Gibbon, died November 3, 1900; William Sherman Gibbon died April 17, 1899.
The deceased was one of the early pioneers of Somers and had watched with interest the development of the town during her long residence in the county.
At an early age she united with the Presbyterian Church, thus beginning a long, useful life of consecration and devotion.  In her life was exemplified the highest type of gentle helpfulness.  Forgetful of self, her life was made up of doing these little things which contribute to so much toward making the lives of others better and happier.
Besides the two daughter, there survive five grandchildren viz: Miss Grace Gibbon of Minneapolis, Minn., Miss Dorothy S. Gibbon of Marble, Minn., Alexander M. Gibbon of Sparta, Wis., and Misses Margaret and Elsie Gibbon of Kenosha; one brother, William G. Spence of River Falls, and once sister, Mrs. John Gray of Somers.
The funeral services were held from the late home in the village on Friday afternoon, conducted by the Rev. Phipps.  Internet was in the family plot in Oakwood Cemetery.
Among those who came from away to attend the funeral were Mrs. Mary L. Gibbon and Miss Fannie B. Bowker of Oshkosh, Mrs. Fannie S. Gibbon and daughters of Kenosha, Miss Grace Gibbon of Minneapolis, Mr. and Mrs. Hughes of Gurnee, Ill., Mrs. Melisa Lytle and Miss Anna R. Smith of Racine, Miss Belle Booth of Chicago, and William G. Spence of River Falls.
(Source:  September 27, 1916 publication date Racine Journal)

Alexander G. Gibbon
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township
(Source:  Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet US GENWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

David S. Gibbon
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet US GENWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Elspeth Spence Gibbon
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet US GENWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Fannie J. Gibbon
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet US GENWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Irene (grave located with other Gibbon graves)
information unkown
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet US GENWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Mary Gibbon
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet US GENWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Maude Gibbon
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Larry & Linda Kopet US GENWebArchivesProjectWisconsin)

Leet, George Foster

George Foster Leet and Jessie Ann Leet
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers, Wisconsin
(Source:  Photo Courtesy of Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson.  Copyright 2012.  All Rights Reserved.)

George F. Leet
Among the community of old settlers who have done so much for the development and progress of Somers Township, Kenosha County, and who are especially attached to this locality as their place of birth, is George Foster Leet, who resides on Section 10, where he was born February 15, 1838, son of Charles and Sarah B. (Wiard) Leet, natives of Connecticut, who were married in New York, and who became the parents of three children, viz: Mathew W. of St. Louis, Mo.; George F.; and Miss Sarah H., of Racine, Wisconsin.
The paternal grandfather of Mr. Leet was a farmer in Chautauqua County, N.Y., and was the father of three sons, Charles, Warren, and Martin.  The material grandparents were Mathew and Sallie Wiard, who had four daughters whom they reared in New York, viz: Sarah B., mother of our subject; Elmira, formerly wife of William Bly; Mrs. Dale and Mrs. Maxwell.
After the close of the War of 1812, in which he took part, Charles Leet kept a hotel at Delhi, N.Y. for some years, but in 1837 he came to Wisconsin and took up Government land in what was then Pike Township, but now is Somers Township, two farms of 160 acres each, in Section 10 and 11.  He improved them both, and lived there until his death, which occurred Feb. 11, 1874.  His wife survived him, and died October 23, 1877, aged seventy-seven years.  In religious faith they were Episcopalians.  In addition to the children of his second marriage, above noted, by a prior marriage Mr. Leet had these children:  Joseph, Jane R., Robert, Clark, Mary, and Charles, all of whom are deceased.  For a number of years he was Post Master here at a point known as Aurora, and for some years he served also as a Justice of the Peace.
George F. Leet grew up on the pioneer farm and obtained his education in the schools of his neighborhood.  When he reached his majority he went to Waukegan where he engaged in Clerking for one year for Loveday & Dodge, grocers, and then entered the Army, enlisting in Company C, 2nd Illinois Light Artillery, in which he served almost two years, being mustered out in 1865.  His battery was stationed at Fort Donelson, and he was detailed mainly on scout duty.  After the War he returned home and bought his father's farm, which now contains 198 acres.  This he has greatly improved and it stands today as one of the most valuable in the county, well tilled, and most presentable in every way.
In 1860 Mr. Leet made a trip to California overland, where he engaged in mining for a year, when he returned, deciding that Kenosha County offered every chance to a young man who was willing to take advantage of it.  His war experience followed.
On May 14, 1868, Mr. Leet was united in marriage with Miss Jessie Ann Smith, daughter of William and Janet (Park) Smith, and five children were born to this union, namely:  Everett C. was drowned aged two years and four months; Fred W. resides at home, unmarried; Edward H., a machinist by trade, living in Milwaukee, married Lulu C. Rhodes; Nellie J. is a stenographer; and George P. also resides at home.  Mr. and Mrs. Leet are members of the Presbyterian Church.  Fraternally he belongs to the Modern Woodmen of America.  Politically he is a Republican, and he was served two terms as a Member of the Town Board, and for about eight terms was on the School Board, and he served also as Town Treasurer for one term.
The paternal grandfather of Mrs. Leet was a native of Scotland, where he died; he was a farmer by occupation.  His children numbered seven in all.  Her maternal grandparents were William and Janet Park, and they died in Scotland, parents of six children.  The parents of Mrs. Leet were natives of Aberdeenshire, Scotland, and came to America in 1841, locating in Somers Township, where the father bought 100 acres of land, which was a part of the Charles Leet farm.  The father died there in 1891, aged ninety years and over, and his wife died in January, 1887, aged ninety-one years.  They were stanch Presbyterians.  They had six children, four of whom grew to maturity: William P. Smith; George H., Jane M., wife of Hugh Gorton, of Racine; and Jessie A., wife of George F. Leet.
Mr. Leet is one of the older residents of this section in point of continuous residence, having spent sixty-seven years on the farm on which he was born. 
(Source:  Prominent Men of Racine and Kenosha Counties, J.H. Beers & Co., Chicago, 1906)

George Leet Obituary

Elwin G. Leet wedding (son of George P. Leet)

Erma Bower Leet obituary (wife of George P. Leet)

More About Leet
1.  The great-grandfather of George Foster Leet was Allen Leet of Saybrook, Middlesex County, Connecticut and his lineage was traced back to William Leete, Government of Connecticut, who owned what is now known as Leete's Island in Connecticut, together with large landed estates in Middlesex County.  Allen Leet became the father of six children: Allen, who died at the age of three years; Warren; Martin; Nancy; Abigail; and Charles.  It is through the last named that the line is traced down to George Foster Leet.

2. Charles Leet was born in Saybrook, Connecticut, August 28, 1793, and in New York, was married to Sarah B. Wiard, who was also born in Connecticut, and was a daughter of Matthew Wiard and a granddaughter of Matthew Wiard, Sr., whWiard, Jr., wedded Sally Roberts and lived in Bristol, Hartford County, Connecticut.  It was there that the birth of Sarah Beecher Wiard occurred on the 21st of May, 1800.  She was one of four daughters, the others being:  Mrs. Eliza Dales; Mrs. Emma Maxwell; and Mrs. Elmira H. Bligh.

3.  George Foster Leet died March 1, 1907.  He was laid to rest in the Oakwood Cemetery.
(Source:  City and County of Kenosha, Record of Settlement, by Frank H. Lyman, Vol. II, S.J. Clarke Publishing Co., 1916)

Fred W. Leet
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County

"Fred William Leet, age 78, passed away at Michael's Home in Silver Lake, following a long illness. Mr. Leet was born in Somers on October 28, 1872, and is the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. George F. Leet. Surviving are a brother, George P. Leet of Somers. Burial at Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County."
(Source: Racine Journal July 10, 1951)

 

 

 

 In the News
Ton and Half of Cabbage Stolen
Thieves Raid Field in Somers Township, Secure Large Supply of Cabbage
A few heads of cabbage might not have been missed but when thieves raided his field in Somers Township and cut out about a ton and a half, George Leet, the proprietor, immediately notified the sheriff's office here.
Deputy Sherriff N.J. Otto investigated.  He reported that the thieves had apparently been making systematic raids in the cabbage field, hauling away large amounts of the vegetable each time.  The total loot, he said, would probably total at least a ton and a half.
(Source:  Racine Journal August 30, 1934)

Fred W. Leet trapped one of the largest minks in Pike Woods last week.
(Source:  Racine Daily Feb. 8, 1899)

Sarah H. Leet Obituary (daughter of Charles and Sarah Leet)

Charles Leet Home
 

Petrie



John, Lydia and Frazier Petrie
Oakwood Cemetery, Somers Township, Kenosha County, Wisconsin
(Source:  Photo Courtesy of Larry and Linda Kopet USGenWebArchivesWisconsin)

 Petrie
"Messers. Frazier Petrie of Boulder, Colorado and Frank Petrie of Seattle, Washington had a fine monument erected in Oakwood Cemetery for thier father and mother last week."
(Source: Racine Journal Times, publication date December 6, 1899)

F.J. Petrie
"The remains of F.J. (Frazier) Petrie, formerly a well known resident of the Town of Somers, were interred in Oakwood Cemetery at Somers last Saturday.  Mr. Petrie, who died in Denver, was born and raised in Somers and resided there until twelve years ago."
(Source:  Racine Weekley November 17, 1903)

More Information
The 1850 Census shows Lydia Frazier was born in New York in 1834 and she resided with her family in Antioch, Illinois. 

The 1850 Federal Census shows John Petrie lived in the Township of Somers and owned a farm in Section 16.  This parcel is shown on the 1861 and 1887 making John Petrie one of the very first early pioneers of Somers Township.  The parcel owned by Petrie became an attractive parcel, located west of the "village" that was built around the railroad.

The 1880 Census also indicates John Petrie was born on the Orkney Islands, Scotland. 
Click here for the Orkney Island Genealogy web site.


John and Lydia had two children: 

Frazier  was born Augusst 1854.  He married in 1881, his wife's name was Ellen and she was born in Ohio December 1863.  In 1900 they lived in Boulder, Colorado and Frazier owned a bakery.  Frazier and Ellen had two children:  Gertude born July 1883 in Illinois and Georgie born June 1886 inIllinois.

Franklin was born in 1857.  He married in 1895, his wife's name was Myrtle L.  The 1920 Census showed Franklin and Myrtle living in Asotin, Washington.  They had four children: Roy born 1901 in Washington, Robert born 1903 in Washington, Emily born 1905 in Oregon, and Ruth born 1909 in Idaho.

Yule, Benjamin Franklin

Benjamin Franklin "B.F." Yule died April 12, 1934
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Larry & Linda Kopet USGenWebWisconsin)



Source: Plat Book of Racine and Kenosha County Hennessey & Co., Delavant, Wis. 1908)

Benjamin F. Yule
Benjamin F. Yule is the owner of thirty-six acres of land in and near Somers.  He formerly conducted farming interests on a much more extensive scale and for a long period he was identified with industrial activity as a carpenter.  His birth occurred in Somers, Wisconsin November 17, 1851, his parents being Alexander and Jane (Watson) Yule, who were natives of Scotland.  Leaving the land of hills and heather, they arrived in the U.S. in 1840 and almost immediately afterward settled in Somers Township where Mr. Yule purchased two hundred and forty acres of land, then largely wild and undeveloped.  He bent his energies to its cultivation and for twenty years engaged in farming upon that place but desirous of putting aside the more active duties of agricultural life, he left the old homestead and made an investment in a small tract of thirteen acres, upon which he lived until his demise.
He was married twice and by his first union had seven children:  William, James, Alexander, George, John, Couts and Beatrice.  The children of his second marriage were nine in number:  Mary, Joseph, Thomas, Ann, Henry, Robert, Andrew, Benjamin and Edward.
Mr. Yule was a Democrat in his political views and a Presbyterian in religious faith, and his upright, honorable life won him the respect and goodwill of all with whom he came in contact.
His son, Benjamin F. Yule, attended the common schools to the age of seventeen years; afterward spent one term in the high school at Racine and then began learning the carpenter's trade, at which he worked for forty years.  He next engaged in farming, making investment in one hundred and ten acres of land, which he cultivated for a considerable period but afterward sold eighty acres of that tract.  He now owns thirty-six acres of land in and near Somers and gives his attention to the development of his farm.  his has been an active and useful life, crowned with a substantial measure of success, and his record proves what may be accomplished when energy and laudable ambition lead the way.
In 1878 Mr. Yule was married to Miss Jessie M. Strang, a daughter of Robert Strang, and they have become the parents of six children:  Mabel, who is the wife of Edward Longmore and has one child; Blanch, who is the wife of James Thom and has four children; Clarence, a resident of Iowa; Edith, who married C.A. Jensen and has three children; Earl, living in the Town of Somers; and Everett, at home.
The religious faith of the family is that of the Presbyterian Church and they are interested in all those forces which work for the moral development of the community.  Mr. Yule is a Mason, loyal to the teachings of the craft, and is also identified with the Modern Woodmen.  His political endorsement is given to the Republican Party and, while he does not seek nor desire public office, he has never been remiss in the duties of citizenship, but supports those measures which are matters of civic virtue and civic pride.
(Source:  History of Kenosha County, Vol. II, 1916, Lyman Clark Publishing Co.)


About Jessie Strang Yule

Jessie Strang Yule (wife of B.F. Yule)
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Larry & Linda Kopet, USGenWebArchiveWisconsin)

Children of B.F. Yule and Margaret Jessie Robena Strang Yule
Mabel Watson Yule, Born April 27, 1882 at Somers, Wisconsin.  Married Edward Longmore.
Blanche Monteath Yule, Born June 27, 1884.  Married  James A. Thom.
Edith Jessie Yule, Born June 25, 1890 at Somers, Wisconsin.  Maried Chris A. Jensen of Somers.
Earl Strang Yule, Born November 30, 1894 at Somers, Wisconsin.  Married Lilian Turkelson.
Everette Stanley Yule, Born August 30, 1897 at Somers, Wisconsin.  Married  Katherine Marie Lichtner.
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Joan Marti, B.F. Yule's great-granddaughter)

Margaret Jessie Robena Strang/Mrs. Benjamin Franklin (B.F.) Yule  (photo date about 1885)
She received the first names of three older sisters that had died of scarlet fever.
(Source:  Photo from the collection of Glenn Dawson Strang shown on Historic Millburn Community Assn., Inc)

B.F. Yule, Floyd, Mabel, and Joan
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Joan Marti, B.F. Yule's great-granddaughter)

House built by B.F. Yule.  House still stands on Highway E, "downtown" Somers, Wisconsin
(Source: Photo Courtesy of Joan Marti, B.F. Yule's great-granddaughter)

Mr. and Mrs. B.F. Yule
(Source:  Photo Courtesy of Joan Marti, B.F. Yule's great-granddaughter)

About Clarence L. Yule
"Clarence L. Yule, 58, a native of Somers, died Tuesday in Milwaukee where he was engaged in architecture.  Mr. Yule was born December 10, 1886, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin F. Yule.  He attended Burr Oak rural school, and was a graduate of a military academy and Armour Institute of Chicago.
After serving in the first World War, he lived in Creston, Iowa, where on November 14, 1917 he married Edna Beckwith.  In 1939 he moved to Milwaukee and joined the United States Soil Conservation Bureau.
Surviving are his wife; two brothers, Earl S. Yule of Somers and Everett Yule of Kenosha; three sisters, Mrs. Edward M. Longmore and Mrs. C.A. Jensen of Somers, and Mrs. James Thom of North Bend, Neb.
Thursday a group of relatives from Somers will accompany the body to Creston where services will be held Saturday.
(Source:  Racine Journal, March 7, 1945)

Schaffer

Jacob Philip Schaffer and his wife Nellie H. Schaffer
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Larry & Linda Kopet USGENWebArchiveWisconsin)

Jacob P. Schaffer, Jr.
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source: Photo by Larry & Linda Kopet USGENWebArchiveWisconsin)



(Source:  Plat Book for Racine and Kenosha  County, Hennessey & Co., Delavan, Wis. 1908)






1887 Partial Map of somers Township, Kenosha County
Section 18.  J. Schaeffer parcel and Peter Schaeffer parcel
Click on map for closer view

 

Katherine Louise Schaffer Passport
(Source: U.S. Passport Applications)
Click on Passport for closer view

Jacob Philip Schaeffer (last name spelled Schaefer on gravestone)
Jacob Philip Schaeffer, whose well cultivated and highly productive property is situated in Section 7 (west), Somers Township, is one of Kenosha County's most enterprising agriculturists.  Mr. Schaeffer was born in Somers Township, on an adjoining farm, June 3, 1861, and is the son of Jacob and Wilhelmina (Volkman) Schaeffer, natives of Germany.
The paternal grandfather of our subject was Nicholas Schaeffer, a native of Germany, where he died at the age of eighty-five years.  His wife also attained advanced age and they had a family of seven children, five sons and two daughters, two of the sons, Adam and John now living in Germany.  The maternal grandfather of Jacob P. Schaeffer was also a native of Germany, where he died at an advanced age.  He was taken prisoner by pirates off the coast of Algiers.  The ship's crew was held for a ransom of $200 but while this was being sent he died.  He married Sophia Schulz and they had two daughters and one son, the later still surviving and now living in Modoc County, California.
Jacob Schaeffer, father of our subject, followed farming in his native country.  On coming to this country some time in the early fifties, he went to work in New York State, remaining under the same employer for four years.  He then came to Wisconsin and purchased a farm of forty acres in Somers Township, to which he added fifty acres and later added forty-five acres more.  This farm he improved, and upon it spent the remainder of his life, dying in 1874, aged forty-nine years and eleven months.  His wife had passed away in 1871, aged thirty-five years.  Both were Lutherans.  They had these children:  Jacob Philip; Elizabeth, the wife of August Bohm of Somers, and Miss Katherine, a Presbyterian Missionary in China.
Jacob P. Schaeffer was reared in Kenosha County and was brought up on the farm on which he was born.  He attended the district schools, and lived at home until twelve years of age, and then, his parents having died, he worked on neighboring farms for some time.  He then returned to his father's farm, which he operated until the heirs of the property sold it.  He then purchased his present farm of 160 acres, which he has improved finely.  He also works fifty acres of land, which belongs to the Schaeffer estate.
On February 1, 1900, Mr. Schaeffer married Miss Nellie Hamilton, daughter of Robert and Ida (Foster) Hamilton, and two sons have been born to this union:  Ralph Eugene and Russell Sage.  Mr. and Mrs. Schaeffer are members of the Presbyterian Church in which Mr. Schaeffer is an elder.  Politically he is a Republican, and served as Town Constable for a number of years.
The paternal grandfather of Mrs. Schaeffer was Robert Hamilton, a native of Scotland.  He came to America, settling near Union Grove, Wis., where he carried on farming.  There he died at a very old age:  his wife, Sarah, also attained advanced years.  They had a family of six children:  Robert; John; William; Sarah who is the wife of John Baker of Ives Grove, Wis.; Alice who is the widow of William Jamieson of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; and Mary, the wife of Charles Robertson of Williams, Iowa.  On the maternal side, Mrs. Schaeffer's grandfather was Thomas Foster, a native of New York State, and a farmer.  He was an early settler near Franksville, Wis. where he died at an old age.  He married Sarah Parker, who lived to be nearly seventy years of age.  They had one daughter and two sons.  Ida; Thomas of Milwaukee, Wis.; and Charles of Denver, Colorado.
Robert Hamilton, father of Mrs. Jacob P. Schaeffer, was a native of Scotland, while his wife was born in the state of Wisconsin.  Mr. Hamilton came to America settling near Union Grove, in Racine County where he engaged extensively in agricultural operations.  He now makes his home in Mason City, Iowa.  Mr. Hamilton was married in Franksville, and to him and his wife a family of four children, two sons and two daughters, were born as follows:  William, who resides in Mason City, Iowa; Alice, the widow of William Buttrick, who resides in Bristol; Nellie, the wife of our subject; and George, a mail carrier of Somers, Wisconsin.
(Source:  Biographical Record of Prominent and Representative Men of Racine and Kenosha Counties, Wisconsin, J.H. Beers & Co., Chicago 1906)





(Source:  Plat Book for Racine and Kenosha County, Hennessey & Co., Delavan, Wis. 1908)



About Peter Schaeffer
When death called Peter Schaeffer he was a resident of Somers Township and was laid to rest in Paris Township.  For a third of a century he had been a resident of Kenosha County where he worked at farm labor for several years and then engaged in agricultural pursuits on his own account.  He was born in Germany in 1838, and acquired a common school education there.  When thirty-two years of age he crossed the Atlantic and made his way at once to Kenosha county where he was employed in the fields for a time.  he afterward went on a prospecting trip to Colorado, where he remained for a year and a half.  On the expiration of that period he returned and again was employed by other for two or three years, but during that period carefully saved his earnings until his frugality and industry enabled him to purchased eighty acres of land in Somers Township upon which he continued to make his home until his death.  During that period he converted his land into a rich and productive farm, supplied with modern equipments, while from the fields he annually fathered rich harvests.
In 1878 Mr. Schaeffer was married to Miss Elizabeth Henn, and to them were born four children:  Peter G.; Jacob P. a resident of Montana; Louise the wife of Gust Palomer of Wheaton, Illinois, by whom she has two children; and Katherine, the wife of Otto Paphop by whom she has one child.
In his political views Peter Schaeffer was a Republican.  He belonged to the German Lutheran church, and his life was upright and honorable, commending him to the confidence and goodwill of all with whom he came in contact.
His son, Peter G. Schaeffer, was born in Somers Township on the 10th of January 1875, and at the usual age became a public school pupil.  he began working with his father when quite young, being early trained to the best methods of tilling the soil and cultivating the fields.  Since that time he has now lived upon the old home place on Section 18 in Somers Township where he now owns eighty acres of land that is rich and productive.  The farm presents a neat and thrifty appearance, and it is evident to the passerby that the owner is both practical and progrressive in his methods.
On the 20th of April 1904, Peter G. Schaeffer wedded Miss Rose Hetzler, a daughter of William Hetzler and they have two children, Alma and Stanley, both in school.
(Source:  City and County of Kenosha Record of Settlement by Frank H. Lyman, Vol. II, Chicago, The S.J. Clarke Publishing Co. 1916)

Smith, Charles W.



1861 Partial Map of Somers Township, Kenosha County
Chas Smith parcel of 160 acres in Section 15 and another 40 acres in Section 11



Charles Smith, his wife Anna Reid, and son James
Oakwood Cemetery

C.W. Smith
(Source: Racine: Belle City of the Lake, F. Stone, Chicago, S.J. Clark 1916)

Charles (C.W.) Smith
C.W. Smith, a most enterprising lumber merchant of Racine, putting forth every effort to promote the growth of his business along legitimate lines, was born in the Town of Somers, Kenosha County, Wisconsin on February 15, 1847, his parents being Charles and Anna (Reid) Smith, who were natives of Scotland.
The father came to the U.S. in 1835 and established his home in the Town of Somers, there remaining until he had prepared a home.  he then returned to Scotland and about seven years later came again to the new world, accompanied by his bride.  The Indians still lived in this section of the state at the time of his arrival and the seeds of civilization had scarcely been planted.  he developed a farm from the raw land and carried on general agricultural pursuits for many years, becoming one of the representative farmers of this part of the state.  All who knew him respected him and his worth was widely acknowledged.  He died about twenty years ago, while his wife passed away in 1856, when their son, C.W. Smith, was but nine years of age.  Both were laid to rest in the Town of Somers (Oakwood Cemetery).  They had a family of three children, namely: Anna R., who resides at No. 1547 College Avenue in Racine; C.W., of this review, and James R., who died in El Paso, Texas, twenty years ago.
Reared in the Town of Somers, C.W. Smith remained at home until he reached the age of seventeen years, when in response to the country's call for troops he enlisted in January, 1864, as a member of Company H, Thirty-third Wisconsin Infantry, to serve for three years.  He was honorably discharged in the fall of 1865 after having participated in many hotly contested engagements.  At the Battle of Spanish Fort he had his gun shot out of his hand.  He was first under fire at the Battle of Fort De Russey of Red River, also participated in the Battle of Nashville and various other engagements of lesser importance.  He never faltered in the performance of duty, whether called to the firing line or stationed on the lonely picket line, and his patriotic loyalty to his government made his military record a most creditable one.
When the war was over Mr. Smith returned to his home in Kenosha County and for two years was a student in the Racine Commerciall College.  He then secured a position with the lumber firm of Murray, Slauson & Company, continuing with that house for nineteen years.  For a half century he has made his home in Racine and is one of its most respected and worthy resident.  He acquainted himself with every phase of the lumber business while in the employ of the above mentioned firm, and during that period he carefully saved his earnings until his capital was sufficient to enable him to engage in business on his own account.
He then organized the West Shore Lumber Company in association with W.H. Bradley of Milwaukee, who became its first president.  In turn the office was filled by O.P. Pillsbury, D.M. Bejamin and M.J. Smiley, and about seven or eight years ago Mr. Smith was elected to the presidency of the company and has since continued in the office.  In the meantime he acquired more of the stock as opportunity for purchase occurred and is now the owner of the entire stock of the company.  This is the oldest business of the kind in Racine, Wisconsin, the West Shore Lumber Company handling lumber, lath, shingles and posts.  Mr. Smith is thoroughly familiar with the trade in every department and something of his enterprise and attractive methods is indicated in the fact that he brought forth attractive advertisements under the heading of the West Shore Lumber Company, 947 Erie Street, Racine.
In addition to being at the head of the oldest lumber business of Racine, Mr. Smith also owns one hundred and sixty acres of land in Somers Township, Kenosha County constituting the farm upon which he was born and which is situated eight miles south of Racine, besides various other properties that are scattered about Racine and its environs.
When twenty-two years of age Mr. Smith was united in marriage to Miss Mary C. Halenbake and they have a son, Fred W., who was born in Racine and is a graduate of the high school here.  In 1896 he went to Denver, Colorado, where he was employed in connection with the lumber industry for nineteen years.  He then returned to Racine and is now identified with the West Shore Lumber Company as secretary.  In 1906 he married Miss Pearl Brame and they have become the parents of two children, Vance Reid and Cornelia Rose.
Mr. and Mrs. Smith attend the Presbyterian Church, in the faith of which they were reared.  He gives political allegiance to the Republican Party and fraternally he is connected with the Elks.  For twenty years he has been a member of the Heyer Whist Club and he greatly enjoys the fame.  He is also identified with the Grand Army post and thus maintains pleasant relations with the boys in blue with whom he marched on southern battlefields.
(Source:  Racine: Belle City of the Lake, F. Stone, Chicago, S.J. Clark 1916)

Veteran of Civil War
Of the many young men who went out from Racine and Kenosha counties to fight in the Civil war was Charles W. Smith, 914 Lake Avenue, president and principal owner of the West Shore Lumber Company.
Mr. Smith was born in Somers, Kenosha County in 1847.  He was reared on a farm.  When the war broke out he desired to enlist, but he was only 17 years old.  However, he enrolled at Kenosha January 4, 1864, and was mustered into Company H, thirty third Wisconsin infantry and immediately made connection with the regiment at Pittsburgh, and performed military duty there until January 1865 when he went on the Meridian expedition and returned in March, after a march of 350 miles.  Orders were received to connect with the Red River expedition and Mr. Smith enjoyed the triumph of a victory in his first engagement at De Russey, after which the command started for Alexandria and he was detailed to guard duty on a commissary boat and he had some experiences, the boat being under rebel fire incessantly.
Afterward he went to Vicksburg and Memphis, St. Charles and to Duvall's Bluff.  he took part in the fight at Camargo Cross Roads and went on the Tupelo expedition.  He was also assigned to many other important localities.  He took part in the relief of Thomas at Nashville and two weeks later was in a chase after Hood.  They took large numbers of prisoners and chased the rebels to the Tennessee and went to Eastport, raided for six weeks and then took part in the move to Iunka.  Afterward he went to the assault on defense of Mobile.  He traveled on the Tennessee and Mississippi Rivers to New Orleans and across the bay to Fort Gaines and Morgan; was detailed with a command to make a feint on the city itself.  Then he went to the trenches at Spanish Fort and after ten days the fort surrendered.  Next orders took him to Montgomery, Ala. to aid in destroying rebel sinews of war, and while on a foraging expedition narrowly escaped capture by a rebel cavalry.  At Montgomery he learned of the surrender of Lee and then went to Tuskegee and thence to Mobile.
The regiment was sent home but Mr. Smith was transferred to the eleventh Wisconsin and detailed as mail messenger, running from Mobil to Columbus.  Two months later he returned to Wisconsin and was mustered out.  He did not receive an injury during his many experiences and his narrowest escape was at Spanish Fort, when his musket was shot from his hand.  Coming to Racine he entered into the lumber business and is now at the head of the big lumber company.
(Source:  Racine Journal News, publication date March 8, 1922)

Bradley, Joseph

1899 Partial Map of Somers Township, Kenosha County
 J. Bradley Estate, Section 5 West

Joseph Bradley
Joseph Bradley was born in 1837 in Simondley, England.  He married Miss Barbara Robertson in Kenosha December 28, 1871.  Barbara was born in 1841 in St. Fergus, Aberdeenshire, Scotland and was the daughter of William Robertson and Barbara (Smith) Robertson.


Partial 1861 map of Somers Township, Kenosha County
Note parcels of William Robertson
80 acres Section 23, and 60 acres Section 22
Location known today as Green Bay Road (Hwy 31) the north/south road.
Notice to the north Oakwood Cemetery (Green Bay  Road and Somers Rd./Highway E)

Joseph and Barbara had six children:
Carrie May Bradley.  Born 1875.  Married George Custer Flett on December 1, 1899.
William Reuben Bradley.  Born 1873.  Married Hannah Mary Linnington February 28, 1912.
Margaret Anna Bradley.  Born 1877.  Married Lawrence Edward Ozanne June 21, 1925.
Sarah Evelyn Bradley.  Borm 1880.  Died 1910 at age 30.
Eunice Isabel Bradley.  Born 1881.  Married Albert Bullamore September 20, 1904.
Joseph Franklin Bradley. Born 1886. Married Jeanette Holloway December 28, 1911.
(Source:  bradley2 at Ancestry.com)

Hannah Mary Linnington Bradley, wife of William Reuben Bradley
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source: Photo by Larry & Linda Kopet, USGENWEBARCHIVESWisconsin)

Original Gravestone of Sarah "Sadie" Bradley
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source: Photo by Larry & Linda Kopet, USGENWEBARCHIVESWisconsin)

William Reuben Bradley
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source: Photo by Larry & Linda Kopet, USGENWEBARCHIVESWisconsin)





 

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)

Hughes, Jehial, Melvina, Clarissa

Clarissa Hughes, wife of Jehiel Hughs, mother of Jehial A. Hughs
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson.  Copyright October 2011)

Jehial A. Hughes
Oakwood Cemetery
(Source:  Photo by Jacqueline Klapproth Nelson.  Copyright October 2011)



Jehial A. Hughes

Jehiel A. Hughes is one of the successful and enterprising farmers living in the Town of Somers, Kenosha County.  His land lies on Sections 18 and 19, and is a very valuable tract, well improved.  Mr. Hughes was born in Monroe County, N.Y., October 23, 1838, and is one of eight children.  His grandfather, Samuel Hughes, was a native of the Green Mountain State whence he removed to New Hampshire and subsequently to Monroe County, N.Y.  He served as a soldier in the War of 1812.  The Hugh family is of Scotch descent and was founded in America by the great-grandfather of our subject, a native of Scotland who became one of the early settlers of Vermont, and with the Colonies aided in the struggle for American Independence.

Jehiel Hughes, father of our subject, was born in Vermont in 1804, and accompanied his father to Monroe County, N.Y., where he acquired an excellent education and became a successful teacher.  In that county he married Clarissa Buckland, who was born in Barre, N.Y., and was a daughter of a carpenter and joiner, Mr. Hughes followed that vocation for some time and also carried on a farm.  In 1840, he came to Wisconsin and purchased a farm in the Town of Somers, Kenosha County, upon which the family located the following year.  The journey was accomplished with a four-horse team, and after long and wearisome travel they reached their destination on the 21^st of July, 1841.  Mr. Hughes built a substantial residence and then began the development of his farm.  The family experienced many of the hardships and trails of pioneer life but the united labors overcame all obstacles and as the years passed their financial resources were greatly improved.  The death of Mr. Hughes occurred April 1887, several years after his wife had been called to her final rest.

In politics Mr. Hughes was a Republican and took quite an active part in political affairs.  He served as a member of the Town Board of Supervisors and was also an efficient Supervisor of the County.  To the cause of education he was a friend and to the public schools gave hearty support.  An enterprising and progressive citizen he helped to make Kenosha County what it is today and well deserves mention in her history.

Of the five sons and five daughters of the family, William H. died when about thirty years old; John S. is a carpenter and joiner residing with his family in Norwood Park, Ill., Jehiel is the next younger; George T. is married and makes his home in Downer’s Grove, Ill., Jesse M. is married and resides in Clarinda, Iowa; Dorcas died in infancy, Julia Ann died at the age of twenty years; and Martha F. is the deceased wife of Warren E. Baker, of Kenosha.

By education our subject was well fitted for the duties of life.  After attending the district schools he pursued his studies in the Kenosha High School.  In 1863 he made an overland trip to Nevada and spent about seven years in the West engaged in the lumber business and also mining in California for a time.  In the fall of 1869 he returned to his home and the following year embarked in farming upon the old Hughes farm.  In connection with his brother he later operated a jay press at Somers Station for a few years and at the same carried on a farm in the Town of Somers.  He is now living on a part of the old homestead where he owns one hundred and twenty acres of arable land, the greater part of which is under a high state of cultivation.  Among the improvements there seen may he mentioned a good orchard, a neat and substantial residence and other accessories of a model farm.

A marriage ceremony performed in Racine, October 24, 1877, united the destinies of Mr. Hughes and Miss Melvina Neff, daughter of Russell Neff, one of the pioneer settlers and substantial farmers of the Town of Somers, now deceased.  Their entire married life has been passed upon the farm where they still reside and their home has been brightened by the presence of one son, Marvin Albert, who is now attending school.  In the social world they rank high and their friends throughout the community are many.

Mr. Hughes cast his first Presidential vote for John C. Fremont, and on all questions of State and national importance has since supported the Republican party.  At local elections he votes independently, supporting the man best qualified to fill the office.  He has served as a member of the School Board and his efforts have done much to advance the interests of education in this community.  Mr. Hughes is a faithful citizen, true to every trust reposed in him and by an upright life has won the confidence and regard of those with whom he has come in contact.

 (Source:  The History of Racine and Kenosha Counties, Wisconsin, Western Historical Company, Chicago, 1879). 

About George T. Hughes
 George T. Hughes was a farmer in 1879 in Section 24 in Somers Township.  Born in New York in 1840, his father, Jahiel Hughes, came to Kenosha County in 1840, returned for his family, an with them located in Somers and engaged n farming, also as carpenter and joiner.  In 1861 George T. Hughes, enlisted in the 1^st Wisconsin Cav going into active service.  He was mustered out of service on account of sickness, October 1862, going to California.  He returned to Kenosha County in 1867 and engaged in carpenter and joiner work up to 1875.  He then, with his two brothers, engaged in business in a hay and feed mill, dealing in feed and in pressing hay.  He married in Illinois in 1877, Hattie Messig, a native of New York State.  George and Hattie have a daughter, Laura E., born 1880.  He is the owner of 111 acres of farm, and he and his brothers own one and one half acres building at Somers Station.

"The sad news reached here last Tuesday morning of the death of Howard Hughes, the oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. George Hughes, formerly of Somers, now of Downer's Grove, Ill.)
(Source:  Racine Daily May 15, 1901)


More About Marvin Albert Hughes

Marvin Albert Hughes, who is engaged in farming one hundred and twenty acres of land on Section 17, Somers Township, has a well developed property on which he has made many improvements, and there he is engaged in raising stock as well as grain and garden products.  He was born in Somers Township, on the Section where he still makes his home, July 25, 1878, a son of Jehiel Albert and Melvina (Neff) Hughes.  The father was a native of New York and was a son of Jehiel Hughes, Sr., who in 1841 removed from the Empire state to the middle west, settling in Somers Township, Kenosha County, where he purchased two hundred and eighty acres of land upon which he resided to the time of his death.  His son and namesake attended the common schools and continued his education in the high school of Kenosha.  He worked upon the home farm through the period of his boyhood and youth and afterward went to Nevada, where he remained for seven years, being there engaged in teaming and also at work in quartz mills.  When twenty-nine years of age he returned to this county and here remained until his death, which occurred on the 18^th of October, 1904, his remains being interred in the Oakwood Cemetery.  It was on the 21^st of October, 187, that he wedded Melvina Neff, a native of this County and a daughter of Russell Neff.  They became the parents of two children, Marvin and Ida La Villa, but the latter died in infancy.  Mr. Hughes was a Republican in his political views and during his residence in this County served as a member of the school board.  Following his demise his widow became the wife of Charles Gentz and is now living in Somers.

Marvin Hughes is indebted to the common school system for the educational privileges which he enjoyed.  He continued his studies to the age of seventeen and then worked with his father upon the home farm, upon which he has since remained, bending his energies to the further development and improvement of the property.  Within the boundaries of his farm is a tract of one hundred and twenty acres of rich and arable land, the productiveness of which he has greatly enhanced by judicious drainage.  He has made most of the improvements on the place, which is an attractive farm property, the land being divided into fields of convenient size by well kept fences, while the latest improved machinery is used to facilitative the plowing, planting and harvesting.  He raises grain, hay, cabbage. Beets and other crops and also pays considerable attention to cattle raising.

On the 11^th of March, 1905, Mr. Hughes was united in marriage to Miss Lillian Seery, a daughter of Benjamin Seery, of Milwaukee, and they have become parents of three children:  La Villa, now in school; and Floyd and Florence, twins, who are also attending school.  Mr. Hughes is serving for the third year as school director and does everything in his power to make the educational facilities of the district adequate to the demands of the present age in training the young for life’s practical and responsible duties.  His political allegiance is given to the Republican party and his religious belief is that of the Presbyterian Church.  He is upright and honorable in all his dealings and he has the confidence and hood will of those with whom he has been associated.[1]

( Source:  City and County of Kenosha, Wisconsin, A Record of Settlement, Vol. II, Frank H. Lyman, Chicago, The S.J. Clark Publishing Co. 1916.)